If you’re torn between planning a trip to the Canary Islands or Azores, you’re not alone. Both archipelagos offer dramatic landscapes, year-round adventures, and incredible value for travelers, but they couldn’t feel more different. While the Canary Islands are famous for sunshine, beaches, and volcanic thrills, the Azores are beloved for their lush greenery, crater lakes, and slow-travel adventures.
So, which one of these two European darlings should you visit in 2026? Find the best fit for you based on our expert travelers’ recommendations on the weather, best activities, top destinations, highlights, and others. You’ll end this blog with a light bulb popping above your head, pushing you to book the flight!
1. Highlights of the Canary Islands and the Azores
Before diving into details, it’s helpful to understand the core identity of each archipelago.
Canary Islands Highlights
The Canary Islands sit at the top of the list of Europeans’ favorite island destinations. The archipelago can be reached with a four-hour flight from Berlin and London, promising comfort for travelers who despise long-haul flights. Then, the generous 300 days of sunshine offer sanctuary every time the Northern Hemisphere gets too cold. The Canaries comprise five main islands – Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, and La Palma. What do they have in common? Nice beaches, sapphire waters, and lots of fun!
Azores Highlights
In contrast, the Azores, an autonomous region of Portugal in the mid-Atlantic, are green, wild, and refreshingly undeveloped. Think misty mountains, thermal pools, canyoning, crater lakes, whale-watching excursions, lush vineyards, and charming small towns. It is a playground for nature lovers and travelers who consider themselves fans of everything untouched and underrated. Moreover, the Azores appeal to ecotourism enthusiasts who love adventures.
In a nutshell, here are the differences between the Azores and the Canary Islands:
| The Azores | The Canary Islands | |
| Landscapes | Green mountains and valleys, verdant plantations, and aquamarine sea | Volcanoes, black and white sand beaches, colorful coastal towns |
| Main Attractions | Hiking trails and thermal pools | Beaches and volcanoes |
| Vibes | Outdoorsy and adventurous | Relaxation, vibrant, and family-friendly |
2. Climate and Weather
Nice and mild weather in the Azores and the Canaries – not a surprise anymore! But, is there any difference in the weather pattern that makes one destination more enjoyable? – You might ask. Here are a few details about the climate and weather in both archipelagos:
Weather in the Canary Islands
The Canary Islands are often called the “Islands of Eternal Spring,” thanks to their mild and stable climate. Expect:
- Temperature: 18–26°C year-round
- Rainfall: Very low, especially in the south of Tenerife and Gran Canaria
- Sunshine: Almost guaranteed
Then, the Canary Islands’ stable and generally sunny weather make it an all-year-round destination. Winter is snowless and mild, with temperatures hovering around 17-18°C. That’ why TripLeader Nadia, a professional from Germany, chooses the Canaries as her annual winter escape, soaking up the sun and enjoying the beach even in mid-January.
Weather in the Azores
The Azores have a more dramatic, changeable climate shaped by the Atlantic Ocean. Expect:
- Temperature: 14–26°C, depending on season
- Rainfall: High in winter
- Sunshine: Plenty in summer, moody in other months
You might experience rain, wind, sunshine, mist, and fog—sometimes all in one day. While this adds to the Azores’ mystical appeal, it may be unpredictable for beach lovers.
Weather comparison summary:
- If you want guaranteed sunshine, go to the Canary Islands
- If you enjoy refreshing, moody island weather, go to the Azores
3. Best Time to Visit
We have learned that the Azores and the Canary Islands have ideal weather all year round. Yet, some months are better than others to visit the archipelago. Here are the best time to visit Canary Islands and the Azores based on the activities:
Best Time to Visit the Canary Islands
Because of the consistently warm climate, the Canary Islands are a year-round destination.
- Best Months: March–November for beaches
- Best for Hiking: October–April
- Busiest Periods: Christmas, Easter, and summer
You can plan a trip anytime and still enjoy great weather.
Best Time to Visit the Azores
The Azores shine brightest in spring and summer.
- Best Months: May–September
- Whale-Watching Season: April–October
- Best Weather for Hiking: June–September
Outside these months, expect more rain and cooler temperatures, though the islands are still beautiful and peaceful.
4. Best Things to Do
Both destinations are packed with attractions, but each archipelago offers its own signature experiences. Here’s how the Canary Islands or Azores compare in terms of activities.
Best Things to Do in the Canary Islands
1. Beaches
Beaches are the heart of the Canary Islands experience. This Spanish archipelago has a myriad of great beaches to relax on, from black-sand volcanic shores to the golden sand coast lined with beach bars and resorts. TripLeader Izabella, who has hosted trips for three years, mentioned the southern tip of Tenerife as home to some of the Canary Islands’ most exciting beaches. “Go to the eastern area, around El Medano and Las Galletas. The beaches are not too crowded and great for kitesurfing and windsurfing. Also, head to Los Cristianos for a luxury feel,” she recommended. Meanwhile, TripLeader Roberta who has lived for more than five years in Spain, advised to check out Anfi del Mar, a Gran Canarian beach that takes you to the Caribbean.
2. Historic Towns
The Canaries are home to colorful colonial towns.
- La Laguna (Tenerife)
- Vegueta (Gran Canaria)
- Arrecife (Lanzarote)
Expect cobblestones, old churches, and café-lined plazas.
3. Volcanoes
Volcano lovers will appreciate:
- Mount Teide National Park
- Timanfaya National Park
- La Palma’s rugged volcanic ridge
These landscapes offer otherworldly hiking, crater viewpoints, and stargazing opportunities.
4. Theme Parks
Perfect for families or those wanting resort-style entertainment.
- Siam Park (one of the best waterparks in the world)
- Loro Parque (famous for conservation efforts)
The Canaries excel at creating a fun, easy, and accessible holiday for all traveler types.
Best Things to Do in the Azores
1. Hiking
The Azores boast some of Europe’s most beautiful hiking trails.
- Sete Cidades crater
- Lagoa do Fogo
- Pico Mountain (Portugal’s highest peak)
If you’re comparing the Canary Islands or Azores for hiking, the Azores win easily.
2. Whale Watching
Often called the whale-watching capital of Europe, the Azores are home to over 20 species of whales and dolphins.
Peak season runs from April to October.
3. Tea and Wine Tasting
“Make sure to visit Europe’s oldest tea plantation in Furnas, Sao Miguel Island. You can go on a plantation tour and sample a cup of the Azores’ freshest tea,” said Roberta. Tea plantations are one of the highlights of the Azores – something that the Canaries don’t have. Aside from tea, you can also find vineyards and pineapple plantations that offer tours and delicacies. Roberta also recommended trying pineapple wine, which is a specialty of Sao Miguel.
4. Thermal Pools
The islands are full of geothermal baths surrounded by tropical ferns and volcanic rock.
Top spots include:
- Terra Nostra Gardens (São Miguel)
- Ponta da Ferraria hot ocean pool
- Caldeira Velha
These warm pools are perfect for unwinding after a day of hiking or exploring.
5. Top Destinations in Each Archipelago
When choosing between the Canary Islands or Azores, consider how many islands you want to visit and what each one offers.
Top Destinations in the Canary Islands
- Tenerife: Mount Teide
- Gran Canaria: Sand dunes, historic towns, surf
- Lanzarote: Volcanic landscapes, art and architecture
- Fuerteventura: Windsurfing, endless golden beaches
- La Palma: Forests, stargazing, dramatic hiking
The Canaries are well-connected, making island hopping very easy.
Top Destinations in the Azores
- São Miguel: Sete Cidades, thermal pools, tea plantations
- Pico: Volcano climbing, wine culture
- Faial: Whale watching and sailing
- Terceira: Heritage towns and volcanic caves
- Flores: Waterfalls and untouched landscapes
The Azores feel more remote and tranquil—perfect for slow adventures.
6. Costs: Which Is More Budget-Friendly?
Cost is a big consideration when choosing between the Canary Islands or Azores.
Canary Islands Costs
The Canaries are generally more affordable due to strong tourism infrastructure.
- Accommodation: Wide range—from budget hostels to luxury resorts
- Food: €10–€20 per meal
- Activities: Theme parks and excursions add up
- Transport: Very cheap buses + reasonably priced car hire
Budget travelers and families often find the Canaries more economical.
Azores Costs
The Azores tend to be pricier in some areas because tourism is more limited.
- Accommodation: Mid-range boutique stays dominate
- Food: €15–€25 per meal
- Activities: Whale watching and guided hikes can be expensive
- Transport: Car rental is almost essential
However, experiences—whale watching, crater lakes, thermal springs—offer high value.
Verdict: Canary Islands is generally cheaper than Azores due to its well-developed public facilities, options for transportation and accommodation, and tourist packages.
7. Getting Around
Getting Around the Canary Islands
Transportation is easy and convenient:
- Excellent public buses
- Affordable taxis
- Plenty of car rentals
- Ferries + domestic flights for island hopping
It’s one of the most tourist-friendly archipelagos in Europe.
Getting Around the Azores
Transportation is more limited—but part of the charm.
- Buses exist but schedules are sparse
- Car rental recommended on São Miguel, Terceira, Pico
- Ferries connect nearby islands (seasonal)
- Flights required between distant islands
If comparing the Canary Islands or Azores for accessibility, the Canaries win for ease, while the Azores offer a more off-the-beaten-path experience.
8. Final Verdict: Canary Islands or Azores?
Choosing between the Canary Islands or Azores ultimately comes down to what type of traveler you are.
Choose the Canary Islands if you want:
- Year-round sunshine
- Beautiful beaches with all comforts
- Varied activities, from nightlife to nature
- Theme parks and family-friendly activities
- Easy transportation and infrastructure
- A budget-friendly holiday
Choose the Azores if you want:
- Dramatic volcanic landscapes
- Pure nature and fewer crowds
- Whale watching, thermal pools, and crater lakes
- Challenging hikes and eco-adventures
- Authentic culture and slow travel
- A more unique, untouched destination
The Azores are perfect for nature enthusiasts, adventure travelers, and anyone seeking tranquility over tourist crowds.
Final Thoughts
The great thing is—whether you choose the Canary Islands or Azores, you’ll be rewarded with volcanic beauty, friendly locals, and unforgettable Atlantic adventures. Both are incredible in their own way, and many travelers eventually visit both.
Ready to explore the Atlantic’s most beautiful islands?
Join unforgettable Azores and Canary Islands group trips with experienced TripLeaders and local hosts—so you can explore, connect, and travel like you’re with friends from day one.