Thinking of the Canary Islands? Try the Azores instead. These lush Atlantic islands offer untouched nature, local charm, and a more peaceful European island escape for American travelers in 2025.
āļø Ready to Skip the Crowds in 2025?
As American travelers continue looking for unique destinations in Europe, the Canary Islands are often at the top of the list. But while theyāre sunny and easy to find on travel blogs, theyāre also busy, built-up, and increasingly commercial.
If youāre craving something greener, quieter, and more authentic, the Azores should be your next stop. This remote Portuguese archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic is packed with adventure, beauty, and charmāand itās still flying under the radar for most Americans.
Hereās why the Azores beat the Canary Islands in 2025.
š 1. Location & Easy Access from the U.S.
The Azores sit in the North Atlantic, about 1,000 miles off Portugalās coast. They may sound remote, but they’re surprisingly reachableāespecially from the U.S.
- Direct flights are available from Boston and New York to Ponta Delgada (SĆ£o Miguel)
- Flight times are around 5ā6 hours, shorter than flying to mainland Europe
- No connecting flights required if you’re departing from the East Coast
The Canary Islands, on the other hand, require longer connections via mainland Spain or Europe, making the trip more complicated for Americans.
šæ 2. Nature: Raw, Wild, and Untouched
If you dream of emerald cliffs, volcanic lakes, and steaming hot springs, the Azores are your paradise. Each of the nine islands is a nature-loverās dream:
- SĆ£o Miguel: crater lakes, tea plantations, geothermal baths
- Pico: Portugalās highest mountain and epic vineyards
- Flores: waterfalls and untouched hiking trails
While the Canary Islands are also volcanic and beautiful, many parts are overdeveloped with resorts, shopping centers, and tourist beaches.
The Azores feel like Iceland meets Hawaii, but without the tour buses.
š« 3. Fewer Crowds, More Authentic Experiences
One of the biggest differences between the Azores and the Canary Islands is the atmosphere.
- In the Azores, you wonāt find cruise ship ports or mega resorts.
- Villages are small, family-owned restaurants serve local food, and locals still greet you on the street.
- Mass tourism hasnāt hit yetāthis is real, quiet island life.
The Canary Islands, by contrast, can feel like tourist factoriesāespecially in Tenerife and Gran Canaria. If youāre looking for a relaxing escape, the Azores win.
šø 4. Great Value Without the Tourist Markup
Because the Azores arenāt packed with international travelers, prices remain down-to-earth:
- Guesthouses and eco-lodges are affordable and welcoming
- Fresh seafood meals often cost under $15
- Many top experiencesālike hikes, lakes, and lookoutsāare completely free
The Canary Islands may offer cheap flights from Europe, but once there, costs can add up quickly in high-traffic resort areas.
š§ 5. Activities for Explorers, Not Just Sunbathers
Both archipelagos offer adventure, but the Azores focus on active, nature-based travel, not just beach time.
Top Azores Experiences:
- Whale watching (sperm whales, dolphins, even blue whales!)
- Hiking crater rims and forest trails
- Canyoning and climbing volcanic peaks
- Thermal hot springs in natural pools
The Canary Islands focus more on resort life, nightlife, and organized tours. If youāre looking for a genuine outdoor experience, the Azores are far more rewarding.
ā 6. Real Food, Real Culture
The Azoresā strong Portuguese roots are felt in every bite and every street.
What to Expect:
- Cozido das Furnas: stew cooked underground using volcanic heat
- Azorean cheese and seafood: fresh, rich, and locally made
- Espresso culture: tiny cafƩs with perfect coffee and pastries
There are no tourist menus or frozen meals hereājust simple, home-cooked goodness.
In contrast, the Canary Islands’ popular resort zones are dominated by globalized menus and tourist fare.
Download the Zaki Azores Guide for free here.
š Final Thoughts: Choose the Road Less Traveled
The Canary Islands are beautiful, but the Azores are special. They offer the kind of adventure and connection you only find in places that havenāt been overwhelmed by mass tourism.
For American travelers looking for:
ā
Wild nature
ā
Fewer crowds
ā
Real culture
ā
Peaceful experiences
āThe Azores are the European islands to visit in 2025.
Go nowābefore everyone else does.
Get the best travel insurance: EKTA
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ā Frequently Asked Questions (A&Q)
š¹ Q: Are the Azores safe for American tourists?
A: Yes, the Azores are extremely safe for American travelers. Crime rates are low, locals are friendly, and emergency services are reliable. Itās one of the safest destinations in Europe for solo or family travel.
š¹ Q: How do I get to the Azores from the U.S.?
A: You can fly directly to the Azores from major U.S. cities like Boston and New York via Azores Airlines or TAP Air Portugal. Flights typically land in Ponta Delgada (SĆ£o Miguel Island).
š¹ Q: Which is better: the Azores or the Canary Islands?
A: If you prefer quiet nature, hiking, and authentic culture, the Azores are better. If youāre looking for beaches, resorts, and nightlife, the Canary Islands may be a better fit. For off-the-beaten-path travel, the Azores win.
š¹ Q: Do people speak English in the Azores?
A: Yes, many locals in the Azoresāespecially in tourist areasāspeak English. However, Portuguese is the official language. Learning a few local phrases can go a long way!
š¹ Q: Whatās the best time to visit the Azores?
A: The best time to visit is between May and October, when the weather is warm, skies are clear, and outdoor activities are in full swing. For whale watching, plan for spring or early summer.
š¹ Q: Are the Azores expensive?
A: Not at all. The Azores are one of the most affordable destinations in Europe. You can enjoy great food, nature, and lodging without paying resort prices.