Terceira Island: Full Day Van Tour

If you’re planning a visit to the Azores, this Terceira Island full-day van tour offers an excellent way to see the island’s highlights without the hassle of planning each stop yourself. With a friendly guide leading the way, you’ll explore stunning viewpoints, charming villages, and natural pools, all while enjoying comfortable transportation.

What we love about this tour is how it balances well-known sights like Serra do Cume and Monte Brasil with lesser-visited spots such as natural pools in Porto Martins and a local cheese tasting. Plus, the small group size seems to make for a more intimate experience, where you can ask questions and really get to know the island.

A possible consideration is the full day’s duration—seven hours can be a long time for some travelers, especially if you’re not used to extensive sightseeing. However, for those wanting an overview of Terceira’s diverse landscapes and cultural spots, it’s hard to beat the value.

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy scenic views, local food experiences, and learning about the island’s history and culture in a relaxed setting. If you prefer a flexible, guided approach that covers a lot of ground, this is a great choice.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Covers the island’s top viewpoints, natural pools, and cultural spots.
• Comfortable transport: Modern, air-conditioned van makes long drives pleasant.
• Expert guide: Knowledgeable, friendly guides enhance the experience with insights and humor.
• Authentic local experiences: Cheese tasting and visits to fishing villages add genuine flavor.
• Balanced pace: Stops at key locations allow ample time for photos, exploration, and relaxation.
• Value for money: At $74 per person, the tour offers a lot of sights and stories for the price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Terceira’s Scenic Highlights

Our journey begins at your hotel—convenience is key, as the tour includes pickup and drop-off in Angra do Heroísmo. The first stop is Monte Brasil, a Natural Reservation with a history that spans centuries. Here, you’ll find a viewpoint overlooking the city, offering a perfect introduction to the island’s dramatic coastlines and lush landscape. Many reviews highlight the views as “amazing” and “breathtaking,” and it’s easy to see why.

From there, the route takes you along the East Coast, passing through some of the most picturesque spots. One highlight is the view of the Goat Islets, a tiny archipelago that makes for a striking photo-op. Then, you’ll visit Porto Martins, home to natural pools that have been carved into volcanic rock—ideal for a quick dip or just admiring the rugged coastline.

As you traverse the east, your guide shares stories about the history of the island’s spots, giving context to what you see. Many travelers mention how informative and friendly their guides are, making the day both fun and educational. Expect to learn about local traditions, geography, and the significance of spots like Miradouro do Facho, which offers sweeping views of the coastline.

Midday in Praia da Vitória

Before heading to the Serra do Cume, you’ll have a chance to enjoy a lunch break in Praia da Vitória. While lunch isn’t included in the tour price, many guests appreciate the opportunity to sample local cafes and fresh seafood, making the most of their time on the island.

Serra do Cume and the Patchwork Landscape

One of the tour’s standout moments is visiting Serra do Cume, known affectionately by locals as the “Patchwork Blanquette.” From this high vantage point, you’ll see patchwork farmland stretching into the horizon—a view that’s truly postcard-worthy. Reviewers frequently mention this as a favorite stop, describing the scenery as “vivid” and “surreal.”

Northern Coast and Natural Pools in Biscoitos

In the afternoon, you’ll head to the north side of the island, passing through charming fishing villages like São Mateus. Here, the natural pools in Biscoitos are a major draw, offering a unique combination of volcanic geology and serene water. Many visitors say these pools are one of the most beautiful sights on Terceira and enjoyed dipping their toes or just relaxing by the water.

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Cheese Tasting at Queijo Vaquinha

No trip to Terceira would be complete without sampling its local cheese. The tour makes a special stop at Queijo Vaquinha, where you’ll taste fresh, locally-produced cheese—an authentic treat praised by travelers as “delicious” and “a perfect ending to the day.” This connection to local artisans adds real value, turning a simple stop into an immersive cultural experience.

Final Stop at São Mateus

The last stretch takes you to the bustling fishing village of São Mateus, where you can observe the traditional fishing activity. The vibrant local life and scenic harbor provide a quiet yet lively end to your day of discovery.

How the Tour Works

The entire experience lasts about seven hours, with pickup from your hotel in Angra do Heroísmo. The van is modern and air-conditioned, making long drives comfortable. Your guide speaks Portuguese, English, and Spanish, so language won’t be a barrier for most travelers.

The tour’s flexibility and small group size make for a more personalized experience—many reviews highlight how guides like Amelia go out of their way to answer questions and make everyone feel at home. The tour’s cost of $74 per person is quite reasonable considering the breadth of sights and stories covered. Since lunch isn’t included, you should budget some extra for meals, but with plenty of options nearby, it’s straightforward.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers are overwhelmingly positive, praising the knowledgeable guides, the stunning viewpoints, and the value for money. Comments like “the van was comfortable,” “the guide was friendly and helpful,” and “we saw almost everything” underscore how well-organized and enjoyable this trip is.

A few mention the full-day length as a consideration, but most agree that the experience is worth it. The small group dynamic, combined with the guide’s enthusiasm and local knowledge, creates a memorable and authentic encounter with Terceira.

The Sum Up

For travelers wanting a rundown of Terceira Island, this tour hits the mark. It combines scenic viewpoints, local flavor, and historical context—all wrapped into a comfortable 7-hour journey. The value is evident, especially given the extensive itinerary, cheese tasting, and expert guiding.

This tour suits anyone who loves stunning landscapes, local food, and cultural insights, and appreciates the convenience of a guided experience. Whether you’re short on time or just want to maximize your visit, it’s a solid way to get a real feel for the island’s diverse beauty.

If you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo seeking a friendly group vibe, this is a relaxed, friendly way to explore. Just remember, the full day can be long, so comfortable shoes and a camera are must-haves.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers the guide, personal insurance, hotel pickup and drop-off, a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, and cheese tasting.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not part of the tour. You’ll have time to find a local restaurant in Praia da Vitória or bring snacks.

How long does the tour last?
The full tour lasts approximately 7 hours, so plan for a full day of sightseeing.

What languages does the guide speak?
The guide speaks Portuguese, English, and Spanish, making it accessible for most travelers.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, but be prepared for a full day of travel and walking at certain stops.

Are there restroom breaks during the tour?
Yes, the guide will plan stops where you can use restrooms and stretch your legs.

How many people are typically in the group?
While not explicitly stated, reviews suggest a small group size, making for a more personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, camera, and any personal items you might need for the day.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is it worth the price?
Absolutely—considering the number of sights, the quality of the guide, and the authentic experiences, most travelers find it very good value.

This full-day van tour of Terceira Island balances scenic beauty, cultural insights, and comfort, making it a fantastic choice to truly get a sense of this beautiful part of Portugal’s Azores.

You can check availability for your dates here: