Varies. EU citizens no visa; others check Schengen rules.

Is the tap water safe to drink?

Yes, tap water is safe and drinkable.

Can I swim in the hot springs?

Yes, at Terra Nostra Park and other thermal pools; check temperature.

How do I get to Furnas from Ponta Delgada?

By car (40 min) or bus (1 hour, limited schedule).

What is Cozido das Furnas?

A traditional stew cooked underground using volcanic steam.

Are there ATMs in Furnas?

Yes, a few ATMs are available; carry cash for small purchases.

Is English widely spoken?

Yes, in hotels, restaurants, and tourist spots.

Comfortable walking shoes, swimsuit, rain jacket, and layers.

Furnas

CityAzores, Portugal

Furnas is a CITY in Azores, Portugal.

Furnas, nestled in the heart of São Miguel, is a volcanic wonderland where steaming fumaroles and bubbling hot springs define the landscape. This charming parish offers a unique blend of geothermal activity and lush greenery, from the iconic Caldeiras das Furnas to the serene Terra Nostra Park with its thermal pool. Visitors can savor the famous Cozido das Furnas, a stew slow-cooked underground by volcanic heat, or explore the mystical Lagoa das Furnas crater lake. The town's botanical gardens, tea plantations, and scenic hiking trails make it a haven for nature lovers. With its therapeutic hot springs and dramatic scenery, Furnas provides an unforgettable, rejuvenating escape into the Azores' volcanic heart.

Best time to visit Furnas

Late spring to early autumn (May-October) offers the best weather: mild temperatures, less rain, and lush landscapes. July and August are warmest but busiest. For fewer crowds, visit in May, June, or September. Winter (Nov-Feb) is cooler and wetter but thermal pools are especially inviting.

October

Now

Right now

Condition: Clear
Temperature: 20°
Feels like: 20°
Humidity: 92%
Wind: 24 km/h
Precipitation: 0.3 mm

Typical for October

Weather: Mild 16-21°C, some rain

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Low

Autumn colors

Weather from Open-Meteo

Know before you go

Getting there

PDL

João Paulo II Airport (Ponta Delgada)

International

40 km away

Getting around

"Renting a car is the most flexible way to explore Furnas and São Miguel. Local buses (Serviços de Transportes) connect Furnas to Ponta Delgada and other towns, but service is limited. Taxis and ride-hailing (e.g., Uber) are available but expensive. Biking is possible for short distances. Walking is ideal within the village."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

20 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Widely available in hotels and cafes

Local SIM

Local SIM available at Ponta Delgada airport from $5

Stay safe

Overall

9/10

Very safe; main risks are natural (geothermal, weather).

Night safety

8/10

Very safe; main risks are natural (geothermal, weather).

Transport

8/10

Scam risk

7/10

"Furnas is very safe with low crime. Petty theft is rare but keep valuables secure. Volcanic areas: stay on marked paths, respect warning signs, and avoid touching boiling mud pools or steam vents. Roads can be narrow and winding; drive cautiously. Earthquakes are possible but usually minor. Hiking trails may be slippery; wear proper footwear."

Police

999

Ambulance

112

Entry and health

Health information

"No mandatory vaccinations. Tap water is safe to drink. Pharmacies are available in Furnas for minor ailments. For medical emergencies, head to the health center (Centro de Saúde) in Furnas or the hospital in Ponta Delgada (30 min drive). Travel insurance covering medical evacuation is recommended due to remote location. Thermal pools are safe but avoid swallowing water; check temperature before entering."

Culture

Local customs

"Portuguese is the official language; English is spoken in tourist areas. Greetings are formal: handshake or kiss on both cheeks. Dress modestly when visiting churches. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated (5-10% in restaurants). Punctuality is relaxed. Respect nature: don't litter, stay on trails, and avoid disturbing geothermal features."

Portuguese (official)EnglishSpanishFrenchMirandesePortugueseMirandese (regional)

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$10-15 | a cheap local meal costs ~$10-15

Hotels

$60-120 | budget hotels range $60-120/night

Local transport

$1.50 | local bus ride ~$1.50

Cost notes

Thermal park entry ~$8; car rental ~$30/day

Timezone

Atlantic/Azores
Local time 23:01

More facts

Population

1,599

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Furnash, puleunaseu hwasan, Фурнаш, 푸르나스 화산, Freguesia de Furnas

CityGeothermalHikingNatureHot SpringsFamily-FriendlyHistoric