São Miguel Island in the Azores is a culinary playground that offers more than just stunning scenery. Its lunch experiences are especially memorable because many tours incorporate local food, volcanic activity, and unique cultural sites. We’re particularly fond of the Furnas Volcano & Tea Plantation Tour for its combination of geothermal cooking and lush scenery, and the Lagoa do Fogo & South Coast Escape for those who want to pair a scenic hike with a delicious picnic. But whether you prefer a full-day adventure or a gentle walk with local flavors, São Miguel delivers an authentic taste of the Azores.
What makes these tours stand out is their ability to blend spectacular sights with genuine local cuisine—like the “cozido” stew slowly cooked underground in volcanic soil, or sampling freshly brewed tea from Europe’s only tea plantation. Plus, the guides are often praised for their knowledge, making every experience both enjoyable and informative. With options covering everything from waterfalls to thermal baths, you’ll find something that suits your taste and energy level.
Quick Overview
Our list includes a variety of full-day tours that combine scenic drives, hikes, and local meals, all rated highly for quality and value. If you love natural beauty and mouthwatering food, the Sao Miguel East: Full-Day Van Tour with Lunch offers a balanced mix of volcanoes and waterfalls. For those interested in geothermal culture and tea, the Furnas Volcano & Tea Plantation Tour & Lunch delivers a memorable day exploring active volcanoes, a geothermal bath, and Europe’s only tea plantation. The Félix Waterfalls Hike & North Coast is perfect for active travelers who want to combine hiking with local tastings, while the Lagoa do Fogo & South Coast Escape pairs a vigorous trek with relaxing beaches and cheese tasting. Read on for detailed insights into each.
1. São Miguel East: Full-Day Van Tour with Lunch
This tour is a crowd favorite, earning a 4.9/5 rating from over 1,200 reviews. For $89, you get an 8-hour journey exploring the eastern half of São Miguel, including highlights like Furnas, the Santa Iria Lookout, and the Ribeira dos Caldeirões Waterfalls. The tour departs in a comfortably air-conditioned 9-seater van, making it easy to relax as you take in rugged landscapes and volcanic features.
What sets this tour apart is the chance to witness the most active volcano of the Azores, with its bubbling mud pools and steaming vents. The highlight, of course, is tasting the iconic “cozido” stew, slow-cooked underground in volcanic heat—a true Azorean specialty. Your guide offers insights into the geology and history of the region, making the experience educational as well as delicious. The rugged Nordeste coast provides stunning vistas that will stay with you long after the trip ends.
This tour is ideal if you want a comprehensive day that combines natural beauty, local cuisine, and expert commentary. It offers great value for those who prefer a guided experience without sacrificing the chance to see a broad spread of the island’s eastern treasures.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a full, comfort-driven day immersed in volcanic wonders and local flavors without the hassle of planning.
2. São Miguel: Furnas Volcano & Tea Plantation Tour & Lunch
This 8-hour tour has a solid 4.8/5 rating from 337 reviews and is priced based on availability. It offers an immersive experience into Furnas Valley, home to one of the three active central volcanoes on São Miguel. The tour includes a stop at the Furnas geothermal area, where you can see the famous “cozido na caldeira” being cooked—an unforgettable sight and taste.
An exceptional aspect of this tour is the visit to Europe’s only tea plantation, where you’ll learn how Portuguese tea is grown and processed. The guide shares fascinating details about the geothermal activity that heats natural pools, allowing you to bathe in thermal waters heated directly by the volcano—perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guide, the small group size, and the authentic experience, with glowing reviews like, “Jose was extremely knowledgeable about all the sites.”
This trip suits travelers who want a blend of nature, culture, and relaxation. It’s especially good for those interested in geothermal processes and local foods, with a smaller, more intimate tour feel.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded choice for lovers of geothermal wonders, authentic cuisine, and scenic vistas in a small-group setting.
3. São Miguel: Félix Waterfalls Hike & North Coast w/lunch
Rated at 4.6/5, this 8-hour adventure is perfect for active travelers wanting to explore the north coast of the island. The tour includes a scenic hike through the Trilho Moinho Do Felix, where you’ll feel the spray of Félix Waterfalls and learn about lush forest scenery. Along the way, you’ll stop at local viewpoints and a small tobacco factory, gaining insight into traditional industries.
A highlight is the picnic in a forested park, providing a peaceful break amid nature. The tour also visits a tea house for tastings, offering a glimpse into the Azores’ tea-growing traditions, which makes for a delightful sensory experience. The itinerary includes several stops for photos and exploration, making it a flexible, in-depth day.
Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who want a combination of hiking, cultural visits, and local food tastings, this tour provides a more active way to see São Miguel’s northern landscape.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you’re looking for a full day of hiking, scenic views, and local culture with a personal touch.
4. São Miguel: Lagoa do Fogo & South Coast Escape w/lunch
This 8-hour tour, rated 4.6/5, is ideal for travelers wanting to combine a vigorous hike with beach time and local food. Starting with a hike to the stunning Lagoa do Fogo, you’ll walk through lush scenery and enjoy panoramic views of the crater lake. Afterward, a picnic with a view provides a satisfying break.
The tour continues with a swim at Degredo Beach, a less-crowded spot perfect for cooling off. You’ll also visit a small artisanal cheese farm, sampling local cheeses and learning about traditional production methods. The final stop offers a panoramic view at Pisão Viewpoint, overlooking the southern coast.
This tour is perfect for active travelers who want a balanced day of hiking, relaxing, and tasting regional specialties. It’s also a great way to see both the inland crater lake and coastal scenery in one trip.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a challenging outdoor experience coupled with leisurely beach and food stops.
How to Choose
When selecting your São Miguel lunch tour, consider your fitness level, interests, and what you want to get out of the day. If you’re after a comprehensive sightseeing experience with comfortable transport, the Full-Day East Tour offers excellent value. For a blend of geothermal activity and cultural interest, the Furnas Volcano & Tea Plantation Tour is ideal. For active travelers craving outdoor adventures, the Félix Waterfalls Hike or the Lagoa do Fogo & South Coast Escape provide excellent options.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, as these tours fill quickly. Think about what kind of experience appeals most—whether it’s relaxing geothermal baths, scenic hikes, or cultural tastings—and pick the tour that matches your energy level and interests.
In summary, São Miguel offers a rich variety of lunch experiences that combine delicious local food, spectacular scenery, and cultural insights. Whether you prefer a full day exploring volcanoes and waterfalls or a more modest hike with a picnic, these tours guarantee memorable meals and moments. For those seeking an all-encompassing adventure, the full-day tours are the way to go. If you’re more interested in a focused, active day, the hikes and scenic drives will serve you well.
Remember to book early, especially for popular excursions, and prepare for a day of incredible sights, flavors, and stories that will stay with you long after your trip ends.