Hi Keithman,

If you only have 3-4 nights, you may just want to stay in S. Miguel island, where you can do lots of sightseeing, hiking and relaxing.

But, if you want to really have the notion of being in an Archipelago, then you should definitely go to the central group, at least to Pico and Faial. For example, you can stay for a couple of days in S. Miguel, then fly to Pico or Faial and travel between those two islands by boat (it's a cheap and fast trip).

I would recommend you get more info with www.yAzores.com, a new start-up DMC in the Azores, that can provide you with all the information you need. I think they can also get you some good deals in accommodation, rental cars and experiences.

It's seems a long way to go for such a short time. Can you maybe do 7 days in Lisbon, 5 in the Azores?

If you can do five days, then you could to 3 of the central islands. If you really can only do 3-4 days, then stay in Sao Miguel, but at least 3 _full_ days.

Thanks everyone! I think we decided we'll jus have to do Azores another time as it cut into every everything else. But thanks for all the help!

Azores is the most beautiful place i've ever been to.
São miguel it's so gorgeous i can't even begin to explain. there was waterfalls everywhere, beautiful lagoons, hot springs, the air is so clean and you truly feel connected with the nature. Someday, when you can, go there.

Your 8 night are very easily spent in Lisbon, there's so much to see and do. don't forget to go to sintra, and maybe quinta da regaleira in sintra. Costa da caparica for beaches is very nice and cascais too.