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If you’ve chosen Portugal as your home through the Portugal Golden Visa program, you’ve already unlocked access to one of Europe’s most stunning and diverse countries. But beyond the mainland charm of Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve, Portugal’s islands offer a completely different adventure—filled with volcanic landscapes, lush forests, dramatic coastlines, and a pace of life that feels worlds away.
The two main archipelagos—Madeira and the Azores—are autonomous regions of Portugal and make for unforgettable getaways. Whether you’re looking for hiking trails, diving spots, eco-resorts, or simply peace and quiet, these islands deliver a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural depth.
Here’s everything you need to know about exploring Portugal’s islands as a Golden Visa resident.
Why Golden Visa Residents Should Explore the Islands
Under the Portugal Golden Visa program, residents enjoy freedom of movement throughout Portugal, including the island territories. These trips do not count as leaving the country, which means they’re perfect for fulfilling your minimum stay requirements while still enjoying something different from the mainland lifestyle.
You won’t need any extra paperwork, and both Madeira and the Azores are easily accessible via direct flights from Lisbon, Porto, or other European cities. So whether you’re based in Portugal part-time or full-time, the islands offer an ideal way to explore your adopted country in full.
Madeira – The Island of Eternal Spring
Often referred to as the “Hawaii of Europe,” Madeira is a paradise for nature lovers, foodies, and adventurers alike. Located in the Atlantic Ocean about 1.5 hours by flight from Lisbon, Madeira’s volcanic origins give it a dramatic landscape—filled with cliffs, valleys, and lush greenery.
Must-Do Activities in Madeira:
- Hike the famous levadas (irrigation channel trails) that crisscross the island
- Explore Cabo Girão, one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe
- Taste Poncha, a traditional island cocktail made with sugarcane rum
- Wander the markets and botanical gardens in Funchal, the capital city
Madeira is also an increasingly popular destination for remote workers and retirees, with a growing community of long-term residents and digital nomads. Its mild climate and high quality of life make it an attractive place for Golden Visa residents looking for a second home or retreat.
The Azores – A Hidden Natural Wonderland
Located about 2 hours west of mainland Portugal, the Azores archipelago consists of nine volcanic islands bursting with geothermal hot springs, crater lakes, waterfalls, and whale-watching opportunities. These islands are less touristy than Madeira, offering a more off-the-beaten-path experience for travelers who love rugged nature and eco-tourism.
Top Highlights in the Azores:
- Visit São Miguel Island and its stunning Sete Cidades twin lakes
- Relax in the Terra Nostra geothermal pool in Furnas
- Hike Mount Pico, Portugal’s highest peak on Pico Island
- Go whale-watching and diving around Faial and São Jorge islands
The Azores are ideal for weekend getaways or week-long eco-adventures. Flights run regularly from Lisbon and Porto, making the islands both accessible and affordable for Golden Visa holders based in mainland Portugal.
Island Living for Golden Visa Investors
While most Golden Visa investments are made on the mainland, some eligible real estate opportunities do exist on the islands—particularly through rehabilitation projects or commercial property investments.
For example:
- Madeira has several qualifying boutique hotels and tourist properties in lower-density zones
- The Azores, particularly on less developed islands, may offer opportunities for sustainable tourism ventures, farm stays, or heritage building restorations
Even if you don’t invest directly on the islands, they’re still well worth exploring—and many Golden Visa residents eventually fall in love with the idea of keeping a holiday home in the archipelagos.
Also Read: Small-Ship vs. Large-Ship Cruises: Which Galápagos Experience is Right for You?
Travel Tips for Golden Visa Residents
- Flight Access: Regular direct flights connect Lisbon and Porto to both Madeira and the Azores. Funchal (Madeira) and Ponta Delgada (Azores) are the main hubs.
- Stay Duration: You can stay as long as you want; no visa extensions or special permissions are needed.
- Stay Connected: Portuguese mobile networks work on the islands, and Wi-Fi is widely available—even in remote accommodations.
- Healthcare: As a legal resident under the Portugal Golden Visa program, you can access public healthcare services in the islands just as you would on the mainland.
Final Thoughts
Exploring the Portuguese islands is one of the greatest lifestyle perks of being a Golden Visa resident. From Madeira’s scenic coastline to the Azores’ geothermal wonders, these islands offer a completely different side of Portugal—untouched, tranquil, and bursting with natural magic.
Whether you’re planning a long weekend retreat, scouting future investment opportunities, or simply checking off the hidden corners of your new home country, the islands welcome you with open arms. Thanks to the flexibility of the Portugal Golden Visa program, it’s all within reach—no visa stamps, no red tape, just pure Atlantic adventure.
