ponta delgada travel

Ponta Delgada Travel Guide: Gateway to the stunning Azores

Planning to visit the Azores? Here’s my comprehensive Ponta Delgada travel guide that covers the best things to do, places to see, where to eat, drink and stay in this gateway city to the breathtaking Azores.

The Azores in Portugal is still relatively less touristy and may be easily considered as the off-the-beaten-path, hidden gem of Europe. We spent a glorious week in São Miguel (one of the 9 islands in the Azores) in March earlier this year and Ponta Delgada, the capital of São Miguel, was the ideal base to explore the beautiful island.

An island of unparalleled scenic beauty shaped by volcanic activity.

For details on how to get to Ponta Delgada and where to stay , read my Azores Travel Guide with the ultimate itinerary to São Miguel and EVERYTHING you need to know about planning an unforgettable trip to this lush, volcanic landscape of unparalleled beauty.

Harbour view and sunset as seen from our room in the gorgeous Hotel Azor.

Things to do

On our first day in the Azores, we planned to keep it easy and explore the capital city itself. A day was enough to see the attractions the city offers, and we walked to most of them. So, here’s how to spend a day in Ponta Delgada!

City centre.

Harbour side walk.

Portas da Cidades (City Gates)

The trio of arched gateways, Portas da Citades is an iconic, historic landmark in Ponta Delgada. Built in the 18th century, these City Gates in the Gonçalo Velho square act as the entrance from the harbour into the old town. The whitewashed walls of this monument and the surrounding buildings is a quintessential Portuguese feature while the black volcanic rocks stand out as the Azorean element.

Portas da Citades

Igreja Matriz de São Sebastião behind the city gates

Address: Praça de Gonçalo Velho 9500, 9500-017 Ponta Delgada, Portugal

Paço do Concelho (City hall)

On entering the Old Town through the City Gates, the City Hall is on the left. It’s a beautiful building with Baroque-style architecture and has staircases that run on both sides to meet at a landing in the centre. We went up the staircase to get an amazing view of the streets and then climbed back down to go to side entrance for the Bell Tower.

The entrance to the Bell Tower is free and you get 360˚ view of the city and the mountains and the ocean beyond. Climbing those stairs is absolutely worth it!

View of the city from the City Hall Bell Tower

View of the harbour from the City Hall Bell Tower

Address: Praça do Município 2, 9500-769 Ponta Delgada, Portugal

Exploring the lanes

Colourful buildings

What will you choose? 😉

Mercado da Graça

Mercado da Graça is the quiet little local farmers’ market and I would highly recommend visiting it if a) you are curious to learn about the local food and culture or b) you are self catering and need fresh produce or c) you need to grab a bite (more on it later).

Address: R. do Mercado, 9500-326 Ponta Delgada, Portugal

Whale and Dolphin Watching

From the harbour, we took an absolutely amazing Whale and Dolphin watching tour spending an afternoon out in the majestic sapphire blue ocean; a MUST-DO activity when in the Azores which is a playground for various whale and dolphin species. Click here to read more about our unforgettable experience!

On the Whale and Dolphin watching tour

Forte de Sao Bras de Ponta Delgada

This 16th century fort was built on a strategic location to defend the island from pirate attacks. It has undergone conservation works over the years and is now used as the Command of Azores Military Zone. It also houses a Military museum which we decided to skip but might be of interest to you if you’re a history buff.

Sao Bras Fort

Address: R. Eng. Abel Ferin Coutinho 10, 9500-768 Ponta Delgada, Portugal ​

Pineapples A Arruda

You’d find it hard to miss pineapples in the Azores. You can even buy them at the airports to take back home! Before visiting the Azores, I had no clue that there were pineapple plantations in Europe. So, when I found out about one in Ponta Delgada, I didn’t want to miss the chance to see one. Pineapples A Arruda is just outside the city (you will need a car to get there) and is made of several greenhouses that house the pineapple plants in various stages.

Greenhouses in Pineapples A Arruda

Address: Rua Doutor Augusto Arruda, Fajã de Baixo, 9500-454 Ponta Delgada, Portugal

Jardim António Borges

Exotic tropical greenery at Jardim António Borges

These botanical gardens were once private property of Antonio Borges, a prominent Azorean. He was keen on botany and introduced various species of plants, especially exotic ones, to the island. Today these gardens are open to the public and we spent a relaxing time there amidst all the greenery and the curious looking grottoes.

Curious looking caves and grottoes

Address: R. de São Joaquim 22, Ponta Delgada, Portugal ​

Food and Drinks

Since we were in Ponta Delgada for 5 days, we tried a few restaurants for lunches and dinners. Here are my 3 favourites worth mentioning!

Sabores – Local Food

Sabores is a food stand in Mercado da Graça serving light bites like sandwiches and fresh fruit juices.

Ricardo who runs the stall is very passionate about the Azorean culture and it was lovely to talk to him about the island life and food while he slowly and meticulously prepared our sandwiches with the freshest ingredients possible.

I would highly recommend trying the open sandwich he made for us using a local, soft, creamy cheese called queijo fresco (literally translates to fresh cheese) topped with pimenta da terra (red pepper paste) – super simple but super delicious!

Address: Rua do Mercado, Mercado da Graça, 9500-326 Ponta Delgada, Portugal

Big21 is a trendy restaurant with a modern take on Portuguese cuisine. This does mean that the menu is mainly meat and fish centric, which was great for Mr AW who ordered a burger. Luckily, they had recently added one vegetarian dish on the menu since they found that there has been a steady increase in the number of people asking for meat-free options.

I ordered, albeit a bit nervously, that single veggie dish which was a beetroot risotto and I must admit I was pleasantly surprised. The beetroot flavour was very subtle, lending a brilliant colour but not overpowering the dish. Also worth a mention is the starter of Filo pastry filled with chèvre cheese topped with toasted almonds.

Address: R. Ernesto do canto Antiga Rua Denasa da graca 17, 9500-150 Ponta Delgada, Portugal

Tasquinha Vieira

Another option for dinner, Tasquinha Vieira was highly recommended by Ricardo (from Sabores). We went a bit early for a walk-in as they didn’t seem to be accepting reservations. We were seated in the front area which was a very small and cosy place with an open kitchen so you can see the chefs at work.

A very stylish restaurant with superb food and attentive service, we thoroughly enjoyed our dinner of a simple lentil salad and a hearty asparagus risotto at Tasquinha Vieira.

Address: Rua António Joaquim Nunes da Silva 21, 9500-056 Ponta Delgada, Portugal

Pin for later!

I hope you enjoyed my Ponta Delgada travel guide to spending a day in the city. Have you been to the Azores or planning to go? Let me know in the comments, I’d love to know!

If you liked this post, don’t forget to share on Facebook/Twitter/Pinterest. After all, sharing is caring 😉

Cheers, Ameeta xx

You may also enjoy:

Lake como with kids.

I’ve been wanting to travel to the Azores for quite some time, and Ponta Delgada looks lovely. Thank you for sharing your tips and photos! 🙂

I love reading other bloggers’ posts on places I’ve visited myself. We skipped the Jardim Antonio Borges, because we visited in January and figured there wouldn’t be much in bloom so it’s lovely to see your photos of the place. And I’ve never heard of any of the restaurants you mention, they look wonderful! That library in a phone box too…:-)

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Top 20 Things to do in Ponta Delgada, Azores

Once a safe haven for ships that sailed to and from India , Ponta Delgada grew and became one of the most important cities in Azores and in Portugal. With the industrialisation of the country, the city lost its status but kept all of its architectural and natural beauty, with no match at a national level.

With over 500 years old, Ponta Delgada is now considered the economic capital of the Azores.

If you’re planning to visit the Azores , wait no more and go discover Ponta Delgada , one of the most beautiful cities in the archipelago, located at the wonderful island of São Miguel .

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning i get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you. Please read my disclosure for more info.

In this article, you’ll discover magnificent places that embellish Ponta Delgada city and its surroundings. Apart from this, find out some of the activities you can make during your stay, the festivities , where to sleep , where to eat and an itinerary for you to easily visit the wonders of Ponta Delgada.

Top 20 Things to do in Ponta Delgada

Conteúdos do Artigo - Sommaire - Contents

1. Gruta do Carvão

2. jardim antónio borges, 3. arte urbana, 4. forte de são brás, 5. igreja de são josé, 6. santuário de nosso senhor santo cristo dos milagres, 7. portas da cidade, 8. igreja de são sebastião, 9. mercado da graça, 10. ermida da mãe de deus, 11. museu carlos machado, 12. igreja do colégio dos jesuítas, 13. jardim botânico josé do canto, 14. miradouro pico do carvão, 15. lagoa do canário & miradouro da boca do inferno, 16. miradouro da vista do rei, 17. miradouro do cerrado das freiras, 18. sete cidades, 19. miradouro das cumeeiras, 20. ponta da ferraria, itinerary to visit the 20 most beautiful places in ponta delgada, where to sleep in ponta delgada, where to eat in ponta delgada, events and festivities in ponta delgada.

Considered a regional natural monument, the cave Gruta do Carvão is a unique place not only in the island of São Miguel but at national level too. What stands out in this volcanic-origin cave is the fact that here you’ll find the biggest lava tunnel of the island. Know that you’ll have the opportunity to admire stalactites, stalagmites and other characteristics that originated with the lava flow.

When you visit Ponta Delgada, make sure you go to this cave that is an important and interesting site not only for tourists but also for scientists and even for school trips .

• Site:  http://grutadocarvao.amigosdosacores.pt

Considered one of the biggest green areas in the city of Ponta Delgada, the garden Jardim António Borges is a true botanical garden . There, you’ll find dozens of exotic species , brought to São Miguel by António Borges, an Azorean politician with a special interest for agriculture and botany.

Visit this 19th-century garden and contemplate its Romanticism style , a place where you can stroll with your family and relax while admiring the small caves, the diversity of flora and even the bust of its patron.

Street art is one of the pleasant surprises you’ll find on the island and, more specifically, all over Ponta Delgada.

During your visit to the city, take the opportunity to make some stops to admire the beautiful graffiti and other displays. Among others, I must point out the streets: Rua de Lisboa ,  Rua Eng. Abel Ferin Coutinho ,  Rua 6 de Junho  and  Rua de São João  (check map below).

Apart from the works of art you can enjoy all year round, I must mention Azores Arts Festival, Walk & Talk . The first edition of this festival happened in 2011 and its objective is to introduce people to the various art forms all over the city and island through exhibitions, concerts and other events that you can go to both in urban and rural public spaces.

• Site:  https://www.walktalkazores.org

Built in the 16th century to deter privateers and pirates, São Brás Fort is a beautiful example of Portuguese military architecture of that time.

This fort was built close to the sea, in a strategic position in Ponta Delgada and it is today the headquarters to Azores Military Command ; apart from that, this place also has a military museum and a monument to the fallen soldiers of the WWI .

Facing the square Praça 5 de Outubro, in the historic centre of Ponta Delgada, São José Church is one of the most beautiful churches located on the island of São Miguel.

Built in Baroque and Mannerism style, I must point out in this 18th-century church the magnificent facade that doesn’t go unnoticed by those strolling nearby. Don’t miss the opportunity to admire its interior embellished with beautiful glazed-tile panels and altars decorated with gilded wood .

As it happens with São José Church, this sanctuary is facing the square Praça 5 de Outubro. Constituted by the Convent and Church of Nossa Senhora da Esperança  and founded in the 16th century, this religious set underwent some modifications in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Inside, you’ll find a beautiful high altar and altarpiece adorned with gilded wood and, below, beautiful 17th-century glazed tiles . Apart from that, the convent is still the residence for the congregation Religiosas de Maria Imaculada. This is definitely one of the places you can’t miss during your visit to Ponta Delgada.

Built in 1783 and considered as the landmark of the city of Ponta Delgada , the city gates are presently at the square Praça de Gonçalo Velho. But it wasn’t always at this location since, in the beginning, this landmark was close to the old pier, a few metres away. However, in 1952, due to the construction of the beautiful avenue Avenida Infante D. Henrique, the city gates had to be moved to their present location.

This Baroque-style construction has three perfect arches and carved in it you can admire the royal and the city’s coat of arms in a beautiful work where the contrast between the white (from marble) and the black (from basalt) stands out.

The main church of Ponta Delgada was built between 1531 and 1547 and it is today one of the landmarks of the city, located in the square Largo da Matriz, just a few metres away from the city gates.

Even though it underwent several changes throughout the centuries, this church was built in Gothic style but has unique details of Manueline style and Baroque style too . In this regard, you can admire the magnificent porticos that stand out in the church’s facade. Inside, don’t miss the opportunity to admire the gilded wood decoration and several pieces of religious art.

A place where you can truly feel the authenticity of Ponta Delgada’s inhabitants , the market Mercado da Graça appeared in the 19th century due to the need for a specific place to sell agricultural goods and livestock.

During your visit to this city, take the opportunity to visit this market and purchase some regional products.

Mãe de Deus Chapel, that you can admire today in Ponta Delgada, is a replica of another one that was demolished during WWI due to the supposed geostrategic importance of this place.

This religious building has some Neobaroque-style features and what stands out is the work in black-colour basalt.

The location of Mãe de Deus Chapel is also a viewpoint and from there you’ll have the possibility to admire Ponta Delgada in every direction and even the Atlantic Ocean.

Inaugurated in 1876, Carlos Machado Museum is installed in the old Santo André Convent , the second convent to be built in the city, after the already mentioned Nossa Senhora da Esperança Convent.

When the museum was inaugurated in this place, it became possible to assemble several collections that were, until then, dispersed throughout Ponta Delgada. In addition, it became possible to conserve the building.

Know that, nowadays, the collections of Carlos Machado Museum are located in three different spaces: Santo André Convent, Santa Bárbara Museological Centre , close to the convent, and the Religious Art Museological Centre , installed since 2006 at the Jesuit College Church. In these places you’ll have the opportunity to admire collections of natural history , painting , sculpture , religious art and ethnography .

• Site:  https://museucarlosmachado.azores.gov.pt

Due to its historical and religious importance, this building is one of the monuments you can’t miss during your visit to the Azores and, more specifically, to the city of Ponta Delgada. Here you’ll find the Religious Art Museological Centre of Carlos Machado Museum with beautiful paintings and sculptures from the 17th and 18th centuries.

Built, in a first stage, in the end of the 16th century, it was during the 17th century that the Jesuit College Church gained its current appearance. What stands out in this monument is definitely the Baroque-style magnificent facade in volcanic rock . Apart from that, you can also admire the beautiful glazed-tile panels from the 1700’s. Don’t miss it!

An obligatory visit in São Miguel island, the José do Canto Botanical Garden is a unique place both for its landscape and natural richness.

Here, you’ll have the opportunity to admire trees that amaze people for their morphology as well as their imposing size . Apart from this natural richness, you can also contemplate an 18th-century manor , an old greenhouse , a chapel and a beautiful stairway . You should also know there are some rooms available here ensuring a unique experience to their guests.

• Site:  http://www.josedocanto.com/

Information: if you want to discover the most beautiful places in Ponta Delgada and discover the history of the city, I invite you to book a guided tour of 3h30 here .

What to visit in Ponta Delgada surrounding area

Located 14 km away from the historic centre of Ponta Delgada, Pico do Carvão is a volcanic elevation that reaches 813 metres of altitude. From Pico do Carvão viewpoint you can enjoy the wonderful views over the island’s north and south coastline.

Apart from the landscape, know that you’ll find here the beautiful Carvão Aqueduct that was built as a way to take the water coming from the lagoons Lagoa do Canário and Lagoa das Empadadas to the city of Ponta Delgada.

The lagoon Lagoa do Canário is located 17 km away from Ponta Delgada and, apart from having the opportunity to see it up close, you can also go for a hike to Boca do Inferno Viewpoint .

As an alternative, you can drive to the viewpoint and, this way, avoid walking 2 km total.

At this viewpoint you can enjoy the wonderful views over the lagoons Lagoa das Sete Cidades, Lagoa de Santiago and Lagoa Rasa. You should also know that this is for me one of the most beautiful viewpoints in São Miguel and will definitely be one of the highlights of your stay in the island.

One of the places where you can take some amazing photos , Vista do Rei Viewpoint is located in the southern part of the lagoon Lagoa das Sete Cidades and from here you’ll have a panoramic view of the lagoon but also of the calderas Caldeira Seca, Caldeira do Alferes and over Sete Cidades village.

You should also know that close to the viewpoint you’ll find the old Hotel Monte Palace , a five-star hotel that closed in 1991. There are projects to reopen this hotel and, if that happens, it will surely be a benchmark at a national and international level and a place where you’ll want to spend the night.

Information:  this viewpoint is known to many people!

Located 23 km away from Ponta Delgada, Cerrado das Freiras Viewpoint is another of the viewpoints that offer breathtaking views over the lagoon Lagoa das Sete Cidades .

Behind this viewpoint there is another lagoon, Lagoa de Santiago . If you want to admire this place, you’ll just have to go down the road for 300 metres and enjoy the views from the viewpoint you’ll find there.

For the adventurers, there is the possibility to climb down the path to the left of Lagoa de Santiago Viewpoint to admire the lagoon up close.

Perhaps one of the best known locations both in São Miguel island and in the whole archipelago of the Azores, Sete Cidades is a village located side by side with the beautiful lagoon Lagoa das Sete Cidades . This lagoon is the biggest fresh water natural reservoir in the Azores and is a waypoint to several migratory birds.

Aside from the lagoon, know that Sete Cidades has other places to admire like São Nicolau Church , built in the 19th century in a neo-Gothic style.

This is one of the viewpoints that offer some of the best views over the amazing lagoon Lagoa das Sete Cidades  and over the western part of São Miguel island. If you have the opportunity, enjoy the wonderful landscape while having a picnic (you can use the tables you’ll find there).

You should also know that this viewpoint is less known than Vista do Rei Viewpoint and offers the opposing views over the lagoon Lagoa das Sete Cidades . For these reasons, one can say that this is the perfect location for those who want to enjoy the natural beauty away from crowded places.

Located in the westernmost part of São Miguel island and 26 km away from Ponta Delgada, Ponta da Ferraria is classified as a regional natural monument because of its unique beauty and it is today a bathing area due to its natural pools and warm-water springs, therapeutic and of volcanic origin.

Apart from having the possibility to go for a swim here, you can also explore this location and admire the surrounding natural beauty as well as the beautiful 18-metre high lighthouse .

• Days needed to explore Ponta Delgada: 2 days

Historic centre

In Ponta Delgada,  you can and should explore the historic centre on foot  since it is the best way to enjoy the architecture and monuments.

If you’re staying in another place of São Miguel and want to drive to Ponta Delgada, I recommend you start your itinerary at Gruta do Carvão (you can park your car right beside the cave).

Then, return to your car and go to the shopping centre Parque Atlântico (free parking) and visit the points of interest as presented in this article (from n° 2 to n° 13).

Ponta Delgada surroundings

To get to the other points of interest, further away from the historic centre of Ponta Delgada, you can choose one of two options: take a taxi or hire a car .

Depending on the number of days of your stay and to get to know all the points of interest outside Ponta Delgada historic centre, I suggest you hire your car here .

To easily discover all the wonders outside Ponta Delgada, visit the places as they are presented in this article (from n° 14 to n° 20).

Important information:  to visit Cumeeiras Viewpoint, the GPS (or Google Maps) will tell you to follow a dirt road after Sete Cidades village. I don’t recommend you take that path unless you have rented a jeep!

Take the roads EN9-1A and EN1-1A (check map above) and turn right when you a see the sign Miradouro das Cumeeiras. That way, you’ll get to the viewpoint using the tarmac road.

To get to Ponta da Ferraria, take the same road you used to get to the viewpoint. Since it is downwards, you can take the dirt road instead that will take you to Sete Cidades, but don’t risk it if it’s foggy or raining.

The dirt road is shorter (less than 8 km), but it will take the same time as the national road.

If you don’t want to hire a car or if you don’t have much time to explore the island, you can choose to book one of the tours the local companies offer . Discover some of my suggestions below:

Day tour with lunch:

One of the best ways to explore the west coast of São Miguel is, without a doubt, with the help of a guide who already knows all the points of interest. In this sense, you can choose to book this activity, in order to have the possibility to visit fascinating places, such as the lagoon Lagoa das Sete Cidades and some viewpoints around it.

After tasting the best of local cuisine , enjoy the afternoon and discover other places mentioned in this article, such as the beautiful Lagoa do Fogo, classified as a nature reserve and located 575 metres above sea level.

In the eastern part of the island (affiliated link), you will have the opportunity to admire the beautiful village of Furnas, as well as the tea plantations.

How to get to Ponta Delgada

There aren’t many ways to get to Ponta Delgada, in São Miguel island. In fact, you can only get there by taking a plane from the  airline TAP  , for example, between this and other islands of the archipelago but also mainland Portugal and some other international destinations.

As an alternative, you should know that, during high season, you can also get to the island by ferry if you’re staying in another island of the Azores.

If you’re coming from another location in São Miguel island, know that the city has the national road EN1-1A, a road that covers the whole island.

To move around in the city, you can take the minibus that connects many of the points of interest . To find out the schedule, routes and ticket prices, click here .

Vila Nova Hotel  ***  

Vila Nova Hotel offers its guests the best amenities so that they can have unforgettable holidays. In that regard, I have to point out the amazing outdoor swimming pool , the game room and the comfortable rooms .

In the vicinities, you’ll find points of interest like the Fort of São Brás and São José Church.

Hotel Canadiano  ***  

Guests staying at the Hotel Canadiano are guaranteed to have the necessary amenities to enjoy a wonderful stay in São Miguel island.

Apart from that, they can also have lunch/dinner at the restaurant  or a drink at the hotel’s bar . Know that, a few metres away, you’ll have the opportunity to admire the beautiful Jesuit College Church as well as the Carlos Machado Museum .

Azor Hotel  *****  

Considered one of the favourite hotels for those visiting and staying in São Miguel island, Azor Hotel is facing the Atlantic Ocean and offers some of the best views one could ask in this island.

In this five-star hotel, you can enjoy an outdoor swimming pool with amazing views , a fitness centre and much more! Just 600 metres away, you can visit Mãe de Deus Chapel and contemplate the scenery.

It is known that Portuguese gastronomy is one of the best in the world, however Azorean gastronomy and, in particular, the one from São Miguel has a specificity that you won’t find anywhere else.

Due to the proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, the restaurants in Ponta Delgada and in São Miguel serve unique and tasteful dishes like the mouth-watering tuna steak ; there is also an infinite variety of seafood dishes to choose from.

However, it’s not only the sea that makes Azorean gastronomy since, as everyone knows, this archipelago is a paradise for cows that graze here freely. Because of this, people say that Azorean meat and sausages are the best one can try .

Next, discover some of the best places to savour Ponta Delgada gastronomy:

Restaurante Gastrónomo

Taberna Açor

Restaurante São Pedro

Boca de Cena

Happening between March and April, the Festival Tremor is, perhaps, the first big event taking place in Ponta Delgada and in São Miguel island. This festival’s programme is diverse and includes concerts and other activities.

Perhaps the festivity that attracts more people in the city, the Festas do Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres is a religious festivity in honour of the image of Christ which is at the Nossa Senhora da Esperança Convent. Taking place on the fifth week after Easter, this festivity has as its highlight the processions and, of course, the fireworks show on Saturday night.

As I mentioned before, Ponta Delgada is an open-air canvas for street-art creators, in which beautiful graffiti stand out and embellish the streets of this city. In this regard, one of the events you can’t miss during your visit, between the end of June and beginning of July, is Walk & Talk , an event that gives the inhabitants and visitors the opportunity to get to know different kinds of street art and more.

Are you going to visit Ponta Delgada, Azores?  Then don’t hesitate to book your hotel room, your car and the best activities by  clicking the links below . This way you are  helping me in the development of my blog and I’ll be able to offer you free tips and travel guides   so that you can better prepare your visit to Portugal . Thank you !

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16 Best Things to Do in Ponta Delgada, Azores (+Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: February 9, 2024

Visiting São Miguel island in the Azores and wondering if Ponta Delgada is worth your time and what there’s to see and do in the city? In this article, we share our top suggestions for the best things to do in Ponta Delgada . Find out!

Ponta Delgada is the biggest and the only real city of the Azores islands (Portugal). Located on São Miguel Island , it’s also home to the main airport of the archipelago, the gateway to the Azores. However, many tourists visiting the islands head straight to the most beautiful nature destinations and completely overlook this beautiful little city that’s more than worth a visit in its own right…

Azores’ capital city might be small, but it’s very charming, lively, and feels like a mini-version of Lisbon . Cobbled narrow streets lined with colorful houses, traditional-style churches, and unique tile patterns on the pavements and city squares are quintessentially Portuguese.

Despite being in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean and over a thousand miles away from the mainland, you immediately feel the same great atmosphere that you find in all of the nicest cities in Portugal .

So if you are wondering whether Ponta Delgada is worth visiting, then my answer is yes, absolutely. It’s a perfect mix of old and new, with a charming old town, nice shops, cafes and restaurants, beautiful parks, and a lively waterfront area.

Good to know: Please note that this guide features top attractions and things to do in Ponta Delgada town , so not places like Sete Cidades , Furnas , or similar. If you are looking for information on these and the other areas on the island, be sure to also read our guide to the best things to do in Sao Miguel .

Good to know: In this guide, you can read about all the best things to do in Ponta Delgada. To help you plan your time, we also include a map indicating all the best places to see in the city.

At the bottom of this article, you can also find some practical tips for getting around, parking, hotels, the best time of the week to visit Ponta Delgada, and more. Find out!

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Here are the best sights and things to do in Ponta Delgada:

1. Portas da Cidade & Gonçalo Velho Cabral Square

Praça Gonçalo Velho Cabral is one of the main town squares in Ponta Delgada. Here, you’ll find the statue of Gonçalo Velho Cabral, the discoverer of the island.

Another must-see of Ponta Delgada, the iconic Portas da Cidade , can also be found here. The 18th-century city gate has three arches built in the typical Azorean style and using regional stones. Originally built in 1783, the city gate was standing at another location nearby, and was moved to its current location in 1952.

This town square is a place where various events are being held. At Christmas, you’ll find a big Christmas Tree here, on one of our visits, there was a display of traditional carts decorated for a religious procession, etc.

Portas da Cidade is your gateway to the charming old town of Ponta Delgada, with many other sights right behind the gate. See more information below.

2. Largo da Matriz & São Sebastião Church

Largo da Matriz is one of the nicest town squares in Ponta Delgada. Located right behind the city gates, its main landmark is Igreja de São Sebastião , a 16th-century traditional-style church with a bell tower.

The church has somewhat strange opening hours, so you may not always be able to visit inside. The interior is quite simple, but the altars are very richly decorated. Seeing the inside of the church is nice, but it’s not an absolute must so don’t feel like you’re missing much if it’s closed.

At Largo da Matriz, you’ll find a few cafes and souvenir shops, including the well-known chain store O Mundo Fantástico da Sardinha Portuguesa (The Fantastic World Of Portuguese Sardines) which sells canned sardines in the most original packaging. One of the most popular Portuguese souvenirs is a can of sardines with your (or your loved ones’) birth year on them.

This part of the old town is a must-see in Ponta Delgada. Largo da Matriz town square is really picturesque and has a cozy atmosphere, and is also very nice in the early evening when the buildings are lit. Also, the surrounding streets are not to be missed. If you are looking for a place to eat in Ponta Delgada, you’ll find some nice local restaurants in the narrow streets around this area.

3. City Hall & Bell Tower

Praça do Municipio is yet another small town square located right next to the city gates and the other places mentioned above. Its main landmark is the Town Hall of Ponta Delgada (Câmara Municipal de Ponta Delgada) and its Bell Tower (Torre do Relógio ou Torre Sineira), built in 1724.

In front of the small building, there’s a statue, a little fountain, and a beautiful flowerbed. The municipality also sometimes hosts some local events – there was a photo exhibition outside when we visited last time. It’s also lavishly decorated on various occasions.

If it’s not too busy, be sure to climb the Bell Tower ! Climbing to the top of this tower is one of the most unique things to do in Ponta Delgada. Not only for the nice aerial views but also for the experience itself.

The tower is 300 years old and it feels like the interior and the stone stairs date from that time – it’s like taking a trip back in time. But the most special is the spiral staircase at the very top – it’s only 42 cm (16.5 inches) wide and you wonder if you won’t get stuck here on your way up.

The top viewing platform of the tower is literally the top, and there are no wires or other protective railings as you often see in other similar places. However, it doesn’t feel dangerous at all, and if you don’t climb or sit on the side, it’s perfectly safe. Just be sure to keep an eye on your kids!

Good to know: The entrance is free of charge, but because the stairs are so narrow and the viewing platform is quite small, there is a limited number of people that can visit at the same time. So you may have to wait in order to go up. The tower isn’t very high, and so the climb isn’t too strenuous and takes just a few minutes. In total, you don’t need more than 10-15 minutes for the entire visit, not including the waiting time (if any) at the entrance.

4. Waterfront

Avenida Infante Dom Henrique is a big avenue along the waterfront of Ponta Delgada . There’s a nice wide pedestrian promenade and walking here is one of the nicest ways to experience the unique vibe of Ponta Delgada.

On the western side, you have the Fort of Sao Bras (more info below), and in the east, you’ll find big hotels, shops, cafes, and restaurants. Along the way, you’ll pass Cais Da Sardinha, one of the best high-end restaurants in Ponta Delgada. It’s right on the water with a nice view of the harbor, and the food is very good too.

On the eastern side, close to Portas do Mar shopping/dining area , you’ll find many more restaurants, street food stands, and also a big complex of outdoor swimming pools , including a swimming area right in the sea. This area is always lively and the pool is extremely popular among locals and tourists alike. There were always people swimming here whenever we passed by – from the early morning on a Monday to late afternoon on a Sunday…

No matter how much time you have in Ponta Delgada – a few hours or several days – the waterfront is one of the nicest places that you really shouldn’t miss. Even if just for a short stroll, people-watching, or some ice cream…

Good to know: Avenida Infante Dom Henrique is also the best place to park if visiting Ponta Delgada by car (more info about parking at the bottom of this article). If you are arriving in the city by cruise ship, the terminal is also right at the Portas do Mar area.

5. Fort of São Brás

Forte de São Brás is a military fort on the western side of Ponta Delgada’s city center. Located by the sea, this 16th-century fortress was expanded and rebuilt in the 18-19th centuries. Nowadays, it’s still owned and managed by the Portuguese army and houses the Azores Military Museum (Museu Militar dos Açores).

You can walk around the outside walls of the fort, where you’ll see some cannons, statues, and also ship ankers. But if you want to visit inside, you’ll have to pay for the entrance to the museum. That being said, the fee is just a couple of euros, and it’s quite an interesting place to spend half an hour or so.

Inside the museum, you’ll find heavy machinery from the WWII period, and also old weapons and military uniforms. You can also walk on the walls of the fort and see the harbor from here. The most authentic part of the museum are the WWII tunnels that are kept pretty much as they were back in those days. It sure gives you goosebumps.

Good to know: The Museum is open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM, except on Public Holidays. Count 30-45 minutes for a thorough visit.

6. São Francisco Square & Holy Christ of Miracles Chapel

Just across the street from the Sao Bras Fort, you’ll find another nice town square of Ponta Delgada – Campo de São Francisco . It’s a much bigger square than the ones mentioned before, with big trees that give nice shade and lots of benches where locals gather for a chat.

There are several impressive buildings here. Not to be missed is the convent of Nossa Senhora da Esperança and mostly its impressive chapel of the Holy Christ of Miracles (Santuário do Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres).

Holy Christ of Miracles is a pilgrimage site attracting many Azorean emigrants and their families, especially for the celebrations that start on the Fifth Sunday of Easter and last until Ascension Thursday. The cult of the Holy Christ of Miracles dates back to the 17th century, and the processions are an annual tradition ever since. If you’re interested in this cult and its history, you can read all about it here . During the rest of the year, the Holy Christ statue is locked behind glass, on the opposite side of the altar.

Another reason to visit this chapel is the beautifully-restored wall of Portuguese Azulejos and an impressive altar. This chapel might be tiny, but it’s one of the most unique places to see in Ponta Delgada. If you visit just one church in the Azores, make it this one!

On the western side of the square, you’ll see another church, Igreja de São José . This 17th-century Baroque church looks quite impressive from the outside, but it was always locked when we visited. I read that they have a Sunday mass with a choir at around 11 AM and that sometimes the gates are unlocked during the week as well, so give it a try when you are in Ponta Delgada, and maybe you’ll be able to visit it inside as well.

7. Palace of Sant’Ana

Palácio de Sant’Ana is the official residence of the President of the Government of the Azores. It’s a beautiful 19th-century neoclassical building in a bright red color, surrounded by well-maintained gardens with lots of exotic plants, huge trees, and a nice pond.

The Palace itself cannot be visited inside, but the gardens of the Palace of Sant Ana are open to the public. You can walk around on the designated paths, visit the small park and see the greenhouses behind the Palace. This is such a tranquil and photogenic place that we found it well worth a visit.

Good to know: The gardens are located about 10 minutes walk from most other attractions in the old town. They are open daily except on Mondays, from 10 AM to 5 PM. The entrance fee is 2 EUR.

8. José do Canto Botanical Garden

Located right next to the Palace of Sant’Ana, Jardim José do Canto is actually a separate park that also deserves a visit in its own right. This is a big botanical garden that has been laid by José do Canto, a Portuguese landowner passionate about botany and plants. He introduced many new plant species into the Azores and laid this botanical garden in the mid-19th century.

While not as manicured as the gardens of the Sant’Ana Palace, this botanical garden is a perfect mix between untouched nature and a well-kept garden. It feels more like a big park and has some really impressive trees from all over the world that make a visit here more than worthwhile.

There is also a display of Portuguese Azulejos that shortly guide you through the history of the Azores, starting with the discovery of the islands in the 15th century.

Good to know: The gardens are open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. The entrance fee is 4 EUR. You can find a bit more information on their website .

9. Farmers Market

If you want to visit a local farmers’ market in the Azores, then don’t miss Mercado da Graça in the center of Ponta Delgada.

It’s a big covered market where you’ll find all kinds of local fruits, vegetables, and also traditional liquors and some Azorean specialties and souvenirs.

If you want to buy a pineapple to take home with you, you’ll find plenty of choice here. Pineapples are often packaged in a nice box that you can take straight on the plane with you, but you may want to double-check if your country allows bringing fresh fruit from overseas.

10. Pineapple Plantations

No visit to Sao Miguel would be complete without tasting delicious Azorean pineapple. In Ponta Delgada, you can also see where and how the pineapples are grown. There are several pineapple plantations on the outskirts of the city that are open to the public.

Pineapples have been introduced to the Azores in 1850 and have been grown in Sao Miguel ever since. They are grown inside white-painted greenhouses, and it takes about 2 years for a fruit to grow and ripen. When you visit the plantations, you can see pineapple plants in different stages, and learn more about the whole process.

The visit to pineapple plantations is free of charge and they usually also offer to taste pineapple jam and/or pineapple liqueur. And, of course, they hope that you then buy some local delicacies or souvenirs or visit a cafe afterwards.

The Azorean Pineapple Plantation (Plantação de Ananás dos Açores) is one of the nicest pineapple plantations to visit in Ponta Delgada and it’s relatively close to the city center. Yes, you’ll see greenhouses surrounded by apartment buildings – quite a unique sight. You can walk here from the waterfront area in about 15-20 minutes, and one of the routes of the tourist train also includes a stop here (more info below).

Another pineapple plantation that you can visit in Ponta Delgada is Plantação Ananases A Arruda . It’s located further from the city center and you’ll need a car or a taxi. There’s also Pineapples Santo António . But – in all honesty – they all offer quite similar experiences, so visiting one is definitely enough.

Good to know: See our map of Ponta Delgada attractions for the exact location of the two most popular plantations. The plantations are usually open daily from 9 AM to 8 PM.

11. Lagarta – Tourist Train

While the city center of Ponta Delgada is very walkable, some parks and other sights are located a bit further away. So if you are short on time, don’t feel like walking, or simply want to get a good feeling of the layout of the city before exploring it deeper, then you may want to opt for one of the sightseeing tours by Lagarta tourist train .

This is a typical small ‘train’ that you find in many European cities. You can find it on the western side of the main avenue, close to Sao Bras Fortress and Sao Francisco Square. It offers several routes covering different areas of the city. It’s not a hop-on hop-off train, but some of its routes include a short stop or two (for example at a pineapple plantation).

Good to know: Tours take about 1 – 1.5 hours and prices start at around 10 EUR per person. For more information, see their website or simply walk over to their stand in the city center and see which tour is available at that time.

12. Carlos Machado Museum

Museu Carlos Machado comprises of three different parts, and you can visit one, two, or all of them.

The main part is situated in the Santo André Convent from the 17-18th centuries and has two different collections. One of them focuses on the history of nature (with many stuffed animals), and the other one – on the history of the Convent itself, including religious art, paintings, etc.

In addition, you can visit the Sacred Art center located at the former College Church and also Santa Barbara Center.

Good to know: The museum is open daily except on Mondays, with varying hours depending on the season. For more information, please see their website .

13. São Pedro Church

Igreja de São Pedro is a 17-18th century church that stands high on a small hill next to the waterfront area close to Portas do Mar. If you arrive in Ponta Delgada by cruise ship, this will likely be one of the first places you’ll see.

The Sao Pedro church might look similar to all the others in the Azores, but this one is really worth visiting inside. Its rich Baroque interior is probably one of the most impressive of all the churches in the Azores (and definitely more impressive than Igreja de São Sebastião on the main square).

However, also this church was always closed when we were in the city, so I have no pictures of the interior. Hopefully, you are luckier with the timing…

14. Antonio Borges Garden

Jardim António Borges is a public park, located a bit outside the city center. It’s a beautiful park laid in the 19th century, and featuring some very impressive trees, small ponds, nice walkways, and some interesting stone structures such as benches, tunnels, and grottoes.

Antonio Borges Garden is free to visit and is open daily, with opening hours varying per season.

If you don’t feel like walking all the way or paying a small fee to visit the gardens of Sant’Ana Palace or José de Canto Botanical Garden, this park is a wonderful alternative. And otherwise, try to see all three of them – they are relatively close to each other.

15. Whale & Dolphin Watching

One of the best things to do in the Azores is taking a dolphin- and whale-watching tour and Ponta Delgada is no exception. The southern coast of the Sao Miguel island is a great place to see marine animals, and there are boat tours starting straight from the Ponta Delgada harbor.

If you only have a few hours in the city, then I’d focus on all the Ponta Delgada attractions listed above. If, however, you have an entire day, you could easily add a whale watching tour to your itinerary.

TIP: This highly-rated tour is the best whale & dolphin watching tour that starts in Ponta Delgada. They usually have several departure times per day, so it’s easy to include this tour into your itinerary.

16. More things to do in & near Ponta Delgada

In addition to all the main places to see in Ponta Delgada, there are also many nice places to visit close to the city. Below, is a small overview, and we also indicated them on our map.

• Gruta do Carvão is the longest underground lava tunnel on Sao Miguel island. More information on their website .
• Miradouro do Ilhéu de Rosto de Cão is a nice viewpoint over the small islet near the coast.
• Praia das Milicias & Praia do Pópulo – two of the nicest beaches close to the city. You can walk/bike there following the coast, or visit by car.

In addition, there are many nice tours from Ponta Delgada that bring you to some of the best places on the island of Sao Miguel. Here are the two most popular tours that are perfect if you don’t have a car and want to see as much as possible in a short time:

• WEST tour (Sete Cidades, Lagoa do Fogo, Caldeira Velha, Ribeira Grande town, and pineapple greenhouses). If you have just a day on the island, this is the best option, by far.
• EAST tour (Ribeira dos Caldeirões, Furnas, and Northeast). Another must-see area, with hot pools and traditional food slow-cooked under the ground of the geothermal areas in Furnas.

READ ALSO: Best Places to See & Things to Do in Sao Miguel

Practical Tips & Info for Your Visit

How much time do you need.

Ponta Delgada is a small city and you can see the best that it has to offer in half a day to a day. If you want to actually visit all the parks and museums mentioned in this article, count a full day for your visit to Ponta Delgada. If you are staying in Sao Miguel for a longer holiday, it’s worth coming to the city a few different times and exploring it at a slower pace, as we did.

Getting around

Most Ponta Delgada attractions are located very close to each other and you can easily explore the entire city on foot. You can also take a tourist train, tourist bus, or taxi to visit the places that are somewhat further away. Driving in the old city center is not advisable – most streets are one-way only and also very narrow.

There are plenty of parking spaces on the main avenue Avenida Infante Dom Henrique . This is one of the easiest places to get to and park your car and you can explore the rest of the city on foot. There are parking meters on the street, and parking here is free on Sundays.

In addition, there are also big underground parking garages under the main avenue, with several entrances that you really cannot miss. We found this underground parking very convenient and it saves you trouble trying to figure out how the parking meters on the street work.

TIP: If you are visiting Ponta Delgada on a weekday, underground parking is the best place to park your car. If visiting on a Sunday, you can usually find plenty of free parking spots on the main avenue itself.

Best time to visit

Ponta Delgada is best visited on weekdays. That’s when everything is open and the city is really lively. We once went on a Sunday, and most landmarks, shops, and restaurants were closed, and all the locals seem to have left the city (Azoreans love to go swimming and picnicking on the weekends). On Sunday, Ponta Delgada feels like a sleepy little town, not comparable to the bustling city that you’ll find on weekdays.

Where to stay

There are many hotels and other accommodation options in Ponta Delgada.

If you have a car , we recommend staying in one of the big hotels close to Portas do Mar, with great sea views from most rooms. Even if they don’t have their own parking, you can use underground parking garages next door.

• The best hotel at the waterfront is Octant Ponta Delgada – previously Azor Hotel (great facilities and on-site parking available). Another nice choice is Hotel Marina Atlântico (private parking available, but their indoor pool is adult-only).
• For families and those who want a bit more space, Hotel Gaivota Azores is a good option with nice sea-view apartments available. This hotel has no pool, but there are public outdoor pools right across the street.
• On a lower budget and just a tiny bit outside of the city center, MS Vila Nova is an excellent choice with convenient parking.

Without a car , you can also stay in the old town, where you’ll also find more budget-friendly accommodations. On a lower budget, Hotel Alcides is one of the best-rated budget hotels in the heart of the city.

TIP: If you are looking for a more charming hotel with character and a great location in the old town, Hotel Talisman with beautiful rooms and a rooftop pool, is one of the nicest and excellent-value hotels in Ponta Delgada. They also have private parking available nearby.

READ ALSO: Where to Stay in Sao Miguel Island

So, this is our guide to Ponta Delgada in the Azores. While Sao Miguel island has a lot of amazing natural wonders, its capital city definitely deserves a visit as well.

I hope that this article will inspire you to visit Ponta Delgada and explore the city a bit deeper. Have a great trip!

If you are planning a trip and are looking for more information and inspiration for visiting Sao Miguel , please see our other guides as well:

• Best things to do in Sao Miguel .
• Best things to do in Furnas .
• Sete Cidades : a complete guide for your visit to the most popular place in the Azores.

More travel inspiration all over Portugal:

• Best Things to Do in Portugal
• Top Sights in Lisbon
• Best Things to Do in Sintra
• Best Things to Do in Madeira
• Best Places to Visit in Algarve
• Portugal 10-Day Itinerary
• Algarve Itinerary

READ ALSO: Portugal Travel Guide – destination guides, itineraries, and travel tips for a big variety of places all over Portugal.

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

Travel inspiration for Madeira Island, Portugal:

• Top Places to See & Things to Do in Madeira
• Best Things to Do in Funchal
• Best Hikes in Madeira
• Hidden Gems of Madeira
• Whale Watching in Madeira

More tips for your trip to mainland Portugal:

• Best Towns to Visit in Portugal
• Portugal Itinerary
• Best Things to Do in Lisbon
• One Day in Lisbon
• Best Day Trips from Lisbon
• Top Places to Visit in Algarve
• Best Beaches of Algarve
• Best Towns of Algarve
• Benagil Cave (Algarve)
• Sagres (Algarve)
• Lagos (Algarve)
• Albufeira (Algarve)
• Portugal in April
• Sintra Itinerary & Travel Tips
• Nazaré
• Portugal with Kids
• Algarve with Kids

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Monday 11th of March 2024

Hi - our family (two adults, two young boys) are thinking about going here ~ten days during Christmas and New Years. Seems it might be rainy/windy but curious if you have visited during December. Any thoughts are appreciated. Thank you.

Tuesday 12th of March 2024

Hi Ramon, December is the rainiest month in Sao Miguel and you can expect rain almost one out of two days. Temperature-wise, it's not too bad, but it's not summer in any way - 12-18°C (54-64 F). Depends what you are expecting and what you want to do, this may not be the best time to visit the Azores. On the other hand, hot springs might be very enjoyable. The nearby Madeira Island normally has much better weather, somewhat warmer temperatures, less chance of rain, and more things to do including amazing New Year's fireworks. But also here, you never know what kind of weather you get and it's usually not warm enough for beaches. If you are looking for a beach holiday and sunny weather, then check out the Canary Islands (Spain). Tenerife is one of the best choices weather-wise at that time of the year. Whatever you decide, remember that you can never predict the weather on any island in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, especially in the winter.

Sunday 10th of December 2023

we will be in adores this August with our 8 year old son. we will be staying for a week. we were thinking of staying PD and drive around the island with a rental car. do you recommend this plan or should we stay in another location please?

Tuesday 12th of December 2023

@Jurga, thank you...looking forward

Hi Erika, as long as your accommodation has parking (and ideally also a pool), it's absolutely fine. The distances aren't big and you can also find some nice day tours if you prefer (whale watching, canyoneering, etc.) - see here for some inspiration. That said, if you are looking for more information about different places to stay, check out this article: Where to Stay on Sao Miguel Island. Also, book asap since August is the peak season. Have a great trip!

Thursday 23rd of March 2023

Hello! Thank you for the wonderful guide. I would like to copy and paste portions into a word document to take with me but that doesn't seem to be possible. I don't want to print all 49 pages and I don't want to print the pictures. Is it possible to just copy and paste (right click is disabled). I leave soon and am gathering my information, so need to know fast! Thank you.

Friday 24th of March 2023

Hi Michelle, you can always save the file to pdf and just print the pages you need. Have a great trip!

Tuesday 21st of June 2022

Very helpful but I wish that I could copy some of the text and put it in a word doc that I'm creating. Thanks for all of the info, though!

Glad to hear you find the info on our site useful, Ellen. Have a great trip!

George Kenna

Wednesday 23rd of February 2022

This is great because I am going to Sao Miguel in April 2022 (from Lisbon then back to the mainland) and I was trying to decide if I needed the car I had reserved because it would be for just 1 day as I am taking tours on 2 days. Now that I know there is plenty to do in town it's an easy decision. Obrigado, Bom Dia!! George PS I just noticed you mentioned Hotel Talisman (among others) which is where I am staying and it makes me feel confident it was a good choice.

Thursday 24th of February 2022

@Jurga, Obrigado!

Hi George, glad to hear you found this useful. Indeed, there's plenty to see and do in Ponta Delgada to keep you busy for a day, so no worries. :) Enjoy your trip!

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13 Best Things to Do in Ponta Delgada Azores (Sao Miguel island)

13 Best Things to do in Ponta Delgada Azores

Wondering what to do in Ponta Delgada? This guide will outline the absolute best things to do in Ponta Delgada in the Azores.

The Azores are a collection of nine spellbinding islands in the Atlantic Ocean. It has acres of wild jungle, steamy hot springs, cascading waterfalls, and jaw-droppingly beautiful coastal hikes and black sand beaches.

The Azores are a destination that are definitely worth exploring. And the best part is that it seems like nobody really knows about them!

It feels like it is virtually undiscovered by tourists.

The Azores archipelago is part of Portugal. While they’re undeniably European, the geography is a fusion of Big Island Hawaii and Iceland ( read more unique things about the Azores here ).

With 26 active volcanoes, a third of which are underwater, you can expect plenty of geothermal activity with natural hot pools and volcanic steam that allows for in ground cooking of cozida !

Ponta Delgada is the Azore’s capitol city

The biggest island is Sao Miguel , home to Ponta Delgado Azores, the biggest city and the airport you’ll likely be flying into.

Tip: In order to get the most out of a trip to the Azores I highly recommend renting a car. There is no reliable public transportation and thankfully, the roads are easy to navigate. Book your rental car here.

Where to stay in Ponta Delgada

13. swim in ponta da ferraria ocean hot springs.

We stayed at the Azoris Royal Garden and it turned out to be even better than expected. In fact, I loved it! I highly recommend staying here.

The location was great – very central to everything we wanted to see. We didn’t want to be stuck on one side of the island. Check prices here.

Top 13 Things to Do in Ponta Delgada Azores

In this Ponta Delgada travel guide we will cover the 13 best things to do on Sao Miguel island.

1. Swim in Terra Nostra Botanical Park’s Orange Poo l

One of the Ponta Delgada highlights is definitely visiting Terra Nostra Park.

Discover 31 acres of geothermal spas, warm-water streams, and tropical plants – including 300 varieties of fern – along the flourishing trails snaking through Terra Nostra Park . 

Over 240 years old, these botanical gardens offer the perfect day trip if you’re wondering what to do in the Azores.

While there are several multi-colored thermal pools to choose from, the enormous orange water spa was our favorite because it’s so incredibly unique.

It may look just like muddy water, but the unusual orange color is actually caused by its high iron content. 

Pro Tip: Be careful when swimming in the orange pool as it stains everything it touches, including your swimsuit! I learned this the hard way.

I highly recommend giving the Full-Day Tour from Ponta Delgada a try. You will be able to experience the thermal pools in Furnas, watch how the locals cook the famous Cozido dish. (Read more about Cozido here ) And so much more!

Open: 10h00 to 18h00 | Cost: €8.

CLICK HERE to read the full blog post about visiting the Terra Nostra Gardens.

2. Explore the Sete Cidades Lakes

Sete Cidades is a small village on the western side of San Miguel Azores, but the name is more commonly used to refer to the three-mile (five km) wide series of volcanic crater lakes in the area, surrounded by some absolutely amazing hikes and lookout points.

The two calderas, or filled-in lakes, are often said to be different colors due to the vegetation and algae in the water – one gray and one green – but they looked the same when we were there. You’ll find all the activities you could dream of in Sete Cidades, from hiking to canoeing and kayaking.

Pro Tip: Buses run daily from Ponta Delgada Azores to Sete Cidades, but they are unreliable. The best way to explore is with a rental car. Most of the viewpoints are marked in Google Maps, so they’re easy to find.

Read the full post on visiting Sete Ciadades: Explore the Lagoa das Sete Cidades Azores (Lagoon of Seven Cities)

Open: N/A | Cost: Free

3. Go on an Azores Whale Watching & Islet Boat Tour

A key perk to being on an island in the middle of the ocean is that you are much closer to tons of amazing sea animals!

There are so many amazing whale watching excursions that know exactly where to take you so you are very likely to be able to see whale, dolphins, turtles, and other sea life.

I highly recommend taking a boat tour out to see the sea life up close! It is truly incredible to see these animals in their natural habitat.

Book your space on a boat here to make sure you don’t miss out on the opportunity. Unfortunately, spots fill up fast.

4. Visit the Miradouro do Boca de Inferno Viewpoint

Miradouro Boca do Inferno translates to ‘the viewpoint of the mouth of hell.’ Even though the name is intense, it is much closer to heaven than hell.  Unlike many other Azores attractions, it doesn’t even require a super long hike.

You can drive your car almost all the way up and then have a few hundred yards worth (about five minutes) of hiking through lush greenery to get there. Alternatively, you can park on the main road and walk (about 20 minutes).

Photos from Miradouro de Boca Infero are probably the most commonly seen from the Azores. You may recognize it from Google images, but be warned that the view is dependent on the weather.

It’s often very foggy here. If you are lucky enough to get a clear day, make sure this viewpoint is at the top of your list! Read more about the  Azores weather . (See photo below)

5. Taste Tea at Plantacoes De Cha Gorreana

The Plantacoes De Cha Gorreana , or the Gorreana tea plantation, is another amazing way to experience the unique aspects of the Azores. With its lush tea plantations, you’d think you were in Asia. The views are simply stunning. 

It’s worth a visit if you’re interested in learning about Azores tea, from determining the quality of the leaves to watching the machinery.

Pro Tip: This Azores tea plantation is a great stop off when you’re passing by; you’ll enjoy a free tour and a free tea tasting!

Open: 08h00 (09h00 on weekends) – 19h00 | Cost: Free

Book your tour: Full-Day Tour of Furnas Valley (Tea tasting included!)

6. Go Canyoneering – Rappel and Cliff Jumping!

Want to go on a Canyoning Adventure in Ribeira da Salga ? Spend a half or full day testing yourself on these thrilling outdoor activities.

If you are hungry for a little adventure this beautiful adventure excursion is perfect for you! Ready to rappel off of a 50 ft cliff? How about cliff jumping? There is no better feeling than being out in nature. What better way top explore one of the best waterfalls in The Azores than to Rappel down it! Book here if you dare.

Good for experienced travelers or first-time adventurers.

Book your tour: Canyoning Adventure in Ribeira da Salga

7. Check Out the Miradouro Vista do Rei Viewpoint

Miradouro Boca do Inferno may mean ‘the mouth of hell,’ but the viewpoint is anything but – it’s absolutely gorgeous and perfect for all types of travelers.

It’s the most famous viewpoint on the island, looking down from the top of the mountain to the twin lakes below.

It’s a short five-minute hike up a few steps to the famous viewpoint, but if you want more of a challenging hike, there are longer trails around the lakes.

Be warned that the weather is often extremely foggy here, even if it’s clear on other parts of the island, so if you get a sunny day while you’re here, go immediately!

For more Azores weather tips you can check out our post on the weather in the Azores here . (Warning, it is pretty unpredictable.)

Pro Tip: Check the weather using the free SpotAzores app or VisitAzores before you leave home. These handy apps have webcams at major tourist attractions across the Azores, where you can check out the current cloud situation.

Miradouro Vista do Rei – also known as King’s View – is another awesome place with views over the twin lakes of Sete Cidades. At an elevation of 823 feet (251 meters), it’s supposed to offer the best panoramic angle of the two different colored lakes.

An extra car park has been added at the viewpoint behind the old Monte Palace hotel; this, along with the existing car park, is available for only 20 minutes.

If you want more than just a quick photo opportunity, park at the fork along the road leading to Sete Cidades.

Tip: Get another great photo from the rooftop of the abandoned Monte Palace Hotel – it’s free! Watch your step though, as it’s really rundown.

Open: 24 hours | Cost: Free.

8. Soak in the Poca da Dona Beija Hot Springs

Another awesome hot spring is the Poca da Dona Beija, where geothermal activities are a definite plus. Soaking in these hot tubs is a must on any trip to Furnas, a region that’s a natural hotbed of geothermal activity. One of the best things about it is that it stays open late, so it’s great to be able to go after dark –  blissfully romantic.

There are five open-air hot tubs, spas, or thermal pools here of varying depths and temperatures, going from colder to hotter. We enjoyed going back and forth between the different temperatures.

Tip: Younger people tend to hang out here at night, so it becomes more of a party environment – it’s not like spring break though, as Azores holidays aren’t that kind of destination.

You’ll still definitely be able to relax, but don’t expect to have it all to yourself. Early morning is best if you want to escape the crowds.

There are also dinner tours in Furnas available here.

Open: 07h00 to 23h00 | Cost: €6.

Read the full blog post for details and all photos:  Visiting the Poca da Dona Beija Hot Springs here.

9. Admire the Caldeira Das Furnas Thermal Valley

Open: 24 hours | Cost: €2.

Caldeira Das Furnas is an enchanting thermal valley on the edge of Lake Furnas ; it gives off a sense of mystery with plumes of steam bubbling up out of the ground. It’s a great spot to witness the geothermal activity the Azures are so famous for, as well as watch the locals cooking cozida – basically a sausage stew that gets cooked in the ground and then heated by the volcanic steam!

A 24-hour boardwalk on the northern side of Lake Furnas provides access over the steaming ground so you can get up super close.

There’s a strong smell of sulfur around here, and I thought it would make me feel sick, but it didn’t. It supposedly costs €2 to park, but when we pulled in, there was no gate and no one around to collect the money from us.

Pro Tip: If you’re looking for a quieter experience, go later in the day; we had it pretty much all to ourselves, minus a couple of cozida chefs burying their sausage stew in the ground.

10. Hang Out at Mosteiros Beach

Open: 24 hours | Cost: Free

This town on the far western side of the island is definitely worth a visit. We were close by at the Termas da Ferraria natural spa and went up to Mosteiros Azores on a whim –it would have been a huge mistake to skip it.

The small, quaint town has a gorgeous little black sand beach – one of the most beautiful Azores beaches – with a series of refreshing natural tidal pools. From here, you have a view of three islets and a series of dramatic rock formations.  

Pro Tip: Bring water shoes for navigating the rocks!

11. Visit Our Lady of Peace Chapel (Nossa Senhora Da Paz)

Open: N/A | Cost: Free.

Okay, we know you may have seen gorgeous churches on top of hills before, but this one is exceptional.

Dating back to the 1500s, Nossa Senhora Da Paz (Our Lady of Peace Chapel) isn’t technically located on a hill, but rather a mountain that offers a phenomenal view of Vila Franco Do Campo and the harbor below.

Some people hike up the 110 steps to the top, which can be grueling, but there are little landings on each platform where you can get some great photographs. 

Pro Tip: Following the GPS can be confusing on the narrow, winding roads, but you can usually follow the signs from the village. 

12.  Explore Gruta Do Carvao

Visiting Gruta Do Carvao is a great way to spend a rainy day, as the caves are warm inside year round.

As the largest known lava tunnel on the island, the Coal Caves extend 6273 feet (191 meters) into the earth, only 820 feet (250 meters) of which are accessible to the public.

All sorts of geological wonders are hidden inside, such as stalactites and stalagmites, lava bridges, striated walls, lava balls, and gas bubbles, which make it a fascinating day trip for those with an interest in geology.  

Pro Tip: Staying at Hotel Ponta Delgada, the caves were only a five-minute drive away. Advanced booking is required.

Open: 10h30, 11h30, 14h30, 15h30, and 16h30 | Cost: €5

Yup, bonus item that was our absolute favorite part of the island. Ponta Da Ferraria is a natural lagoon in the Atlantic Ocean on the western coast of Sao Miguel.

What makes Ponta da Ferraria especially unique is that it is a natural ocean lagoon, but is heated up from geothermal activity. It is amazing that you can be swimming in the ocean and all of a sudden feel hot water warming the lagoon around you.

Getting to Ferraria Azores is only about a 35 minute drive from Ponta Delgada Azores, and is 100% worth it. Read more about here.

Pro Tip: Go at low tide so that the entire lagoon feels warm.

From Ferraria Azores natural springs to orange colored pools and black sand beaches, Azores is a feast for the senses! What are your favorite things to do in the Azores? 

Read the full blog post for details and all photos:  A Natural Ocean Hot Spring – Ponta Da Ferraria

Ponta Delgado Travel FAQ:

Is ponta delgada worth visiting.

Yes! It was an absolute dream while we were there. With so much to do and see you will not be disappointed.

Where to stay in Ponta Delgada?

We stayed at the Azoris Royal Garden and it turned out to be even better than expected. In fact, I loved it! Highly recommend staying here.

The location was great. It’s close to the airport and in the middle of the main city. This meant that we were close to a lot of the restaurants and other night attractions, while being centrally located to attractions on either side of the island. Check prices here.

What is the Ponta Delgada Weather like?

High Season is limited to June, July, August, and September

The Azores weather changes rapidly and varies dramatically on different parts of the islands. You can’t expect a clear and sunny beach destination all year round; it can be cold, gloomy and foggy – sometimes even in the middle of summer!

For example, it will often be cold and misty at the top of a mountain, but sunny down at the beach. I still don’t understand how this is possible, but it is! So if it’s very cloudy in one place, you may be able to drive to a different side of the island to escape it.

Quite often, if there is a lot of cloud cover at the place you want to visit, you can wait half an hour to see if it clears up. Patience, flexibility, and spontaneity are key here!

August is the hottest month with temperatures averaging about 64 – 79⁰F (18 – 26⁰C).

February is the coldest month with temperatures averaging between 52 – 63⁰F (11 – 17⁰C)

Visiting The Azores? READ NEXT:

• Top 10 Things to Do in Ponta Delgada Azores (Sao Miguel island)
• 20 Awesome Things to do in the Azores
• 23 Most Beautiful Azores Beaches
• 5 Best Sao Miguel Hot springs
• Azores Travel Guide: 7 Things You Must Know Before Going
• Azores Weather: What You Need to Know Before Going

Places to not miss in the Furnas area:

• 6 Best Things to do in Furnas (Azores)
• Cozido das Furnas: Volcano-Cooked Cozido in the Azores
• Guide to visiting Furnas Lake (Azores)
• Parque Terra Nostra (Furnas, Azores) All you Need to Know

Everything else!

• Guide to Visiting Mosteiros Beach in the Azores (Sao Miquel Island)
• Caldeira Velha Hot Springs
• Lagoa das Sete Cidades, Azores (Lagoon of Seven Cities)
• Visiting Poca Da Dona Beija Thermal Baths in The Azores
• Miradouro da Boca do Inferno | Azores Hike in Sete Cidades
• Ponta Da Ferraria – A Volcanic Ocean Hot Spring in the Azores

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Top 10 Things to Do in Ponta Delgada (The Jewel of the Azores)

The charming port city, Ponta Delgada is the gateway to the Azores. This small but vibrant city shouldn’t be overlooked in your travels as you hop around the nine islands of the archipelago. Here are the top 10 things to do in Ponta Delgada.

Ponta Delgada offers everything from whitewashed 17th-century churches, an urban botanical garden with trails and grottoes, a beautiful cobblestone promenade overlooking the Atlantic ocean, numerous bars and restaurants serving local cuisine, and is home to must-do water-based activities like whale watching.

Unfortunately, there’s not much travel-based information out there on interwebs about the Azores, let alone about its capital, Ponta Delgada. Even I struggled to properly plan for my trip.

The good news? I’ve got you covered!

After spending a week on the Azores biggest island, São Miguel, I thought I’d write a series of guides to help you plan an unforgettable Azorean experience. If you’re not familiar with the Azores or need more convincing, check out my post on why the Azores is Europe’s best-kept secret.

As with any trip, I always recommend brushing up on the local lingo. Get my free common Portuguese travel phrases guide to help you in your travel. Even if you only remember a simple ‘Olá!’ (Hello!) and ‘Obrigado’ (thank-you), the Azorean’s will appreciate the effort.

Now that you’ve decided to visit São Miguel island and its black and white cobblestoned capital, let’s take a closer look at the top 10 things to do in Ponta Delgada.

Map of the Top 10 Things to Do in Ponta Delgada

Want to know where you’ll be going? Take a look at the detailed map below.

Tip: For a larger view of the map, click on the icon in the top right corner.

1. Swim with Dolphins and Go Whale watching

The Azores is one of the best places in the world for whale watching. Around the archipelago, there are approximately twenty-five different resident and migratory species which can be spotted. The Sperm whale is amongst the most common, and both the blue and fin whale are regularly found in these waters.

I have a massive soft spot for marine life, particularly whales. But this time, I decided to do something I hadn’t done since I was 11 years old, swim with dolphins!

Endemic to the temperate and tropical areas of the Atlantic Ocean is the super cute Atlantic Spotted dolphin. For two hours I swam with and observed these playful creatures in their natural environment. There were literally hundreds of them!

For both dolphin swimming and whale watching trips, I recommend Picos de Aventura located in Ponta Delgada. The team was both friendly and professional. They also offer a range of other activities and provide all the necessary gear.

• Book a whale and dolphins watching expedition in São Miguel here
• Book your swimming with the dolphin’s tour here

2. Visit Ponta Delgada City Hall

In the heart of Ponta Delgada is this elegant 17th-century building constructed to house the municipal council. In 1499, the village of Ponta Delgada was raised to the status of a town, and in 1546 it was again raised to the status of a city.

During this period there was a primitive building that served as a municipal hall. By the end of the 17th century, construction of the current building was undertaken. By the 20th century, the building was literally in ruins. A plaque was located on site indicating that it was going to be demolished. It wasn’t until later on that the president of City Hall, Alberto Oliveira, set about its restoration.

Further updates were carried-out in the second half of the 20th century to modernise and adapt the building for its continued purpose.

Heading to Portugal? Download my free Portuguese Travel Phrase guide here.

3. See the Portas da Cidade (City Gates)

As the gateway to the Azores, Ponta Delgada wouldn’t be complete without city gates. Portas da Cidade (literally, City Gates) is possibly the most iconic monument of Ponta Delgada.

Symbolising the island’s line of defense, the gates were built in the eighteenth century next to the old quay, then later transferred to the Gonçalo Velho Cabral Square during construction of the seaside Prince Henry Avenue.

Portas da Cidade is composed of three arches. Featuring the royal and the city’s coat of arms, these gates are the city’s postcard.

4. Visit Parish Church of São Sebastião

Located opposite Portas da Cidade is the Parish Church of São Sebastião (Igreja Matriz de São Sebastião) with magnificent Manueline and Baroque doorways.

As Ponta Delgada’s main church, the church is endowed with a high tower making it the only one in the city. Located at the Largo da Matriz, near the Portas da Cidade, and is often referred to as the ‘Matriz’.

The church was built between 1531 and 1547 on the site of a small chapel that was dedicated to the first patron saint of the island. Originally this was a Gothic structure which today also shows Manueline-style traces, typical for the Portuguese architecture in the 16th century.

Look out for the windows adorned with colourful images of saints and the beautiful starry cobblestones surround the church. It’s so damn pretty!

5. Relax in Campo de São Francisco

Facing the port, Campo de São Francisco is beautiful large tree-lined square with a gazebo at its centre. A perfect spot to sit, relax and take in the city’s whitewashed beauty.

Its name comes from the Church of San José located in the square, which was formerly a convent of San Francisco. To the west is the old Hospital of Saint Joseph, to the north is the convent of Our Lady of Hope, to the south is Fort of São Brás.

Which leads us to our next top thing to do in Ponta Delgada.

6. Explore Forte de São Bras

Built in the 16th century, Forte de Sao Bras (Fort of St. Blaise) is the biggest fortress on the island and was the most important fortification of the city’s defense system used to protect the Azores from pirates who were attracted to the treasures of passing ships from Africa, India, and Brazil.

Forte de Sao Bras was the strategically located to the west of the narrow strip of land after which Ponta Delgada was named.

Today, you can go Inside the fort to visit the Azores Military Museum. This is also the headquarters of the Military Command of the Azores.

7. Get the best view of Ponta Delgada from Hermitage of the Mother of God

Perched atop a hill is a nineteenth-century chapel built on the site of an old defence structure of Ponta Delgada. With a bell tower and surrounded garden, it provides a gorgeous view over the harbour. Remains of walls, bastions, and casemates can still be seen.

8. Wander Through the Grottoes at António Borges Garden

António Borges, an Azorean businessman and politician interested in Botany imported hundreds of exotic species to the island of Sao Miguel, transforming his 2.5 hectare property into a private botanical garden.

Originally built 1858–1861, it was later acquired by the City Council of Ponta Delgada and nominated as the city’s park in 1958. Being one of the largest green spaces in the city, multiple sporting, cultural and recreational activities take place here alongside its trails, grottoes, rare and exotic plants.

9. Visit the Famous Azorean Arruda Pineapple Plantation

No trip to the Azores would be complete without a visit to the only Azorean pineapple plantation open to the public.

It’s hard to imagine that oranges (used to ward off scurvy) were once king in the Azores when today there are roughly 6,000 pineapple plantations on São Miguel island.

In fact, in the 19th century, winter oranges were so popular in London, they were called St. Michaels. But time changed, and the need for a substitute to the orange led to a boom in growing pineapples in the Azores. While the island is far from a hot equatorial weather, it has a warm organic-enriched soil which is perfect to grow all sorts of different fruits and vegetables. This led to the construction of pineapple greenhouses which are unique to the Azores.

It takes 2 years to raise the pineapple from flower to fruit, and lots of smoke to fertilize the plant as it grows. The Azorean pineapple is even more unique with its small crown and intense flavor.

After you’re done exploring the various greenhouses with pineapples in their various stages of growth, head to the gift shop and pick up your favourite pineapple themed kitchen towel, liqueur, or jam.

Head outside and relax in the cafe which has everything including pineapple cakes, ice-cream and Piña coladas! Oh my!

10. Find the Quirky Street Art

If you love your street art, then head to Travessa do Arco for a massive whale mural and a lone clownfish. On your way to Hermitage of the Mother of God, take Rua da Mãe de Deus for these two gems.

On your way to the António Borges Garden, head straight up Av. Roberto Ivens and on the corner on Rua de Lisboa is this supermarket hero.

Finally, at the end of Largo 2 de Março is this huge headless mural of a woman.

Where to Eat in Ponta Delgada

Bacalhau, Portuguese for cod, is considered to be an iconic dish of Portugal. My Portuguese boyfriend enjoyed this salted cod with vegetable dish at Calçada do Cais in Ponta Delgada.

Running parallel with the seafront Rua dos Mercadores is one of the main thoroughfares. Here you’ll find some of the island’s best restaurants including Calçada do Cais, and further north, A Tasca .

Other highly recommended restaurants include, Adega Regional ,  Rotas da Ilha Verde (vegetarian friendly) ,  Boca de Cena (seafood),  Casa Do Bife O Galego (steakhouse),  Restaurant Sao Pedro (seafood).

Ready to start planning your trip to the Azores? Here’s everything you need to know about what can you do on the island of São Miguel. My 5-day complete and comprehensive itinerary will show you the best of São Miguel island, plus where to eat, stay and it’s all plotted on a map for you to make it all the more easy.

Essential Azores Travel Information

Getting to the azores.

Getting to the Azores is easier than you might think. You can hop on a boat or catch a plane.  Direct flights depart from the USA, Canada, UK, Sweden, Spain, Belgium, Denmark, Portugal, France, Germany, and Finland.

SATA / Azores Airlines offer the most routes with other operators such as TAP Portugal, Primera, TUI, Germania, Ryanair, and Delta offering regular flights to the Azores. My advice would be to fly from Porto, Lisbon or London where tickets are considerably cheaper. The gateway to the Azores is located in Ponta Delgada with most flights connecting here. Compare deals and book your flight here.

Pro Tip: In some cases, you may be eligible to get a FREE inter-island connecting flight. Find out more here 

Where to stay in the Azores

Booking.com offers a lot of accommodation options in the Azores, from charming guesthouses to typical houses surrounded by nature. To make your life easier, I’ve put together a list of the best-reviewed hotels, guesthouses, and villas in the Azores.

Where to stay in São Miguel

If you are coming to the Azores, chances are you’ll most likely be at least spending a few days on the largest island, São Miguel.

VIP Executive Azores Hotel

For the week I was there, I stayed at 4-star VIP Executive Azores Hotel . This is the largest hotel on the island and includes all the comforts of home. There is an excellent gym, an interior swimming pool, squash court, bar, free covered private parking, a beauty salon with hairdresser, and Wireless Internet service. With a great view of the town and ocean and surrounding landscape, VIP Executive Azores is a 10-minute walk into town.

For an alternative accommodation option, I would recommend renting out an apartment or room through Airbnb. Cute Airbnb options are popping up all over the island so you’ll find some really beautiful places at very affordable prices.  Airbnb has numerous options from as low as US$36 per night. If it’s your first time get US$65 OFF here or get £50 OFF your first stay here , when you sign up using my unique reader referral link.

Otherwise, check out these top-rated hotels!

Need more options? No problem. Here is a list of pre-selected hotels, villas, and guesthouses in São Miguel with excellent ratings . The list only includes rooms with wifi and top reviews, so you can’t go wrong!

Flights to São Miguel and Hotels

Azores Getaways offer great prices on flight and hotel packages to the Azores. There are packages starting from 320 USD for 7 nights of accommodation with return flights to London.

I recommend using Azores Getaways if you:

• Are travelling from Europe or the United States.
• Want to visit the best spots but don’t want to do all the research
• Want someone else to book and organise everything for you

Browse their offers and packages here.

Alternatively, use this itinerary and book it all yourself. I always use  Skyscanner to book flights and Booking.com for finding accommodation .

Visiting Portugal? Brush up on the local language with my free Portuguese travel phrase guide.

Don’t miss these Azores travel guides and tours

• Ponta Delgada Walking Tour
• Swim with Dolphins in the Azores
• Fogo Lake Quad Bike Full-Day Small-Group Tour with Lunch
• Azores Canyoning and Thermal Baths Tour
• Half-Day Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour
• Whale and dolphins watching expedition in São Miguel
• Furnas Volcano and Lake Full-Day Tour with Lunch
• Pico do Ferro Trail Hike and Light Yoga on São Miguel Island
• Plus loads more here …

Don’t miss these Portugal travel guides

• 11 Reasons Why You Should Visit the Azores in Portugal

5 Day Azores Itinerary: 26 Top Things to Do in São Miguel Island [Plus Map]

• 12 Awesome Things to do in Funchal, Madeira (Includes Travel Tips & Top-Rated Tours)
• 34 Best Things to do in Madeira, Portugal (The Ultimate Guide)
• 20 TOP Things to do in Porto Santo Island // A Perfect Day Trip from Madeira

Like it? Pin it for later!

Sources Visit Azores | Wikipedia |  Geeky Explorer

Over to you!

Do you have a question about visiting the Azores or Ponta Delgada? Ask me below! Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.

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Michele creates language learning guides and courses for travel. What separates her from other instructors is her ability to explain complex grammar in a no-nonsense, straightforward manner using her unique 80/20 method. Get her free guide 9 reasons you’re not fluent…YET & how to fix it! Planning a trip? Learn the local language with her 80/20 method for less than the cost of eating at a tourist trap restaurant Start learning today!

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Hi Michele, Fantastic article! I haven’t found a lot of information, until now. What month were you there? We’re trying to figure out the best times to go.

Thank you! Jenifer

Hi Jenifer, thanks you so much and thanks for your reaching out. I visited at the start of September which is the shoulder season. Hope that helps 🙂

Hi Michele, Fantastic article, exactly what I was looking for. We are travelling to Sao Miguel for March break. We are a family of five. Our son is turning 17 while there and twins turning 14 while there! Thinking about doing the canyoning and SUP surfing with the kids. Do you have any advice? Would swimming with dolphins be worthwhile mid March? I figured it will be raining so might as well stay in the water!

Hi Amber! my pleasure. I’m so glad you’ve found it useful. Cetaceans are around the Azores all year round with different species passing through all the time. Here are some more details on which cetaceans to expect when. As for SUP, I’d recommend going to Sete Cidades (Seven cities) or Lagoa do Fogo, they both are beautiful locations and are ideal for all levels. I hope this helps! Have an amazing trip!

Hey Michele. Thanks for the article and the great advise. I had trouble finding good info before my trip. This would have been very handy. Keep up the good work. Can’t wait to read your next post.

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Ponta Delgada (Azores) travel guide: things to see and do in the capital of São Miguel island

Ponta Delgada, the capital of the island of São Miguel, the largest island of the Azores, is an excellent base to stay in due to its strategic location that allows you to move to any point of the island (a complete guide to São Miguel here ) with relative ease. It deserves that, apart from staying there, you dedicate one or two days to stroll through its buildings, its squares and get to know its markets and, above all, its charming people . In addition, it is precisely in Ponta Delgada where much of the island’s gastronomic offer is concentrated, so there are many options where you can have a delicious dinner just a few steps from your accommodation, before going to sleep after a full day. Also here, in the capital, you can do one of the most sought-after activities in the Azores, a whale-watching tour where, with luck, you will greet several dolphins, whales, and sperm whales in their natural habitat. In this guide, we tell you everything you can (and should) do in Ponta Delgada , where to sleep, and, of course, the restaurants we liked the most to make your trip as amazing as ours was.

Basic facts for traveling to Ponta Delgada

Map of the city of ponta delgada, portas da cidade, largo da matriz and igreja matriz, torre sineira, são pedro church, carlos machado museum, ermida mãe de deus, mercado da graça and rei dos queijos, teatro micaelense, portas do mar, josé do canto botanical garden, stroll by the sea (between forno de cal and forte de são bras)., rosto de cão, whale watching, things to do in the surroundings of ponta delgada, where to stay in ponta delgada, where to stay in other parts of the island of são miguel: different experiences, where to eat in ponta delgada, how to get from ponta delgada airport to downtown (and the other way around), how much does it cost to travel to ponta delgada, são miguel, useful apps for traveling to ponta delgada, tips to enjoy ponta delgada and são miguel.

Currency : Euro

Language : Portuguese

Population : 67,000 (in 2021)

Daily budget : From 70€/day per person (approx.) between flights , rental car , private accommodation for two people (cheapest options), and meals.

Weather : Undoubtedly the best time to visit Ponta Delgada and São Miguel is, in general, in summer due to better air temperatures (and seawater on the beaches and natural pools) and less chance of rain, although winter is not very cold (average temperature of 18º), but it tends to rain more. Spring and autumn are other good options to visit the island, we tell you more (with a table with weather and rainy days per month) here . In any case, the weather in São Miguel (and in the Azores in general) is very unstable so there are no guarantees at any time of the year (it is said that you can have the 4 seasons on the same day).

Accommodation : We stayed in the apartment with a sea view Ladeira Loft (from 60€/night), in the center but there are several options for all tastes and budgets in Ponta Delgada. There are cheaper options like the Nook Hostel (from 40€/night) or the Holy Cow (from 50€/night); the mythical Hotel do Colegio ( 55€/night) in one of the main streets of the capital; the Casa da Graça (70€/night) and the Armazéns Cogumbreiro (from 75€/night) or something more refined like the Azor Hotel (130€/night) with amazing rooms overlooking the Atlantic. More accommodations in Ponta Delgada here

Duration : Minimum 1 day to visit the capital, recommended 2 days if you invest a whole morning in the whale-watching activity

Flights : The cheapest is usually to fly from Lisbon / Porto (with Ryanair, Tap, or Sata), but depending on the time of the year there are also connections with other European and American airports. Ideally, you should be flexible with dates and use price comparators such as Skyscanner and Kiwi.com .

Transportation : In Ponta Delgada you can go to most places on foot, but to get to know the rest of the island the best option is to rent a car. We did it with Autatlantis and we loved it: new cars and the best franchise policy. Find your rental car at the best price in this DiscoverCars comparator . More info on how to get around here

Time zone : UTC +0. The time in the Azores archipelago (Portugal) is one hour behind the Portuguese mainland.

Thins to see and do in Ponta Delgada

Although it is not our favorite Azorean city (Angra do Heroísmo, in Terceira and Horta, in Faial, have earned the positions of our favorite cities of the archipelago) because it seems to us a city not thought to the human scale (cars are the undisputed protagonists of the city, where several sidewalks are not wide enough to walk and explore), its beautiful historic center, fantastic restaurants and views of the Atlantic Ocean make that even after a day full of walking around the island, there is a desire for more.

Many people confuse Ponta Delgada with São Miguel: São Miguel is the island, and Ponta Delgada is the capital of the island of São Miguel (and also the name of the island’s airport). If you are looking for information on what to see in São Miguel, in this other link you have our complete guide of the island .

Below you have a map and all the places of interest in Ponta Delgada .

Here is a Google Maps map with all the points of interest in Ponta Delgada included in this guide, including restaurants. You can take it with you in your Google Maps app to consult it during your visit to Ponta Delgada:

Here you have also a PDF map of the island including a tourist map of Ponta Delgada .

The Portas da Cidade (City Gates ) is one of the most important places in Ponta Delgada. This set of three arches was built in the 18th century and is one of the city’ s postcards. Different events are held in the square where they are located, such as the Espírito Santo festivities or Christmas decorations.

Behind the Portas da Cidade is the imposing Igreja Matriz and the square where it is located with several terraces and restaurants, Largo da Matriz. This square is the nerve center of the city where there is always a hustle and bustle of tourists and locals looking for a place on one of its terraces or passing through one of the many restaurants in the surrounding streets.

The Matriz de São Sebastião Church was under renovation when we visited the capital and, in fact, from the 18th century when it was created to the 20th century, it has already been remodeled several times. Its Manueline and baroque porticoes and the gilded wood carving that covers its naves, chapels, and altars stand out. In addition, inside it hides pieces of sacred art, statues, gold, and vestments of high value.

As a curiosity, tell you that the clock on top of the church tower was given by a wealthy merchant from Ponta Delgada who offered it to the city in the nineteenth century.

Torre Sineira , also built in the 18th century (more specifically in 1724) is part of the Ponta Delgada City Hall building (or as it is called in Portuguese: Cámara Municipal ). It is more than 30 meters high and has 106 steps that you can climb to have a panoramic view of the city , totally free of charge . Below, enjoy the square in front of it which is quite photogenic.

We were particularly struck by its location, as the church is located on top of a small hill of the same name. The church of São Pedro is from the 18th century, from the Portuguese baroque period, a period visible in the entrance portico, the columns, and the gilded wooden altar. If you can get inside, all the walls of the church are covered with paintings, including the ceiling.

Also known as the “Museu Açoreano” (Azorean Museum), the museum created by Dr. Carlos Machado in 1876 was initially a school museum to arouse the curiosity of the younger people about natural history but, little by little, it awakened the interest of the scientific community and is, today, an interesting and complete museum where you can learn about the ethnographic history and natural history of the Azores. The Museu Carlos Machado is open from 10:00h to 18:00h in summer and from 9:30h to 17:30h in winter. Admission is 2€ and it is closed on Mondays.

If you’re a fan of panoramic views, you’ll want to climb up to see the views of Ponta Delgada from the Ermida da Mãe de Deus . Climb the stairs, walk through the garden around the chapel, and approach the panel where you learn about what you are seeing with the locations closest to the hermitage, as well as its geographic and geological information.

In addition to the views, this chapel has many stories to tell. Although initially a 19th-century chapel, during World War I , in 1915, the chapel was demolished so that it would not serve as a target for German submarines. Reconstruction began in 1925 and was still unfinished when, in 1942, during World War II , it was occupied by Portuguese troops to facilitate surveillance of the city’s port. It was not until 1947 that it completed what we see today, a 20th-century hermitage of neo-baroque Renaissance religious architecture.

Something we always like to do when traveling is to visit the local markets and also, when we stay in an apartment, take the opportunity to buy local fruits and vegetables, so the Mercado da Graça in Ponta Delgada could not be different. If you visit the island in summer you can try to buy Meloa (cantaloupe melon) that comes from the neighboring island of Santa Maria and pineapples that are grown in greenhouses near Ponta Delgada with a unique method in the world.

In addition, in the market, there is a very special store, the Rei Dos Queijos , with cheeses and butter from all the islands of the archipelago (if you can, try the “Rainha do Pico” butter, from the island of Pico , or the one from the island of Flores , although the latter is not always available due to its artisanal production in small quantities). They also have bread (you cannot leave the Azores without trying Bolo Lêvedo) and other local products. Another similar option to buy cheeses and butter is Principe dos Queijos , right in the center, which we liked even better.

With more than 70 years, inaugurated in 1951, the Teatro Micaelense is the largest cultural promoter of the city. Here you can find plays, film series, dance shows, poetry gatherings, and various cultural programs. It hosts part of the events of Walk & Talk , one of the best arts festivals in the Azores, which is usually held during July.

The Portas do Mar (Doors of the sea) is a newly built area with restaurants, parking, stores, etc., intending to be a stopping point for cruise ships. It is not our favorite area but if you are looking for an area with a lot of restaurants, where you can walk in front of the sea or even take a dip in summer in the heart of the city, this is your place.

The Jardim Botânico José do Canto is a botanical garden with different species from all over the world and endemic species, a church, and a waterfall. The garden was started by its owner, José do Canto, in the 19th century and can be visited since 2014 (4€/person), from 9 am to 7 pm in summer (April to September) and from 9 am to 5 pm in winter (October to March).

We think it’s a good plan to walk from the center, with tranquility, between Forno de Cal and Forte de São Bras . If you prefer, you can do it by bike with the Atlantic Bikes app.

Near Forno de Cal is the restaurant where you can taste the best (or maybe the best) “bife à regional” of the island, in O Galego . If you can, do as we did: after visiting the “Galego” nothing better than a walk to the center of Ponta Delgada to burn a small part of the calories ingested…

This islet (so called because it is connected by land and is, therefore, a peninsula) is so called because they say it resembles a dog (although we rather see the head of a shark) What do you see?

If you pass through Rosto de Cão hungry, do not hesitate to have lunch/dinner in one of its restaurants (O Galego, Cais 20…).

One of the activities not to be missed in São Miguel is whale watching (dolphins and whales) in their habitat, in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. The most important thing is to make sure that you go with a company that respects the rules of sustainability and animal protection (a safe distance from the boat to the cetaceans, etc.). I did this activity in Ponta Delgada the first time I visited the island of São Miguel in 2013 and my hair stands on end every time I remember seeing that gentle giant, a Blue whale, over 20 meters, passing by our boat, peaceful. This year, on the island of Pico we were lucky enough to see 3 “sardinheiras ” whales, no more and no less than the third largest whale in the world, and several dolphins (we will tell you more about it in the Pico island guide ). The Azores are a paradise for whale watching so you know, reserve a morning in your trip for this activity.

Book here your whale watching tour

In Ponta Delgada we recommend the excellent rooms at the Hotel do Colegio ( from 55€/night), the Ladeira Loft apartment (from 60€/night) or in the beautiful Armazéns Cogumbreiro (75€/night), all in the center. More accommodations in Ponta Delgada here .

Very close to Ponta Delgada, there are beaches, natural pools, pineapple plantations, trails parallel to the sea, the largest lava tube on the island, s and even a unique experience for gin lovers ! Here are some ideas for things to do near the capital (for everything else, check out our complete guide to São Miguel Island ):

• Praia das Milicias and Praia do Pópulo are the two closest beaches to Ponta Delgada and are very popular with locals due to their ease of access, water quality, and services. We visited Milicias beach in the middle of July and were pleasantly surprised.

• Lagoa : another option to cool off in the Atlantic near Ponta Delgada is Lagoa and its natural pools . There are two main areas: the “Complexo Municipal de Piscinas ” (which has natural pools, an artificial pool, pools for children, and all kinds of services) and the “Zona Balnear do Cruzeiro (Poças de Atalhada) ” (wilder, unattended, with natural pools of crystal clear water). While you’re here, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Observatório Vulcanológico e Geotérmico dos Açores ( be careful, it is only open from 14:30 to 17:30), where you can learn more about the seismic/volcanological activity in this area of the Atlantic.
• Plantação de Ananás (Pineapple Plantation) and Ananases Arruda : the pineapple (ananas, in Portuguese) is one of the symbols of the island (the method of cultivation in greenhouses in São Miguel is unique in the world, in glass greenhouses, trying to reproduce the climatic conditions of where the fruit came from, South America) so a walk through one of the pineapple plantations of the island (and taste the famous pineapple liqueur) is another great plan that you can do near the capital. You can even swim in a heated pool in a pineapple greenhouse at the Senhora da Rosa Tradition & Nature Hotel .

• Gruta do Carvão is the largest lava tube on the island with an extension of 1912 meters spread over three sections of which only the northern section – Paim – is open to the public. Geologically, the Gruta do Carvão is part of the Picos Volcanic Complex and is between 5,000 and 12,000 years old. Inside you can observe a wide variety of geological structures such as stalactites and stalagmites of lava and stalactites of secondary amorphous silica. If you want to visit this huge lava tube inside it is essential to make a reservation (by phone (+ 351 96 139 70 80 ) or by email ([email protected]) and the entrance fee is 5€. Be careful! Not to be confused with the famous Algar do Carvão , a unique volcano in the world that can be visited inside and that is located on the island of Terceira (and we tell you all about it here ).

• Relva : if you feel like hiking near Ponta Delgada, in Relva you can hike a trail parallel to the sea . The trail is the PCR20SMI (official brochure ), a linear trail (round trip) of 5.5km (3h00) in which you will visit a “fajã detritica” (so-called “fajãs” formed by the crumbling of part of the cliff), down to sea level and with the possibility of taking a dip if the weather and the sea allow it. Another curiosity of this trail is that you can book lunch/dinner (essential to book before going ) at the Lapsa Garden , a house/farm that has a beautiful terrace facing the sea, where the owners prepare private dinners to appreciate, for example, the sunset (more info here ).
• If you are a fan of gin, you cannot miss the largest gin library in the world, located very close to Ponta Delgada. Nothing more and nothing less than 480 bottles of gin . At Solar Branco , the project where the “ Gin Library ” was born, you will find a bar where you can learn a lot about gin and where you can taste gin and tonic (you can even try two local gins: Baleia and Rocha Negra ), an orchard where many of the spices and botanicals used by Ali and Caroline to create the spectacular gin and tonics that you taste on their terrace are born and even a local accommodation with six independent units that you can book here .

Beyond Ponta Delgada and its surroundings, the island of São Miguel hides the most beautiful lagoons of the entire Azorean archipelago , steaming volcanic furnas where sulfur-scented stews are cooked, natural hot springs in the middle of nature where you can relax and breathtaking viewpoints . We tell you everything you can see on the island with specific itineraries for 3, 5, or 7 days in our complete guide to São Miguel :

Sao Miguel (Azores) Travel Guide: things to see and do in 3, 5 or 7 days (a week)

We stayed at the Ladeira Loft (from 60€/night), a very spacious one-bedroom apartment in the center of Ponta Delgada (very close to the Graça market) and overlooking the Atlantic.

With more affordable prices, the Nook Hostel (from 40€/night), in the historic center, has apartments with 2 rooms, private rooms and dorm beds. Also among the cheapest options is the Holy Cow (from 50€/night) a hostel with rooms with private bathrooms and dormitories.

The Hotel do Colegio ( 55€/night), a beautiful hotel in a 19th century building, with swimming pool, in the center of Ponta Delgada, was the hotel where my mother, my sister and I stayed the first time we visited the island and we loved it.

Our friends Catarina and Ricardo visited São Miguel recently and loved staying at Casa da Graça (rooms from 70€/night), a hotel managed by the charming Vânia and Sergio who make you feel at home in Ponta Delgada, apart from the great rooms (and breakfasts):

If you want to treat yourself to a gin and tonic in a jacuzzi overlooking the sea without breaking the bank, then you’ll want to stay at the Garoupas Inn (from 75€/night):

The Armazéns Cogumbreiro was the largest commercial establishment on the island, in a building from 1913, renovated, in the center, with spacious and bright rooms, also from 75€/night.

If you want something more exquisite, the Azor Hotel (130€/night) has incredible rooms with views of the Atlantic.

See more accommodations in Ponta Delgada here

If you want to combine your stay on the island with something else besides the capital , here are some different suggestions for accommodation in other parts of São Miguel in case you want a couple of special nights:

• Sleep in front of the sea in the surf capital of the island , at the Santa Bárbara Eco-Beach Resort (120€/night), Santa Bárbara (Ribeira Grande) :

• Sleep in front of the sea and enjoy one of the best sunsets of the island from the terrace of the Sensi Nature and Spa , a rural tourism with 20 rooms, outdoor infinity pool, indoor pool, in Mosteiros :

• Sleeping in a mill overlooking the Atlantic Ocean: at Moinho da Bibi (minimum three nights at €100/night, Sete Cidades ) or at Moinho das Feteiras (minimum two nights at €180/night, Feteiras, near Sete Cidades ):

• Sleep among pineapple plantations at the Senhora da Rosa Tradition & Nature Hotel (120 €/night), near Ponta Delgada. 33 rooms with a terrace in an 18th-century estate surrounded by greenery and, above all, pineapples! Here you can take a dip in the heated pool in the pineapple greenhouse – with all the stimulation for the senses that entails – and several trails where you can stroll after a relaxing swim in the open air.

• Sleep in Eden of São Miguel Island (as it is known by some travelers) Sul Villas & Spa (180€/night), in Lagoa . Here the panoramic views of the Atlantic from the villas and the outdoor saltwater pool are privileged:

• Sleep in the largest gin library in the world at The Cottage: A Gin Lover’s Countryside (from 100€/night), with incredible views and right next to Ponta Delgada:

• Sleep in the Pink House if you are 4 or 5 people (from 200€/night for 5 people), near Ponta Delgada. Downstairs are the bedrooms, upstairs the huge kitchen and living room:

• Sleep in one of the nine most exclusive suites on the island at the White Exclusive Suites & Villas, in Lagoa , located in a bay of volcanic rock and traces of ancient Azorean architecture (from 320€/night):

• Or sleep in the heart of Terra Nostra Park , in Furnas, and have exclusive access to the hot springs pond at any time of the day and night, something only possible staying at the Terra Nostra Garden Hotel (110€/night):

If there is something that Ponta Delgada is not lacking in restaurants and gastronomic variety, from the most traditional to fusion food. Here are some recommendations of restaurants that we liked:

• Tasquinha Vieira : expensive but very very good, fusion food (they have a tasting menu option 30€/person). The rice we tried was spectacular. We paid for 2 courses, a bottle of wine, and dessert 56€.

• A Tasca : BBB option (good, nice, and cheap), but they do not accept reservations so you have to wait in line (in summer it is usually long). In our opinion, it’s ok but don’t stop making plans around the island to queue for the restaurant, there are other options. If you decide to try it, you have to leave your name and stay close by as they keep calling (we had a beer while waiting at the next-door place, Canto do Aljube ).
• Õtaka : Nikkei fusion restaurant. They have several tasting menus (from 30€/person) or you can order a la carte. It is a bit expensive, but worth it if you are looking for a different option (we were looking for it in the last week of our two months in the Azores ).

• Alcides : one of the most legendary traditional restaurants in Ponta Delgada, where you can taste the famous “bife à regional”. Reservations are essential. We paid 50€ for two, with a starter, two courses, a bottle of wine, a dessert, and coffee in 2015 (on this last trip we did not go).
• Adega do Mestre André : We did not get to go but it is on our list for when we return to the island. They only spoke wonders about the place: their “steaks” and above all their service.
• Cais 20 : a mythical in Ponta Delgada because it opens until very late. Recommended for tapas, seafood, and fish.
• O Galego : it competes with Alcides and Associação Agricola for the best “bife à regional” in São Miguel but, in our opinion, it is the best . We paid 42€ for a starter, two courses, two beers, and two coffees.

• Mar e Serra : Renowned restaurant and seafood restaurant on the island, very good but has been swinging with the prices lately.
• Rotas da Ilha Verde (vegetarian): we didn’t get to try it but it is one of the few vegetarian restaurants on the island and several people recommended it to us.
• Ta Gente : recommended for tapas, although the prices are somewhat expensive.
• Forneria São Dinis : very good pizzas in a wood-fired oven. We paid 42€ for a starter, two pizzas, a bottle of wine and water.

• Amphitheater : in the heart of Portas do Mar in Ponta Delgada, here you can taste traditional dishes with contemporary touches prepared by students in training.
• Suplexio : If you’re craving burgers, look no further. Here you’ll find artisanal burgers and, best of all, a bar with Portuguese craft beer. What more do you want?
• To buy cheeses: Rei dos Queijos or Príncipe dos Queijos . They also sell both sometimes Flores butter (one of the best) and “Rainha do Pico” butter.
• Raíz Bar : for a drink with live music. On Fridays and Saturdays, from 10 pm, there are usually blues, jazz, rock, folk, or African music concerts.

Transportation: rent a car in São Miguel

Although in Ponta Delgada you can move on foot to most places of interest, as in all the islands of the Azores, in São Miguel we consider it essential to rent a car to make the most of the island, take advantage of the time, and visit all the places recommended in our guide at your own pace.

We rented the car with Autatlantis , both in São Miguel and in the rest of the islands, and everything was perfect: the attention upon arrival was fast and effective, the car (a Citroen C3) was as good as new and we had no problems. Practically all the companies include an excess in the insurance, and Autatlantis is one of the ones with the lowest excess (700€, compared to 1300-1500€ of other companies).

The prices of rental cars in São Miguel rarely go below 25€ per day and, especially in summer, we recommend booking well in advance to avoid running out of vehicles or that the few that are available have prohibitive prices (in some summers they reached 100€ per day and we know several people who did not manage to rent a car because they left it to the last minute).

If there is no availability with Autatlantis, you can check and compare other companies with availability for your dates in comparators such as DiscoverCars . Remember to check the rental conditions of each company (excess, insurance coverage, fuel policy, reviews…) and not only the price.

Parking in Ponta Delgada: although in general in the Azores you will not have to worry too much about parking spaces, Ponta Delgada is the exception because if you are staying in the center there may not be free parking available. Be well informed when you book your accommodation, to find out if it has free parking and/or if it has free public parking areas nearby.

Another option if there are no rental cars available or if you are out of budget, is to rent a scooter, although we sincerely do not recommend it due to the long distances to be covered in São Miguel and the unstable and changeable weather in the Azores.

There is also the option to move around São Miguel by public transport: there are 3 bus companies that connect some of the points of the island, you can see the schedules here . Connections and frequencies are quite limited, but if you are traveling on a low budget it can be a valid option to visit some of the main points of São Miguel.

Ponta Delgada airport (or Aeroporto São João Paulo II (PDL)) is very close to the city center, so if you don’t rent a car, it is very easy to move between the airport and the city center. Here are the different options:

• Book a transfer : you can book in advance a transfer with a private vehicle that will be waiting for you upon your arrival (or your return to the airport), the price per vehicle is 25€ (up to 4 persons).
• Cab : you will find cabs outside the airport, and the fare between the airport and the center of Ponta Delgada is 10€.
• Aerobus : The ANC Aerobus is a shuttle service between the airport and various points in Ponta Delgada that operates from 7:00 am to 00:00 am. The fare is €4.50 per person (or €6.50 round trip). You can see more information about the route here

As always, giving a generic budget is very difficult as it depends greatly on your style of travel. What we can do is give you an orientation of prices and that you calculate with them your budget for your trip to the whole island (not only to the capital) :

• Flights: You can find flights for 50€ (round trip from Lisbon) to Ponta Delgada but it depends on how far in advance you book and your dates (in summer it is more difficult to find cheap prices).
• Car rental: from 25€/30€ per day for the cheapest car (depending on the company and the number of days). In summer prices go up and it can be difficult to find a car at short notice.
• Accommodation: from 50€/night for a room with private bathroom or apartment with kitchen, centrally located.
• Restaurant meals : between 10 and 25€ per person per lunch/dinner in a restaurant

In total, as a guideline, a one-week trip to São Miguel with a rented car can cost between 500€ and 750€ per person (with the cheapest options of car, lodging and restaurants).

We recommend some applications that will be useful for your trip to Ponta Delgada and São Miguel:

• SpotAzores : (Android / iOS / Web ): here you can see all the existing webcams in different parts of the islands to check the weather. Because the weather is very changeable and it can be raining in one area of the island and bright sunshine in another, this app is the fastest way to make sure and avoid unnecessary trips. Note : The camera of Lagoa do Fogo is located at a fairly high point, so even if the camera shows cloudy, it is possible that the viewpoint can have a view of the lagoon. We were alerted to this by our friends Ricardo and Catarina who were enjoying the island recently.
• Windy (Android / iOS / Web ): essential app in our trips, even more so in the Azores. It allows you to see forecasts for rain, clouds, wind, etc. to help you plan your days based on the weather (as there are places that lose a lot depending on the weather). Obviously, the forecasts are not 100% reliable. It also shows the available webcams
• Google Maps (Android / iOS ): is the one we use to save/classify all the places we want to go/have gone and as GPS in rental cars. You can see other people’s opinions of the places, photos, restaurant menus, telephone numbers to contact them, etc.
• Maps.me (Android / iOS ): an application similar to Google Maps but works better offline (although Google Maps can also work online) and in many cases has information that Google Maps does not have, especially trails. Useful whenever you are going to do a trail, to orient yourself, download the route from the official Azores trails website (click on Downloads->GPS), etc.

• In the whale-watching activity, respect the behavior indicated by the center and be suspicious if it does not involve measures such as the prohibition of swimming with dolphins; the reduced and constant speed of the boat and a minimum distance of 50 meters from the animal; avoiding the presence of several boats within a radius of 150 meters around the group of cetaceans and do not stay more than 10 minutes with the same animal.
• Do not allow the disturbance, pollution, and destruction of seabird nesting habitats. The “cagarros” (shearwaters, in English) are a migratory bird that nests in the Azores and that on your trip will sound to you by their particular song of “awa awa” as if they were singing the chorus of the song Video Killed by Radio Star. To avoid situations where young shearwaters are captured or run over on the road, the Government of the Azores annually promotes the SOS Cagarro Campaign , which we recommend you know when you arrive in the archipelago.
• Never try to touch or feed an animal – don’t be an accomplice to animal abuse!
• Do not buy handicrafts made from sea animals or extracted from the sea (e.g. dolphin teeth, turtle shells, shark jaws, sperm whale ivory, …). The ivory trade, currently the only valuable product of the sperm whale, is still an argument for hunters. Buy local handicrafts made from alternative materials such as wood, stone or vegetable ivory.
• Respect other people and the island : don’t play your music loudly on the beach (if you want to listen to music, wear headphones), don’t leave trash, don’t throw cigarette butts, etc. Leave the beach better than you found it (if you find plastic, pick it up).
• In some natural pools bathing is dangerous due to strong currents . Do not be brave.
• Always travel with travel insurance : medical expenses, theft, or problems with your plane on a trip can cost you a lot of money, so the ideal thing to do is to take out travel insurance. We always use IATI and we recommend it. If you purchase your insurance through this link you have a 5% discount .

If all this is what awaits you in Ponta Delgada, imagine what awaits you on the whole island of São Miguel! We tell you everything you need to organize an incredible trip around the green Azorean island on our complete island of São Miguel .

Boa viagem!

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15 Things to do in Ponta Delgada for Sustainable Travelers

By Author Paulina

Posted on Published: November 23, 2021  - Last updated: January 30, 2024

If you are wondering where Ponta Delgada is, I will let you know that it is the capital of the Azores . Did you know that there are plenty of things to do in Ponta Delgada?

The Azores are nine incredible volcanic islands that belong to Portugal and you should be aware of the fact that you will easily find affordable flights to Ponta Delgada from different countries around the world.

That’s why right now may be the best time to visit the Azores!

There are lots of things to do in the Azores, probably more than you can imagine. If you want to discover this beautiful spot sustainably, do not hesitate about reading this article!

This article focuses on sustainable travel activities in Ponta Delgada and its surroundings.

You, dear reader, support this blog. When you purchase through a link, I may earn a small commission. As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

Useful Travel Information About Azores, Portugal

✈ Book cheap flights to the Azores with Skyscanner.com ✔ Book tours in the Azores with Viator.com ➳ Find the best Hotel deals in the Azores with Trivago ❖ Rent a car with the best discounts at DiscoverCarHire.com ☘ The best discounted outdoor clothes (outlet) at REI.com ✎ Never leave without travel insurance. I got mine at HeyMondo.com . It is cheap and easy to set up. $ I withdraw money without hidden fees and avoid exchange rates with Wise ( you’ll get a free card on top )

Sustainable travel in Azores with GreenerAct and Futurismo

Traveling sustainably is one of the main concerns of new generations.

If you want to go all around the world to improve the places you visit, you should first check Futurismo website and after that do not hesitate about downloading the GreenerAct app.

Both companies offer a wide variety of things to do in the Azores that will allow you to discover these islands while taking care of the environment.

Some sustainable activities you can join are their eco-friendly day trips from Ponta Delgada , cleaning beaches events, or non-polluting biking trips.

It’s also a great way to connect with travelers from all over the world.

And if you already feel like planning the activities you will be doing on your next trip to Azores, have a look here for Futurismo activities.

1. Whale Watching in Ponta Delgada, Sao Miguel

If you are seeking significant experiences that will engrave in your memories, this is one of the things to do in Sao Miguel that you shouldn’t miss! 

Whale watching in Ponta Delgada may be the perfect plan for the hot springs of Sao Miguel (Azores) and during the rest of the year.

Indeed, you may even want to repeat the adventure in different seasons to see how sea life changes depending on the weather. It’s a must when looking for things to do in São Miguel.

Blue whales, dolphins, seahorses, and starfish await!

Book your tour here : Whale watching in Ponta Delgada

2. Clean the beach in Sao Miguel 

Some of the best beaches in Azores are cleaned up f by volunteers who join Futurismo events all around the coastal map of Sao Miguel.

As an example, last March they gathered 140 kg of trash in 1  hour and 20 minutes in Ponta de Caetanos beach.

It is one of the most fulfilling things to do on Sao Miguel and you will have the chance to meet people from all around the world whose interests align with yours.

Moreover, it is a free activity that helps everybody to become aware of the negative effects of pollutants in the sea. 

Book your tour here: Clean the beach in Sao Miguel  

3. Swim with dolphins in Ponta Delgada

If you are still wondering what to do in Ponta Delgada, here you have another marine suggestion: swimming with wild dolphins will make your day for sure!

It’s also a great occasion to snorkel or dive in the Azores with Original Diving .

We truly encourage you to take part in this adventure as it is one of the things to do in the Azores that you will never forget.

The experience includes all the equipment you will need and an explanation of what you will see by professional guide-biologists.

Book your tour here: Swim with dolphins in Ponta Delgada

4. Clean the beach in Praia de Santana

As mentioned above, local and foreign volunteers clean some of the best beaches (Azores).

If you have some spare time on your trip, visiting and helping them to clean Praia de Santana is one of the best things to do in Ponta Delgada. 

Praia de Santana is located in the South Corsica region and it is a long sandy beach with turquoise water. Moreover, there you will find some of the best restaurants in Sao Miguel

Book your tour here: Clean the beach in Praia de Santana

5. Go hiking in Sao Miguel

There are several stunning hikes in Azores and the tour to Serra Devasa is one of them!

It will be an unforgettable experience for nature lovers as you will visit an impressive volcanic complex surrounded by lagoons and endemic vegetation.

If you have been thinking about what to do in Ponta Delgada to make the most of your stay there, you can’t miss this tour.

Book your tour here: Go hiking in Sao Miguel

6. Chase waterfalls

A wild nature exploration awaits the bravest! The canyoning tour to Ribeira dos Caldeiroes is one of the most exciting things to do in Ponta Delgada.

As it is just advisable for adrenaline lovers, you can wait for your friends to finish the activity on the closest best beach in Azores.

If you book the Futurismo tour you do not have to worry about anything as the professionals will pick you up and drop you off in Ponta Delgada and they will also provide the needed equipment. 

Book your tour here: Chase waterfalls

7. Be a marine scientist for a day

Would you like to become part of a team of marine biologists for a day? It is always the best time to go to the Azores to join this adventure!

If you are a whale and dolphin lover wondering about what to do in Ponta Delgada, you will definitely enjoy being allowed to use professional apparel to hear these animals and to observe their behavior.

Book your tour here: Be a marine scientist for a day

8. Explore Sao Miguel’s canyons

If you enjoy breathtaking activities, Azores hiking trails like the tour to the top of Pico da Vara is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Sao Miguel.

Pico da Vara is the highest point of the island and you can access lots of canyons from there. Certified guides will help you make the most of this incredible day trip!

Book your tour here: Explore Sao Miguel’s canyons

9. Go birdwatching

A special kind of Azores hiking trails is those aimed to look for some exotic birds. Booking a bird-watching tour will offer you the possibility to learn the peculiarities of the multiple endemic species of the island.

Educating and raising awareness among the young ones is very important for the future, so do not hesitate about starting with activities like this!

Book your tour here: Go birdwatching in Sao Miguel

10. Enjoy traditional food in Ponta Delgada

If you want to know which are the best restaurants in Sao Miguel, you can book a tour around its local market. It is one of the things to do in Ponta Delgada that won’t disappoint you.

The tour is ideal to learn about the traditional food of the region and to taste some of the Azores typical dishes.

Moreover, it will give you the chance to chat with professionals about the raw materials they use to elaborate these meals.

Book your tour here: Enjoy traditional food in Ponta Delgada

11. Go biking in Ponta Delgada and its surroundings

There are several family-friendly hikes in Azores that can be done biking. Different routes will lead you to epic landscapes while practicing some sport and respecting the environment. 

If you really are a sustainable traveler, this must be what to do in Ponta Delgada!

Book your tour here: Go biking in Ponta Delgada and its surroundings

12. Do a cultural tour of Ponta Delgada

If you are interested in how living in the Azores is, one of the things to do in Ponta Delgada is to get to know the culture of the city. Walking around its streets will allow you to understand the history of this magical place.

If you want to make the most of this experience, you should definitely book a tour in which a certified guide will explain the most interesting facts about the wonderful places you will visit.

Book your tour here: Do a cultural tour of Ponta Delgada

13. Do a slow boat tour

There is no better way to discover the south coast of Sao Miguel than sailing close to it. If you don’t get seasick, this is something you should definitely do in Ponta Delgada.

As a personal piece of advice, don’t forget to check the weather forecast before booking the trip, and enjoy this unforgettable experience! 

Book your tour here: Do a slow boat tour in Sao Miguel

14. Visit the museums of Ponta Delgada

One of the best things to do in Ponta Delgada when the weather is not so good is to visit the museums of the city. There are several tours available in all seasons and some of them even include a lunch in a local restaurant. 

Make sure not to miss the Museu Carlos Machado.

The museums are some of the most important attractions in Ponta Delgada.

Book your tour here: Visit the museums of Ponta Delgada

15. Enjoy the wines of Azores in Ponta Delgada

If you are still wondering about what to do in Ponta Delgada, you shouldn’t miss the chance to join an Oenological tour on a family-owned vineyard located on the north coast of Sao Miguel.

It can definitely be described as an exclusive local experience that will make you aware of all the hard work that is behind a regional bottle of wine.

If you are wondering what is Ponta Delgada known for? Definitely, its wine and you shouldn’t miss out.

Book your tour here: Enjoy the wines of Azores in Ponta Delgada

Useful Information about Ponta Delgada, Azores

Where is ponta delgada.

Nowadays, Ponta Delgada is the capital of the island of Sao Miguel, which is one of the most visited cities of the Azores. However, in the past, it was just a small fishing village.

Ponta Delgada is located in a large bay and it has a beautiful and lively old town in which you will surely enjoy walking around. 

Where to stay in Ponta Delgada

Before focusing on what to do in Azores, let’s talk about which may be the best place to stay in the Azores. Taking into account that our beloved readers may have different accommodation budgets, below we will offer you a selection of the best hotels in Ponta Delgada.

If you want a dream stay do not hesitate to book a room at Azor Hotel. If you prefer to save some money on your accommodation without sacrificing the comfort of being in the city center, we recommend VIP Executive Azores Hotel.

And if you prefer to adjust the budget and still enjoy an excellent value for money, your best option is Hotel Comfort Inn Ponta Delgada.

Azor Hotel ***** – Luxury

One of the most special and exclusive hotels in Ponta Delgada is the hotel Azor, which is located close to the historical district. It is considered the best place to stay in Azores by locals.

One of the best hotel features is its welcoming rooftop swimming pool, the spa and well-being center and the breakfast served in its restaurant.

Check prices here: Azor Hotel

VIP Executive Azores Hotel **** – Mid-Range

You can find the VIP Executive Azores Hotel in the city centre and it is just five walking minutes away from the best beach in Azores.

It is an elegant place to stay, characterized by the privacy granted to its guests. Some of the most appealing aspects of this hotel are the gym area and the inside pool.

Check prices here: VIP Executive Azores Hotel

Hotel Comfort Inn Ponta Delgada *** – Budget

This hotel is located in a great area of the Ponta Delgada map and one of its main features are the comfortable rooms you will be able to enjoy there.

Moreover, customers can access a car rental in Ponta Delgada service in their reception that is open 24 hours a day.

Check prices here: Hotel Comfort Inn Ponta Delgada

Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀

See Nic Wander

19 Things To Do In Ponta Delgada, Portugal (Sao Miguel, Azores)

Updated: September 12, 2023

See Nic Wander contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Associates Program. I may earn a commission on purchases made through these links. Read my  disclaimer  to learn more.

Ponta Delgada, Portugal is the capital city of Sao Miguel, the largest island in the Azores. In this guide, we’ll look at 19 fun things to do in Ponta Delgada, Portugal to help you plan an amazing trip!

Plan Your Trip To Sao Miguel Azores

• Related Post: Complete Sao Miguel Azores Travel Guide
• Accommodation: Browse hotels on Booking
• Flights: Check prices on Skyscanner
• Tours and Experiences: Find things to do in Sao Miguel Azores
• Rental Cars: Book your rental car here
• Travel Guides: Read more Portugal Travel Guides here!

About Ponta Delgada, Sao Miguel, Azores

Located on São Miguel Island about 1,500 kilometers from Lisbon, Ponta Delgada is the largest city in the Azores archipelago. Ponta Delgada has a long history. It was first settled in the 1400s and today you can see narrow streets, unique architecture, and beautiful, volcanic rock churches. 

Ponta Delgada is an excellent hub for visiting the island of Sao Miguel. With plenty of accommodation options, restaurants, and conveniences like a major airport, you’ll definitely want to add this city to your Azores travel bucket list.

Let’s take a look at some of the best things to do in Ponta Delgada.

19 Fun Things to do in Ponta Delgada Portugal 

• Ponta Delgada Walking Tour

Portas da Cidade

• Convento de Nossa Senhora da Esperança

Igreja de São Sebastião

Museu carlos machado.

• Ponta Delgada Harbor and Marina

Mercado da Graca

Forte de sao bras.

• Azorean Pineapple Plantation
• Gelato at La Gelateria
• Ponta Delgada Food Tour
• Cake at Louvre Michaelense

Jardim Antonio Borges

Jardim jose do canto.

• Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour
• Sete Cidades ATV Tour
• Gruta do Carvão
• Dinner at A Tasca
• Cocktails at Ta Gente

Take a Ponta Delgada Walking Tour

What better way to get to know a new place than by walking the city streets. This 3-hour walking tour through Ponta Delgada begins at the tourist office in Ponta Delgada and you’ll learn about the history of the city and the people who call it home. 

The Portas da Cidade are stately historic gates in the center of Ponta Delgada. This striking black and white structure has three arches and dates back to the 1700s. Right in front of this iconic Ponta Delgada landmark, you’ll find the Gonçalo Velho Cabral statue which depicts a Portuguese explorer from the 15th century. 

Visit The Convento de Nossa Senhora da Esperança

The Convento de Nossa Senhora da Esperança is a beautiful monastery with a black and white exterior and an impressive interior with artwork dating back to the 1600s. It’s still an active convent today and guided tours are available every day of the week except Sunday. 

You won’t have to look far to find the impressive Igreja de São Sebastião in Ponta Delgada. This is the main church in the center of town, right near the Portas da Cidade. It dates back to the 16th century and has a prominent clock tower.

Dive into the history of Sao Miguel at the Museu Carlos Machado , an art and natural history museum located in Ponta Delgada. It’s open every day except Monday and you can explore exhibits dedicated to sacred artwork, zoology, geology, fine arts, and more. 

They also have an exhibit called the Convent Memory Circuit where you can see what daily life looked like for members of the Poor Clares. 

Portas do Mar, the Ponta Delgada Harbor and Marina

Go for a little stroll down by the marina to enjoy Portas do Mar, the area around the Ponta Delgada harbor . Along the water, there’s a path where you can walk with a view of the boats on the water.

There are also restaurants, cafes, tourist attractions, and playgrounds along this pathway where you can relax while feeling the sea breezes. Down by the harbor, make sure to check out the graffiti-style artwork created by sailors and travelers along the concrete seawall.  

Make sure to stop by the Mercado da Graca , a farmers market with locally grown fruits and vegetables and other Azorean products. It’s open every day except Sunday, so make sure to stop by and get your cheeses, jams, and other culinary delights. 

The Forte de Sao Bras is a military fortification in Ponta Delgada that dates back to the 1500s. There’s also a small Azores military museum where you can see historical military artifacts and other unique pieces.

The fort is small and it won’t take long to see everything, but it’s worth a visit if you like learning about military history.

Related Post: Best Places to Stay on Sao Miguel Island

Visit a Pineapple Plantation

Did you know that the Azores are famous for their pineapples? Located just a few minutes outside of Ponta Delgada, Portugal, you can try these yummy fruits for yourself at the Azorean Pineapple Plantation .

Here, you can walk through greenhouses with informational signs to learn all about their cultivation and history.

Located a bit further outside of town is the Arruda Pineapple Plantation offering a similar educational experience.

At both places, you can sample pineapple dishes and drinks at their cafe after you’ve toured the greenhouses. 

Grab gelato at La Gelateria

Looking for a sweet treat? Head to La Gelateria ! This gelato store was so good we wanted to go back every day, for every meal.

With a welcoming atmosphere and excellent flavors made from locally grown ingredients, it’s no wonder La Gelateria gets rave reviews across the board. Our Italian friends approved, this Gelato is the real deal! 

Take a Ponta Delgada Food Tour

The food in the Azores is something special. On this Ponta Delgada food tour, you’ll walk with an experienced guide to some of the best restaurants, markets, and cafes in the city, learning and tasting along the way.

This food tour has excellent reviews and several participants recommend doing this excursion early in your Azores trip. That way, you’ll learn your way around the city and discover local cuisines to try throughout your trip. 

Related Post: Food and Restaurant Guide To Sao Miguel, Azores

Try the chocolate cake at Louvre Michaelense

Louvre Michaelense is a cafe and bistro known for its chocolate cake, brunch, tea, and coffee. It’s beautifully decorated with indoor and outdoor seating right in the old town, so you can enjoy a delicious meal while watching the city pass by. 

Jardim Antonio Borges was created in the mid-1800s and features a variety of rare plants. This small botanical garden in Ponta Delgada has trees from around the world, a playground for children, and a cafe.

It’s free to visit and it’s just a short walk from downtown and the cruise terminal, making this a great place to get lost in nature for a while. 

Jardin Antonio Borges isn’t the only botanical garden in Ponta Delgada, Azores. Just a few blocks away you can take a stroll through Jardim Jose do Canto , a park with plants from around the world.

You’ll pay a small entrance fee to get in, and once you’re inside you can learn about different trees and flowers, stroll along shady paths, and stop for a bite at the garden cafe. It’s best known for its enormous, majestic trees. 

Whale Watching Tour

Sao Miguel Island is known for being one of the best places to take whale and dolphin watching tours. The Azores Whale Watching Expedition and Islet Boat Tour is eco-certified and takes you around the coast to whale and dolphin sighting areas.

You’ll also see the Islet of Vila Franca do Campo, a picturesque island off the coast of Sao Miguel. This tour leaves from the Marina of Vila Franca do Campo, which is a half-hour drive from Ponta Delgada. 

Take ATV Tour Around Sete Cidades

Sete Cidades is a short distance from Ponta Delgada and a must-see attraction in Sao Miguel! This volcanic area is a paradise for hiking and nature enthusiasts and it has sweeping viewpoints that look like they came out of a postcard.

What better way to experience this spot than with an ATV Quad! This ATV Tour of Sete Cidades includes hotel pickup in Ponta Delgada and an experienced guide, allowing you to enjoy this beautiful landscape with a dose of adrenaline.

Explore the caves of Gruta do Carvão

At Gruta do Carvão , you can explore the longest lava tunnel on the island of Sao Miguel. If setting foot in a rare volcanic cave sounds like your idea of an adventure, you can book a guided tour on their website.

They offer two tours, a shorter hike as well as a longer and more challenging option. It’s recommended that all visitors wear closed-toe shoes since the caves can have uneven footing.

Get Dinner at A Tasca

While visiting Ponta Delgada, you’ll definitely want to have a meal at A Tasca ! Serving classic Azorean dishes in a cozy, casual atmosphere, A Tasca is considered by many to be one of the best places to eat on the island.

You can’t go wrong with a meat and cheese tasting board and you’ve GOT to try the pineapple cake for dessert. A word of warning though, A Tasca doesn’t take reservations and I’ve seen the line wrap around the block to get a table.

We went earlier in the evening, around 7:30 pm, and were able to get a table quickly, but we were told that if we came back later it would be difficult. Make sure to go early and don’t save this for the last night in case it’s too crowded. I’m not kidding when I say you can’t miss that pineapple cake.

Go out for drinks at Ta Gente

Finally, make sure to visit Ta Gente , a quirky upscale tapas and cocktail bar with tons of outdoor seating. We tried two of the specialty cocktails and enjoyed watching the bartender whip up any kind of cool drink we could imagine.

Final Thoughts: Things To do In Ponta Delgada Sao Miguel Azores

When visiting Sao Miguel Azores, Ponta Delgada is an awesome spot to spend the day exploring. With history, food, and nature all in one compact location, Ponta Delgada has something for everyone.

Azores Portugal Travel Guides:

• Ultimate Travel Guide: Things to do in São Miguel
• Furnas Azores Visiting Guide and Things To Do
• Best Restaurants and Foods in Sao Miguel
• 21 Best Hotels in Sao Miguel Portugal

Portugal Itineraries:

• 10 Day Portugal Road Trip Itinerary
• 2 Week Portugal Itinerary

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Ponta Delgada

• 1.1 Climate
• 2.1.1 From the airport to Ponta Delgada
• 2.2 By boat
• 3.2 On foot
• 7.2 Mid-range
• 7.3 Splurge
• 8.1 Nightlife

Ponta Delgada is the largest city in the Azores archipelago. It is on the island of São Miguel , and was home to 67,000 people in 2021. It is an important administrative, industrial and agricultural centre, and the home of the University of the Azores.

Understand [ edit ]

Ponta Delgada ( POHN-tuh dehl-GAH-duh , /ˈpõ.tɐ dɛɫ.ˈga.dɐ/), the city on São Miguel island, is not to be confused with Ponta Delgada, the rural civil parish on the north coast of Flores island.

Climate [ edit ]

Ponta Delgada has a mild maritime climate: warm summers, with moderate precipitation, and mild, wet winters. Much like the rest of the Azores, the city is shaped by the Gulf Stream, and consequently has a narrow temperature variation. Mean temperatures vary between 14.5 °C (58.1 °F) in the winter to around 22 °C (72 °F) in the summer and daytime highs vary between 17 °C (63 °F) in the winter to 25 °C (77 °F) in the summer. Temperatures above 30 °C (86 °F), or below 4 °C (39 °F) have never been registered.

The Gulf Stream also contributes to unstable weather that varies greatly during autumn and spring, making weather forecasting on a daily basis difficult. Winters are generally milder and summers are generally humid when compared to those of continental Portugal.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

• Azores Airlines , ☏ +351 296 209 720 , toll-free: +1-800-762-9995 (U.S.) . Connects mainland Europe and North America with the Azores. Cities served include Boston , Frankfurt , Lisbon , London , Toronto , Paris , and Porto . ( updated Jul 2021 )
• SATA Air Açores flies within the Azores archipelago and from Madeira.
• TAP Air Portugal Portugal's flag carrier, also has direct flights from Lisbon to the islands of Terceira, Faial and Pico. The airline also flies between Porto and Terceira islands.
• Ryanair flies from Lisbon , Frankfurt -Hahn (seasonal), London -Stansted, and Porto .

From the airport to Ponta Delgada [ edit ]

• There are taxi services at the airport. The fixed price is €8-12 (Jan 2024) depending on where in the city you want to go to and if you have luggage.
• It's possible to walk into town from the airport 4 km (1 hour) but it's not fun if you have much luggage.
• Or you could walk 1.3 km (15 min) to the old terminal's 37.74387 -25.695611 2 bus stop Antigo Aerogare and take a city bus for €0.50 (Jan 2024) from there to Ponta Delgada. The serving city bus line A operates M-F 07:30-19:30. Alternatively from that bus stop, regional buses to the city for about €0.90 (Jan 2024) operate as well.
• ANC Aerobus . Since November 2023 the shuttle to the city for €8 does not operate anymore. ( updated Jan 2024 )

By boat [ edit ]

Several cruise lines make Ponta Delgada a waypoint when journeying across the Atlantic. Some cruise ships spend a day at the port, often as they reposition themselves between cruising Europe and the Western Hemisphere.

• The 37.7378 -25.663 3 marina has a cruise ships’ quay, a pavilion, and a hallway of shops. The marina also has pools, including a big natural pool.

Get around [ edit ]

By bus [ edit ]

PDL Minibuses run the main avenue and are conveniently accessible from major sites in Ponta Delgada. In-town bus services are handled by smaller mini-buses with the larger touring buses handling community-to-community travel on the island. Both services are accessible along Avenida D. Infante Henriques and can confuse the unfamiliar traveler. Schedules are available at bus stops and the tourist office. One ride in the minibus going around Ponta Delgada is €0.50 (Jan 2024). The app of PDL Minibus shows the upcoming departures of a bus stop.

On foot [ edit ]

Visitors can best experience the city on foot, as travel distances are relatively short. For day trips to other parts of the island, consider buses, taxis, or a rental car.

See [ edit ]

• City tours are based along the Avenida where visitors can find several services to sightsee, including horse-drawn carriage, panoramic bus tours and the Lagarta Tourist Train that travels along the streets.
• 37.7433 -25.6675 1 Carlos Machado Museum , Rua do Dr.Guilherme Poças 65 ( in the Convento de Santo Andre ), ☏ +351 296 20 29 30 , [email protected] . It portrays the scientific mentality of the 19th century. Most of the information is by naturalists of the second half of the 19th century after the publication of Darwin’s Theory of Evolution and the Oceanographic expeditions. ( updated Sep 2017 )
• 37.74011 -25.66823 4 Parish Church of São Sebastiao . ( updated Sep 2017 )
• 37.7375 -25.674 5 Church of São Jose . ( updated Sep 2017 )

Do [ edit ]

• There are boat tours from the marina for see the island's coastline, and for whsle-watchong, available from offices at the marina.
• 37.739448 -25.665396 1 Ponta Delgada Marina . Visitors can go speedboat racing and big game fishing here. ( updated Mar 2021 )
• Organised whale- and dolphin-watching from small boats operating out of Ponta Delgada is increasingly popular. Also whale watching at Blue Talassa.

• Festa do Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres . yearly on the fifth Sunday after Easter . One of the many religious festivities held in the Azores. The town of Ponta Delgada is transformed into a town of color and lively celebration, decorated with colourful flowers and decorative bedspreads hung from balconies. The celebration starts with the blessing of the bread and meat, and the distribution of food among the needy. The festival then continues with a procession, music and fireworks.  

Buy [ edit ]

The islands produce surprisingly good wines and cheese.

Ponta Delgada's locals produce handmade crafts that are sold on the street and in small markets and boutiques along the main avenue. Visitors will find small ceramic bowls or plates, woven jewellery, and other one-of-a-kind items. The most common souvenirs are scrimshaw, wicker products, lace, embroderies, liqueurs, and flags.

• 37.742209 -25.664317 1 Mercado de Graça , R. do Mercado 15 . Two-storey farmers' market: produce, meat, fish, some souvenirs Open M-Th from 07:30, F Sa from 07:00, closing time varies but it's as early as 14:00 . ( updated Jan 2024 )

Eat [ edit ]

Ponta Delgada is known for its pineapple harvest, so trying fresh pineapples from a local market is a must.

Budget [ edit ]

All these are in the city centre:

• The supermarket Pingo Doce offers fresh baked goods, sandwiches and main dishes.
• 37.738916 -25.670391 1 Casa de Pasto Tavares , R. do Melo 74 . Authentic Portuguese restaurant. Humble and tasty food. Great authentic location. ( updated May 2022 )
• 37.739164 -25.672798 2 O Giro , R. Diário dos Açores 35 . Cool atmosphere with great tasting food. The place looks really fancy. Well manniered waitress. ( updated May 2022 )
• 37.740361 -25.669642 3 Lan's , R. Manuel da Ponte nº41 . Very nice pizzeria. It doesn't look that inviting from outside, but surprisingly good food for such a modest, small restaurant. ( updated May 2022 )
• 37.73977 -25.668988 4 DONDUÉ , Nº, R. do Melo 12 . Small cute store that offers many great dishes and drinks. Also very good place for a great breakfast. Vegetarian option cooked with care and served with sympathie. ( updated May 2022 )
• 37.742304 -25.662544 5 Apito Dourado , Rua do Peru 17 A . Authentic local restaurant. The dishes are a delight. ( updated May 2022 )
• 37.740785 -25.661684 6 Açores Grill , Rua do Calhau . Restaurant with a brilliant concept: You prepare the food yourself on your own grill. Cozy, chic and simple. ( updated May 2022 )
• 37.739845 -25.668861 7 Azores Forever , R. do Melo 10 . Best fish and chips on the island. Also simple, yet delicious breakfast. Very LGBTQIA+ friendly. ( updated May 2022 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

• 37.7423 -25.6559 8 Casa Marisca , Rua Engenheiro José Cordeiro 127 , ☏ +351 296 382 780 , [email protected] . M–Sa 11:00–23:00, closed Su . A great small restaurant with good seafood, friendly service, and a nice atmosphere. ( updated May 2022 )
• 37.7402 -25.6694 9 O Corisco , Rua Manuel da Ponte 28 , ☏ +351 296 284 444 , [email protected] . M W–F Su 12:00–15:00 & 18:30–23:00, Sa 18:30:23:00, closed Tu . Known for scrumptious Continental cuisine. €7-15 (June 2021) . ( updated May 2022 )
• 37.7397 -25.6671 10 Mercado do Peixe , Avenida Infante Dom Henrique 25 , ☏ +351 296 708 839 , [email protected] . Daily 12:00–15:00 & 18:00–23:00; closed in January . Serves excellent local seafood. Despite its name, Mercado do Peixe is a restaurant, not a fish market. ( updated Feb 2024 )
• 37.7411 -25.6675 11 A Tasca , Rua do Aljube 20 , ☏ +351 296 288 880 , [email protected] . Tapas bar and restaurant. ( updated May 2022 )
• 37.7439 -25.6728 12 Restaurante Atlântida ( São Miguel Park Hotel ), Rua Manuel Augusto Amaral , ☏ +351 296 306 000 , [email protected] . Hotel has a restaurant that serves international, regional, and vegetarian dishes. ( updated Jun 2021 )

Splurge [ edit ]

• 37.7404 -25.6684 13 Õtaka , Rua Hintze Ribeiro 5 , ☏ +351 919 312 080 , [email protected] . Tu–Sa 19:00–22:30, closed Su M . Great variety with generous portions of sushi. €25-85 (June 2021) . ( updated May 2022 )

Drink [ edit ]

• Ponta Delgada is known for its different types of liqueurs and alcohols, particularly Passion Fruit Liqueur .
• For unusual drinks, visit Baia dos Anjos , one of the more interesting bars that serves theme-based drinks and food based on local festivals and cultural events.
• Portas do Maris Marina by the port has a number of bars with live bands almost every night.
• Another good place for mixed drinks and local wines is San Miguel Park Hotel .

Nightlife [ edit ]

• 37.75999 -25.65035 1 Bombom Bihlares . This nightclub is a great place to hang out, especially on rainy days. ( updated Jun 2018 )

Sleep [ edit ]

• 37.7385 -25.6723 1 Azores Dream Hostel , Rua Dr. Gil Mont'Alverne Sequeira 9 , ☏ +351 934 317 197 , [email protected] . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 11:00 . A more budget-friendly option and LGBTQ friendly. You can share a kitchen and maybe some breakfast. €26-54 . ( updated Jun 2021 )
• 37.7387 -25.6766 2 Azoris Royal Garden - Leisure & Conference Hotel , Rua de Lisboa , ☏ +351 296 307 300 , [email protected] . Check-in: 16:00 , check-out: 12:00 . Four-star, 193-room hotel with Turkish bath, outdoor pool, tennis court, fitness center. €62-134 . ( updated Jun 2021 )
• 37.7416 -25.6745 3 Casa Vitoriana , Rua Dr. João Francisco de Sousa 34/38 , ☏ +351 296 285 081 , [email protected] . Furnished in original Victorian style but is fully modernised to create a cozy and clean feel.  
• 37.74061 -25.662 4 Grand Hotel Açores Atlântico , Avenida Infante Dom Henrique 113 , ☏ +351 296 302 200 , [email protected] . Check-in: 15:00–00:00 , check-out: 06:00 . Five-star, 140-room hotel facing the marina. There's a heated indoor pool and conference rooms. €89-178 . ( updated Jun 2021 )
• 37.7461 -25.6571 5 The Lince Azores , Avenida Dom João 29 , ☏ +351 296 630 000 . Holidays, honeymoon, or business meetings in Azores. Outdoor swimming pool, garden, 24-hr front desk, luggage service, concierge service (newspapers, tours, rental), lobby, gift shop, free parking.  
• 37.741 -25.6605 6 Hotel Marina Atlântico , Avenida João Bosco Mota Amaral 1 , ☏ +351 296 307 900 , [email protected] . Check-in: 15:00–00:00 , check-out: 07:00–12:00 . Four-star, 184-room hotel in the centre of Ponta Delgada overlooking the harbor and marina. Sauna, indoor pool, steam bath, and spa. €73-157 . ( updated Jun 2021 )
• 37.7406 -25.6656 7 Neat Hotel Avenida , Rua Dr. José Bruno Tavares Carreiro , ☏ +351 296 209 660 , [email protected] . Check-in: 15:00 , check-out: 12:00 . Three-star, 120-room hotel right by the beaches, the main avenue, and shopping areas. Fitness centre, indoor pool, sauna, and spa. €48-92 . ( updated Jun 2021 )
• 37.7376 -25.6755 8 Hotel Ponta Delgada , Rua João Francisco Cabral 49 , ☏ +351 296 209 480 , [email protected] . Check-in: 15:00–00:00 , check-out: 05:00–11:00 . Three-star, 98-room hotel in the heart of the city. Indoor pool set on an elevated terrace overlooking the town with a great view of Ponta Delgada. €50-159 . ( updated Jun 2021 )
• 37.7546 -25.6035 9 Quinta das Acácias , Rua Lapinha 74, Livramento ( on the West Coast of the island ), ☏ +351 966 406 127 , [email protected] . It is right near the ocean and Populo beach. Quinta das Acacias offers cottage style living accommodations in the midst of a well-kept flourishing green garden. Each cottage averages an area of 50 m². There are 1- or 2-bedroom units available.  
• 37.7391 -25.672 10 Hotel Talisman , Rua Marquês da Praia e Monforte 40 , ☏ +351 296 308 500 , [email protected] . In the middle of Ponta Delgata near all tourists attractions and nightlife. This hotel has 53 rooms, 5 suites and includes a restaurant, bar, and esplanade.  
• 37.7364 -25.675 11 Vila Nova Hotel ( My Story Hotel Vila Nova ), Rua João Francisco Cabral 1 , ☏ +351 296 301 600 . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 12:00 . Three-star, 102-room centrally located hotel. Indoor pool, air conditioned rooms, fitness centre. Complimentary breakfast every morning. The hotel bar serves exotic cocktails and snacks all day long. €48-117 . ( updated Jun 2021 )

Go next [ edit ]

• Furnas , Sete Cidades and the other towns of São Miguel .
• Visit Terceira island/city of Angra , a World heritage patrimony.

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Best Things To Do in Ponta Delgada Azores

Discover beautiful Ponta Delgada, on the Azorean island of Sao Miguel.  Walk the stunning waterfront and enjoy the city’s gardens and museums.

Whether you have a half day or more, we’ve got the best things to do in this charming city!

Table of Contents

Ponta Delgada Itinerary

This is our recommended itinerary for a 3-day visit to Ponta Delgada. The city’s must-sees are on Day 1. If you have less time, do as much as you can within your timeline.

• Day 1 .  Explore the waterfront must-sees: the City Gates , the Fortress of Sao Bras and the Azores Military Museum .  Enjoy a Whale Watching Tour . 
• Day 2.   Enjoy a Walking Tour of the city, visiting its gardens and museums . Enjoy a swim at Fisherman’s Pools.
• Day 3.   Head to the cave at Gruta do Carvao and visit the Azores Pineapple Plantation .

For cruise passengers, who only have one day in Ponta Delgada, stroll the waterfront or the entire walking route shown below.

Map of Ponta Delgada

7 Best Things To Do in Ponta Delgada

Wondering what to do in Ponta Delgada? These are our favourite things to do.

• See the City Gates .
• Visit the Fortress of Sao Bras .
• Take a Whale Watching Tour .
• Enjoy a self-guided walking tour along beautiful streets of the city.
• See Ponta Delgada from the City Hall Bell Tower .
• Visit the Carlos Machado Museums .
• Visit Ponta Delgada’s largest gardens, the Jose do Canto Garden and the Antonio Borges Garden .

The 18 th -century ‘Portas da Cidade’ dominate the pretty public square. Note the royal coat of arms above the three, ornate, round archways. The gates were originally at the waters’ edge. Construction of the wide, Avenida Infante Dom Henrique along the waterfront forced the relocation of the gates.

In front of the gates, the Goncalo Velho Cabral Statue honours the first governor of the Azorean islands of Santa Maria and Sao Miguel.

Fortress of Sao Bras and Azores Military Museum

São Miguel’s largest fortress, Forte de São Brás , protected the early port of Ponta Delgada from attacks by pirates and privateers. It was constructed in the late 16th century in a style typical of Renaissance military architecture.

Visit the Azores Military Museum in the fort. It has a significant collection of weaponry, uniforms and communication equipment. The displays discuss many aspects of Azorean military history.

Ponta Delgada Whale Watching Tours

Whale watching is a popular activity around many of the Azores Islands.  These deep waters are home to a large population of both resident and migrating species so whales are seen year-round. Whale watching tours leave regularly from the marina. 

The 3 most popular whale watching companies in Ponta Delgada offer slightly different tours. Click on the company name below to learn more and book your tour.

Ponta Delgada Walking Tour

The city began as a small fishing port and has kept its quaint, small town atmosphere.

Enjoy the black and white cobblestone streets. It’s like walking on artwork with designs in stripes, stars, chains and other eye-catching patterns.  Many houses and public gardens have planters and flowering bushes adding splashes of colour along the way.

Our walking route is about 3.5 kilometres long. Find gardens, museums, churches and lots of history. There are many restaurants, cafes, shops and bars along the way and around the harbour to enjoy.

We describe the Ponta Delgada attractions as they are found along the route. Start in the square just north of the fortress.

Campo de Sao Francisco

This lovely town square acts as the city’s gathering spot for events. Two churches and a monument are adjacent to the square.

On the south side, the Emigrant Monument commemorates the large emigration of Azoreans to Hawaii for work on sugarcane plantations in the last quarter of the 19 th century.

The Sao Jose Church sits on the west side of the square. Five small, limestone carvings of the life of Saint Francis adorn the front of the 18th-century church above the three arched doorways. Note the lava statue of the patron saint below the roof peak.

Continue clockwise to the Sanctuary of the Lord Holy Christ . It is part of the Convent of Our Lady of Hope which has been on Sao Miguel since 1540. Mid-17th century tiles and carvings decorate the sanctuary’s chancel.

Walk east, out of the square, along the main avenue, to Vasco de Gama Square . De Gama, a 15 th century Portuguese explorer, was the first to sail from Europe to India by rounding Africa’s Cape of Good Hope. Take care crossing to the pretty cobblestone-square with its central fountain. The square is essentially the centre of a roundabout.

From the north end of the square, walk east on Santa Luzia Street to City Hall.

City Hall Bell Tower

See beautiful Ponta Delgada from the top of the early 18 th -century bell tower. The visit to the almost 30 metre tall ‘torre sineira’ is escorted during city hall operating hours, weekdays only.

A warrior statue of the archangel Saint Michael stands in the plaza in front of city hall.

Walk to the next intersection, behind the City Gate s. Turn left on Largo da Matriz and admire the beautiful clock tower of the 16 th -century Sao Sebastiao Church .

This area has lots of restaurants.

Turn right on Largo Visconde Bensaúde and left at the second street to walk north on Rua Manuel Inácio Correia.

Carlos Machado Museums

The Carlos Machado Museums are in three different buildings.

The first is just before the 3 rd street on the right. The Santa Barbara Museum showcases the artwork of Azorean artists. The building housing ‘Núcleo de Santa Bárbara’ was built in the 17 th century.

The main building of the museum is one block north and a few steps east on Rua do Dr.Guilherme Poças. The Carlos Machado Museum opened in 1930 in this former 16 th century convent . This location concentrates on the natural history, farming and fishing in the Azores.

Walk west until just before a pretty green park. The dark stone building on the right is College Church and the Sacred Art Centre . A stunning altarpiece and 17th century tile panels are among its many religious artifacts. The baroque ‘Igreja do Colégio’, also called All Saints Church, is built on the site of a former Jesuit College church.

The pretty green park is the Antero de Quental Garden . It honours Antero de Quental, an influential 19th-century Portuguese poet born on Sao Miguel. The building to the north of the park is the Public Library and Regional Archive . It often hosts temporary exhibits.

Walk back 1 block to Rua de Sant’Anna. Follow it north to Rua Jose Jacome Correia. Walk east to the entrance to the Jose do Canto Garden.

Ponta Delgada Gardens

The city has many public gardens. Some are small and just cover street corners. The next two are large tranquil places originally planted in the mid-19 th century.

Jose do Canto Garden

The Jose do Canto Garden, the largest garden in Ponta Delgada, is open year-round. ‘Jardim José do Canto’ has a wide variety of plant species collected from around the world. The wealthy Jose do Canto created the original garden plan which is still the base for today’s 6-hectare garden.

See the well-preserved 17th century Saint Anne’s Chapel at the front of the garden.

Wander the shady paths of the garden to find the Pavilion, a Victoria greenhouse used for events. The Palace, built by Jose do Canto is in the upper part of the garden.  This is a private residence and a hotel/B&B.

Next door to the garden is the Palace of Saint Anne .  The large residence and gardens were built in the mid-19th century and became the seat of the presidency of the Azorean Government in 1980.

Continue walking west on Rua Jose jacome correia. Pass a large cemetery and the Parque Atlantico shopping mall. Turn left and walk south for a long block on Rua Agostinho Pacheco.

Antonio Borges Garden

The Antonio Borges Garden is down the first street to the right. The ‘Jardim António Borges’ is a quiet public garden, with grottos and rare plants. It was first planted in the mid-19th century as the private garden of a wealthy member of the island’s elite.

Any of the streets from here going south lead to the green square of Father Sena Freitas Park . The Conceicao Palace is on the north side of the park. This large colourful building was originally the Convent of Our Lady of Conception. It’s been the seat of Azores regional government since 1976.

The street on the southwest side of the park will take you back to your starting point.

There are two other interesting places to visit just outside the main metro area.

Attractions near Ponta Delgada

Both of these places are about two kilometres from the waterfront and easy to reach by taxi.

Gruta do Carvao (Cave)

The cave system, about 2 kilometres long, is the largest lava tunnel on Sao Miguel and one of the largest in the Azores. There are 4 main caves. In the past, sections of the tunnels were used by the military and for commercial purposes.

The section between caves Gruta do Carvão and Troço do Paim is a single branch running generally north-south. These caves show lava stalactites and stalagmites, lava bridges and other cave formations unique to this type of cave system.

Protected as a Regional Natural Monument, parts of the caves are open daily by guided tour. The visitor centre explains the volcanic activities and processes which created these tunnels. Check the Gruta do Carvao website for more information about the caves and types of tours offered.

Azores Pineapple Plantation

Pineapples, introduced to Sao Miguel in the mid-19 th century, are grown in glass greenhouses using traditional techniques.

Free guided tours through the plantation explore the traditional glass and wood greenhouses where the pineapple is grown over an almost 3 year period.

Guides explain the history of pineapple production. And of course let’s not forget a chance to enjoy delicious food and drink made from pineapple and purchase some to take home. Visit the Azores Pineapple Plantation webpage for full details.

Ponta Delgada Hotels

Check out these great options.

• Charming House – We stayed at this exceptional Bed and Breakfast.
• Sao Miguel Park Hotel – Another fine hotel that we stayed at.
• Here are other great hotels in Ponta Delgada .

Ponta Delgada Restaurants and Food

The city has several fine restaurant options.  Here are 8 of the most popular restaurants in Ponta Delgada.

For lunches or snacks, there are shops and cafes everywhere in the harbour area.  For fresh market produce, visit the Mercado da Graca , open daily except Sundays.

Ponta Delgada Shopping

Parque Atlantico , a modern shopping mall has clothes stores, a full food court and even a movie theatre. Find anything you’re needing.

There is a cellphone store to pick up a SIM card. Its grocery store was great to stock up items for our Sao Miguel road trip.

Ponta Delgada Arrival Points

Ponta delgada airport.

The Ponta Delgada Airport (PDL) is located 2 kilometres west of the city.  Taxis to get into town are plentiful.  Car rentals are also available at the airport. North American visitors can catch daily flights from Boston or Toronto to the Azores.  For European visitors, there are plenty of flight options from both the United Kingdom and mainland Portugal.

Ponta Delgada Cruise Port

The cruise port, Portas do Mar (Gateway of the Seas), is the first place that cruise passengers will see when they disembark.  Located beside the Ponta Delgada Marina, the sea terminal complex includes a shopping mall and restaurant areas.

Know Before You Go

What is the best time to visit ponta delgada azores.

Summer is the most popular time to visit and the city can get quite crowded. Shoulder season, spring and autumn, is enjoyable with fewer visitors.

What is the weather like in Ponta Delgada Azores?

With the nearby Gulf Stream, temperatures don’t show a lot of variation so visit anytime. In the summer, you’ll have lots of sun and drier weather. The average summer temperature is about 23C. In spring and autumn the weather is cooler and wetter. Winter’s average temperature is about 13C and it rains frequently.

What can we do on a rainy day in Ponta Delgada ?

When the rain arrives, visit one or all of the Carlos Machado Museums . There is also the movie theatre at the Parque Atlantico .

Does Ponta Delgada have a beach or swimming area?

Fisherman’s Pools and tide pool is a public swimming pool with an ocean tide pool beside it. It is just to the east of the marina.

Be sure to check out our article, Things To Do in Sao Miguel Azores , for more places and great destinations to visit on the island of Sao Miguel.

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(No spam. Just great travel tips.)

Valerie Vanr

Valerie is the Co-founder of AvrexTravel.com. Val enjoys travel photography and writing informative City Walking tours.

13 Things To Do In Ponta Delgada: Complete Guide To Portugal's Coastal Gem

Explore Ponta Delgada for a taste of Portugal's coastal life and rich experiences.

Read update

There Are More Things To Do While In Ponta Delgada!

Ponta Delgada, the largest city in the Azores archipelago, is a hidden gem in the heart of the European oasis, Sao Miguel Island . This picturesque destination boasts a rich history that dates back to the 15th century when it was first settled by Portuguese explorers. The city's charming cobblestone streets and striking architecture, such as the iconic Portas da Cidade and the 16th-century Forte de São Brás, are testaments to its rich past.

Visitors to Ponta Delgada are always captivated by its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions. The city is surrounded by lush landscapes, including the breathtaking Sete Cidades volcanic crater lakes and the enchanting Terra Nostra Botanical Garden. For those seeking adventure, whale watching and swimming with dolphins are popular activities that connect visitors to the Azores' marine life.

In addition to its stunning surroundings, Ponta Delgada offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with friendly locals and a thriving culinary scene. From traditional Azorean dishes to contemporary fusion cuisine, foodies will find plenty to savor in this captivating coastal city. This article outlines the best things to do in Ponta Delgada to help those planning a trip know what it's like to explore the capital of the Azores .

UPDATE: 2023/09/27 15:25 EST BY NOAH STAATS

This article has been refreshed with new things to do in Ponta Delgada, including pineapple farms, museums, scenic gardens, and tips for coming to Portugal. There is plenty to see, do, and experience in this stunning city, regardless of the season.

Things To Do

São Miguel Island offers a plethora of attractions and activities to tourists, all of which are within a short drive from Ponta Delgada. Here's a look at some of the top things to do in and near Ponta Delgada.

1 Jardim Botânico António Borges

One thing to check out while in Ponta Delgada is the Jardim Botânico António Borges . Here, tourists can appreciate the urban botanical garden with trails, where grottoes showcase rare and exotic plants. Only minutes from downtown Ponta Delgada, this is an easy spot to get to for anyone without a car in the city. A quick cab ride is all one would need.

• Address : R. de São Joaquim 22, 9500-180 Ponta Delgada, Portugal
• Hours : Open daily from 9 AM to 8 PM (closes at 9 on weekends)

2 Pineapple Plantation A Arruda

While in in Ponta Delgada visit the famous Pineapple Plantation, A Arruda . Here lies the family-friendly venue hosting plenty of pineapples as well as places to walk around.

A fun fact: It takes roughly two years for these pineapples to grow, meaning each one you see blooming has had quite the journey. There is also a gift shop where guests can purchase fresh pineapples.

• Address : R. Dr. Augusto Arruda, 9500-454 Ponta Delgada, Portugal
• Hours : Open daily from 9 AM to 8 PM

3 Mercado da Graça

Another idea for something to do in Ponta Delgada is shopping at the Mercado da Graça. This is a nice location to purchase fresh food, like fruits and even honey. The market has been around for decades, becoming a hot spot for locals and tourists alike on the weekends on holidays.

One thing to remember, however, is fruit/food won't likely be allowed on the plane home, so make sure and eat everything in Portugal.

• Address : R. do Mercado 15, 9500-349 Ponta Delgada, Portugal
• Hours : Open every day but Saturday from 7 AM

4 Hike To Fuerte de San Blas

The next idea for people visiting Ponta Delgada is to check out the Fuerte de San Blas (Forte de São Brás). Here is where the Coastal Renaissance fortress dating to 1552 is now home to a military history museum.

People can see what the structure looks like from inside and beyond and usually spend about an hour here. The water views are also very beautiful.

• Address : R. Eng. Abel Ferin Coutinho 10, 9500-768 Ponta Delgada, Portugal
• Hours : Open Monday - Friday from 10 AM to 6 PM

5 Explore Sete Cidades

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Sete Cidades, a picturesque village located amidst the verdant landscapes of São Miguel Island. This enchanting destination is famous for its twin lakes, Lagoa Verde and Lagoa Azul, which boast contrasting shades of green and blue.

Visitors can take a leisurely stroll or a guided tour around the lakes or take part in activities like kayaking, cycling, and birdwatching.

For some of the best views, tourists can head to Vista do Rei viewpoint, a must-visit spot in this charming village that makes this attraction one of the most epic things to do on the Azores Islands .

• Address : Sete Cidades, São Miguel Island, Azores, Portugal

6 Hike To Lagoa do Fogo

Lagoa do Fogo is a pristine crater lake in the central part of the island, about 12 miles from Ponta Delgada, and it is surrounded by dense forests and vibrant flora. Also known as the Lake of Fire, this lake sits at an altitude of about 1900 feet, making it the highest lake on the island.

There are several trails to Lagoa do Fogo with varying levels of difficulty, the most popular of which are Serra Devassa and Serra da Barrosa.

• Address : Lagoa do Fogo, São Miguel Island, Azores, Portugal

Related: Everything You Need To Know About Hiking In The Azores

7 Relax In Terra Nostra Park

Found about 19 miles from Ponta Delgada, Terra Nostra Park is a renowned botanical garden and thermal park that’s worth visiting when in the Azores. This park boasts about 30 acres of stunning landscaped gardens with winding paths that weave through the site.

• The most popular features at Terra Nostra are the thermal pools, which have iron-rich water at temperatures of 38 to 40 degrees Celsius (100 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit).

Visitors can take a relaxing warm bath in these mineral-rich waters, which are believed to offer benefits to the skin. Terra Nostra also boasts a museum that showcases the history of the area’s geothermal activity.

• Address : Largo Marquês da Praia e Monfort, 9675-061 Furnas, Portugal
• Hours : 10:30 am - 4:30 pm (daily)
• Admission : Adults: $12; Children (3 to 10 yrs): $6; Children under 2: Free

8 Wander Around Ponta Delgada’s Historic Center

The Historic Center is the heart of the city, with a rich history that is traced back to the 17th century. This past is evident in the architecture, with buildings that were put up in the 17th and 18th centuries, most of which have Baroque, Manueline, and Moorish influences.

Visitors can explore Praca Goncalo, the city’s main square and the nerve center of the Historic Center. From here, landmarks like the iconic City Gates- Portas da Cidade- as well as the Church of Sao Sebastiao, are just a stone’s throw away.

The Historic Center also boasts the 19th-century-built City Hall, the bustling market of Mercado da Graca, and a variety of museums.

• Many attractions are here, including City Hall, Mercado da Graca, and museums.

9 Pay A Visit To The Church Of Santo Cristo

The historic Church of Santo Cristo was built in the 16th century and has undergone multiple renovations over the centuries to counter the ravages of time. Presently, this church is one of the most important religious sites in the archipelago, housing the revered image of Lord Jesus Christ of Miracles.

The building boasts a mix of Baroque and Neoclassical architectural styles, with its facade defined by statues and ornate detailing. The interior is no different as it’s characterized by artwork, more statues, and altarpieces.

• Address : Av. Roberto Ivens, 9500-238 Ponta Delgada, Portugal
• Hours : 7:30 am - 5:30 pm (daily)

10 Check Out The Exhibits At The Carlos Machado Museum

The Carlos Machado Museum was established in 1876, making it one of the oldest museums in not just the archipelago but the whole of Portugal. Found in the Historic Center, the museum’s building is also laden with history as it is a former convent that dates back to the 16th century.

Various collections are housed at the Carlos Machado Museum, showcasing the area’s natural history, art, and ethnography.

Visitors get to learn about the cultural heritage and traditions of the Azorean people as well as the island’s unique biodiversity from its endemic plant species to the marine life.

• Address : Rua do Dr.Guilherme Poças 65, 9500-100 Ponta Delgada, Portugal
• Hours : Tue - Sun: 10 am - 5:30 pm (closed on Mon)
• Admission : Adults: $3; Children 14 and under: Free

11 Swim In The Natural Pools Of Mosteiros

Travel about 17 miles west of Ponta Delgada to the fascinating Piscinas Naturais dos Mosteiros or the Natural Pools of Mosterios. Found in the village of Mosteiros, these pools are formed by volcanic rocks that line the area’s coastline, creating natural barriers that trap seawater.

Visitors can swim in these natural seawater pools as they’re sheltered from the open ocean. Those who don’t wish to get wet may admire the stunning backdrop of dramatic cliffs, volcanic rock formations, and the Atlantic Ocean.

• Located in the village of Mosteiros.

12 Go Whale Watching

Ponta Delgada is renowned for its whale-watching experiences, allowing visitors to observe these majestic marine mammals in their natural habitat. The city’s strategic location makes it an ideal starting point for expeditions, which are organized by various local tour companies like Futurismo Azores Adventures and Moby Dick Tours.

• Tours typically last from 2 to 3 hours, and the best months for whale watching are from April to October. During this time, species like the sperm whale, the humpback whale, and even the blue whale are sighted.

Futurismo Azores Adventures

• Address : Marina Portas do Mar, Av. Infante Dom Henrique, 26 São Miguel Island, 9500-771 Ponta Delgada, Portugal
• Hours : 8 am - 7 pm (daily)
• Price : From $72

Moby Dick Tours

• Address : Marina Portas do Mar, Av. Infante Dom Henrique, 9500-150 Ponta Delgada, Portugal
• Hours : 9 am - 9 pm (daily)
• Price : From $55

Related: Dolphin-Watching Is A Lesser-Known Azores Excursion, But It's Worth Adding To The Itinerary

13 Explore The Underground Gruta do Carvao

Gruta do Carvao , also known as Coal Cave, is an underground cave found just 1.5 miles from the heart of Ponta Delgada. Much like other natural features on the island, this cave was formed by volcanic activity that created a network of underground passages. Gruta do Carvao is just one of the accessible sections.

Visitors can only access the cave on a guided tour that only lasts about 30 minutes and covers about 0.4 miles of this 1-mile-long cave. However, longer tours of 2 to 3 hours are available on certain days.

• Address : R. do Paim, 9500-230 Ponta Delgada, Portugal
• Hours : 10 am - 12:30 pm & 2 pm - 6 pm (daily)
• Price : Adults: $9; Seniors (65+): $6; Children (6 yrs and below): Free

14 Best Time To Visit Ponta Delgada

Ponta Delgada experiences a mild oceanic climate with year-round pleasant temperatures.

• The ideal months to visit Ponta Delgada are May to September, as the weather is warm and sunny with minimal rainfall.

Here’s an overview of what to expect in Ponta Delgada during the different seasons.

May to September

These months are the peak tourist season in Ponta Delgada, with the weather being warm and sunny. Temperatures average highs of 77 degrees Fahrenheit (25 degrees Celsius) and lows of 63 degrees Fahrenheit (17 degrees Celsius).

During this time, there are long days and minimal rainfall, making it an excellent time to explore the city's outdoor attractions and enjoy the beautiful beaches. However, tourist crowds are larger during this period, and prices for accommodations and flights may be higher.

October to December

As autumn progresses in Ponta Delgada, temperatures begin to drop slightly, with highs of 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius) and lows of 57 degrees Fahrenheit (14 degrees Celsius).

The weather remains relatively mild, but rainfall starts to increase.

Despite the occasional rain showers, this season still offers a pleasant experience for tourists as the crowds begin to thin out and prices become more reasonable. Visitors should, however, pack appropriate clothing for potential rain.

January to April

January to April are the winter months in Ponta Delgada, which are characterized by lower temperatures and increased rainfall. Highs range between 60 degrees Fahrenheit (16 degrees Celsius) and 64 degrees Fahrenheit (18 degrees Celsius), while lows hover around 52 degrees Fahrenheit (11 degrees Celsius).

Although outdoor activities may be limited due to the weather, it is still possible to explore the city's indoor attractions and enjoy its vibrant culture. During this period, crowds are significantly smaller, and prices for accommodations and flights are at their lowest, making it ideal for those on a tight budget.

15 Best Ways Around Ponta Delgada

Travelers arriving in Ponta Delgada will likely land at the João Paulo II Airport , which is conveniently located just 2 miles from the city center. This airport welcomes flights from various European cities such as Lisbon, Porto, London, and Frankfurt, as well as seasonal flights from North America.

International visitors may also choose to fly into the Lisbon Airport and then take a connecting flight to Ponta Delgada. The flight from Lisbon to Ponta Delgada is roughly 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Once in Ponta Delgada, tourists can explore the city using the following transportation options:

The local bus service in Ponta Delgada runs on several routes that cover the main attractions within the city. Buses run from around 6:30 am to 11 pm every day, but this schedule varies according to the route.

Taxis are readily available throughout Ponta Delgada and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. They offer a convenient way to travel within the city or to nearby attractions.

For those who prefer more flexibility and independence, renting a car is an excellent option. Several car rental agencies are available at João Paulo II Airport and in the city center. Prices vary depending on the vehicle type and rental duration.

• Travelers can expect to pay around $30 per day for a compact car.

Ponta Delgada is a bike-friendly city with dedicated cycling lanes and bike rental services available throughout the city. Renting a bicycle is an eco-friendly and enjoyable way to explore the city at a leisurely pace.

• Prices for bike rentals in Punta Delgada start at $15 per day.

The city center of Ponta Delgada is compact and easily navigable on foot. Many of the main attractions, such as the Portas da Cidade, Forte de São Brás, and the Mercado da Graça, are within walking distance of each other. This allows visitors to take in the charming architecture and vibrant atmosphere at their own pace.

16 Where To Eat In Ponta Delgada

Famous foods in the Azores include Furnas stew, pork, stewed octopus, and other seafood dishes. All these and more can be enjoyed at Ponta Delgada’s plethora of restaurants and eateries.

Below are some of the places to eat in Ponta Delgada.

Breakfast/Lunch

Intz48 Coffee Roasters Azores

• Address : R. Hintze Ribeiro 46-48, 9500-049 Ponta Delgada, Portugal
• Hours : Mon & Wed-Sat: 9 am - 3 pm (closed on Sun & Tue)
• Meals : Sandwiches, omelets, toasted banana bread, pizza

Café Royal

• Address : R. da Alfândega, 9500-017 Ponta Delgada, Portugal
• Hours : Mon: 7 am - 10 pm; Tue - Fri: 7 am - 11 pm; Sat: 9 am - 11 pm; Sun: 7 am - 3 pm
• Meals : Sandwiches, cheeseburgers, hamburgers, pork steak, beef steak

Lunch/Dinner

• Address : R. do Aljube 16, 9500-018 Ponta Delgada, Portugal
• Hours : Mon-Sat: 11:30 am - 12 am (closed on Sun)
• Meals : Dobrada, Alcatra, beef steak, grilled black pork, baked cauliflower, vegetable and bean stew

Taberna Açor

• Address : R. dos Mercadores 41, 9500-150 Ponta Delgada, Portugal
• Hours : Wed - Fri: 12 pm - 3 pm & 6:30 pm - 10 pm; Sat: 6:30 pm - 10 pm; Sun: 12 pm - 3 pm (closed on Mon)
• Meals : Roasted beef on bread, Sta. Maria Sausage, Tapas

Related: What To Eat In The Azores, And Where To Eat In Sao Miguel

Dinner/Drinks

Cantinho dos Anjos

• Address : R. Hintze Ribeiro 83, 9500-098 Ponta Delgada, Portugal
• Hours : Mon: 9 am - 12 am; Tue - Fri: 9 am - 2 am; Sat: 1 pm - 2 am (closed on Sun)
• Drinks : Vodka, Rum
• Meals : Hamburger, cheeseburger, turkey sandwich, steak sandwich, ham toast
• Address : Av. Infante Dom Henrique, Ponta Delgada, Portugal
• Hours : Sun - Thu: 2 pm - 2 am; Fri & Sat: 2 pm - 4 am
• Cocktails : White Russian, Orange Blossom, Tom Collins, Bar Do Pi, Margarita, Mojito, Daiquiri

17 Where To Stay In Ponta Delgada

Ponta Delgada has various hotels to choose from, no matter a traveler's budget.

Budget Stays

Hotel Talisman

• Address : Rua Marques da Praia e Manforte, 40, Ponta Delgada, Azores
• Price : From $56
• Amenities : Fitness center, garden, complimentary breakfast, babysitting service, laundry facilities, rooftop pool, spa, restaurant, bar

Room In The City

• Address : Ponta Delgada, Açores, Portugal
• Price : From $36
• Amenities : Car rental service, free parking, king bed, shared bathroom, paid washer, full kitchen

Mid-Tier Stays

Cozy Apartment Near Airport

• Price : From $58
• Amenities : 1 bedroom, 1 bath, full kitchen, free parking, ocean view, washer, TV with Netflix

Casa do Pateo - Charming House Azores

• Address : R. Machado Dos Santos 107, 9500-048 Ponta Delgada, Azores
• Price : From $104
• Amenities : Laundry facilities, patio, complimentary breakfast, meeting facilities, shared lounge

Luxury Stays

White Exclusive Suites & Villas

• Address : Rua Rocha Quebrada, 10, 9560-420 Ponta Delgada, Azores
• Price : From $220
• Amenities : Complimentary breakfast, babysitting service, laundry facilities, garden, patio, private entrance, beach access, infinity pool, spa

Related: This Eco-Beach Azores Resort Perfectly Pairs Sustainability & Tourism

Duplex in the Historical Center

• Price : From $238
• Amenities : 2 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, private parking, free laundry facilities, elevator, full kitchen, sea view balcony

18 Tips For Visiting Ponta Delgada

For those coming to Ponta Delgada, there are many things to consider before venturing off. Regarding how to see the most of this charming area while here, it's better to book hotels in the downtown district, closer to shopping, museums, and other walkable attractions.

Ponta Delgada is known for its fruit production, including pineapples. There will be countless places to watch fruit grow and be harvested in the city, so that's a fun day trip.

Seasonally, winter will bring the most rainfall to the island, which can put a damper on plans. Every other time of year, however, should be more than pleasant.

19 Spending The Perfect Day In Ponta Delgada

Start the perfect day by enjoying a typical Azorean breakfast at one of the city’s eateries Café Royal. Then, head to Lagoa do Fogo to hike to the crater lake. Afterward, drive to Terra Nostra Park and stroll through the gardens. Enjoy a picnic lunch at the park before a relaxing soak in one of the thermal baths.

In the afternoon, return to the city center and wander around Ponta Delgada’s Historic Center. Explore sites like the main square and the city gates. Then, enjoy a whale-watching expedition in the late afternoon before having dinner and drinks at one of the local joints.

Home » Travel Guides » Portugal » 15 Best Things to Do in Ponta Delgada (Portugal)

15 Best Things to Do in Ponta Delgada (Portugal)

The capital of the Azores is on the south coast of São Miguel, aptly nicknamed the “Green Island”. There’s plenty to get up to on the city, at postcard monuments, cute old churches, a 16th-century fort and a museum documenting the Azores’ intriguing natural history.

At the harbour you can embark on a mini-expedition to catch sight of the whales and dolphins that gather in the archipelago’s waters.

And for days out, the landscapes of São Miguel island are famously breathtaking: There are ancient volcanic craters that are now filled by lakes with wildflowers and lush woodland on their shores.

Lets explore the best things to do in Ponta Delgada :

1. Lagoa das Sete Cidades

Arguably the greatest wonder of the Azores is only 15 kilometres up the road.

The Lagoa das Sete Cidades is a twin lake in a volcanic caldera, the walls of which rise steeply around the shore and are rich with conifers and ferns.

There’s a divide between the two water bodies, and you can drive down on the 9-1 for stunning photos.

Pick a clear day and head for the Miradouro do Rei, high on the south side of the caldera.

The view is all-encompassing up here, next to the shell of the abandoned Monte Palace Hotel.

2. Convento de Nossa Senhora da Esperança

Spiritually, this convent from 1545 is one of the most important, not just in the Azores but all of Portugal as well.

For that you can thank the statue of Santo Cristo dos Milagres, which was gifted to the founders of the convent by Pope Paul III in the first decades of the 16th century.

In April or May this statue is the star of the Santo Cristo celebrations.

The building is something to behold too, with an odd quadrangular tower that has three tiers of windows.

In the church there’s a Baroque altar with gilded woodwork and beautiful tile panels.

3. Portas da Cidade

Close to the water in the São Sebastião parish, this three-arched gate is Ponta Delgada’s postcard image, and appears on the city’s coat of arms.

It is part of the old defences and dates to 1783. The gate used to be on the quayside, but was moved to Gonçalo Velho Cabral Square to stand as a monument when the waterfront avenue was built in the 1940s and 50s.

The gate is made from regional volcanic stone and has whitewashed masonry.

The square in front is laid with calçada portuguesa (Portuguese mosaic pavement) in an ornamental pattern.

4. Gruta do Carvão

Barely outside the city is another of São Miguel’s volcanic wonders.

This is the largest lava tunnel on the island, ploughing underground for more than 1.6 kilometres.

If you’re interested in the island’s geology this is not to be missed, as inside the cave are bizarre concretions, like stalactites and stalagmites in a reddish brown colour.

The basalt on the walls is also oxidised in places, giving it a strange yellowy lustre.

There’s a video before the tour, after which you’ll have to crawl through some tight spaces so dress as you would for a hike.

5. Igreja de São José

On the same square as the Convento de Nossa Senhora da Esperança, this sizable church once belonged to the long dissolved Convent of St Francis.

It was started in 1709 has many of the hallmarks of colonial Portuguese architecture, as well as the Baroque exuberance that was in fashion at the time.

The interior is immense, with three naves arriving at three chapels loaded with gilded woodwork.

The blue and white tiles coating the walls, the statues from the 1600s and 1700s and furniture carved from jacaranda wood all merit a few minutes of your time.

6. Museu Carlos Machado

In the old Santo André Convent and founded way back in 1876, this is the oldest museum in the Azores.

The founder, Carlos Machado was a 19th-century naturalist, working when the Azores attracted great interest following Darwin’s theory of evolution.

So you’ll be presented with a satisfying summary of Azorean natural history, with displays on geology and mineralogy, as well as many plant and animal specimens to peruse (many tagged by Machado himself). This being a former convent there’s also some liturgical art at the adjacent Jesuit college, with paintings, silverwork and azulejos.

7. Forte de São Bras

Begun in 1552, this fortress guards the western end of Ponta Delgada’s port and continues to be used as a base by the Portuguese Navy.

Despite going through major changes in the 1800s it’s still an absorbing relic from colonial days when Ponta Delgada was under the constant threat of pirate raids.

You can go onto the upper platforms which are still equipped with cannons and more modern artillery, while in the bowels of the fort there’s a small military museum with heavy guns, vehicles, uniforms and models spanning almost 500 years.

8. Pico do Carvão

Ten kilometres from Ponta Delgada is a summit blessed with a complete view of the western side of São Miguel.

The scenery is both pastoral and spectacular, as there are verdant hillsides are speckled with cows and coated with coniferous woodland, but you’ll also become aware of the sheer number of volcanic cones on the island.

From this one spot you can also see both the north and south coasts, and the many lakes in the region sheltered in craters.

Things get really dramatic to the east where the Água de Pau Massif stratovolcano rises to almost 1,000 metres.

9. Lagoa Empadadas

Just downwind from the Pico do Carvão is one of those majestic craters, and it warrants a detour on the way to Sete Cidades.

If you catch a break with the weather this is a heavenly place for a picnic, receiving fewer visitors than São Miguel’s more famous lakes.

It’s the seclusion that will win you over: Until you get into the crater the water is completely obscured by cedar forest.

If you’re here in the spring months the scene is especially lovely as the pink azaleas on the shore will be in bloom.

10. Pinhal da Paz

A few minutes up from Ponta Delgada is an exquisite park that was planted in the early 20th century.

This used to be private property, and the original owner grew exotic species like the Japanese sugi pine, eucalyptus and bamboo amid 49 hectares of rugged volcanic terrain.

The plantation was abandoned by the 1990s before being restored and turned into a public park.

Mingling with the pines are hydrangeas and azaleas, and there are also lots of facilities now, like paddocks with guinea fowl and tear in the undergrowth, a hedge maze and picnic areas.

11. Dolphin and Whale Watching

This is one of those energising, once-in-a-lifetime activities that you simply have to do.

As a crucial whale reserve there’s activity around the Azores throughout the year, and bottlenose dolphins, sperm whales, common dolphins and Risso’s dolphins are all resident species so can be seen in any season.

But the ideal time to spot whales is April and May, when pilot whales, sei whales, fin whales and even titanic blue whales all pass through.

Whenever you come chances are high you’ll have some kind of encounter with a cetacean.

12. Lagoa do Fogo

You can get to this fantasy-like setting within half an hour of Ponta Delgada, and along with the Sete Cidades Lake it’s one of São Miguel’s indispensable natural wonders.

This is a magisterial lake filling a caldera created by an eruption in 1563, explaining the name “Lake of Fire”.  The cobalt lake, measuring one by two kilometres, is in a crucible of green basalt mountains and the highest on the island.

If you can spare the time it makes sense to save this hike for a day when there’s no cloud cover, as this will obscure your view of the lake at this high elevation.

13. Quinta Augusto Arruda

On those days when Sete Cidades and the Lago do Fogo are shrouded in fog you could head off in search of another São Miguel trademark: Namely, pineapples! The island’s volcanic soil is ideal for this fruit, but the only drawback is the inconsistent sun.

And that’s why there are an estimated 6,000 greenhouses, growing the Azorean pineapple, which has a small crown and intensely sweet flesh.

Quinta Augusto Arruda is the most convenient from Ponta Delgada, and you’re free to enter these balmy greenhouses that raise pineapples from flower to fruit in just two years.

You’ll be handed a leaflet explaining the history and process, and can visit the shop, which has pineapple jam and liqueurs.

14. Santo Cristo

On the fifth Sunday after Easter the statue of Santo Cristo dos Milagres emerges from its chapel in the convent to go on a procession around the churches in Ponta Delgada.

This ritual began in 1700 and came about when the statue was credited with halting tremors after being passed around Ponta Delgada’s various churches and convents.

For the celebration the Convento de Nossa Senhora da Esperança is illuminated with thousands of little bulbs, and the route of the procession along the city’s main artery is laid with a patterned carpet of flowers.

15. Sports and Activities

São Miguel’s lush greenery is ready to be explored in almost any way you can imagine, all catered by companies based in Ponta Delgada.

You can ride around the calderas and lakes on horseback or by mountain bike.

For thrills there are 4X4s, quad bikes or aerial paragliding escapades filmed with a GoPro to give you a lasting keepsake.

You can take kayak and canoe trips on the surface of the lakes, while the north coast of São Miguel is trimmed with beaches that get consistent waves for surfing.

15 Best Things to Do in Ponta Delgada (Portugal):

• Lagoa das Sete Cidades
• Convento de Nossa Senhora da Esperança
• Portas da Cidade
• Gruta do Carvão
• Igreja de São José
• Museu Carlos Machado
• Forte de São Bras
• Pico do Carvão
• Lagoa Empadadas
• Pinhal da Paz
• Dolphin and Whale Watching
• Lagoa do Fogo
• Quinta Augusto Arruda
• Santo Cristo
• Sports and Activities

Ponta Delgada, Azores: 12 Things To Do In My Hometown

Ponta Delgada, Azores. The place where I was born and where I still spend a big portion of my year. These are the top things to do in Ponta Delgada, all local tips from a proud Azorean.

The Azores are now a trending destination in Europe, a lot already has been said about touring the islands and São Miguel in particular.

Is Ponta Delgada worth visiting?

Ponta Delgada will probably be the welcome gateway when arriving to Azores. Ponta Delgada is the unofficial capital and most busy town in the archipelago. While there is a lot of natural beauty to explore elsewhere, Ponta Delgada has been changing a lot recently and now it’s a mandatory stop to get to know the Azores culture.

What is Ponta Delgada known for?

Located in the south cost of São Miguel, Ponta Delgada is known for its century-old churches, quaint cobbled streets and squares, a long seaside promenade, and a delicious collection of local bars and restaurants.

Don’t expect long avenues of expensive shops, a pungent nightlife or the overall buzz of a metropolis. It’s still the tranquil Azores after all and Ponta Delgada is still a quiet town for most standards.

Things to do in Ponta Delgada

With no further ado, these are the best things to do in Ponta Delgada, Azores.

• Avenida Infante D. Henrique (seaside promenade)
• Santuário de Senhor Santo Cristo (Santo Cristo Sanctuary)
• Gruta do Carvão (Carvão Cave)
• Portas da Cidade (City Gates)
• Arruda Pineapple Plantation
• Igreja Mãe de Deus (Mãe de Deus Church)
• Mercado da Graça
• Jardim António Borges (António Borges Garden)
• Whale Watching Tours
• Igreja Matriz de São Sebastião (Matriz Church)
• Pinhal da Paz
• Portas do Mar

Ponta Delgada Attractions Map

I’ve put all the Ponta Delgada main attractions, restaurants, bars, and shopping hotspots are on the below map ( direct link ). I’ve added in some local gems. 🙂

1 Avenida Infante D.Henrique

Locally known as simply Avenida , this seaside promenade is popular with both locals and tourists. It spawns from the Forte de São Brás military fortress on the west to Portas do Mar and Calheta on the east, a path marked by twisted black-and-white cobblestone patterns.

Along the way you can find shops, bars, cafés, Sol Mar shopping center, a marina, and the iconic Ponta Delgada’s City Gates . You can combine it with Portas do Mar on the same stroll.

A recent expansion to Avenida do Mar made it possible to go all the way to São Roque islet next to the sea – this is my favorite jogging route! 🏃

2 Santuário de Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres

This sanctuary/convent was built in 1541 and is still occupied by nuns of the order of Saint Francis. It’s the most important religious building in Azores, containing an immense treasure of religious art.

It’s the hotspot for the Santo Cristo dos Milagres (Saint Christ of Miracles) celebration, who brings thousands of people to São Miguel. The chapel inside holds the main Ecce Homo image, profoundly worshipped by religious locals, with its intricate outfits and jewels.

If you are around during the celebrations – around April/May – don’t miss the flower carpets decorating streets of the city center as well as spectacular façade illuminations at night. Expect live music, street markets, and other cultural events happening in the nearby Campo de São Francisco and all across town. 2019 dates are 24-30th May.

3 Gruta do Carvão (Carvão Cave)

Carvão Cave (translated as Coal Cave ) is the largest lava tunnel tube in São Miguel. Along the almost 2km of cavern walls, find bridges, stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and many other volcanic structures that show how the lava moved inside.

Obviously not for the claustrophobic folks!

4 Portas da Cidade (City Gates)

Literally the symbol of the city – they’re in the city hall’s logo – this monument represents how Ponta Delgada is metaphorically speaking the entrance gates of Azores.

Built in the 18th century, these gates mark the spot of the old city harbor and were the first line of defense of the island.

5 Arruda Pinneapple Plantation

Ok, I LOVE pineapples. If I could, I would marry a giant Azorean sweet pineapple and be happily ever after. Failing this, the next best thing I can think of is to visit a pineapple plantation when you’re in São Miguel. Out of the ones open to the public, the most popular is Arruda Plantation .

By entering this series of greenhouses in Fajã de Baixo you can have an exclusive peek of the extremely time-consuming and thorough plantation method used to create these beauties. Did you know you need 2 YEARS to fully grow an Azorean pineapple?

The plantation grounds also have a small café serving everything-pineapple (from the fruit itself to pineapple cakes and pineapple ice cream). It’s also decorated with the surreal private pineapple collection of the Arruda family who still owns the place. Jars, cups, plates, and many other decorative stuff all in pineapple shapes.

Pineapples usually grow in tropical climates typical from Equator (think Costa Rica!).

While the weather in Azores is entirely different, seeds from America were introduced in São Miguel island in the 19th century to take advantage of the fertile and nutritious soil. The best way they found to cultivate pineapples were in greenhouses which become very popular in the Ponta Delgada area.

The Azorean pineapple is smaller in size, but with a sweeter and more intense taste. Try one and feel your taste buds having a sugar rush!

6 Igreja Mãe de Deus (Mãe de Deus Church)

The highest hilltop in town is crowned by (yet another) black-and-white church made of basalt stone: Igreja Mãe de Deus – Mãe de Deus Church . It sits alongside bastions and other remains from the time this was a strategic defense point of the town.

Not going to lie: the surroundings are not super interesting and there isn’t a lot to do, but the 360-degree view up there is cool. Come during sunset for the best photos.

7 Mercado da Graça

Note: Mercado da Graça entered deep renovation works and the vendors are temporarily selling on the underground parking lot.

This place is filled with memories, because my family has done – and still does – most of the grocery shopping here. Since I can remember, every Saturday morning going to the market was a thing . As a kid, my favorite part was seeing the live animals – ducks, chickens, rabbits – that were up for sell.

Nowadays, although a new layer of stalls and shops catering for tourists has arisen recently but it is still a quite local market.

Great spot to find local delicacies and ingredients like cheese, pineapples, tea, and a big array of locally grown fruits and vegetables. It’s more lively on Fridays and Saturdays and closed on Sundays, so time your plan accordingly.

8 Jardim António Borges (António Borges Garden)

An oasis in the middle of the town, this garden is perfect for a morning stroll or run. Venture out, and explore lakes, caves, trails, and the prehistorical collection of plants.

In fact, this garden was originally created by a botanist who dedicated his life to import exotic species to its massive private property. The city hall later designated it as a public park in the 50s.

While not as spectacular as the Terra Nostra Gardens in Furnas , this has always been one of my favorite places to go when I’m in town and need to relax.

9 Whale-Watching tours

Whale-watching is a must-do activity to do in the Azores, especially if you are able to time your trip right to see several different species of cetaceans , between April and June.

A ticket is worth every single penny. The last time, I chose to go with Picos de Aventura and it surpassed my expectations. A great friendly staff, prioritizing safety but also allowing space for some fun and have a great time out there in the sea.

Most companies depart from Portas do Mar area at 2-3 different time slots of the day. Some others also have tours from Vila Franca do Campo .

Whatever tour company you decide to go with, make sure it complies with all the safety and ethical regulations to avoid disturbing and stressing out the animals.

Apart from whale-watching, some companies offer dolphin interaction tours which are NOT recommended. There has been increasing proof these tours have a negative impact on the stress of the animals. For some reason, the most experienced whale-watching company in the Azores – Espaço Talassa – stopped doing it.

10 Igreja Matriz de São Sebastião

Featuring intricate Portuguese Manueline-style architecture and the typically Azorean black basalt stone, Igreja Matriz de São Sebastião is Ponta Delgada’s Parish Church. It’s better known as Igreja Matriz .

Located in the heart of the city, in between the historical center and the sea, it’s one of the most beautiful churches in Azores, if you ask me. My favorite thing about it is the starred cobblestone street that goes around the building.

Tip: visit right before sunset when the façade is illuminated by a warm glowing sunlight.

11 Pinhal da Paz

If you want to truly unwind in the outskirts of the city, head to Pinhal da Paz in Fajã de Cima . This park is where locals come to relax, walk the dog or do a family barbecue.

This is (for now) a super off the beaten track spot so you probably won’t find many tourists here. You will find however some cool flora – like a bamboo forest! – and some cute fauna, including some deers! Free entry.

12 Portas do Mar

One of the latest big developments in Ponta Delgada was the controversial Portas do Mar (literally Sea Gates) project that changed the seaside area.

And all of a sudden, a gian open-air amphiteater, a cruise terminal, a strip of bars and shops, a marina, and a renewed natural pool – Piscina do Pesqueiro were born. Like it or not, good opportunity to cool yourself down with an ocean swim.

Where to stay in Ponta Delgada

Ponta Delgada is the most convenient place to pick as a hub to explore São Miguel.

Not only is geographically in the center of the island, with the best road connections to go everywhere else by car , but also has the best collection of restaurants, shops and supermarkets to enhance your trip.

There is accommodation for all budgets in Ponta Delgada. You can start your search with this shortlist of top-rated places in Ponta Delgada with WiFi .

Or to make your life easier, just pick your favorite amongst the top hotels I recommend according to each budget.

• Octant Ponta Delgada $$$
• Neat Hotel Avenida $$
• Central Guesthouse $
• Out of The Blue $

Octant Ponta Delgada

Premium hotel with modern design and within walking distance to the city center and to the ocean.

Neat Hotel Avenida

Style levels are high and the location is unbeatable, just a few steps from Ponta Delgada’s seaside avenue.

Where to shop in Ponta Delgada?

While Ponta Delgada is not a shopping destination per se , you might want to do your fair purchase of gifts, souvenirs, or local delicacies.

• Parque Atlântico : the largest mall in Azores has a bit of everything.
• Sol Mar Avenida : a (smaller) shopping center in Avenida. For souvenirs and Azorean gifts, head to Maviripa.
• Mercado da Graça : the farmers’ market I have done grocery shopping all my life is a fantastic place to peek into local’s food and culture.
• Downtown : the shops in downtown Ponta Delgada are diverse and many are getting a much needed face lift. Rua dos Mercadores and Rua de São João are the best shopping streets.

There are also a couple of shops at the airport selling local ingredients, souvenirs, and arts & crafts.

Is Ponta Delgada safe?

Like pretty much everywhere else in Azores, Ponta Delgada is very safe . Simply have the precautions you’d have anywhere else (eg, don’t wear flashy jewelry, avoid dark alleys when walking alone at night).

Where to eat in Ponta Delgada?

Contrarily to Furnas with its iconic stew and bolos levedos , there is no typical food of Ponta Delgada.

Instead, you can find a wide range of restaurants serving local food as well as a growing selection of international and vegetarian restaurants.

Best local restaurants in Ponta Delgada

• A Tasca : delicious local food, with a separate catch-of-the-day menu for fish. Good luck getting a table though.
• O Museu : uncomplicated and unpretentious restaurant serving local food. Those are the best, right?
• Otaka : if for some reason you get tired of Azorean meat and are craving sushi, this is the only (good) place to go. On the pricey side.
• Taberna Açor : local tapas. Great cheese and wine assortments.
• Xitaka : this one I haven’t tried, but heard compelling tales. Seafood place, big in quality and quantity. Quite far off the city center, but check with your hotel for a free transfer (!).

Best vegetarian restaurants in Ponta Delgada

• Rotas da Ilha Verde : sometimes I go there for the delicious lunch menu.
• Treze : small fresh and healthy vegetarian place in Ponta Delgada. Try the vegan burger!

What has been the highlights of Ponta Delgada, Azores for you? Share your experience below in the comments! 👇

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Destinations🌎

Ponta Delgada, The Heartbeat Of The Azores Islands

Breaking through the clouds in the sky, the picturesque coastline of Ponta Delgada comes into sight. A quaint white city appears which can be seen clearly as the pilot announces that the crew prepares for landing.

The beautiful view is instantly calming and gives you a sense of what Ponta Delgada, the heartbeat of the Azores has in store.

Ponta Delgada

Ponta Delgada is a tranquil and relaxing town often visited as an escape from peak season crowds.

It also serves as a gateway and perfect starting point to the breathtaking Azores, which boasts lush green hills, deep turquoise lakes and the best landscapes that nature has to offer.

Have a look at our article covering the Island of São Miguel and the Azores .

Portuguese architecture and cobblestone streets are a familiar sight in this modern and contemporary city, however, the predominantly white painted walls add a unique touch.

It is the largest municipality and heartbeat of the Azores, offering the best variety of restaurants, bars, and attractions.

Continue reading as I guide you through the full Ponta Delgada what, where, when and how.

These are just a few of the top things to see and do in Ponta Delgada

What to see

• It would only be fitting to start with viewing the City Gates, also known as Portas da Cidade . No trip to Ponta Delgada is complete without a picture here.
• Go on a full-day buggy tour and get to know the city (lunch is included). Book it here .
• Visit the church of São Sebastião da Pedreira ( Igreja Matriz de São Sebastião ) or The Church of São José (Igreja de São José) and admire the fine architecture. There are a few more historical churches which you may visit and all are outstanding.
• For those who enjoy history or would like to visit a Museum simply to enjoy more of the fascinating European craftsmanship, spend a couple of hours at Museu Carlos Machado .
• Take a stroll through the Jardim Antero de Quental which pays homage to the famous 19th-century poet, Antero de Quental, who was born in São Miguel .
• Do not leave the island without taking a drive out to see the exquisite landscape at the Lagoa das Sete Cidades , one of a few natural lakes on the island. Go on a canoe adventure on that magical lake too. Book it here .

• The list of things to do on the island continues to surprise, explore the caves of São Miguel ( Gruta do Carvão ), an adult ticket only costs €5!
• Head over to the Arruda Pineapple Plantation for an interesting experience. It is free to enter and there is a gift shop with cute novelty items and souvenirs to take home.

Experience the culture and sights of Ponta Delgada through a Walking Tour

Walking food tour.

If you are a foodie like me, you’ll want to do the Ponta Delgada Food Tour – Azores for Foodies walking tour by Hungry Whales Cultural and Food Tours.

Indulge in Azorean cuisine on this guided foodie experience while you learn about the region’s food culture from an informative local guide.

The 3-hour tour is priced at €65 per adult and includes 8 food tastings and 2 drinks. Enjoy complimentary tastings of meats, jams, fruit, and other local products.

Walking Tour

Ponta Delgada Walking Tour by Prazer d’Aventura, is an easy way to see top sights without doing all the research yourself.

Learn about cities history, culture and historical buildings. You will visit churches, museums, gardens and the famous traditional market “Mercado da Graça”, and finally the Marina or to the port Cruises “Portas do Mar”, where your tour ends.

The half-day tour costs €25 per adult which is a three to four hour guided walk around the city. Check out their website for other tours they offer in the area.

Free Walking Tour

If you prefer taking things at a slower pace, try a free walking tour . It is a self-guided tour through downtown Ponta Delgada. Enjoy a personalized experience with a small group as you walk and talk your way around.

Hidden gems tour in S. Miguel

If you are a sucker for hidden landscapes, away from all the fuss, this is the right tour for you. It takes 8 hours to go through that journey and it has a tour guide to show you around. It also includes an excellent pick-up service.

Where is Ponta Delgada?

Located on one of the nine major Azorean Islands, São Miguel is the largest and home to the capital city of Ponta Delgada.

It is 1446 km off the coast of Lisbon and 1508 from Porto which explains why it is a perfect escape from the mainland cities.

How to get to Ponta Delgada

Lisbon and Porto offer direct flights to Ponta Delgada. Travel time is 2-hours from Lisbon and a 2-hour and 25-minute flight from Porto. We have covered more details regarding travel to the Azores here .

The best part is that you land less than 3km from the city of Ponta Delgada, only minutes away from all sights and attractions.

After that, take a taxi or book a shuttle or tour bus to travel around as busses are not as frequent, and when used are slower as their routes are designed for locals and not tourists.

The João Paulo II Airport website offers information and options to book transport services, as well as your baggage and flight info.

Certain cruises may include Ponta Delgada in its itinerary, but do be sure to book many months in advance.

Renting a car in Ponta Delgada

Several car hire options are available at the airport with the lowest rate for 2 days currently at €81.12 from Goldcar. A free shuttle bus to the car hire counter is also provided.

See rates for different vehicles below.

*Rates are based on weekend dates during peak season.

What the weather is like and when its best to travel to

Temperatures peak at an average of 25°C in August and 19°C in February and March, the coldest months. Minimum temperatures settle at an average of 16°C in August and 12°C in February and March.

The best months to visit are from June to September. July is the driest with November being the wettest, so if walking around with an umbrella isn’t your thing best not to go then.

Hotels in Ponta Delgada

These are the best picks for hotel stays in Ponta Delgada

I always use Booking.com which I trust after years of only good experiences. Alternative booking sites which may be cheaper could be equally efficient, I just haven’t tried them as yet.

Rates below are directly from the hotel where available, do bear in mind that it is peak season right now and rates may be higher than usual.

Grand Hotel Açores Atlântico

The Grand Hotel Açores Atlântico is a five-star hotel which is known for its prime location, close to the historical centre. The hotel overlooks the marina and boasts amazing ocean views.

Rates vary between €153.85 to €285 per night depending on room type and booking flexibility.

Another five-star beauty set in an excellent location is the Azor Hotel . It offers views of the harbour and ocean, and the rooftop bar and pool feature more magnificent views to enjoy while relaxing. A five-minute walk gets you to downtown Ponta Delgada.

Rates vary between €356.85 to €604 per night depending on room type. The Booking.com rate is currently at €346 per night, with some site rates as low as €225.

Hotel Talisman

Situated a short walk away from the harbour and downtown area, Hotel Talisman is a charming 4-star hotel and offers great value at €170 per night. The Booking.com rate is currently at €125 per night, with some site rates as low as €109.

Airbnb fans, I haven’t forgotten about you

If you prefer to live like the locals or simply have an entire apartment to yourself, Airbnb has got you covered. Below is an excellent Superhost listing.

Ap Charme – Penthouse

Ap Charme – Penthouse is a truly charming loft in the city of Ponta Delgada. The modern apartment boasts luxury decor, plenty of natural light and magnificent views of the city, sea and mountains. Relax on the hammock or swing on the outdoor terrace.

Including cleaning and taxes, the rate for one night is €203 (currently discounted) or €377 for 2 nights.

Eating out in Ponta Delgada

The restaurant seen in Ponta Delgada offers surprising variety for a little island in the middle of the North Atlantic. Below are a few top picks to cater to every palette and pocket.

Rotas da Ilha Verde

Vegetarian or not, an absolute must-visit is Rotas da Ilha Verde . Enjoy delicious vegetarian, vegan, and even gluten-free meals and desserts in a cosy and casual setting.

Anfiteatro Restaurant & Lounge

If you love fine-dining then make a reservation at the highly-rated Anfiteatro Restaurant & Lounge . Enjoy Contemporary, the Mediterranean or Portuguese cuisine overlooking the bay of Ponta Delgada in the restaurant or a light meal, coupled with a signature cocktail in the lounge.

Head out to Otaka for an authentic Japanese dinner. The menu includes Japanese, Asian, Contemporary and Fusion cuisine. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free friendly options are on the menu as well.

What is a Portuguese holiday without Seafood ? Xitaka , another fine dining restaurant serves the best Seafood, fresh fish and mouth-watering grills. The menu consists of Meditteranean, European and Portuguese cuisines.

For the health-conscious or perhaps those of us who’d like to keep our waistline in check for the ‘gram’, Treze is a modern, casual restaurant serving tasty healthy dishes.

Mané Cigano

I try to eat local as often as possible whenever travelling to broaden my cultural experience. Mané Cigano is a lunchtime favourite among locals and travellers. The meals are fresh, tasty and easy on the pocket.

Try out the sardines at only €5 for a plate of 6, do go early as they close at 3 pm.

Is a trip to Ponta Delgada worth making?

Absolutely! A trip to Ponta Delgada is certainly a trip worth making. A short weekend away is sufficient to experience Ponta Delgada, however, you may want to add an extra day or two if you would like to see the rest of the natural beauties on São Miguel.

Many travellers also do Island hopping and covering more Islands will require a considerably longer stay depending on how many of the nine archipelagos you would like to visit.

While you are here, discover Pico Azores , another one of the 9 archipelagos recently covered by us, and make sure you subscribe to our newsletter to stay up-to-date on all things Portugal!

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How to spend a day in the Azores' capital of Ponta Delgada

The Azores archipelago of Portugal is full of jaw-dropping nature displays, charming historical towns and incredible food and wine. Any visitor flying to the island chain will find themself at least briefly in the Azores' capital, Ponta Delgada, as the destination is home to the region's main international airport.

But does this port city on the large island of São Miguel have anything noteworthy to offer? Is it worth spending time there beyond using it as a base for hikes and hot spring exploration? The answer to these questions is a definite "yes."

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

Here's what to see, eat and do when you have a day in the capital city of Ponta Delgada.

Dine at Tasquinha Vieira

A stylish restaurant with minimalist decor, Tasquinha Viera is a can't-miss spot for dinner. Like most restaurants here, the menu features plenty of fresh seafood cooked to perfection. You shouldn't forgo the cheese plate, filled with Azorean cheeses. We also recommend the slow-cooked beef, as well as the handmade ice cream for dessert. Be sure to sample as many local Azorean wines as your stomach (and brain) will allow.

Enjoy an evening stroll along the harbor

Ponta Delgada is a port city, so you can expect to find a bustling waterfront worth exploring. Stroll the waterfront promenade, Avenida Infante Dom Henrique. If you start at the western end, you'll see the 16th-century Forte de São Brás, a fortress still in use today by the Portuguese navy. It also houses the Military Museum of the Azores, should you want to spend some time learning about the region's military history. Continue walking and you'll eventually reach the famous (and photogenic) three arches of the original city gates, which date back to the 18th century.

Related: 11 things to see and do when you visit the Azores

Eat freshly baked queijadas da Vila

Come morning, you may need a quick pick-me-up. Each of the Azorean islands has a special queijada (Portuguese milk and egg pastry). Those found on São Miguel, called queijadas da Vila, were created by nuns from St. Andrew's Convent in Vila Franca do Campo. Adelino Morgado in Ponta Delgada began making the special queijadas in 1961. You'll see their paper-wrapped pastries throughout the city, but for the freshest ones around, head to the factory shop and have one (or two) with tea or coffee to start your day.

Go whale watching

A bit past the city gates is the marina, where dozens of companies offer three-hour whale and dolphin watching tours. The surrounding Atlantic waters teem with sea life, including various whale species. You can see dolphins and resident sperm whales year-round, while larger species like blue, fin and sei whales make an appearance in April and May. Arrive in October for a chance to see majestic humpback whales swimming in São Miguel's surrounding waters.

Explore the town square

When you've gotten your fill of the water, head through the city gates and into Largo da Matriz, the main town square where the beautiful 16th-century landmark church and bell tower, Igreja de São Sebastião, reside. The square is extremely picturesque, with patterned stonework on the ground. Charming cafes and shops line all four sides of the square, as well as along the side streets leading into the square.

Sample goods at the farmers market

When hunger strikes, make your way to the covered Mercado da Graça, which sits right in the city center. Here, you'll find stalls with vendors selling everything from tinned and fresh seafood to traditional liquors and spices. Pick up some locally made cheeses and regional staples — including the market's famous pineapples — to enjoy for lunch after stocking up on souvenirs and snacks for the rest of your trip.

Related: A guide to the food and wine of the Azores

Walk among palace gardens

About 10 minutes north of downtown Ponta Delgada, you'll discover the stunning Palácio de Sant'Ana. The bright red neoclassical building is the official residence of the region's president. Although the palace itself is not open to the public, the surrounding gardens are. You'll see manicured lawns, a pond, towering trees, greenhouses and walkable paths as you explore. Try to also save time for a visit to the Jardim Botânico José de Canto, a separate botanical garden right next door.

Savor traditional Portuguese food at A Tasca

This popular restaurant in the heart of the city is casual and tasty, serving many classic Azorean and Portuguese dishes, including petiscos, the Portuguese version of tapas. The eatery only uses ingredients sourced from the island to create dishes like breaded octopus rings with sweet-and-sour onion chutney, grilled pork sausage with pineapple and limpets, a local delicacy that's smothered in garlic butter. For dessert, look for anything with locally grown pineapple.

See the Chapel of the Holy Christ of Miracles

Any visit to Ponta Delgada should include a stop at one of the city's most well-known attractions: Nossa Senhora da Esperança Convent. The historic São Francisco Square site dates back to 1541. Inside, you'll find the gilded Chapel of the Holy Christ of Miracles, a pilgrimage site for many Azoreans. It is covered with 18th-century azulejo tiles, as well as lots of religious art, statues, jewels and more.

Discover the Carlos Machado Museum

Named after its founder, a local naturalist and professor, the small Carlos Machado Museum occupies a former monastery from the 16th century. It features a hodgepodge of quirky finds, including antique toys, religious and period art and taxidermic animals. It makes for a perfect last stop before heading on to other parts of São Miguel or another island.

Related: 6 off-the-beaten-path places to see in Europe

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Best Things to Do in Ponta Delgada, Azores on a Day in Port

Almost every transatlantic crossing, except Queen Mary 2, (what I’ve named the “Atlantic Express”) pays a call at Ponta Delgada, on the island of Saõ Miguel, in the Azores. 

More times than not, I hear people asking the ship’s shore excursion desk what are the best things to do in Ponta Delgada.

Here’s what I recommend to do in Ponta Delgada while visiting this middle of nowhere island!

While cruise lines constantly try to devise new and exciting shore excursions, it can seem pretty limited at first glance. An island in the middle of nowhere of which most people aren’t familiar. Surprisingly, there is actually quite a bit to do in Ponta Delgada.

Best Things to Do in Ponta Delgada, Azores

See Related: More Ponta Delgada in a Nutshell

There’s a lot to see, taste and do in Ponta Delgada even from right where you dock. If you have mobility concerns, there’s a elevator to get from the embarkation level to the plaza and shops level. 

All the restaurants offer free wifi with a meal. Great place to catch up with email and FaceTime. In addition to grabbing lunch, there’s a pharmacy, souvenir shops and clothing stores.

Walk a little ways past the port. Then cross the boulevard and climb up the narrow street to the cathedral. This is an easy uphill stroll to do in Ponta Delgada while the rest of the island is very hilly. Nice spot just to sit and relax and look out at the harbor.

If you decide to take a bus tour and head out into the verdant countryside, you will see some spectacular scenery. In the spring, colorful red and violet azaleas, yellow and deep purple-colored pansies are in bloom all around.

Where are the famous Hot Springs in Ponta Delgada?

First stop on your island tour might be to Caldeira Velha, a boiling hot sulphur spring. Watch your step. Seriously. Innocuous little puddles are actually small boiling cauldrons. Avoid those at all times. Saõ Miguel is bursting with incredible natural wonders. Definitely, not what you’d expect to do in Ponta Delgada. Or see!

Back on the bus. Another beautiful drive at dizzying heights. I had to close my eyes as we climbed higher and higher weaving along  narrow switchbacks. If there was a guard rail, I couldn’t see it from the bus window.

When you finally reach this point, you’ll forget about the cliff-hugging road to get here. This is highest lake on the island; the crystal blue water of magnificent Lagoa do Fogo, (Fire Lake). 

Set in the crater of an extinct volcano, the lake was formed after an eruption in 1563. Thus the name Fire Lake. The lake is slightly less than 100′ deep but extends nearly two-miles across. We were so lucky to have sunshine up here. At this elevation, fog and mist are the rule, not the exception.

Ponta Delgada and Pineapples

Another interesting, and tasty, place to visit is the Arruda Pineapple Plantation! Yes…pineapples!

Believe it or not, despite the pervasive fog and endless mist, Saõ Miguel is known for its pineapples! Go figure. Weather in the Azores is nothing like Hawai’i where you’d expect to find the best pineapples. But wait til you try one of these.

You’ll be handed a pamphlet about pineapple growing and go on a short tour of the greenhouse (a very short tour!) with an even shorter explanation on growing pineapples in the Azores. Apparently it has to do with the volcanic soil, similar to the abundance of lush lemon trees in Sicily under the gaze of Mt. Etna, I’d guess.

It’s a quirky little tour, but worth a visit. Be sure to buy a little souvenir bottle of pineapple liqueur to bring home.

See Related: Five Reasons to Take a Cruise Line Shore Excursion

Time to head back into town. Take note of this three-arch structure. It’s the threshold to Ponta Delgada, the Portas de Cidades.

Built in 1753, these were once the official Doors of the City of Ponta Delgada and located on the waterfront. The iconic structure was moved to Gonçalo Velho Cabral Square in 1952 when this area was developed.

Just takin’ a rest…

Time for a late lunch. Or an early dinner if your ship is docked through the evening. I walked to Restaurante Adega Regional from the harbor.

No reservations needed, especially at this early dinner time. First up, a bottle of chilled Azorean wine. Along with pineapple plantations, the Azores have become a prominent wine producer. 

Vineyards thrive in the volcanic soil as well as from the ever-present warming winds and high humidity caused by the Gulf Stream.

White wines from the Azores are made primarily from Arinto grapes. Smaller quantities are produced using Verdelho and Terrantez do Pico grapes. The Verdelho that I had was semi-sweet and went very well with my dinner, and especially with the cheese.

From wondering what in the heck to do, to realizing that your day went by in a blink. If your ship leaves the island before sunset, head out on deck for sailaway. The coastline of this volcanic beauty of an island is worth battling the wind to get a good photo.

I’m already looking forward to my return. Now that I know the best things to do in Ponta Delgada, I can head out in search of more adventures in the Azores.

PIN AND SAVE FOR LATER!

<– Day 7 – Day 9 –>

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Hi Jean, I agree…the sidewalks are a work of art. Thanks for your comment. Sherry

I still remember those beautiful stone sidewalks from my first stop there. Later we took a tour of the island but it’s the sidewalks I remember best.

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When you book a Ponta Delgada vacation package, you can relax and enjoy your getaway to the fullest. Discover the best parts of this unique city knowing that everything has been organized in advance. Fill up your itinerary with visits to Ponta Delgada Harbour , Ponta Delgada City Gates and University of the Azores , some of the things you simply have to see during a trip to Ponta Delgada. Don't delay your visit to this city any longer. The ultimate Ponta Delgada vacation is a few clicks away with Expedia.

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Ponta Delgada Beach Vacation

Kick back on the shore and feel the wind through your hair during your Ponta Delgada vacation. If it's your first time, why not pick up some colorful seashells as a memento of your trip to Ponta Delgada? Set up your base near Milicias Ocean Beach, a popular stretch of coast just 3 miles (5 km) from the center. We also have terrific Ponta Delgada vacation deals that are closer to Praia do Populo, another excellent nearby option.

Things You Should Know About Ponta Delgada

• If fresh sea air and walks along the shoreline are your idea of a dreamy escape, why not opt for one of our Ponta Delgada beach hotels ? Staying by the water is the perfect antidote to life's daily stresses.
• Our private vacation homes, including Quinta das Camelias and House With 3 Bedrooms in Ponta Delgada, With Furnished Terrace and Wifi , are popular with visitors of all types. Consider the facilities and get ready for your vacation in Ponta Delgada!
• Ponta Delgada is home to approximately 20,100 people. Why not get out and mingle with one or two of them? It's an excellent way to get a little inside intel on the place! You can also look up our Ponta Delgada things to do page .
• Ponta Delgada vacation deals are a superb way to save on unforgettable experiences. Some ideas, such as Ponta Delgada Harbour, Milicias Ocean Beach and University of the Azores, belong right at the top of your must-do list.

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Frequently asked questions, discover the most popular places to visit in ponta delgada, ponta delgada marina.

Explore the waterfront in São Sebastião with a trip to Ponta Delgada Marina.

Termas da Ferraria

You can take time to visit Termas da Ferraria during your travels to Ginetes.

Antonio Borges Garden

Explore the great outdoors at Antonio Borges Garden, a lovely green space in São José. While you're in the area, stroll along the seaside.

What to do in Ponta Delgada

São miguel: furnas hot springs at night with dinner, full day quad tour coast to coast double quad, são miguel east: full-day van tour with lunch, other vacations you might like.

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January Trip - Ponta Delgada Forum

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I have a question about traveling in January. Are all the restaurants open?

I was wondering what the best Tapas place is on the Island and if it would be open in January?

Thanks in advance.

10 replies to this topic

Are you asking about Sao Miguel island? It is the largest and most populous of the nine. Most restaurants on Sao Miguel are open in January. though operating hours for some may be reduced and menu options more limited. Some restaurants in small villages may be closed. The situation on smaller islands will be more restrictive.

Yes, I am asking about Sao Miguel island. Any Tapa bar recommendations?

Tapas are not Portuguese as far as I know. Tapas bars are Spanish, however there are probably places that serve smaller plates.

As Susan noted, there are several restaurants that serve small plates. Just enter Tapas on Sao Miguel in the search box and they will be displayed. Tapas are a Spanish tradition but have become global.

Thanks for all the replies.

If someone was visiting your hometown and asked for a good pizza restaurant, would you reply "Pizza is Italian"?

I am also aware that I can use google to find a restaurant. You can use google to answer most questions but one of the reasons people use TA is for personal experiences.

I guess I should rephrase my question and ask:

Is there anyone who can recommend a good Tapas restaurant on the Island?

No, I wouldn't say that to someone who was visiting, and I apologize if my response was rude. I've been to a number of restaurants in Sao Miguel, and I honestly can't think of any that I would consider to be 'tapas'. That's not to say that I didn't enjoy the food in the Azores - we had some very good meals. However, servings were generally huge so definitely not tapas :)

I know there are Chinese restaurants in the Azores and you can get pizza, burgers etc but tapas is not an Azorean thing.

Look for petiscos, it means snack in Portuguese and normally relates to small plates.

Sorry, I was suggesting the search box on this Azores thread on Trip Advisor, not Google. As you seem to really like tapas, Susan and I were merely attempting to manage your expectations. Tapas are not a specialty of Portuguese cuisine and even less so of Azorean.

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Ponta Delgada Hotels and Places to Stay

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New resorts signify impressive growth for travel and tourism.

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A record-breaking year is projected for Travel and Tourism.

Despite the plethora of daunting challenges faced by the hospitality industry over the past few years, the World Travel & Tourism Council is projecting a record-breaking year for Travel & Tourism in 2024, with the sector’s global economic contribution set to reach an all-time high of $11.1 trillion. According to the global tourism body’s 2024 Economic Impact Research, Travel & Tourism will contribute an additional $770 billion over its previous record, thereby solidifying its stature as a global economic engine, generating one in every 10 dollars worldwide. As the global sector surpasses its pre-pandemic prosperity, 142 of 185 countries are expected to outperform previous national records.

An important sign of this economic prosperity has been the opening of new resorts and hotels throughout the world, along with major renovations. To follow are several examples.

The renovation includes refreshed, expansive guestrooms and suites.

Newport Harbor Island Resort , Rhode Island

Newport Harbor Island Resort, the sole accommodations on Goat Island, is set to open at the end of April following a $50 million renovation. The renovation marks a new era for the former-Gurney’s property, comprised of refreshed, expansive guestrooms and suites, contemporary Spa, re-concepted culinary experiences, meeting spaces and 22-slip marina. Much of the art in the rooms and throughout the hotel was commissioned from local artists, while soft goods were hand-crafted by various New England weavers’ guilds. Instead of focusing on the ubiquitous Gilded Era and sailing communities of Newport, the design team chose to focus on the inherent simplicity of coastal life. Guests and locals will be invited to cozy up in the property’s upgraded culinary outlets, including its full-service restaurant 1639, Torpedo Bar and Lounge, the lobby’s The Bakery and the beloved Pineapple Club.

The resort boasts 70 exquisitely designed guest rooms and suites.

TA’AKTANA, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Labuan Bajo , Indonesia

Slated to debut spring 2024, TA’AKTANA is situated in the scenic town of Labuan Bajo among the enchanting landscapes of Flores island, which is home to one of the world’s highest populations of the endangered Komodo dragons. TA’AKTANA joins The Luxury Collection as Marriott Bonvoy’s first property in the region. The resort spans 16 hectares of pristine terrain and boasts 70 exquisitely designed guest rooms and suites, including overwater villas and family-friendly accommodations with 24-hour butler service. The resort’s Sea Villas offer overwater opulence that will immerse guests in the beauty of the resort’s local surroundings. TA’AKTANA is a destination itself, offering exceptional comfort and amenities. Guests can unwind in expansive pools offering breathtaking views of the Flores Sea, indulge in wellness with rejuvenating treatments or embark on a delectable gastronomic journey.

La Vista offers guests a modern, light and airy dining space.

La Vista at Cameron House , Scotland

Cameron House, the five-star resort on Loch Lomond, Scotland, opened La Vista, a brand new restaurant. La Vista will serve authentic Italian cuisine and boasts panoramic views of the loch. Formerly The Boat House, the acclaimed resort has invested $2 million in transforming the lochside restaurant into a modern, light and airy dining space with a 138-cover restaurant, informal Mercato with a dining area for 50 guests and a private dining room for up to 24 people. An al fresco terrace launching in the summer will provide an additional 120 covers. Open seven days a week, from breakfast to dinner, Head Chef, Mark Pawsey’s main menu celebrates authentic Italian cuisine and features dishes rooted in traditional recipes executed with modern flair. The menu is divided into small aperitivo plates and cicchetti, larger signature mains, handmade pastas and wood-fired pizzas cooked in a Valoriani oven.

The expansive interior of The Rockley features colorful touches.

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Goldman sachs issues stark bitcoin halving price warning, an update on wednesday season 2 with a fantastic casting decision, the rockley , barbados.

Opened on March 27, The Rockley, located on the South Coast of Barbados, brings a local vibe and a hip new hotel experience to the Rockley Beach area known for its lively bars, signature restaurants and authentic island experiences. Owned and operated by the Ocean Hotels Group, the Rockley is the reincarnation of the old South Beach hotel. The modern 49-room boutique hotel, an urban chic oasis, was brought to life by Michelle Leotaud of Apple & Iron, a Barbados-based design firm. Rooms at The Rockley feature colorful local touches including playful Bajan sayings on throw pillows, the island’s iconic Bus Stop sign and thoughtful locally crafted amenities that celebrate Bajan culture. The hotel’s new outdoor covered bar area offers a trendy beach club vibe that will feature daily and nightly entertainment. The Rockley has also upgraded and repurposed its reception, pool deck and communal spaces.

Each rooms reflects the island’s natural charm and elegance.

Octant Ponta Delgada , Portugal

Following a series of renovations of the common spaces, Octant Ponta Delgada, located in the Azores on São Miguel Island, launched five new room categories. Among the five newly renovated suite categories, the spotlight shines on a Whale Watching Room, a sanctuary where guests can observe the majestic blue whales with an in-room telescope and private balcony. With panoramic ocean views and thoughtful amenities, including exercise and yoga equipment and a minibar with local products, the new room promises an unparalleled connection with the surrounding nature of the islands. From the Sea View Room, offering stunning vistas of the marina, to the spacious Family Two Bedroom suite, perfect for family getaways, every space reflects the island’s natural charm and elegance.

100 Princes Street is set within the historic former Overseas League.

100 Princes Street , Edinburgh, Scotland

Red Carnation Hotel Collection will open 100 Princes Street, its first Scottish hotel, in spring 2024. Inspired by the adventures and tales of Scottish explorers who once called the building their home away from home, 100 Princes Street is set within the historic former Overseas League, nestled in Edinburgh's cultural heart, a stone's throw from Scotland's National Gallery. With uninterrupted views of Edinburgh Castle, the original building and its iconic features will be respectfully renovated, transforming it into an exclusive retreat on Edinburgh’s most famous street.

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