Guide to the Azores, Algarve and Granada

Those three destinations are not usually the first ones to come when someone talks about Spain and Portugal. However.. They are full of charm and we couldn’t resist adding them to our blog. 

You’ll get everything from jungle island vibes, long sandy beaches and picturesque mountain landscapes. Not to mention the good food in each of these places.

Keep reading to find out how you can combine all three in one trip. 

Are they suitable for digital nomads and remote workers?

Although they’re not very popular among the community, we believe that all three are worth considering if you’re looking for a more affordable place and escaping the crowds. These regions are especially recommended for digital nomad families traveling with kids. (and definitely have the seal of approval of Kyle and Kailah at Nowhere on earth) 

They all have very good internet connectivity and options for both coworking spaces or work friendly cafes. 

How to combine them in 1 trip?

Because of its connectivity to the rest of the world Lisbon is a very convenient starting point.

• Lisbon to Azores

There are several direct flights from Lisbon to Ponta Delgada (the capital city) per day. The flight is only 2h20 and prices vary between 70 EUR and 170 EUR depending on the season. 

• Azores to Algarve

At the end of your stay in the Azores, the most convenient option is to fly back to Lisbon. Algarave is only 2h30 drive away. There are also many options for trains connecting Lisbon and Algarve. So if you prefer to relax and enjoy the scenery that’s a good choice as well. If you choose this option, it’ll take you around 3h30 to reach Algarve. 

• Algarve to Granada

For the last part of your journey, we recommend hiring a car and driving to Granada. The whole trip is around 5h30 so it might be worth breaking it down in two (Especially if you’re traveling with kids). Seville is conveniently located right in the middle between Algarve and Granada and makes it the perfect stop. 

The Azores, Portugal

Nestled in the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores is a group of nine islands teeming with natural beauty. These islands are celebrated for their vibrant landscapes, quaint fishing communities, and unique vineyards. A lesser-known trivia about the Azores is the existence of the only European tea plantations there.

Activities and Places to See

1. Discover the thermal baths and botanical garden of Terra Nostra Park
2. Take a boat tour for whale and dolphin watching
3. Visit the twin crater lakes, Lagoa das Sete Cidades, and marvel at the stunning views
4. Explore the UNESCO-listed vineyards of Pico Island
5. Hike up to Mount Pico, the highest mountain in Portugal 

Average Prices

• Meal at a mid-range restaurant (for 2 people) : around €40
• Public transport 1-way ticket : €1.50
• Average grocery bill per week (for 2 people) : around €80

Best Months to Visit

• June to September. Our personal pick will be either June or September when the weather is very nice but the season is not in its peak. 

Algarve, Portugal

The Algarve, Portugal’s southernmost region, is famous for its breathtaking coastline, mild climate, and welcoming locals. An interesting fact is that the region boasts over 30 exceptional golf courses, making it a top European destination for golfing enthusiasts.

Activities and Places to See

1. Explore the historic maritime town of Lagos and its charming old town
2. Visit the Ria Formosa lagoon, a natural park and haven for migratory birds
3. Take a boat tour to the Benagil Cave, one of the world’s most beautiful sea caves
4. Bask in the sun at Praia da Marinha, one of the best beaches in Europe
5. Experience surfing or kitesurfing at Praia da Arrifana

Average Prices

• Meal at a mid-range restaurant for 2 people: €24 
• Public transport daily pass: €3 (this website provides an overview of all stops in the Algarve region and the fares)
• Average grocery bill per week for 2 people : around €50

Best Months to Visit

• April to October

Granada, Spain

At the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains lies Granada, a city brimming with cultural richness and Moorish heritage. Granada is famed for the Alhambra, a breathtaking fortress complex. An interesting trivia: Granada was the last city to be under Arab rule in Western Europe, which ended only in 1492.

Activities and Places to See

1. Unravel the history of the Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage site
2. Stroll around the Albaicín, a medieval Moorish quarter with narrow winding streets and stunning views of the Alhambra
3. Visit Sacromonte, known for its traditional cave homes and flamenco performances
4. Explore the Monastery of Cartuja, an example of Spanish Baroque architecture
5. Enjoy a stroll in the Carmen de los Mártires, a beautiful garden offering panoramic views of the city 

Average Prices

• Meal at a mid-range restaurant for 2 people : €50
• Public transport monthly pass: €1.40 (However its compact size and pedestrian-friendly streets make it super easy to explore on foot)
• Average grocery bill per week for 2 people: around €60

Best Months to Visit

• March to June and September to November. Keep in mind that it gets really hot towards the end of June.

This trio is a perfect trip idea for early Euro summer 2024 right before it gets too crowded or at the end of the season around September – October when everything starts to calm down again. 

Ready to pack your bags and head off to your next adventure? 

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