12 days in Azores, Porto & Lisbon Itinerary

As the busy capital of São Miguel, Ponta Delgada represents the most visited place on the island. Known for its historical buildings, the city offers 17th- and 18th-century convents and churches, as well as cobbled pedestrian streets and hidden squares.

Take a break from the city and head to Lagoa do Fogo and Poca Da Dona Beija. Change things up with a short trip to Parque Terra Nostra in Furnas (about 46 minutes away). There's much more to do: explore the striking landscape at Caldeira das Sete Cidades, kick back and relax at Praia de Santa Barbara, identify plant and animal life at Caldeira Velha Environmental Interpretation Centre, and get outside with Outdoor Activities.

To see traveler tips, reviews, where to stay, and tourist information, refer to the Ponta Delgada trip planner.

Philadelphia, USA to Ponta Delgada is an approximately 11-hour flight. The time zone changes from Eastern Standard Time (EST) to Azores Standard Time (AZOT), which is usually a 4 hour difference. Traveling from Philadelphia in April, Ponta Delgada is a bit warmer at night with lows of 54°F. Finish your sightseeing early on the 11th (Tue) so you can travel to Porto.

Called "Oporto" by many, the city of Porto along the Duoro River lent the country and Port wine their names. Portugal's second-largest metropolis dates back to the 4th century, representing both a rich cultural past and industrial present through its architecture and style.

Step out of the city life by going to Douro River and Praia da Luz. Get some cultural insight at Porto Cathedral (Se Catedral) and Graham's Port Lodge. Next up on the itinerary: snap pictures at Ponte de Dom Luis I, shop like a local with Rua Santa Catarina, don't miss a visit to Fortress Sao Joao Baptista, and browse the collection at Museu Serralves.

To find traveler tips and tourist information, use the Porto road trip planning site.

You can fly from Ponta Delgada to Porto in 4.5 hours. Due to the time zone difference, you'll lose 1 hour traveling from Ponta Delgada to Porto. In April, plan for daily highs up to 65°F, and evening lows to 50°F. Cap off your sightseeing on the 14th (Fri) early enough to travel to Lisbon.

Built on seven hills, Lisbon has experienced a renaissance in recent years, making it the cultural star of Portugal.

Satisfy your inner culture vulture at Belém Tower and Castelo de S. Jorge. Take a break from the city and head to Praia da Nazare and Portugal Bike. There's lots more to do: take a stroll through Alfama, view the masterpieces at Museu Calouste Gulbenkian, pause for some photo ops at Arco do Triunfo, and tour the water at your own pace with Lisbon by Boat.

To see maps, reviews, ratings, and tourist information, read Lisbon trip itinerary planning website.

You can fly from Porto to Lisbon in 3 hours. Other options are to drive; or take a train. In April in Lisbon, expect temperatures between 70°F during the day and 52°F at night. Cap off your sightseeing on the 17th (Mon) early enough to travel back home.