The Best Travel Hack: Add a Stopover in the Azores at No Extra Flight Cost

On my way back to the US from Europe, I booked a 27-hour stopover on Terceira, one of the nine volcanic islands that make up the Azores. Known as the “Hawai'i of Europe,” these islands have been a landing point for explorers since the 15th century, and today they’re just as perfect for curious travelers looking to break up a long trip.

Immediately after landing, I walked across the street from the airport (yes, walked with my luggage—it’s that small!) to pick up my rental car. Since I arrived at night, I went straight to my hotel to sleep, then woke up to a simple breakfast the next morning. With 17 hours before my flight home, I was ready to make the most of every minute.

Car rental for 27 hours to explore

I started my adventure by driving to the highest point on the island. As luck would have it, I got lost on a winding farm road and stumbled across a herd of giant, gentle cows beside mysterious abandoned stone houses. Of course, I hopped out of the car to explore on foot and soak in the humid air. Later, I drove straight through the crater of a volcano, where the landscape shifted from dramatic cliffs to lush green fields—like stepping into different worlds layered together.

Driving up and down the volcano... could have been a hike if I had more time.

The most memorable moment wasn’t on a map at all. At dinner, I met a local woman who ran the restaurant and, by pure coincidence, had once lived in South Dakota—where I was born. She sat with me during the meal. As a solo traveler, there's nothing more magical than sharing a meal and a story with a stranger.

Dinner with a view (and an unexpected connection).

That’s the magic of a stopover: In less than two days, I got a taste of history, nature, and human connection that made my trip richer. By the time I flew on to my final destination, I felt like I had already been on a second vacation.

Layovers are out. Stopovers are in. Book with the airline and add a free mini-trip!

• Book direct: Azores Airlines offers free stopovers of one to seven days; TAP Portugal does the same in Lisbon or Porto.

• Car rentals: Book a car in advance. Most rentals are manual (stick shift), and you’ll pay extra for automatic.

• Timeframe: 24 hours is enough for highlights, but three to five days let you hike, whale watch, and soak in hot springs.

• Stay central: Pick a hotel in Angra do Heroísmo, the UNESCO-listed capital, to make the most of your short stay.

• Best season: Summer for sunshine, spring or fall for fewer tourists and lower prices.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Azores page.