Hotels in Horta

Unveil the Enchantment of Horta: Where Sea Meets Heritage

Nestled on Faial Island, Horta is a vibrant harbor town that captures the spirit of the Azores. Famous for its picturesque marina, the town is a haven for sailors and adventurers alike. Explore the fascinating museums and historic monuments, including the remnants of a former fortress, which offer glimpses into its rich maritime history. Don’t miss the stunning views from Porto Pim Bay, where the azure sea meets lush landscapes. Horta’s unique charm, combined with its artistic murals and welcoming atmosphere, makes it a perfect off-the-beaten-path destination for cultural explorers and nature lovers. For the best hotel rates in Horta and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Horta

Some of the best places to stay in Horta are Madalena, Lajes do Pico and Velas. Horta, Azores, offers stunning landscapes and rich culture, making it a fantastic vacation destination. Madalena is perfect for first-time visitors due to its vibrant atmosphere and access to ferry services. Lajes do Pico boasts breathtaking views and a tranquil vibe, ideal for nature lovers, while Velas charms with its picturesque harbor and traditional architecture. Accommodations across these areas range from cozy guesthouses to comfortable hotels, providing options for every traveler looking for a memorable stay. Here are some of the best hotels in Horta that our travelers love:

1. MadalenaOpens in a new window: Madalena is a charming destination in the Azores, known for its stunning vineyards and breathtaking views of Mount Pico. It's an excellent spot for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking to enjoy a romantic getaway. The area is rich in adventure opportunities, including hiking and beach activities. For accommodations, consider Hotel CaravelasOpens in a new window, a 4-star hotel that combines beach access with business amenities, perfect for both leisure and work. PocinhobayOpens in a new window is another great option, featuring direct beach access and various adventure sports like snorkeling and hiking. Additionally, Vinhas do CalhauOpens in a new window caters to families and pet owners, providing childcare services and pet-friendly policies, ensuring a delightful stay for all.
2. Lajes do PicoOpens in a new window: Lajes do Pico is an outdoor paradise, celebrated for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, including the Sao Roque Church and the picturesque Caiado Lagoon. This location is ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Consider staying at Aldeia da Fonte HotelOpens in a new window, a 4-star hotel with direct beach access and wellness-focused amenities. It offers adventure sports such as snorkeling and hiking right on-site. Alternatively, Areias da PrainhaOpens in a new window and Casa do ComendadorOpens in a new window are both excellent guesthouses that provide various recreational activities, ensuring guests enjoy the serene natural surroundings.
3. VelasOpens in a new window: Velas is a picturesque town that combines rich culture with outdoor adventure, featuring landmarks like Igreja de Sao Jorge and Velas Marina. This location is perfect for travelers seeking a blend of relaxation and exploration. For lodging, Kuanza Nature ExperienceOpens in a new window offers a natural accommodation experience with wellness activities and a range of outdoor amenities. São Jorge GardenOpens in a new window, a 3-star hotel, is well-suited for business travelers and those looking for a natural setting, featuring meeting rooms and outdoor spaces. Lastly, Inatel GraciosaOpens in a new window provides a spa experience, complete with outdoor amenities and business facilities, making it a versatile choice for various traveler needs.

Things to do in Horta for first time

Three days in Horta offer travelers a chance to explore stunning coastal landscapes, vibrant marinas, and serene beaches. Visitors can enjoy activities like boating, hiking, and sea diving, while taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding islands and mountains, making it a captivating destination for nature lovers. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Horta:

• Day 1: Start your exploration of Horta by wandering through the charming Horta Historic Center, where you can admire the vibrant streets and local architecture. After soaking in the history, visit the Museu do Vinho to learn about the region’s winemaking heritage and sample some delightful local wines. Conclude your day with a relaxing stroll on Porto Pim Beach, where you can unwind with the sound of waves and stunning sunset views.
• Day 2: Your adventure continues at Gruta das Torres, an impressive lava tube that offers a fascinating glimpse into the geological history of the Azores. Following your underground exploration, head to São João Forest Reserve, where you can enjoy walking trails surrounded by lush greenery and unique wildlife. Finally, challenge yourself with a hike up Mount Pico, the highest peak in Portugal, where breathtaking views await from the summit.
• Day 3: Begin your day at the beautiful Sao Roque Church, known for its intricate design and serene atmosphere. Next, delve into the maritime history of the region at the Whaler’s Museum, which showcases the significance of whaling in the Azores. Wrap up your visit with a peaceful afternoon at Caiado Lagoon, a picturesque spot perfect for relaxation, birdwatching, and enjoying the natural beauty of Horta.

5 tips to find a great Horta hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Horta is during January, February, and November, as hotel prices tend to be lower during these months. Domestic travelers should aim to book their flights at least 8 months in advance for the best deals, while international travelers can find affordable options by booking at least 2 months ahead. To fully appreciate Horta's great value for money, plan to stay at least 3-4 days to explore its stunning marina, captivating museums, and beautiful islands.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Horta, Hotels.com is a great place to start. Check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections to uncover potential discounts on hotels as your travel date approaches. You could find some appealing rates and good availability. To maximize your chances of snagging a bargain, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, helping you stay informed about flash sales and special promotions that could help you save on your stay.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the location, star rating, and time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Horta.
4. Consider your location: Staying near the city center and local attractions in Horta is usually more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations farther away from the center, you can take advantage of transportation options like cars and buses to explore the area, which may help you save on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Horta and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in Horta

Here are some popular dishes in Horta, Azores, Portugal:

• Cozido das Furnas: A traditional dish cooked underground in volcanic soil, this hearty stew is a blend of various meats and vegetables, slowly simmered to perfection. It's a communal dish that reflects the Azorean tradition of cooking and sharing meals, often enjoyed during family gatherings or special occasions.
• Lapas Grelhadas: Grilled limpets, a local delicacy, are usually served with a sprinkle of garlic and olive oil. This dish is often enjoyed as a tapa and is perfect for a spontaneous meal at a seaside café, showcasing the region's rich maritime heritage and the fresh flavors of the ocean.

Best time to go to Horta

Horta experiences its lowest average temperature in February, at 58.8°F (14.9°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 72.7°F (22.6°C). December is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Horta, March, April, and July are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by dry to light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, October to December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.