15 BEST THINGS TO DO IN HORTA + WHERE TO STAY.
Horta is the kind of place that will suck you in, love bomb you with it’s cutesy promenade, colourful harbour and lively bars and make you not want to ever leave it. Horta is charming and salty enough in the best possible way. The sort of town where you can while away days sipping coffee by the marina, popping into quirky museums, or sitting in a bar chatting with with people from all the world.
Whether you’re stopping off as part of a wider Azores adventure or anchoring here (literally or metaphorically) for a while, Horta has a little bit of sorcery for everyone.
Here’s everything we got up to, what we loved most, and what you absolutely shouldn’t miss when visiting this gorgeous town on the island of Faial.
What is Horta known for
If you’ve heard of Horta, chances are it’s because of the marina. This is a popular stopping-off point for sailors crossing the Atlantic, which has earned it a reputation as one of the world’s most iconic sailing hubs. The walls of the marina are covered in paintings and murals left behind by yachts and their crews, a tradition that brings good luck for those continuing their voyages.
But it’s not just about boats. Horta is also known for Peter’s Sports Cafe, a legendary sailor’s bar; its volcanic landscapes; and its proximity to some of the best whale-watching waters in the Azores.
We visited five islands during our Azores trip and Horta was the capital that we enjoyed hanging out in most. It’s also the one where we had most to drink, I’m not sure if these two things are related. It’s the type of place that you can really go for it with the nightlife, should you wish to!
How long do you need in Horta?
Horta is the capital town of the island of Faial and most who come here (sailors aside) will intend to explore the entire island, rather than just Horta. And, I’ll be frank, Horta is not a huge labyrinth of a town, it’s pretty small.
We were in Horta for four nights in total – of this time, we spent one afternoon sightseeing in the capital, each morning trying out new coffee places and each evening checking out bars and restaurants. The remaining time we were out and about exploring the island. This felt like an ideal balance.
I would say that you could easily feel a full day in Horta if you are keen to go into the churches and museums, or perhaps just a few hours to wander around.
15 best things to do in Horta
Here are the 15 best things that we found to do whilst we were in Horta.
1/ Wine tasting in the market
If you’re anything like me, a holiday isn’t complete without a good glass of wine. The tiny wine bar Botequim do Mercado, in Horta’s Mercado Municipal is the ideal place in town to try some local Azorean wines. Look for tastings of Verdelho and Arinto wines, or grab a bottle to take home.
This wine bar only opens during the day (sounds like a great excuse), so if you’re in Horta for the day but not staying over, this is a great spot to head to.
If you are heading out to explore the island during the day and looking for a spot for decent wine later on, consider visiting Cantinho das Provas which offers wine by the glass and tapas in a more upmarket setting. You can also book a wine tasting here.
2/ Catch a view from above
For the best view of Horta, head up to Monte da Guia. The short hike isn’t too taxing, and once you’re at the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the town, the marina, and the coastline.
If you’re looking for something less energetic and you have a car, the view point Miradouro de Nossa Senhora da Conceição is an easy couple of minutes drive up from the town and I think offers one of the best aspects of Horta and Pico as a bonus.
3/ Take in the Marina Art
Horta’s marina is surrounded by a seawall, which is not just functional, it is also a giant open-air gallery. Wander along the waterfront, and you’ll find hundreds of colourful murals painted by sailors who have passed through. Some are simple and heartfelt, while others are more elaborate. I spent a while picking out my faves and imagining what I would design if I were sailing through.
4/ Get salty at Peter’s Cafe Sport
Peter’s Cafe is an Azorean institution. Part bar, part museum, and part meeting point for sailors from all over the world, this place has been a Horta staple since the 1910s.
I had been so excited to visit this bar, and I will admit I was worried it might be a bit of a gimmick and not live up to expectations. Thankfully, this does not seem to be the case. It is a genuinely great place to spend many an evening, or rainy afternoon.
By chance or design, we arrived almost directly outside of Peter’s cafe in our airport taxi after touching down in Faial. I took this as a sign to dive in and try one of their G&Ts (with island gin), which are mercifully reasonably priced. So lulled by Peter’s were we, that we returned multiple times.
Peter’s also serve food. We didn’t get beyond drinks and fries but the seafood curry looked fab.
5/ Visit the Church of the Holy Savior
We noticed as we explored Faial that many of the churches on the island are quite modern structures. I believe that older ones on the island were damaged during an earthquake. With the exception of the imposing church of the Holy Savior, found in central Hota.
It’s worth spending a quiet moment to visit this church. Inside you’ll find quirky azulejos tiles and other elaborate decor. The church is a big part of the Horta skyline, so much so that it can be seen by sea from boat or ferry. I like to imagine that arriving sailors would see this as one of the first signs of Horta on the horizon.
6/ Browse the food market
Back to the market again, but this time for the food! From fresh fish to local cheese and handmade pastries, the Mercado Municipal is small but serves up plenty. Pick up a freshly baked bolo lêvedo (sweet Azorean bread roll) or some São Jorge cheese for an authentic taste of the islands.
To our shame, we didn’t get a chance to try the burgers at Ah Boca Santa (found in the market), which seem to be semi-famous on the island. I’m fairly sure there is no such thing as ‘bad beef’ on the Azores, so if the burgers here really are the best, then they will be epic.
Be sure to visit by 14:00 when the market closes.
7/ Wander Through the Jardim Florêncio Terra
Take a leisurely stroll through Jardim Florêncio Terra, a peaceful park in the heart of Horta. In spring and summer, I expect this small park will be dotted with vibrant flowers, shady trees, and benches perfect for people-watching or simply pausing for a moment. And in December you can expect to see some elaborate Christmas decorations.
The Dragon Trees on Faial island and are quite special. And this park has a few large ones. You can sometimes get a glimpse of Mount Pico on the neighbouring island.
8/ Charter a yacht
As sailing is a big part of life in Horta, you may like to consider getting out onto the water.
There are lots of companies in Horta that can arrange a charter yacht. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or prefer a skippered day trip, there are plenty of options to explore the surrounding waters. The views of Faial, Pico, and São Jorge from the sea are unbeatable.
Alternatively, you can join a small group sunset sail to see the sights around Horta and enjoy a few drinks. Check out this top rated sunset sailing tour.
9/ Whale watching tour
The Azores is one of the best places in the world for whale watching, and Horta is a prime spot to set off on a tour. You’re likely to see Bryde’s whale and lots of dolphins if you take an excursion. Just be prepared for those North Atlantic swells – they’re not for the faint of stomach!
10/ Horta Museum
Okay, I’ll be honest: I didn’t make it here because I spent way too much time at Peter’s Bar (classic mistake). But if you’re a history buff, the Horta Museum is said to be worth a visit. It’s housed in a former Jesuit college and has exhibits on everything from local whaling traditions to Faial’s volcanic history.
11/ Tuna steak at Restaurant Atletico
Tuna steak is absolute one of my favourite dishes. During our tour of The Azores, I had so many wonderful chances to try local tuna. And, it’s always reasonably priced too!
If you too are a fish lover, check out Restaurant Atletico, which has fresh fish every day.
12/ Swim in calm water
Prai Do Porto Pim is just a five minute stroll from the centre of Horta, but feels a million miles away. As you approach the beautiful natural sheltered bay area, there’s an almost instant feeling of serenity.
On all of the islands that we visited across the Azores, I think this was probably the calmest we saw the sea. It’s an ideal sheltered beach for a swim. Bring a towel and a good book and settle in.
13/ Run or walk on the promenade
Horta’s waterfront promenade is ideal for a morning jog or a leisurely evening stroll. You’ll pass by colourful boats, cafes, and scenic views of the marina. We loved getting up early to go running along the promenade, and regularly had it all to ourselves.
14/ Watch sunset from Cafe Do Porto Pim
For a dreamy end to the day, head to Cafe do Porto Pim. Grab a seat outside, order a glass of wine, and watch as the sun dips below the horizon. The combination of the golden light, the sea views, and the laid-back atmosphere is just joyful.
15/ Coffee & bakery treats
Last but definitely not least, make time for some coffee and cake. There are some charming cafes along the promenade. Our favourite became A Padaria – Avenida, which has a relaxed and contemporary feel to it. There are tables outside or indoors, depending on the weather.
Where to stay in Horta
Horta is small and walkable, so anywhere you pick is likely to be close to the centre of things. Here are a few suggestions:
BUDGET: We stayed at Faial Marina Apartments II. This has an ideal central location and offers self-catered facilities. As well as sea views!
MID-RANGE: Found close to the central of town is Hotel Horta. It has sea views, and a swimming pool. A popular mid-range choice.
LUXURY: In truth there isn’t much price difference between Hotel Horta and Azoris Faial Gardens, but the latter is just a little bit more luxurious. It has an indoor pool, ideal for winter stays and a large outdoor one for the summer.
The Triangle Islands
São Jorge, Pico and Faial make up the three Triangle Islands of The Azores. Although the islands are neighbours, they all offer something totally different and unique. Find our guides to all three below.
PICO ISLAND
Known as they “grey island” and famous for wine, volcanic landscape and Mount Pico.
SAO JORGE
Known for the dramatic Fajãs, hiking trails, cheese and surfing.
Written by Emma
Wine Lover. Yogi. Hiker. Writer.
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