Sao Miguel is a food lover’s paradise with breathtaking scenery and a surprising variety of lunch experiences. Unlike many islands that offer touristy eateries, Sao Miguel’s tours often include authentic meals right in the heart of the landscape—think volcanic stews cooked underground or fresh seafood by the coast. We particularly enjoy the full-day Jeep tours that combine spectacular views of crater lakes with hearty local dishes, like the Furnas Jeep Tour, which includes a traditional cozido stew cooked using volcanic heat. These tours not only serve up memorable scenery but make the meal part of the authentic experience. For a more relaxed, off-the-beaten-path approach, the Hidden Gems of Sao Miguel show how you can enjoy a quiet, scenic day with a typical Azorean lunch amid lush surroundings.
Many tours in Sao Miguel focus on volcanoes, hot springs, and scenic vistas but also feature delicious regional cuisine as part of their adventure. These full-day excursions often include local specialties, whether it’s a steaming bowl of cozido in Furnas, fresh seafood by the coast, or simple mountain picnics with spectacular views. The following list covers 15 top lunch experiences, each offering a different way to enjoy the island’s flavors and scenery.
1. Jeep Tour Full Day Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo with lunch and drinks included
Explore Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo in style with this full-day jeep tour that combines stunning views with a hearty local lunch. You’ll climb to the rim of the dormant volcano at 650 meters altitude, taking in sweeping vistas over the twin lakes. Traversing rugged terrain in a jeep allows access to remote villages and viewpoints that are otherwise difficult to reach by car. The tour includes a stop at the Lagoa do Fogo crater with free admission, and a drive along the rim of the Sete Cidades caldera, one of Portugal’s natural wonders. After exploring, you’ll dine at a local restaurant, where traditional dishes are served alongside local wines. Guests praise this tour for its knowledgeable guides and the chance to see the island’s wild side while enjoying a delicious meal.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a comprehensive day of scenic beauty, off-road adventure, and authentic Azorean cuisine all in one.
2. Hidden Gems of Sao Miguel Island Full Day Tour with Lunch
This tour takes you away from the crowds to explore lesser-known spots around Sao Miguel, with a focus on natural beauty and local culture. The itinerary includes stops at waterfalls, mountain viewpoints, and secluded beaches, with a typical Azorean lunch included, served at a local restaurant. Highlights include the geothermal area of Miradouro Caldeiras de Ribeira Grande and coastal vistas from Fenais da Ajuda. The small-group setup ensures personalized attention, and the stops require no strenuous walking—perfect if you prefer sightseeing without hiking. Rave reviews mention guides who are friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate about the island, making the day feel like a day out with friends.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting an authentic, relaxed day exploring Sao Miguel’s quieter side with a genuine local meal.
3. Full Day Jeep Tour Furnas with lunch (Cozido) and drinks included
This tour offers an immersive day in the Furnas Valley, renowned for its steaming hot springs and volcanic activity. You’ll visit Furnas Volcano, where you can sample the famous cozido stew, cooked underground with geothermal heat. The tour also includes stops at Gorreana tea plantation, where you taste fresh local teas, and the hot springs at Poça da Dona Beija (optional). The small-group setting makes for a relaxed experience, with a guide sharing insights about the island’s volcanic activity and local customs. Guests love the balance of sightseeing, cultural insights, and culinary delights, rating this tour highly for value and memorable experiences.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those interested in geology, hot springs, and authentic Azorean food in a comfortable setting.
4. Full Day Furnas Volcano, With Traditional Lunch (East Tour)
This comprehensive east-side tour combines volcanic scenery, thermal springs, and a traditional lunch of cozido. You’ll explore Furnas lake, with boiling fumaroles and bubbling mud pools, then enjoy a typical Azorean meal cooked by geothermal heat. The trip includes visits to ceramic factories, the tea plantation, and historic Vila Franca do Campo. The local guide shares stories about the island’s eruptive history, making it both educational and delicious. Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guide and the opportunity to experience authentic local cuisine with stunning volcanic landscapes.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded choice for lovers of volcanic scenery and regional flavors in a relaxed group setting.
5. Full Day Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo Tour With Lunch (West Tour)
This tour combines two of Sao Miguel’s most iconic crater lakes, Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo, with a scenic lunch break. You’ll walk around Sete Cidades’ famous green and blue lagoons, then ascend to Lagoa do Fogo for breathtaking views from the mountain. Your guide explains the island’s ecology and volcanic history as you visit viewpoints and small villages. Guests appreciate the mix of accessible hikes, stunning vistas, and the included local lunch. For around $87, this offers excellent value for a full day of natural wonder.
Bottom Line: Ideal for nature lovers and those wanting a balanced morning and afternoon of sightseeing with good food.
6. Buggy – Off-road Excursion w/ lunch from Ponta Delgada to Sete Cidades
This adventurous full-day buggy tour takes you off-road along dirt trails and mountain tracks to see Sete Cidades from viewpoints inaccessible by car. You’ll drive through Pico do Carvão, Empadadas Lakes, and stop at the Ferraria hot springs. The guide shares local legends and insights during this high-energy ride. Lunch is included, often a buffet with fresh, local ingredients. The small group size and off-road routes give a more authentic and lively experience, with travelers consistently rating it highly for fun and scenery.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers who want an adrenaline rush with spectacular views and regional cuisine.
7. Full day jeep tour Nordeste with lunch included
Discover Nordeste, the most dramatic eastern tip of Sao Miguel, with this full-day jeep tour. Highlights include waterfalls, the highest mountain, and spectacular coastal vistas. You may spot the priolo bird in its natural habitat. The trip includes a lunch in Povoacao, with guide insights into the local environment and culture. The guide’s knowledge, combined with breathtaking scenery, makes this tour a favorite among those who love nature and wildlife.
Bottom Line: Perfect for lovers of birdwatching, waterfalls, and rugged coastlines, with a satisfying local meal.
8. Quad Bike Tour – Sete Cidades from North Coast (Full Day) with lunch
This full-day quad biking adventure offers a lively way to see Sete Cidades and surrounding sites. You’ll ride along dirt roads, passing Lagoa Verde and Lagoa Azul, with stops at viewpoints like Vista do Rei. Guides share stories of local legends while you explore the volcanic landscape on a fun, manageable vehicle. The tour includes a typical Portuguese lunch and provides all equipment, making it suitable even for beginners. The enthusiastic reviews praise the combination of off-road fun and stunning views.
Bottom Line: Best for active travelers wanting a hands-on experience with scenic, volcanic landscapes.
9. Van – Laketour – Sete Cidades / Lagoa do Fogo – Full Day w/lunch (Shared)
This value-packed full-day tour covers Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo, with stops at Canário Lake, Empadadas Lakes, and Santiago Lake. It includes a lunch featuring local specialties and visits to pineapple plantations. The small-group size ensures personalized attention, and reviews emphasize the flexible, friendly guides who adapt to weather conditions and interests. It’s a practical choice for travelers wanting comprehensive sightseeing at a reasonable price.
Bottom Line: A great option for budget-conscious travelers seeking a full day of natural sights and regional tastes.
10. 2 x Day Tour pack with lunch included (Furnas + Sete Cidades + Fogo + Nordeste)
This two-day package covers Furnas, Sete Cidades, Lagoa do Fogo, and Nordeste, offering a deep dive into Sao Miguel’s volcanic landscapes and cultural spots. Each day includes lunch and time to relax in hot springs such as Terra Nostra. The guides are highly praised for their local knowledge and accommodating style, making this an excellent choice for travelers who want to cover the highlights comfortably over two days.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting to see the full range of the island’s natural beauty and regional cuisine without rushing.
How to Choose the Right Lunch Experience in Sao Miguel
Choosing between these options depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend. For instance, if you’re after a full day of scenic drives and authentic regional food, the Jeep Tour full day Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo is hard to beat. Want a more relaxed, intimate day with fewer crowds? The Hidden Gems offers that. For those seeking adventure and off-road fun, the Buggy excursions and Quad Bike Tour are top picks.
Consider your budget: tours like the van Laketour are excellent value, while more active options like the buggy or quad tours cost more but offer unique experiences. If you want to combine natural beauty with culinary discovery, nearly all tours include local dishes like cozido, often cooked with volcanic heat, providing a true taste of Azorean culture.
To sum it up, Sao Miguel offers an impressive variety of lunch experiences perfectly woven into scenic tours. For relaxed, scenic days with good food, the full-day jeep tours are excellent. Craving adventure? The off-road buggy and quad tours deliver adrenaline and stunning views. For those wanting a deeper dive into the island’s lesser-known spots, the hidden gems tour is the best pick. No matter your taste or budget, booking early will ensure you secure a spot on these popular excursions.
Enjoy exploring Sao Miguel—each of these tours promises a delicious meal, fantastic scenery, and a chance to see the island’s best.
