Is Azores Expensive? What You Need to Know in 2025?
Ever thought of visiting the hidden islands of Portugal, which are truly a kind of unique paradise that the country has to offer? Allow us to present to you the magnificent island of the Azores. Since covering all the island can put a lot of strain on the travel budget, the main topic that we will be discussing in this blog is Azores are expensive in 2025?
Being a budget traveller or someone who would like to enjoy some luxury time, the Azores has the availability of options to cater to all kinds of travel styles. This guide will even cover all the approximate expenses to keep in mind about flights and food to accommodation, and activities so that you can plan smarter and not make it pricier.
Also, if you need any help to apply for a Portugal Tourist Visa from UK, we will provide more information before the end of this blog.
Flights to the Azores: What Should You Expect?
Let’s start with the major cost that will be required to visit the Azores, i.e getting there. If you are taking a flight from North America, then a round-trip flight to the main island, São Miguel, will be around €400 to €700. However, this also depends on the season you choose and the airline company. Now coming to the European travellers, especially from the UK, France or Germany, you can get the best deals for a round trip around €50 to €150. This is only possible if you choose the low-cost carriers like Ryanair or TAP Air Portugal.
If you can plan during the months of April to June or in mid-September, you can take advantage of flying off-season. These can save you hundreds of bucks. Hence, coming to the question, “Is Azores expensive?”, the perfect answer is “not if you time it right.”
When to Travel: Season Price Differences
Most of the travellers have this question as well: is the Azores expensive all year round? The answer is not exactly. As the summer months fall in during the months of July and August, it attracts a peak tourist traffic from different corners of the globe. This pushes the accommodation and rental prices up by 30% to 40%. Alternatively, during the seasons of spring and autumn, the prices drop due to the presence of fewer crowds. The weather is perfect for hiking activities.
To put it as simply as possible, if you could change the travel dates during the shoulder season, you could save upto €300 on just a one-week trip.
Accommodation: From Budget Beds to Boutique Hotels
Next question, are hotels expensive in the Azores? Honestly, they could be, but if you like, then you don’t have to be. Let’s try to break down what travellers can expect to spend per night:
- You can consider budget hostels or guesthouses if you want to spend €20 to €40 per night.
- You can stay in Mid-range hotels or B&Bs for a budget of €50 to €90 per night.
- If you want to make the stay a premium luxurious experience, then prefer the boutique hotels which can range between €120 to €200 and even more.
Furthermore, the Airbnb and local mansions can even give you a better value for money. This is quite advantageous if you are travelling with a group or family.
Note: If you still want to visit the Azores during the peak months, then book accommodations as early as possible. It is the only way to reduce costs significantly.
Also, if you’re applying from the UK as an Indian passport holder, make sure to check the Portugal visa requirements for Indians and understand the application process
Dining in the Azores: Is Food Pricey?
Apart from accommodation, there is another question that needs to be answered, i.e. is food expensive in the Azores? The exact answer is not really! You will be amazed to find that dining options are one of the most budget-friendly aspects of the trip. Let’s check outa few examples:
- A traditional meal at any local tasca will cost you around €10 to €15.
- Going to a mid-range restaurant to have dinner will cost you around €20 to €30 per person.
- A cup of coffee ranges between €1 to €1.50, and the local wines or beers will be priced between €2 to €4.
- If you would like self self-cater yourself then grocery shopping for a week will be around €40 to €60.
Getting Around: Public Transport vs Car Rentals
The next key factor for answering ” Is Azores expensive?” is based on the transportation options. While the public transport is decent in Sao Miguel and Terceira but if you would like to explore the islands fully, then a rental car is a viable option:
- Car rentals can cost you around €25 to €60 per day. The catch is, prices vary depending on the season and the type of vehicle you choose.
- Consider the fuel price being around €1.80 per litre.
- Normally parking is free in most places but in small towns the fee might be €2 to €5 per day.
- Local buses cost around €1.50 to €5, depending on the routes you choose.
Note: Is transportation expensive in the Azores? It can add up or stay minimal depending on how many places to are visiting. We recommend that you prefer using shared rentals or public buses so that it doesn’t stretch your budget.
Island Hopping: What’s the Real Cost?
One of the unique experiences that every traveller should experience is travelling in between the islands. But it begs the question, while planning to explore than one island, in that aspect, is Azores expensive?
- You can get the SATA Air Azores which offers air passes for three inter island flights. The tickets are priced between €150 to €200.
- Ferries are available, which are mainly available in the summer months. The tickets range between €20 to €60, depending on how far you want to travel.
Note: If you have less time on hand and don’t mind spending some extra bucks, then flying would be the right option. This will even help you worry less about your luggage and last-minute booking.
Applying for a Portugal visa? Make sure to read the Portugal Schengen visa requirements for UK BRP holders. Did you know you need a Portugal visa to enter the Schengen Zone?
Are Activities in the Azores Expensive?
Now we will cover the part on: how expensive are activities in the Azores? Wherever you go in the Azores, you will find beautiful nature surrounding you. Hence, nature is your playground here. So, based on that, most of the activities are low-cost and can even be free. Let’s find out:
- The Hiking activities are completely free.
- To enjoy some natural thermal springs, the entry fee will be around €3 to €10.
- The whale tour will cost you about €55 to €75.
- Diving or snorkelling sessions go for €70 to €120.
- The guided tours for watching volcanoes or caving adventures will cost you on average €25 to €60.
This destination of the Azores is perfect for active travellers who would like to get lost in the serenity of nature.
The Hidden Costs No One Talks About
Though the Azores are a fantastic place but there are certain expenses involved that you might not expect during the trip. Hence, considering “ Is Azores expensive?”, one needs to keep these hidden fees in mind:
- For a week’s trip to the Azores, you have to take travel insurance from the UK that covers your medical expenses in the entire Schengen Zone. This will cost you from €15 to €40.
- Ferry tickets will be around €5 to €15.
- Extra Tourism Tax in selected areas for €1 to €2 per night.
- Car seat rental for families for around €5 to €10 per day.
Though these are not much, without adding these to your itinerary, your travel budget can be pushed up.
Budget Tips: Spend Smart, Not More
Is your mind still bothering about? “Is Azores expensive?” Let us help with some logical budget tips which can lower your cost without compromising your experience:
- Book ahead everything from flights and accommodation at least three months in advance.
- Visit during the months of April to June or September to October.
- Choose family guest houses or eco farms for accommodations instead of chain hotels.
- Buy groceries from fresh market produce and cook yourself and your family members meals.
- Take advantage of public buses wherever it is available, especially on São Miguel.
- Strike out the paid attractions and go for the free hiking in nature.
Azores vs Other Portuguese Destinations
Are the Azores cheaper than Madeira or the Algarve? Well, if you are more of an outdoor-focused traveller, then, yes, the other places might be more expensive than the Azores. This table can clear your confusion:
| Destination | Average Daily Spend | Activity Cost | Seasonal Price Hike |
| Azores | €70 to €120 | Low to Moderate | High |
| Madeira | €80 to €140 | Moderate | Moderate |
| Algarve | €90 to €150 | Moderate to High | Very High |
If you prefer a very quiet getaway, the Azores are the perfect destination with more value per euro.
Backpacking the Azores: Affordable or Not?
Is it expensive to backpack in the Azores? The answer is if you plan on travelling light, smartly, then the answer is a big no for you. Here are a few suggestions:
- Choose dorm beds, which will cost you around €20 to €30 per night.
- As mentioned above, local buses or hitchhiking, if necessary, can help you cut the transport costs to a great extent.
- Most of the hiking and scenic spots are absolutely free to access.
- Prefer a hostel kitchen to prepare your own food so that it doesn’t stretch your budget.
To sum up, a backpacker can expect to spend comfortable for around €60 to €80 per day. The experience in the islands will be a hidden gem for solo adventurers.
Also checkout, Best Indian Restaurants in Portugal to Eat with Family and Friends
Sample Budget: Weekend vs Week Long Trips
How expensive is a weekend trip to the Azores?
If you are travelling from the UK or anywhere from mainland Europe, and you are just planning to stay for two nights. Then keep an expectation to spend as:
- Budget Range: €250 to €400
- Mid Range: €450 to €600
- Luxury Range: €700 and above.
How expensive is a one-week trip to the Azores?
| Travel Style | Daily Budget | Weekly Total |
| Budget | €60 to €80 | €420 to €560 |
| Mid-Range | €90 to €130 | €630 to €910 |
| Luxury | €180 and above | €1,260 and above |
Therefore, you have the perfect answer for the question, “Is Azores expensive?” by maintaining the fact that it depends on your travel style and priorities.
Long-Term Stays and Remote Work
The Azores is becoming a very popular place for digital nomads. Here, the question comes again in the aspect of long-term staying, “Is Azores expensive?”. Let’s break it down:
- Staying in 1 one-bedroom apartment should be around €500 to €800 per month.
- Engaging in Coworking spaces will be around €10 to €15 per day.
- Groceries and edible utilities to sustain will be around €150 to €250 per month.
- Wi-fi should be available in most of the accommodations you prefer to stay in.
Hence, choosing the option of affordable staying, which includes a natural environment around you is the best solution for remote workers.
Get Your Portugal Schengen Visa Appointment from the UK with an Experienced Support Team
Does the process to apply for a Portugal tourist visa from the UK stress you out? Fear not, you have the option of taking professional expertise at the PORTUGAL VISA UK. Apply online immediately so that an executive can reach you and guide you through the entire process. We assure you that with our help, your experience will be hassle-free. We will help you right from form filling, documentation, Visa appointment to interview preparation.
Final Thoughts
Let’s circle back to the question again, “Is Azores expensive in 2025?”. Our recommendation is, you need not have to worry unnecessarily. Whatever duration you consider as a weekend, a week, or longer than that, the Azores will surely offer an incredible experience for the value for money. You will just fall in love with nature, the slow travel and escaping from the crowds to serenity.
Just remember that with the options of choosing affordable flights, low-cost outdoor activities and budget accommodation options, these volcanic islands will make your stay absolutely stunning and also keep your expense budget friendly.
Are you visiting Portugal first time? Check out Portugal first timers guide,
FAQs
Not really! Most of the family-friendly attractions charge a reduced rates for children. Some of the places are absolutely free.
Not at all! With the combo of Boutique Stays, whale watching tours and fine dining at reasonable prices, you both can have a luxury experience without the worry of spending a hefty cost.
Yes absolutely. There are many guest houses that offer family suites and kitchen items to help arrange space and meals for kids.
One of the best beach spots is Praia de Santa Barbara on São Miguel Island
After form and document submission at the Visa Centre, it should take 14 to 15 working days for the Visa to get approved and delivered.
