Sao Miguel, the largest island in the Azores, is a food lover’s paradise. Its volcanic landscape provides a unique setting for memorable dining experiences that blend local tradition, volcanic energy, and fresh ingredients. Whether you’re soaking in thermal baths at night or exploring local markets, the island offers something for every palate. We’re particularly fond of the Furnas Night-Time Experience because it combines relaxation, culture, and a hearty meal cooked underground using volcanic steam. It’s a perfect way to get a real taste of Azorean life, especially with the added bonus of soaking in the Poça da Dona Beija thermal baths. For a more intimate experience, the Furnas Evening Thermal Bath Small Group Tour offers a cozy, guided way to enjoy the springs and local cuisine.
If you’re into mystical landscapes with a side of food, the Furnas: Mystic Tour is ideal, combining scenic views of calderas with a traditional cozido and relaxing hot springs. For those curious about Azorean food beyond the thermal experience, the Regional Food Experience in Ponta Delgada gives an authentic taste of local dishes at the bustling Mercado da Graça.
1. Furnas Night-Time Experience with Thermal baths and Dinner
At number 1, this tour offers a combination of thermal relaxation and culinary tradition that’s hard to beat. It starts with hotel pickup from Ponta Delgada and takes you to the Poça da Dona Beija thermal baths in Furnas. You can enjoy the soothing natural pools (tickets are not included, so plan accordingly) and a guided nature walk that introduces you to the island’s rich volcanic landscape. The highlight is the dinner of Cozido das Furnas, a classic Azorean stew cooked underground using volcanic steam. This dish combines meats, vegetables, and tubers that have been slow-cooked for hours by nature itself.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of relaxation, culture, and authentic cuisine. The small group setting means more personalized attention from your guide, and reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, like Eduardo, for sharing insights into the island’s vegetation, history, and economy. Several travelers mention how memorable the thermal pools at night are—an experience that feels both soothing and surreal. The dinner, enjoyed after soaking, offers a hearty taste of local flavors. This tour is well-suited for travelers who want a relaxed evening that combines nature, food, and culture.
Bottom Line: A top choice for those who want a relaxing, authentic, and well-rounded evening out with knowledgeable guides and a genuine taste of Azorean culinary tradition.
2. Furnas Evening Thermal Bath Small Group Tour with Dinner
At number 2, this tour emphasizes comfort and intimacy. Traveling in a climate-controlled minivan with a small group, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Furnas’ volcanic crater before soaking in the thermal baths of Poça da Dona Beija. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a convenient way to explore without the hassle of planning transportation.
During the evening, the thermal waters take on a different ambiance—less crowded and more atmospheric. Afterward, you’ll sit down for a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, emphasizing local flavors and Azorean hospitality. The guide, Paulo, is praised for his knowledge and friendliness, making the experience both educational and lively.
Guests mention that the thermal springs are especially enjoyable at night, with some noting the quality of the food and the accommodating nature of the guide. The tour offers a balance of scenic views, cultural insight, and authentic dining—all at a competitive price point. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer a more intimate setting and value comfort and personalized service.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a relaxed, smaller-group experience with excellent views, great food, and a knowledgeable guide.
3. Furnas: Mystic Tour (w/Dinner & Thermal Springs)
Number 3 on our list combines scenic beauty, local cuisine, and a touch of mysticism. Starting with a drive that offers views of the coastline and Vila Franca do Campo, this tour takes you into Furnas’ iconic landscape, including the Lagoa das Furnas. Here, you’ll witness the endemic flora and the bubbling earth that gives steam to the famous cozido.
The tour includes an opportunity to indulge in the cozido cooked underground, plus time at the Poça da Dona Beija thermal springs during the golden hour. The guide, Ivo, is highly recommended for his personable approach, making the experience both informative and fun. Reviewers mention that soaking in the springs at night is a highlight—an experience that feels almost magical after sunset.
The tour balances scenic drives, cultural storytelling, and delicious food—all at a reasonable price for a 6-hour adventure. You’ll learn about volcanic activity and local traditions, making this especially good for those interested in the island’s geology and history.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded experience ideal for travelers interested in scenery, mysticism, and authentic local food culture.
4. Hot Water Pool Bath Inside Pineapple Plantation & Dinner
Number 4 offers a unique blend of agriculture, relaxation, and gastronomy. The tour begins with a visit to a pineapple plantation, where you’ll learn about sustainable cultivation and see the greenhouses where pineapples are grown and processed. You’ll also discover how pineapple wine is produced—an exclusive Azorean specialty.
After exploring the plantation, you can unwind in a hot water pool inside the plantation, which offers a chance to relax amid lush surroundings. The evening concludes with a delicious dinner at Rústico, featuring local ingredients and dishes that showcase the island’s flavors. Travelers rave about the knowledgeable guide João and the friendly service, as well as the chance to enjoy a hot tub with wine in hand.
This experience is perfect for those wanting a mix of food, local agriculture, and relaxation in a less crowded setting. The tour’s value lies in its combination of learning and leisure, making it a satisfying experience for foodies and relaxation seekers alike.
Bottom Line: A memorable, off-the-beaten-path option that combines sustainable agriculture, hot springs, and authentic regional cuisine.
5. Night Tour Poça da Beija 99.99€ Entries and Dinner Included
Number 5 offers a focused evening experience centered around thermal baths and local dining. It includes entry to Poça da Dona Beija, the famed thermal pools, along with a traditional dinner afterward. The tour is shorter—around 4 hours—and is suited for travelers wanting a straightforward, relaxing evening.
Reviews highlight the friendly guide and the excellent, plentiful food. The tour includes drinks and a variety of local dishes, with some reviews mentioning how much they enjoyed the traditional stew and the warm pools. It’s a good option if you want an all-in-one experience with minimal fuss, especially if you’re pressed for time but still want to enjoy the thermal waters and a good meal.
The main drawback for some is the limited English spoken by the guide, so travelers who speak some Portuguese or are comfortable with basic communication will get the most out of it.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking a simple, relaxing evening with thermal baths and hearty local food.
6. Regional Food Experience in Ponta Delgada
Finally, number 6 offers an immersive culinary journey through Ponta Delgada’s local markets and eateries. This tour invites you to explore Mercado da Graça and taste typical Azorean dishes, learning about the ingredients and traditions behind each bite. It’s a hands-on experience that emphasizes interaction with locals and understanding the island’s culinary culture.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want a deeper dive into Azorean gastronomy beyond thermal springs and stew. It provides a taste of the island’s diversity, from fresh seafood to regional specialties, with a focus on authenticity and local life.
Though limited in reviews, it’s a great choice for those interested in food history and culture, especially if you prefer guided tastings over more physical activities.
Bottom Line: For foodies eager to explore local markets and discover island flavors firsthand, this is an intimate, culturally rich option.
How to Choose the Best Dining Experience for You
When selecting among these options, consider what kind of experience appeals most. If relaxation and authentic cuisine are your priorities, the Furnas Night-Time Experience or the Small Group Thermal Bath Tour provide a cozy, immersive setting. Interested in scenery and cultural stories? The Mystic Tour offers stunning views and history wrapped into one.
If you’re a foodie eager to explore local markets and learn about regional ingredients, the Regional Food Experience in Ponta Delgada is your best bet. For those wanting a more active approach with a mix of agriculture and relaxation, the Pineapple Plantation tour delivers.
Booking early is advised, especially during peak season, to secure spots on the most popular tours. Think about your budget—these tours range from about $83 to $115—and what parts of the island’s culinary scene excite you the most.
Final Thoughts
Sao Miguel delivers a fantastic variety of dining experiences that highlight the island’s volcanic bounty and local traditions. From soaking in thermal waters after a hearty stew to exploring vibrant markets and pineapple plantations, there’s something for every kind of traveler.
For a relaxing, culture, the Furnas Night-Time Experience and Small Group Thermal Bath Tour stand out. If you prefer a deeper dive into local flavors, the Regional Food Experience offers a rich taste of Azorean life. No matter what you choose, booking ahead ensures your spot in these memorable culinary adventures.