The 10 Largest Islands in Portugal

Scattered across the Atlantic Ocean, Portugal’s islands are a tapestry of dramatic volcanic peaks, lush forests, charming towns, and pristine beaches.

The two island groups—the Azores and Madeira—offer unique landscapes and cultural experiences, from tranquil retreats to UNESCO-listed marvels.

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Top Ten Largest Portuguese Islands

Here’s a countdown of the 10 largest Portuguese islands, each offering distinct landscapes and cultural treasures.

10. Porto Santo (42 km² / 16 sq mi)

A golden gem in the Madeira archipelago, Porto Santo Island is known for its 9-kilometer (5.6-mile) stretch of sandy beach. Unlike its mountainous neighbor Madeira, Porto Santo is flatter and drier, offering a laid-back atmosphere perfect for beach lovers and golfers.

The island boasts a therapeutic climate and mineral-rich sands believed to have healing properties. Its main town, Vila Baleira, was once home to Christopher Columbus. Easily accessible via ferry or Porto Santo Airport, this island is ideal for those seeking a tranquil island escape in Portugal. It’s one of the best Portuguese islands for slow travel and coastal wellness.

9. Graciosa (60 km² / 23 sq mi)

Known as “The White Island” due to its pale rock formations, Graciosa Island in the Azores is a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. This small volcanic island is home to the Furna do Enxofre, a giant lava cave with an underground lake and bubbling sulfur vents.

Traditional windmills dot the rolling hills, and visitors can enjoy natural hot springs and charming rural villages. Graciosa’s pace of life is slow and authentic, perfect for off-the-beaten-path travelers. With scenic hiking trails and organic cheese production, Graciosa is one of the best hidden gems in the Azores.

8. Santa Maria (97 km² / 37 sq mi)

As the sunniest and driest of the Azores, Santa Maria Island is a geological and cultural standout. Unlike the rest of the archipelago, Santa Maria boasts golden sandy beaches like Praia Formosa and red desert-like landscapes at Barreiro da Faneca.

It was the first island discovered by Portuguese navigators in the 15th century. The island’s vineyards, whitewashed houses, and traditional music festivals add to its charm. Ideal for surfing, diving, and photography, Santa Maria blends Atlantic nature with Iberian soul.

7. Flores (141 km² / 54 sq mi)

A true Atlantic wilderness, Flores Island is part of the westernmost edge of Europe and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Aptly named “Flowers Island,” it is covered in hydrangeas, waterfalls, and crater lakes.

Hiking trails wind through verdant valleys and high cliffs, offering unforgettable views of the ocean. Wildlife watchers will enjoy spotting rare seabirds and marine life. Flores is one of the best Azores islands for eco-tourism and hiking adventures.

6. Faial (173 km² / 67 sq mi)

Nicknamed “The Blue Island” due to its abundant hydrangeas, Faial Island is a hub for sailors and geologists alike. The island’s most dramatic feature is the Capelinhos Volcano, which reshaped the western coast during a 1957 eruption.

The marina in Horta is a favorite stop for transatlantic yachts and oceanic explorers. History, science, and sea culture converge in Faial, making it one of the most intriguing islands in Portugal. Don’t miss the Peter Café Sport: a legendary sailor’s bar.

5. São Jorge (243 km² / 94 sq mi)

Stretching like a dagger across the sea, São Jorge Island is famed for its rugged cliffs and fajãs—flat coastal platforms formed by landslides or lava flows. These unique landscapes are ideal for hiking and local agriculture, including the production of São Jorge cheese, one of Portugal’s best.

The island’s high central ridge offers breathtaking views and an escape into untouched nature. Less commercial than its neighbors, São Jorge remains a secret paradise in the Azores. It’s a perfect island for hikers and foodies alike.

4. Terceira (400 km² / 154 sq mi)

Terceira Island blends volcanic wonders with a lively cultural scene. Its capital, Angra do Heroísmo, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with Baroque architecture and cobbled streets.

The island is known for its colorful festivals, bull-running traditions, and geothermal fields like the Algar do Carvão lava tube. Terceira offers a rich blend of heritage, gastronomy, and scenic viewpoints. It’s an ideal destination for culture lovers visiting the Azores.

3. Pico (445 km² / 172 sq mi)

Dominated by the imposing Mount Pico, Portugal’s highest peak (2,351 m / 7,713 ft), Pico Island is a volcanic giant. The island is known for its UNESCO-listed vineyards, grown in black lava stone corrals.

Adventure travelers come for hiking, whale watching, and exploring lava caves like Gruta das Torres. Despite its wild appearance, Pico has a peaceful rhythm with charming villages and stunning coastal roads. Pico is a must-visit for volcano tourism in Portugal.

2. Madeira (741 km² / 286 sq mi)

The jewel of the Atlantic, Madeira Island is famous for its lush Laurisilva Forest (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), mountain peaks, and levada walks (historic irrigation channels). The capital, Funchal, is a cosmopolitan hub with markets, gardens, and gastronomy.

Discover Madeira: Portugal’s Second-Largest Island

Renowned as the “Pearl of the Atlantic,” Madeira Island is a breathtaking destination that beautifully melds adventure, relaxation, and the rich charm of Portuguese culture.

Visitors can explore botanical wonders, dramatic cliffs, and centuries-old wineries. Madeira is a year-round destination, often called the Island of Eternal Spring. It’s one of the top island destinations in Europe for nature and culture.

1. São Miguel (744 km² / 287 sq mi)

Topping the list is São Miguel Island, the largest in Portugal and the heart of the Azores. Known as “The Green Island,” it offers a mix of crater lakes like Sete Cidades, thermal springs in Furnas, and Europe’s only tea plantations.

Discover São Miguel Island: Portugal’s Largest Island

Known as “The Green Island,” São Miguel captivates visitors with its stunning volcanic landscapes, lush forests, and enchanting crater lakes, inviting every traveler to discover its wonders.

Ponta Delgada, the main city, combines colonial charm with modern cafes and sea promenades. São Miguel is the best island in Portugal for first-time visitors seeking natural beauty, culture, and easy access. It’s a diverse island ideal for sightseeing, hiking, and geothermal wellness.