Pousada Forte Angra do Heroísmo is probably the most atmospheric place to stay in the city. The hotel is housed inside the 16th-century São Sebastião Fortress, built by the Spanish during their rule over the Azores, and you can still feel the weight of history in its thick stone walls and unique seaside setting. Staying here is like living inside a piece of Angra’s story—the fortress once protected the bay from pirates, and today it welcomes travelers with comfort and views across the Atlantic.

What I really like is how they’ve managed to blend the historic character with modern amenities. The rooms are simple but comfortable, many of them looking out over the ocean or the city’s marina. There’s a restaurant and bar on site, a swimming pool, and plenty of terraces where you can sit and watch the ships pass by. It’s quiet, romantic, and very different from staying in a regular city hotel.

Location is another big advantage—you’re just a short walk from the center of Angra do Heroísmo, yet far enough to feel like you have your own retreat above the sea.

In terms of pricing, the Pousada falls into the mid-to-upper category. It’s not luxury in the modern sense, but the value lies in the experience: you’re not just booking a room, you’re staying in a centuries-old fortress with incredible views. For anyone who appreciates history and atmosphere, this is one of the most memorable stays on Terceira.

Exploring the Azores is best done by car—and Terceira makes it even easier (and more affordable!) than São Miguel. I used DiscoverCars to find great deals, and AutoAtlantis delivered reliable service with fair terms during my trip.

If you prefer local providers, I highly recommend the following, all personally tested and top-rated:

• AngraCar Rent – from €18/day, free airport pickup/drop-off, instant booking, and options from compact cars to vans. Convenient offices near the airport and in Angra do Heroísmo, with smooth and efficient service.

• Go Rent-a-Car Terceira – known for its friendly, straightforward service, clean vehicles, zero hidden fees, free second driver, unlimited mileage, and flexible insurance options—perfect for worry-free driving.

Choose the option that suits you best—these are among the most reliable and cost-effective car rental providers on the island

Serra do Cume is one of the most iconic and breathtaking viewpoints in the Azores. Located on the rim of a massive ancient caldera — the largest crater in the Azores and one of the largest in Europe (15 km in diameter) — it offers a surreal panoramic view over the island’s eastern plains. This immense volcanic depression was created by a powerful eruption that reshaped the coastline and expanded the limits of Terceira by several kilometers.

Why Visit:

• Witness the famous “manta de retalhos” (patchwork quilt), a geometric mosaic of green pastures divided by traditional basalt stone walls

• See both the city of Praia da Vitória and Lajes Air Base on one side, and the vast green interior of the island on the other

• Spot volcanic formations like trachytic domes aligned along an ancient fault line

• On exceptionally clear days, view both the northern and southern coastlines — and even Ilhéu das Cabras, the twin islet offshore

Interesting Facts:

• The crater at Serra do Cume is the largest in the Azores and among the largest volcanic calderas in Europe

• The name "patchwork" refers to the visual effect of the stone-divided fields seen from above — a true postcard image of the Azores

• This location was used as a military lookout during World War II and still houses the abandoned Casamatas da Serra do Cume, an underground bunker complex

• The viewpoint sits on the rim of the original caldera and offers a bird's-eye perspective that makes you feel like you're flying

Best Time to Visit:

• Early morning (sunrise) offers soft light, occasional fog creeping through the lowlands, and dramatic contrast

• Alternatively, late afternoon is ideal for photography — watch as the shadows of clouds drift across the fields, and the sky turns orange at sunset

• Pro tip from locals: bring a bottle of Pico wine and enjoy the view responsibly

Access & Conditions:

• Easily accessible by car with a large parking area at the top

• While a SpotAzores webcam is located nearby, it doesn’t show the exact viewpoint — always check visibility from lower ground before driving up

• Weather can shift quickly; clear views are not guaranteed, but when the skies open — the scenery is unforgettable

Insider Tip: Pair your visit with a stop at Ilhéus das Cabras later in the day, as both spots offer complementary views of Terceira’s volcanic history from different angles.

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Some of the stunning photos featured in this guide were generously shared by Bruno Ázera, an incredible photographer and local from Terceira Island. Make sure to follow him on Instagram! And if you're looking to dive deeper into the best photo locations across the Azores, he has an outstanding photo guide to the archipelago, available at the following link.

Length & Duration: 5.7 km | ~2.5 hours | Easy

🏰 Why Hike This Trail:

This is one of the most underrated hikes on Terceira — perfect for those who love combining nature, ocean views, and historical context. The trail follows the coastline near the village of São Sebastião and takes you past the remains of several 16th–17th century coastal fortresses, built to defend the island against pirate attacks and foreign invasions.

🌊 What You'll See:

• Crumbling stone forts and defensive walls overtaken by vegetation and time

• Open Atlantic panoramas with sea cliffs and lava formations

• Pastures with grazing cows, azulejo-covered chapels, and views of Ilhéu das Cabras

• Charming rural roads lined with hydrangeas and volcanic stone fences

• Occasional rock pools and wave-smashed lava platforms near the shore

💡 Highlights & Vibes:

• Feels like a time capsule, walking where soldiers once stood watch

• Excellent for sunset walks or wind-blown coastal photoshoots

• Great family-friendly trail for those who want something relaxed yet rewarding

• Offers insight into Terceira’s role in defending the Portuguese Empire

• Some forts like Fortim da Prainha and Fortaleza de São Sebastião still retain partial structure

⚠️ Trail Notes:

• Trail is well-marked and mostly flat, but some rocky coastal stretches may require attention

• No cafés or services mid-trail, but São Sebastião village has options

• Some fort ruins are in poor condition — do not climb or enter unstable structures

• Weather can change quickly near the coast — bring a windbreaker

🧭 Official Info & Map:

You can find the official details and trail map on the Visit Azores Trails site here:
PR05 TER - Fortes de São Sebastião

You can download the GPS track here (I use the Wikiloc app to open and navigate GPX files) and explore a detailed brochure with a hiking map here.

🔥 Insider Tip:

This trail is especially rewarding at dawn — the golden hour light paints the ocean and ancient ruins in soft, cinematic tones. If you enjoy peaceful starts to your day with beautiful scenery and a touch of history, this is the perfect early morning hike.

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Some of the stunning photos featured in this guide were generously shared by Bruno Ázera, an incredible photographer and local from Terceira Island. Make sure to follow him on Instagram! And if you're looking to dive deeper into the best photo locations across the Azores, he has an outstanding photo guide to the archipelago, available at the following link.

Forte da Greta is a seaside fortification built in the late 16th century to defend the island of Terceira from pirates and foreign fleets. Overlooking the rugged coastline, the fort once formed part of a wider defense system created after the 1580 crisis of the Portuguese succession. Though partially in ruins today, it remains an impressive historical site — with basalt stone walls, artillery platforms, and wide views of the Atlantic that remind visitors of the island’s once-vital strategic role in the Atlantic.

Why Visit:

• Discover one of the lesser-known coastal forts of Terceira

• Panoramic views over the southeastern cliffs and open ocean

• Step into the island’s military past in a raw, dramatic setting

Interesting Facts:

• Constructed using local volcanic stone with a low, robust layout designed to resist naval bombardments

• Its location was chosen to protect a vulnerable section of the coast near São Sebastião

• The fort is one of several along this shoreline, built after the War of the Portuguese Succession

Access:

• Reachable on foot via the PR05TER – Fortes de São Sebastião official hiking trail

• The trail begins in the town of São Sebastião and passes several historic forts

• No facilities at the fort — bring water, sun protection, and wear comfortable shoes

Insider Tip:
Forte da Greta is especially scenic during golden hour at sunrise. The light paints the basalt walls and surrounding ocean in soft tones — perfect for photos or quiet reflection.

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Some of the stunning photos featured in this guide were generously shared by Bruno Ázera, an incredible photographer and local from Terceira Island. Make sure to follow him on Instagram! And if you're looking to dive deeper into the best photo locations across the Azores, he has an outstanding photo guide to the archipelago, available at the following link.

Forte do Bom Jesus is a coastal fortress dating back to the 16th century, originally built to defend the bay of Praia da Vitória from pirate attacks and foreign invasions. Though partially in ruins today, it remains a powerful reminder of the island’s military and maritime history. The fort is one of several defensive structures that once formed a protective chain around Terceira, reflecting the strategic importance of the Azores during the Age of Discoveries.

Why Visit:

• Explore the historic stone walls and bastions that once protected the island.

• Learn about Terceira’s role in naval conflicts and transatlantic trade routes.

• Enjoy peaceful sea views and coastal scenery from the fort’s elevated position.

• A great stop for history lovers and photographers interested in ruins and textures.

Interesting Facts:

• The fort was involved in battles during the Liberal Wars in the 19th century.

• Despite being small in size, it played a key role in defending the island’s main port.

• Its name, “Bom Jesus,” reflects Portugal’s tradition of naming fortresses after saints and religious figures for divine protection.

Best Time to Visit:

• Late afternoon or golden hour, when the light enhances the texture of the volcanic stone and the Atlantic glows behind it.

• Combine with a walk along the nearby Praia da Vitória waterfront or a visit to Miradouro do Facho above.

Access:

• Forte do Bom Jesus is reachable by car and on foot — around a 15–20 minute walk along the official PR05 TER – Fortes de São Sebastião hiking trail.

• Free to visit; no entrance fee.

• No official facilities, so bring water if visiting on a hot day.

Insider Tip:
Pair your visit with drone photography — the contrast between the rugged coastline, the stone fort, and the blue Atlantic creates cinematic visuals. While the site isn’t large, its atmospheric setting and historical weight make it a worthy stop for travelers curious about Terceira’s layered past.

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Some of the stunning photos featured in this guide were generously shared by Bruno Ázera, an incredible photographer and local from Terceira Island. Make sure to follow him on Instagram! And if you're looking to dive deeper into the best photo locations across the Azores, he has an outstanding photo guide to the archipelago, available at the following link.

Miradouro da Cruz do Canário is a peaceful viewpoint perched above the dramatic cliffs of Terceira’s southeastern coastline. It's named after a cross (cruz) that stands at the site, believed to mark either a historic event or serve as a maritime reference point. The viewpoint offers expansive views over the Atlantic and toward the islet of Ilhéus das Cabras, one of the island’s most iconic natural landmarks.

Why Visit:

• A quiet, less-visited viewpoint with a wide-angle coastal panorama

• Excellent perspective of Ilhéus das Cabras, perfect for photography

• Peaceful spot for a break during a coastal drive around the island

• Often overlooked by tour buses, making it an ideal location for solitude

Interesting Facts:

• On clear days, you can see the twin islets of Ilhéus das Cabras in sharp detail — remnants of an ancient submarine volcano

• The cross at the viewpoint is a popular spot for local religious processions and cultural traditions

• Despite being just off the main road, this miradouro feels remote and wild

Access:
Easily reachable by car via the regional road near Porto Judeu, with a small parking area directly by the viewpoint. No hike is required, making it accessible to all travelers.

Insider Tip:
Best visited in the early morning or late afternoon, when the sun lights up the cliffs and the ocean glows with deep blue and silver tones. A great place for drone footage of the coastline and Ilhéus das Cabras — especially with calm winds.

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Stunning photos featured in this guide were generously shared by Bruno Ázera, an incredible photographer and local from Terceira Island. Make sure to follow him on Instagram! And if you're looking to dive deeper into the best photo locations across the Azores, he has an outstanding photo guide to the archipelago, available at the following link.

Ilhéu das Cabras ("Goat Islet") consists of two small, uninhabited volcanic islets located just offshore. Though they appear as separate land masses, they are remnants of a single submarine volcano that collapsed and eroded over thousands of years. These islets are one of the most geologically intriguing features of Terceira and are often visible from multiple elevated viewpoints on the island.

Why Visit:

• Spectacular views from Serra do Cume and Monte Brasil

• Rare chance to see a partially submerged volcanic caldera

• Popular site for birdwatching, boating, and marine photography

Interesting Facts:

• The name "Ilhéu das Cabras" likely comes from early settlers who released goats there as a food resource.

• The islets are ecologically protected and host nesting seabirds such as Cory’s shearwaters.

• On clear days, they stand out as distinct silhouettes against the Atlantic Ocean.

Access:

• There is no public ferry to the islets.

• Some boat tours and private excursions may circle the islets for viewing and snorkeling.

• Landing is discouraged to protect wildlife and due to rough terrain.

Insider Tip: If you're at Serra do Cume or anywhere along the southern coastal road and see Ilhéu das Cabras clearly lit in the distance, take a photo — it makes for one of the most iconic coastal views of Terceira. This location is especially rewarding if you have a drone: from the ground the islets are scenic, but from above, their shape and geological formation become even more striking. or anywhere along the southern coastal road and see Ilhéu das Cabras clearly lit in the distance, take a photo — it makes for one of the most iconic coastal views of Terceira.

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Some of the stunning photos featured in this guide were generously shared by Bruno Ázera, an incredible photographer and local from Terceira Island. Make sure to follow him on Instagram! And if you're looking to dive deeper into the best photo locations across the Azores, he has an outstanding photo guide to the archipelago, available at the following link.

Located on a ridge in the eastern part of Terceira, this scenic viewpoint offers a sweeping panorama over the island’s south coast, the UNESCO-listed town of Angra do Heroísmo, and the interior volcanic ranges. It’s named after the nearby parish of Ribeirinha and the mountain range (serra) it overlooks.

Why Visit:

• One of the best elevated views of Angra do Heroísmo and its bay

• Ilhéus das Cabras — the twin volcanic islets off the southeastern coast

• See both the southern shoreline and Terceira’s central highlands

• Ideal for cloud watching and wide-angle photography

• A quiet, lesser-known stop — perfect if you want to escape the crowds

What You’ll See:

• The red roofs and harbor of Angra do Heroísmo below

• The green checkerboard fields of eastern Terceira

• On clear days: Pico or São Jorge on the horizon

• An ever-changing play of clouds and light over land and sea

Best Time to Visit:

• Morning light enhances the textures of the fields and coastline

• After rainfall, the skies often clear up dramatically for stunning visibility

Access:

• Reachable by car via the scenic road connecting the island’s north and south

• No facilities at the viewpoint — bring water and an extra layer, it’s windy up here

Insider Tip:

If you’re flying a drone, back away from the ridge a bit for the best angle — you’ll capture Angra, the coastline, and the vast patchwork of fields in one epic shot. At golden hour, the view lights up beautifully, making it one of Terceira’s most underrated but rewarding viewpoints.

This family-run farm-to-table concept brings Terceira straight to your plate. They raise and process their own meat and dairy, then turn it into comforting Azorean dishes. It’s more than a restaurant — it feels like a local experience, complete with views over UNESCO-listed Angra do Heroísmo.

• Recommended Dishes:
  • Quinta’s famous soup — rich and authentically Azorean
  • Steaks and burgers made with the farm’s own beef
  • Açoreaninha — a layered beef sandwich with local sausage and cheese
  • House-made ice cream, often paired with crepes or waffles

• Atmosphere: Bright, modern, and welcoming. The dining room has large windows with views over Angra, and there’s a relaxed, family-style vibe. On weekends, they’re known for their generous Sunday breakfasts.

• Hours: Open daily from 10:00 to 22:00 (Always double-check on Google Maps, as hours may change on holidays or special occasions)

Angra do Heroísmo is not only the capital of Terceira — it’s one of the most historically significant cities in all the Azores and, arguably, the most beautiful. With its colorful 16th-century houses, cobbled streets, and imposing churches, it radiates a unique blend of maritime legacy, colonial grandeur, and cultural richness.

I highly recommend not just strolling through this city, but joining a guided tour to discover its main landmarks and fascinating history.

Why It’s Special:

• Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 for its remarkable urban planning and preservation of Renaissance-era architecture

• Was once a major Atlantic hub for trade ships during the Age of Discoveries

• Survived and was carefully restored after a devastating earthquake in 1980, becoming a symbol of resilience

Historical Significance:

For a brief but crucial period in the 19th century, Angra do Heroísmo served as the de facto capital of the Portuguese Empire. During the Liberal Wars (1830–1833), Queen Maria II’s constitutional government, forced into exile from mainland Portugal, established its seat here. From this remote island city, they orchestrated the resistance against absolutist forces. This moment in history gave the city not only its “Heroic” title but also its elevated place in the national narrative of Portugal.

Architecture & Urban Design:

• The city is a showcase of Renaissance urban planning, with a well-organized grid system adapted to the terrain

• Key landmarks include the Sé Cathedral, the Fortress of São João Baptista, and the Palácio dos Capitães-Generais

• Everywhere you walk, you’ll find balconies, basalt stone details, and pastel facades reflecting the city’s maritime and colonial past

Insider Tip:

Start your visit at Alto da Memória for a panoramic view over the city, then walk down through the botanical gardens to the old center. For the best light and photos, visit during golden hour or after light rain, when the tiled streets glisten and the facades pop.

A Stroll Through Heritage and Beauty

Angra do Heroísmo is widely celebrated as arguably the most beautiful town in the Azores—a vibrant tapestry of maritime history, pastel-colored façades, and sweeping views—making it one of Terceira’s most magnetic attractions. A guided walk here isn’t just sightseeing; it’s moving through centuries of stories framed by baroque palaces, historic churches, and elegant gardens.

What Awaits Along the Route

• The tour lasts around 3 hours, guiding you through iconic landmarks such as the Palácio Capitães Generais, the Sé Cathedral, the Baroque Igreja da Misericórdia, the serene Jardim Duque da Terceira, and the historic Teatro Angrense  .

• You begin at Jardim José Agostinho, a local kiosk that marks the perfect entryway into the heart of the city  .

A Pause for Pastries & Culture

Midway, you’ll take a sweet break—enjoy 25 minutes at a local pastry shop, savoring strong local coffee and Azorean delicacies like the custardy Dona Amélia tart—imbued with flavor and cultural significance  . It’s not just a snack, but a taste of what locals cherish each morning.

Highly Rated, Multilingual, Flexible

• The tour is rated 4.8 out of 5 based on dozens of glowing reviews 

• Conducted in Portuguese, Spanish, and English—which makes it accessible and engaging 

• Offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and uses a live local guide for a more personal experience

The Fortress of St. John of Monte Brasil is one of the most imposing historical landmarks in the Azores. Built in the 16th century by the Spanish during their occupation of Portugal, it was designed to guard Angra do Heroísmo and its harbor from attacks. Even today, walking up to its massive stone walls, you immediately sense the scale of its strategic importance.

What makes the fortress so interesting is not just its military history, but also its setting. Rising on the slopes of Monte Brasil, it dominates the bay and overlooks the city, offering some of the most dramatic perspectives of Angra and the Atlantic. Inside, you’ll still find barracks, old defensive structures, and the outline of a place that once shaped the island’s destiny.

Today, part of the fortress remains under military use, which adds to its atmosphere — it’s not just a monument frozen in time, but a living structure still tied to defense. For visitors, it’s both a journey into the past and a unique viewpoint over Angra.

I would describe the Fortress of St. John as a must-see location for anyone interested in history. It’s more than just an old fort — it’s a place where the story of Terceira’s role in the Atlantic comes alive, and where the power of nature and human ambition meet on the slopes of Monte Brasil.

Miradouro do Pico das Cruzinhas is, in my opinion, the single best viewpoint over Angra do Heroísmo. Located at the top of Monte Brasil, it gives you a full panoramic sweep of the city, the harbor, and the coastline stretching far into the distance. From here, Angra’s UNESCO-listed historic center looks like a perfect postcard — red-tiled roofs, whitewashed churches, and the deep blue of the Atlantic framing it all.

The viewpoint itself is marked by a large white cross and a small monument, but the real attraction is the perspective. On a clear day, you can even see beyond Angra to the green hills of Terceira. Sunset is particularly special here, when the city glows in golden light and the ocean horizon softens.

What makes this spot so interesting is how it combines history, scenery, and accessibility. The climb through Monte Brasil can be done by car or on foot, and along the way you pass forests, old fortifications, and other smaller viewpoints. But Pico das Cruzinhas feels like the finale — the highest and most dramatic vantage point of them all.

I would definitely call this a must-see location. If you only visit one viewpoint on Terceira, it should be this one. It captures both the natural and cultural essence of the island in a single glance.

Miradouro do Pico Zimbreiro sits on Monte Brasil, overlooking the Atlantic and the southern coastline of Terceira. The views here are open and wide, but what makes this spot truly distinctive is the small white lookout building that still stands on the cliff.

This was once a whale lookout station (vigia da baleia), used during the years of whaling on the island. From here, spotters scanned the ocean with binoculars, searching for the spouts of whales. When they found one, they would signal the whaling boats in the harbor below. Today, the building has been preserved with information panels showing the different species of whales and dolphins that pass through Azorean waters, connecting the viewpoint not only to the landscape but also to a piece of local history.

The best time to visit is at sunset, when the light adds warmth and atmosphere to the horizon. Clear skies are important — only then do you get the full open view of the ocean that once made this spot ideal for whale watching.

Accessibility is easy: the viewpoint is on Monte Brasil, reachable by road and a short walk from nearby parking. It pairs naturally with other stops on the peninsula, such as Pico das Cruzinhas and the fortress.

I would describe Miradouro do Pico Zimbreiro as a secondary viewpoint with historical interest. On its own, it’s a simple stop, but the story of the whale lookout gives it an added layer of meaning and makes it more than just another panorama.

Nestled in the heart of Angra do Heroísmo, this Italian restaurant shines by blending authentic Italian cuisine with the best of Azorean ingredients. The team behind the kitchen brings a creative approach to traditional dishes, weaving local meats, fish, and cheeses into the menu. Plus, the wine list highlights Azorean and Italian producers alike, making it a unique culinary bridge between worlds.

• Recommended Dishes:
  • Lapas linguine — local limpets in garlic butter with linguine (a standout fusion of local and Italian flavors)
  • Anatra (duck leg confit) — served with orange risotto and citrus gel
  • Spaghetti al Nero con Gamberi — shrimp with squid-ink pasta and bisque
  • Tiramisu or panna cotta — elegantly balanced desserts that close the meal beautifully

• Atmosphere: Elegant yet relaxed. The dining room feels refined without pretension, making it perfect for both special evenings and vibrant gatherings. Guests often praise the attentive service and the thoughtful pairing of dishes with local wines and seasonal produce.

• Hours: Open Wednesday–Monday, 12:00–23:00; closed Tuesdays. (Always double-check on Google Maps, as hours may vary on holidays or special occasions.)