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How to Book a Trip to the Azores

How to · Travel

How to Book a Trip to the Azores

See the volcanic craters of Portugal without the peak summer crowds by planning your budget around a long interest-free window.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $2,200 before anything else
Across the 0% window $146.67/mo 15 months, no interest

How we got that: $2,200 spread evenly across the 15-month introductory window on the Discover it® Cash Back. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

The Azores are dramatic, lush volcanic islands in the middle of the Atlantic that feel worlds away from mainland Europe. Visiting in May, June, or September lets you hike the crater lakes and soak in hot springs without fighting the heavy cruise ship crowds or paying peak July prices.

A trip usually runs around $2200 for flights and lodging. To manage this cost, you can use the Discover it® Cash Back card, which offers 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers. This gives you over a year to pay off the trip without paying extra interest on the balance.

That 0% intro APR period is a strict deadline, not free money. If you have a remaining balance after those 15 months, the card will start charging interest on whatever you still owe.

The steps

  1. 01

    Pick your travel dates

    Aim for the shoulder season to save money and avoid the humidity of high summer. Flights and hotels are much cheaper in early June or late September.

  2. 02

    Book your flights

    Check prices on flight aggregators to find the best route into Ponta Delgada. Book directly with the airline to make changes easier if your plans shift.

  3. 03

    Secure your accommodation

    Look for local guesthouses or rentals outside of the main city center. You will get a better feel for the island culture and save a decent amount of cash.

  4. 04

    Manage the payment

    Use your Discover it® Cash Back card to pay for your travel bookings. By spreading the $2200 cost over the 15-month intro window, you only need to pay $146.67 per month to clear the balance.

  5. 05

    Automate your payments

    Set up an automatic monthly transfer of $150 to your card account. This ensures you stay on track to finish paying for the trip before the intro period expires.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Discover it® Cash Back carries the date a person verified it against Discover and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Discover it® Cash Back terms →

Common questions

Is the Azores expensive once I arrive?

It is generally more affordable than mainland Europe. Groceries, coffee, and local bus transit are quite cheap if you avoid tourist-heavy restaurants.

Do I need a rental car?

You will want one to see the best volcanic viewpoints. Public transit exists but it is slow and doesn't reach the remote hiking trailheads easily.

What happens if I miss a monthly payment?

Missing a payment can end your 0% intro APR offer early. Always set up autopay for at least the minimum amount so you don't lose the benefit.

Will I get cash back on the trip?

The Discover it® Cash Back card earns rewards on your purchases. Check your current category or account terms to see how much you will get back on these travel expenses.