São Miguel Island is a food lover’s paradise, especially when it comes to lunch experiences. The island’s incredible landscapes aren’t just for photos—they’re also the backdrop for some unforgettable meals. Whether you want to sample traditional “cozido” stew cooked in volcanic steam, enjoy a scenic tour with a lunch stop, or combine culinary delights with whale watching, São Miguel has something for you. Our favorites include the full-day tours that blend sightseeing with authentic food, like the Full-Day Van Tour with Lunch in the West, which is a fantastic way to see the island’s highlights while enjoying local cuisine. For a more specialized experience, the Furnas Volcano & Tea Plantation Tour offers a chance to taste the island’s geothermal cooking and fresh tea all in one day.
São Miguel’s diverse landscape—crater lakes, lush valleys, and rugged coastlines—makes it a perfect setting for memorable lunch experiences. From simple picnics overlooking lakes to elaborate multi-course meals at scenic viewpoints, this island is a culinary playground. You’ll find tours that combine geothermal hot springs, waterfalls, and local markets, giving you a taste of authentic Azorean life along with hearty meals. Keep reading to find out the top options, their unique qualities, and which might suit your travel style best.
1. São Miguel West: Full-Day Van Tour with Lunch
At number 1, the São Miguel West: Full-Day Van Tour with Lunch is a favorite among travelers for its balance of iconic scenery and authentic food. This 8-hour adventure takes you to see the crater lakes of Sete Cidades and Lagoa de Fogo, with impressive views and photo stops. The tour includes visits to the Salto do Cabrito Waterfall, Ribeira Grande, and Mosteiros, giving a well-rounded taste of the island’s west side. What makes this tour stand out is the expert guide, who shares stories about the geology and history of the Azores, enriching the experience. The day wraps up with a buffet lunch, offering local dishes that perfectly complement the scenery.
Guests love the comfortable, air-conditioned 9-seater van and the relaxed pace that avoids rushing. With a rating of 4.9/5 from over 1,600 reviews, it’s clear this tour offers excellent value. One traveler mentioned, “Daniel was amazing! Outstanding views and well-paced stops.” This tour is best for those wanting a comprehensive, scenic day with a hearty lunch, all in a small-group setting.
Bottom line: If you want a classic, well-organized day with stunning views and local food, this tour is hard to beat.
2. São Miguel East: Full-Day Van Tour with Lunch
Number 2 on our list explores the eastern side of São Miguel. The East Tour visits the famous Furnas Valley, famous for steaming fumaroles and the “cozido” stew cooked underground. You’ll also see the Santa Iria Lookout and the Ribeira dos Caldeirões Waterfall, along with the rugged Nordeste coast. This tour offers a deep dive into the island’s volcanic activity and local culture, with the highlight being the chance to enjoy “cozido”—a slow-cooked stew prepared in volcanic soil—at a local restaurant.
Rated 4.9/5 with over 1,290 reviews, travelers praise the knowledgeable guide and rich, tasty lunch. One reviewer noted, “The tour was very pleasant, with good weather and a rich, tasty lunch.” The tour’s focus on geothermal features and authentic cuisine makes it ideal for those eager to learn about Azorean traditions while enjoying exceptional scenery.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers seeking a mix of volcanic wonders and local flavors, all in a relaxed full-day experience.
3. Ponta Delgada: Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo Tour with Lunch
One of the most popular day trips from Ponta Delgada, this Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo tour combines two of São Miguel’s most stunning crater lakes in one 8-hour experience. Starting with the twin lakes of Sete Cidades, you’ll witness their famous contrasting colors—one blue, one green—while learning the legends behind them. The trip then moves to Lagoa do Fogo, a pristine crater lake surrounded by volcanic peaks. The tour includes a typical Azorean lunch in Lagoa, giving you a chance to taste local flavors amid scenic surroundings.
Rated 4.8/5 with nearly 380 reviews, travelers praise the entertaining guides and beautiful vistas. One said, “Our guide Joaquim was very knowledgeable and offered extra activities at no charge,” highlighting the personalized touch. The combination of scenic drives, local food, and panoramic views makes this a well-rounded choice.
Bottom line: Ideal if you want a comprehensive look at São Miguel’s twin lakes and enjoy a hearty local meal.
4. São Miguel: Furnas Volcano & Tea Plantation Tour & Lunch
This full-day tour offers a deep dive into Furnas Valley’s geothermal activity, including hot springs, fumaroles, and the famous cozido cooked in volcanic steam. The trip also visits Europe’s only tea plantation, giving you a chance to see how tea is grown and processed in the lush Azorean landscape. The geothermal bath provides a relaxing break, perfect after exploring the volcanic sites.
Rated 4.8/5 from 337 reviews, travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guides and well-designed itinerary. One reviewer mentioned, “The tour was interesting, with a magnificent viewpoint and thermal bath,” which shows the variety of experiences offered. The lunch includes the iconic cozido, adding to the authenticity.
Bottom line: Excellent for lovers of geothermal phenomena, local food, and scenic landscapes, all packed into one day.
5. São Miguel: Full-Day Nordeste & Waterfall Tour with Lunch
If rugged coastlines and lush waterfalls excite you, this Nordeste & Waterfalls Tour hits the spot. In 8 hours, you’ll explore Southeastern and Nordeste regions, famous for mountains, rivers, and waterfalls. The tour includes visits to beautiful waterfalls and old watermills, with plenty of photo opportunities. The local lunch is included, making this perfect for travelers wanting a mix of nature and culture.
Rated 4.7/5 from 134 reviews, travelers say, “Bruno was very knowledgeable and answered many questions,” and highlight the great lunch and scenic stops. The tour’s focus on nature and serene villages makes it ideal for those seeking a peaceful yet active day.
Bottom line: Best suited for those who love waterfalls, mountain scenery, and local villages, with a good meal included.
6. São Miguel West: Sete Cidades and Fogo Tour with Lunch
This tour explores the famous crater lakes of Fogo and Sete Cidades, along with pineapple greenhouses and scenic viewpoints like Vista do Rei. Over 8 hours, you’ll learn about the legend of the 7 Cities and enjoy stunning vistas from Pico do Carvão. The included lunch features local specialties, making it a good choice for those interested in agriculture and local legends.
Rated 4.7/5 from 99 reviews, reviewers mention the beautiful viewpoints and informative guides. One noted, “The views from Pico do Carvão were spectacular,” emphasizing the scenic value.
Bottom line: Great for those intrigued by local legends, volcanic lakes, and farming practices like pineapple cultivation.
7. São Miguel: Furnas and Nordeste Full-Day Tour with Lunch
This full-day itinerary combines Furnas’ eruptive features with the Nordeste’s rugged coast. It includes hot springs, waterfalls, and a local lunch in Nordeste. The guide provides insights into volcano activity and local traditions, making it perfect for travelers who want a broad view of the island’s natural and cultural highlights.
Rated 4.7/5 from 85 reviews, travelers appreciate the well-paced tour and diverse scenery. One comment highlights the “magnificent views” and hot springs.
Bottom line: Ideal if you want to see both geothermal wonders and scenic coastlines in one day.
8. Furnas: Thermal Springs & Tea Plantation Day Tour with Lunch
For a relaxed day immersed in geothermal activity and tea, this tour combines Furnas thermal springs, the cozy Terra Nostra Park, and the Gorreana Tea Factory. The lunch features the “cozido”, cooked in volcanic soil, and the tea tasting caps off the experience. The tour’s focus on local gastronomy and geothermal sites makes it perfect for foodies and nature lovers alike.
Rated 4.9/5 from 40 reviews, travelers praise the friendly guides and amazing food. One reviewer said, “The thermal waters and the “cozido” were unforgettable,” highlighting the unique culinary experience.
Bottom line: Best for those who want a mix of geothermal relaxation, local food, and tea tasting in a leisurely day.
9. São Miguel: Whales & Volcano Full-Day Tour with Lunch
This full-day adventure combines whale watching with volcanic landscapes. You’ll sail on a catamaran in search of whales and dolphins, then explore Lagoa de Fogo and its volcanic crater. The lunch is included and features local seafood, making it a feast after a morning at sea. The highlight is the wildlife encounter, which is not guaranteed but often spectacular.
Rated 4.6/5 from 92 reviews, travelers mention seeing dolphins and the knowledgeable guide Hugo. One wrote, “We saw a sperm whale and many dolphins—truly unforgettable.”
Bottom line: Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts who want to combine whale watching with scenic sightseeing and local cuisine.
10. Ponta Delgada: Full-Day Sete Cidades 4X4 Tour with Lunch
Journey off-road with this 4X4 jeep tour exploring hidden trails around Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo. The small dirt roads and scenic vistas make it perfect for those who enjoy a sense of adventure. The tour includes a local restaurant lunch, giving you a taste of authentic Azorean cuisine.
Rated 4.8/5 from 49 reviews, travelers love the expert local guides and stunning views. One reviewer said, “The trail roads provided great fun, and the scenery was breathtaking.”
Bottom line: Best suited for active travelers looking for off-road adventure combined with scenic lakes and a good meal.
11. São Miguel: Full-Day 4WD Jeep Tour to Furnas with Lunch
This full-day 4WD tour focuses on Furnas’ volcanic features, including hot springs and fumaroles. The jeep allows access to less-visited spots and offers a more rugged experience. The tour features lunch with local dishes and a visit to the tea plantation.
Rated 5/5 from 23 reviews, travelers praise the guide Romeo and the rich variety of sites. One said, “We loved learning about the island and the hot springs,” emphasizing the educational aspect.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a more adventurous exploration of Furnas’ geothermal sites.
12. Azores: Private Tour to All São Miguel with Lunch
For those seeking a customized, private experience, this all-day tour covers Sete Cidades, Lagoa de Fogo, Furnas, and more. You’ll enjoy personalized attention, flexible stops, and a delicious lunch. This option is perfect for small groups or families wanting a tailored day.
Rated 5/5 from 8 reviews, travelers appreciate the personalized service and comprehensive itinerary. One said, “Our guide was very knowledgeable and flexible, making it a perfect day.”
Bottom line: Best for travelers wanting a private, flexible experience with a focus on highlights and local cuisine.
13. From Ponta Delgada: Nordeste 4×4 Guided Day Trip & Lunch
This guided 4X4 trip takes you into the Nordeste’s scenic interior, with breathtaking ocean views and village visits. The small group and local guide Mariano provide a personal touch, and the included lunch highlights regional specialties. It’s a perfect choice for those who want off-the-beaten-path scenery.
Rated 5/5, reviewers mention the well-designed itinerary and friendly guide. One comment: “Mariano adapted the route to our needs, making it a very enjoyable day.”
Bottom line: Excellent for explorers who like customized routes and hidden viewpoints.
14. Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo: Full Day Tour with Lunch
Rounding out the list, this full-day tour combines Lagoa das Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo with a regional lunch. It’s a straightforward, reliable option for seeing the top lakes with plenty of commentary and scenic stops. The reviews reflect appreciation for the personalized service and wonderful day.
Rated 5/5, this tour is perfect for travelers seeking a comprehensive day with local flavors and spectacular views.
$85 per person
How to Choose Your Best Lunch Experience in São Miguel
When deciding among these options, consider your budget, interests, and time available. If you want a comprehensive day of sightseeing and food, the Full-Day Van Tours or the Furnas Volcano & Tea Plantation offer great value. For adventurous off-road exploration, the 4X4 jeep tours and full-day Furnas Jeep tour are perfect. If you prefer a private experience, the all-day private tour is your best bet.
Consider your interest in geothermal activity, local cuisine, or whale watching—each tour offers a different slice of São Miguel’s richness. Booking early is advised, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred date and ensure a seamless experience.
In summary, São Miguel’s lunch tours range from scenic, full-day adventures with local delicacies to specialized visits to geothermal parks and whale-watching excursions. For a well-rounded day with hearty food and breathtaking views, the West or East full-day tours are excellent choices. For something more adventurous or private, the 4X4 jeep tours provide a deeper dive into the island’s hidden corners. No matter what you pick, these experiences promise a flavorful taste of the Azores—literally and figuratively.