Located in the Atlantic Ocean and the central group of the 9 islands in the Azores archipelago, the island of Pico doesn’t seem to get as much love as some of the other Azores islands.
Second in size to São Miguel, though still a small island, and still fairly young, this volcanic island has a lot to offer. Most come to hike Mount Pico but there is so much more than that.
So, if Pico is on your list, this guide will help you plan an unforgettable trip to this unique island.
Island Information
Pico Island landscape is a mix of lava rock and exotic plants and boasts a population of around 13,645 (as of 2019). The best time to visit being the summer months, when there is less rain and all the flowers are in bloom and the wine grapes are in full growing mode.
The island’s economy was built on whale hunting and the wine culture. Whaling, of course, is no more and now they pride themselves on whale watching and gaining a better scientific understanding of the whales that frequent their waters.
The vineyards are a UNESCO world heritage site and some of the most unique vineyards in the world.
Come for the wine, the local cuisine of fresh seafood and to hike the highest mountain in Portugal, Mount Pico.
How to Get There
By Air
Most international flights fly into either Terceira or Sao Miguel and from there to the other islands in the archipelago. There are direct flights from Boston to Terceira as well as from Lisbon.
Connections from other major airports on the US east coast, such as Newark and New York City generally connect through Lisbon. If you are planning to fly into Terceira be prepared to wait for around 7 hours for your flight to Pico, or any of the other connecting islands.
The main airline is SATA with TAP Portugal also have a couple of flights.
By ferry
There are ferries that run between the various islands and going, for example, between Sao Jorge and Pico is around 11 Euros per person.
This needs to be reserved in advance and if you are working with a company, like Azores Getaways, they can take care of this booking for you as part of your package.
The ferries are small and can fit around 12 cars, so if you have a car that you are taking between islands, keep this in mind when booking. This mode between islands is a great way to see the islands from another view and saves time in the airports.
Where to Stay
Madalena is the main town on the island, though Lajes is a close second. Staying in Madalena is a great place to stay and gives you a good “homebase” where there are lots of restaurant options and nearby sites. And if a visit to the island of Faial is on your list, it’s just a short ferry ride from the port in Madalena.
Epicenter Pico
While in Madalena we stayed at Epicenter Pico. A three-bedroom house that we had all to ourselves. It was perfect. We had a place just outside the main city that was an easy walk to a grocery store, great restaurants, and the hike along the vineyards.
Cost was extremely reasonable at around $100 a night and takes about 20 minutes to walk into the downtown area.
I am so glad we chose to stay here. It made me feel like I was more a part of this place than if we had of stayed in any popular hotel.
There are several hostels and one large hotel available in downtown Madalena if a 3-bedroom house isn’t your style.
What to Eat
Tasca “o” Petisca
Address: Av. Padre Nunes da Rosa 9950, Madalena, Portugal
This was by far my favorite place on the island. It was a 5 minute walk from Epicenter Pico but we ate there on more than one occasion. It’s just that good.
The atmosphere in this place is awesome, the wait staff impeccable and the food is out of this world.
You definitely need a reservation for this one, but you can arrive the night before and make a reservation for the next day.
All of the seafood is phenomenal (and we tried a lot of it) and they will pair it with the perfect Pico Wine for you.
Pub Arruda
Address: R. Atrás do Castelo beco, 9950-340 Madalena, Portugal
This place was unexpected. I wasn’t sure about it but when I read it was a favorite locals spot I figured why not.
Located across from the ferry terminal, this hidden spot has some great octopus and very fresh seafood. I also had their steak, which was also fantastic.
I would, however, recommend going on days where a menu is available and not the buffet. The buffet was underwhelming to say the least.
Mar Sushi Terrace
Address: ER1, 9930 Lajes do Pico, Portugal
This place was a lucky surprise. During our drive around the island we happened to just stumble across this spot.
A newly opened sushi restaurant, it makes total sense that these should be everywhere because the seafood is so fresh.
Typically they ask for a reservation but we were able to sit down and have some lunch without one. In good weather they have a patio with a picture perfect view of the ocean and the island as it curves around in the distance.
The food was perfection. Some of the freshest sushi I have had. It is a bit more high end and therefore the cost does reflect that a bit.
Getting Around
By Car
The easiest way to get around is by rental car. There are a couple car rental places at the sea port, where the ferry comes in, as well as at the airport. You will need to make a reservation ahead of time as they only open the car rental places when they are expecting people to arrive or leave.
By Bus
There is a bus that will take you from Madalena to Lajes, the two largest towns on the island. It will cost around $3-6 (compared to by taxi $45-55). On Monday-Saturday there are buses that go from Madalena along the north coast and one that goes along the southern coast.
By Taxi
Taxis can get pricey but are also an option if you are wanting to travel to a specific location on the island that is not serviced by bus.
Though, honestly, the best way and probably more economical is to rent your own car to have during your visit (aside from the bus). It gives you the freedom to explore at will without having to figure out a bus schedule and arrive at a specific location.
Best Things to Do
Visit the wine museum
Located in a windmill in the middle of the vineyard is a small museum that you can visit as you walk the trails. This area produces some of the best wines in the region and from there you can head over to Pico Wines for a wine tasting (be sure to reserve in advance).
Gruta das torres
The lava tube is a top destination on Pico and must be booked in advance because they only allow so many visitors per day. You will get a guide into one of the largest lava tubes in Europe walking into the cave around 400m.
Visit Faial island
One of the neighboring islands is Faial and you can see it from the port in Madalena. It is a very short ferry ride and worth the day trip.
Hike to the top of Pico Mountain
Hiking to the highest point on the island and the highest peak in Portugal is on many bucket lists and is a must do when visiting Pico Island. Choose the best day during your visit when purchasing your permit so you have a chance at the breathtaking views from the top of the mountain.
Concluding Thoughts
Pico was a pleasant surprise. I will be honest, I was one of those people that went to Pico to hike the mountain. That was my main reason. But I was pleasantly surprised by all the beauty, incredible food and unique sites around the island.
If you are looking to tackle the formidable Mount Pico, make sure to read my guide to climbing Mount Pico to help you prepare for a successful summit.
Don’t forget, São Jorge is an easy ferry ride away and the perfect island for hikers. Check out my top hikes on Sao Jorge and also get some practical information on São Jorge to help you plan your trip.
Heading to the Azores? Make sure to grab a copy of my guidebook The Azores: A guide for hikers.
