Things to Do in Ilha Terceira, Portugal

Ilha Terceira Things to Do

When visiting IIha Terceira know what types of things you can do so you can make the most of your time on the island.

See the Caves

One of the main attractions on the island is Algar do Carvo. You enter through a tunnel that leads you into the sleeping volcano (there’s a lagoon inside too). The easiest way to get to it is in a car but the taxis on the island are affordable. Additionally, some tour companies offer Algar do Carvo as part of their itinerary. Another site is Gruta do Natal (translated as “Christmas Cave” because there is a Christmas Mass held here annually). It’s not as spectacular as Algar do Carvo but is still worth visiting; there are some interesting lava tubes here. You can buy a single entry ticket or get a combination ticket for both sites. Also, check out the Furna de Agua cave.

Enjoy the Water

Want to swim in the sea? In Angra there is a small black sand beach in the center of the city and also Cais da Silveira, a small concrete pier with some stairs to the sea and a small concrete beach. Both are protected places from waves. Terceira is like most Azorean islands – a place full of lagoons. The most interesting ones are probably Lagoa do Negro and Lagoa das Patas (these and the others on the island are rather small). Praia da Victoria (“beach of the victory”) is another place to see. In the beginning of the XIX century the place was called simply beach (Praia). A big battle took place between two factions of the Portuguese monarchy centuries ago. Today Praia da Vitória is the main harbor of the island and is the closest city to the airport. It’s popular with windsurfers.

Bullfights

People in Terceira like bullfights, almost every day they take place from May to October in the streets of the villages. The main event is called Touradas a Corda.

Angra

You’ll find this World Heritage city full of rich history and charming churches, fortresses and homes. Monte Brasil is an old volcano that wasn’t successful and only created a small peninsula. Today it is extinct and offers an impressive view, giving an extra charm to the city of Angra.

There’s also a wine museum in Biscoitos, the Caldeira de Guilherme Moniz crater and Serra de Santa Barbara (highest point on the island), all worthy places to check out.

Editor’s Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about things to do on Ilha Terceira.