A more accessible destination, a real opportunity

The Azores are no longer a well-kept secret. The region’s natural beauty, authenticity and safety have steadily attracted travellers from around the world. And now, with new direct air routes from key European cities, access to the islands is easier than ever.

This isn’t just good news for tourism in general, it’s a clear opportunity for holiday rental owners and investors. More flights mean more potential guests, more visibility on booking platforms, and more competition for attention. The moment calls for action: preparing your property to capture this new wave of demand is no longer optional; it’s strategic.

In this article, we’ll break down how these new connections are influencing tourism in the Azores and share practical tips on how to prepare your property and appeal to the growing number of European travellers now just one flight away.

What do these new routes mean for the Azores?

With the launch of direct flights like Dusseldorf–Ponta Delgada (Eurowings) and Zurich–Terceira (Edelweiss), the Azores are now firmly on the map for travellers from Central Europe. A region known for its purchasing power, appreciation for nature, and preference for low-density, authentic destinations.

These routes bring:

• Direct access to a new segment of travellers who previously didn’t consider the Azores;

• The chance to extend the high season into April, May, September and October;

• Greater visibility for lesser-known islands like Terceira, helping distribute tourism more evenly.

  
  

According to official data, January 2025 already saw a 9% increase in overnight stays compared to the previous year, a trend expected to continue as access improves.

Getting your rental ready for summer? Don’t miss our seasonal checklist:
👉 Summer Preparation Checklist: Is Your Property Ready?

How to prepare your rental to attract this new wave of travellers

Adapting to these changes doesn’t require major investment, but it does require thought and attention. These travellers don’t behave the same way as your traditional summer guests, and that’s exactly why you can stand out.

Make your listing more international

• Translate your descriptions into English and ideally German or French;

• Highlight your property’s proximity to nature, sustainability, and quiet setting;

• Avoid overused terms, be clear, authentic, and welcoming.

Tailor your space and service to European preferences

Travellers from Central Europe tend to:

• Book earlier — ideal for dynamic pricing strategies;

• Value cleanliness, quiet comfort, and local authenticity;

• Seek meaningful experiences over luxury or generic tourism.

Include detailed local guides, personal tips, and information about local producers, hidden trails, or traditional markets.

Looking to optimise for the summer? Read:
👉 How to Maximise Your Holiday Rental Income During Peak Seasons

Prepare for higher visibility and expectations

More flights mean more exposure and more bookings. Ensure your operations can handle:

• A higher volume of guest enquiries;

• More frequent turnovers (cleaning, check-ins, etc.);

• Quick, professional communication in at least English.

If this seems overwhelming, it may be time to consider professional support.

Still managing your rental on your own? See:
👉 Managing Your Short-Term Rental: On Your Own or with a Professional Company?

What can you expect over the next few months?

With tourism infrastructure expanding and interest growing from international travellers, 2025 is shaping up to be a strong year for the Azores. But more importantly, the distribution of demand is changing, extending beyond July and August and reaching into shoulder seasons.

This shift means:

• Greater competition for bookings;

• A growing need to differentiate through service and guest experience;

• Guests who expect more, communicate differently, and leave more detailed reviews.

If you're ready, this can be your most profitable and consistent season yet.

More flights, more guests and more responsibility

The future of tourism in the Azores isn’t years away, it’s already here. With new routes and growing international interest, well-prepared properties will thrive while others struggle to keep up.

Now is the time to:

• Rethink your online presence;

• Adjust your pricing and availability based on these new travel windows;

• Invest in a guest experience that reflects the quality and uniqueness of the destination.

At Your Nest, we closely monitor these trends and work with property owners across the islands to prepare, adapt and grow with local knowledge, professional support, and clear results.

Ready to take advantage of this new chapter in Azorean tourism?
👉 Contact us and discover how we can help prepare your rental for success