The Azores Have Grown Quieter. Here Is How to Go

The Azores had an unusual summer in 2026. Ryanair, which had linked São Miguel and Terceira with Lisbon and Porto since 2015, flew its last route on 28 March, citing airport fees and European environmental taxes. Since April, TAP and Azores Airlines have carried all traffic between the islands and mainland Portugal.

The effect showed up in the numbers. Lusa reported in October, citing the regional statistics service SREA, that 1,206,055 passengers arrived at Azores airports between April and August, more than 100,000 fewer than in the same months of 2023. Overnight stays from April to July were about 3.5 percent lower than in 2023. Tourism accounts for about a fifth of regional GDP, so this is a real problem for the islands. The regional government says it is working with TAP and SATA and hopes a new mainland carrier could arrive from summer 2027. A route development fund was approved in May.

For 2027

For visitors, the result is an archipelago with fewer weekend crowds. Getting there takes a little more planning.

• Book flights early. With two carriers on the mainland routes, good fares go quickly. Sixteen airlines served the islands this summer, so check direct international routes as well.
• Go beyond São Miguel. Pico, with its UNESCO-listed vineyards walled in black lava, and the islands of the central group reward a slower trip.
• Rent a house rather than a hotel room, and plan inter-island ferries and flights before you arrive.
• Spend locally. With visitor numbers down, a guide, a winery or a family restaurant feels the difference.

The Atlantic climate stays mild, which matters more each summer. In 2027, the Azores look like a sound choice for travelers willing to plan ahead.