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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.

ponta delgada tourist

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

ponta delgada tourist

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.

ponta delgada tourist

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).

ponta delgada tourist

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

ponta delgada tourist

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 .

ponta delgada tourist

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 .

ponta delgada tourist

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.

ponta delgada tourist

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.

ponta delgada tourist

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.

Ponta Delgada

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.

ponta delgada tourist

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.

ponta delgada tourist

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

ponta delgada tourist

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!

ponta delgada tourist

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.

ponta delgada tourist

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 .

ponta delgada tourist

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.

ponta delgada tourist

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!

ponta delgada tourist

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.

ponta delgada tourist

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.

ponta delgada tourist

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.

ponta delgada tourist

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 tourist

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).

ponta delgada tourist

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.

ponta delgada tourist

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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PlanetWare.com

9 Top Tourist Attractions in Ponta Delgada & Easy Day Trips

Written by Paul Bernhardt Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Ponta Delgada, on São Miguel, is the regional capital of the Azores archipelago, a string of nine islands in the Atlantic Ocean about 1,300 kilometers west of Portugal's mainland and about a two-hour flight from Lisbon. The town lies on the south coast of São Miguel, the largest island, and is a rewarding introduction to this beautiful and remote Portuguese territory - one of the world's great adventure tourism destinations .

Distinctive architecture of whitewash and black basalt lend Ponta Delgada a monochrome complexion, but this is a town full of colorful character. Spend time exploring its historical center, and you'll discover cobbled squares, museums, well-tended gardens, and handsome monuments built when Ponta Delgada was an important trading port in the 18th and early 19th centuries.

In summer, the waters of the Azores offer fabulous opportunities for whale watching. And there's plenty to see and do inland, too. São Miguel is blessed with dramatic volcanic scenery, such as giant crater lakes and hissing hot springs. Discover the best places to visit in this Azores capital with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Ponta Delgada.

See also: Where to Stay in Ponta Delgada

1. Harbor Front and Historical Quarter

2. convento e capela de nossa senhora da esperança, 3. gruta do carvão, 4. museu carlos machado-núcleo de arte sacra, 5. igreja são sebastião, 6. teatro micaelense, 7. arruda açores pineapple plantation, 8. festa do senhor santo cristo dos milagres, 9. dolphin and whale watching tours, day trips from ponta delgada, lagoa das sete cidades, lagoa do fogo, furnas and the caldeiras das furnas, plantações de chá gorreana, where to stay in ponta delgada for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to ponta delgada, frequently asked questions, what are the best beaches near ponta delgada, when is the best time to visit ponta delgada, more must-see sights in portugal: islands and mainland.

Harbor Front and Historical Quarter

For a pleasant overview of Ponta Delgada, stroll Avenida Infante Dom Henrique , the town's harbor front promenade. Start at its western end, which overlooks the 16th-century Forte de São Brás , a Renaissance fortress that's used today by the Portuguese navy and houses the Azores Military Museum .

Lying opposite is Praça 5 de Outubro on which Convento e Capela de Nossa Senhora da Esperança is located, and the scene of much celebration during the annual Festa do Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres.

Continuing on, you'll notice on your left the familiar three arches of the original 18th-century city gates standing resplendent on Praça Gonçalo Velho Cabral and captured countless times by cameras and smart phones.

Cross the square to visit the handsome Igreja São Sebastião before rejoining the avenue and heading towards the marina. This is the place to book a whale watching cruise - one of the "don't miss" things to do in Ponta Delgada.

Enjoy a coffee on the esplanade before turning back to follow your own footsteps, or meander into the city center for a spot of shopping and a bite to eat.

Convento e Capela de Nossa Senhora da Esperança

Arguably the most visited of Ponta Delgada's cultural attractions, the Convent and Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Esperança (Our Lady of Hope) was completed in 1541 and is still occupied by nuns of the order of St. Francis .

A veritable treasure trove of religious art, the chapel is embellished with a fabulous canvas of 18th-century azulejos tiles crafted by António de Oliveira Bernardes, the greatest master of the genre. The altar, meanwhile, is a riot of gilded woodwork.

The chapel is associated with the worship of the Christ of the Miracles , and it's the image of Ecce Homo that is revered by locals. Brought to the island in the 16th century, the statue is hidden away in the lower church and can only be viewed at certain hours, when a nun opens the internal gates to allow visitors in to see it. Hold your breath because this is also an opportunity to admire the intricately embroidered vestments, polished reliquaries, and sparkling jewels surrounding the statue.

If you're in Ponta Delgada on the fifth Sunday after Easter, you'll witness the image hoisted aloft by worshippers for a procession to mark the lavish Festa do Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres celebration. During the festival, the convent is illuminated at night in spectacular fashion by thousands of glowing light bulbs affixed to the façade.

Address: Praça 5 de Outubro, Ponta Delgada, São Miguel, Azores

Gruta do Carvão

Deep underground, on the northwestern outskirts of the city, is this fascinating site, an ancient lava tube 1,650 meters in length and the longest of its kind on São Miguel. Around 250 meters is accessible to the public, making the subterranean spectacle one of the most unusual visitor attractions on the island.

Guided tours take place on a seasonal basis and afford a fascinating geological jaunt through thousands of years of volcanic activity.

Decorating the cavern walls are speleological structures of bizarre and compelling beauty, including lava bridges and thousands of conical-shaped stalactites. The walls and ceilings appear splashed with rust, in fact the result of basalt oxidization that lends the darkened interior a copper glow when illuminated. Adding texture are secondary mineral deposits of silica, and glaze and tree moulds.

Warm and humid even in winter, this hidden natural wonder lures the adventure tourist, as well as those with an appreciation for the Azores' splendid ecological diversity.

Address: Rua do Paim, 2nd Circular, Ponta Delgada

Museu Carlos Machado-Núcleo de Arte Sacra

The quirky collection of regional ethnography on display at the Carlos Machado Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the customs and traditions of island life.

Founded in 1876 and named after its founder, the museum is housed in the former 16th-century monastery of Santo André , and is worth a good hour of your time, especially if visiting with kids - youngsters will appreciate the miscellany of lovely antique toys and trinkets from the early 20th century.

As well as showcasing Sao Miguel's fishing and farming industries, the museum holds a permanent collection of period and contemporary paintings and sculpture, important works that include paintings by local artist Domingos Rebelo (1891-1975).

The museum's separate Núcleo de Arte Sacra houses sacred art treasures, while Machado's own natural history collection is preserved in a dedicated wing.

Address: Rua Machado dos Santos Núcleo de Santa Bárbara, Ponta Delgada, São Miguel, Azores

Igreja São Sebastião

Constructed from the black basalt stone that characterizes all public buildings in the Azores, São Sebastião is Ponta Delgada's parish church. Founded in 1533 originally as a small chapel, the exterior is distinguished by an ornate Manueline portal carved from limestone.

During the 18th century, additions in the Baroque style saw a clock tower built and the interior decorated with beautiful azulejo panels. The sumptuous gilded woodwork embellishing the sacristy and most of the furniture was carved from jacaranda and other exotic timber imported from Brazil .

The best time of day to admire the façade is dusk, when it is bathed in soft, luminous floodlight. The Café Mascote opposite the church provides a suitable vantage point - and an inexpensive snacks menu.

Address: Largo da Matriz, Ponta Delgada, São Miguel, Azores

Teatro Micaelense

The Micaelense Theater is Ponta Delgada's lively cultural hub, and does the city proud with an eclectic program of performing arts staged throughout the year. Very much at the vanguard of contemporary artistic expression, the theater presents some of Portugal's best-known exponents of experimental dance.

But this is a place full of surprises. One month an audience can be treated to a light-hearted musical; the next, classical ballet. Concerts range from toe-tapping jazz to melancholy fado. Sometimes a bit of rock is thrown in for good measure.

Theater productions are nearly always in Portuguese, so visitors without a good command of the language should instead check out the cinema, which screens films in their original language. Micaelense also doubles as an art gallery; again, it's the modern and abstract that tends to enjoy the greatest exposure.

Pre-booked, one-hour guided tours of the theater, which dates from 1951, raise the curtain over areas of the premises normally closed to the public, including the exterior balconies that afford fine views over the city's historic center.

Address: Largo de São João, Ponta Delgada, São Miguel, Azores

Official site: http://www.teatromicaelense.pt

Arruda Açores Pineapple Plantation

One of the more unusual sightseeing destinations on São Miguel is this well-known pineapple plantation , located on the outskirts of Ponta Delgada. You can see the greenhouses (the Azores are not warm enough to cultivate the fruit outdoors), and tours of the plantation take place every day. Note that the guides are not tourism professionals, and some have limited foreign language skills, not that you need to be told how succulent and delicious this exotic fruit is.

The fruits are for sale. Ask for your order to be packed in a special presentation box. And for a treat, why not purchase a bag of their mouth-watering pineapple boiled sweets to go?

Address: Rua Dr Augusto Arruda, Fajã de Baixo, São Miguel, Azores

Festa do Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres

One of the most eagerly anticipated events in the city is the annual festival of Santo Cristo dos Milagres . Held on the fifth Sunday after Easter, this is one of São Miguel's most important religious festivals and attracts pilgrims from all over the world.

The celebrations begin during the preceding week when the Convent and Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Esperança is illuminated, and the surrounding streets carpeted with fresh flowers arranged in geometric patterns.

On the day, the image of Ecce Homo , wrapped in a scarlet and gold robe decorated with woven flowers, is taken from the convent to join a slow-moving procession of townspeople and children. Members of the church lead the procession carrying large, heavy candles. The scene is poignant and hushed, and you can't help being moved by the air of solemnity that descends over the town.

Later, the mood changes considerably when Ponta Delgada celebrates the occasion with a night full of music, dancing, and other festivities.

Sperm whale tail in front of Pico volcano, Azores Islands

The Azores archipelago is renowned as an outdoor pursuits destination, where you can indulge in all sorts of exciting adventure tourism programs, anything from hiking, canyoning, and horseback riding to kayaking, surfing, and big game fishing. But there's one activity synonymous with this remote group of islands: whale watching.

Some 25 species of cetaceans can be found in the nutrient-rich waters of the Azores, with the sperm whale the most frequently observed.

The best time to see these majestic mammals is between April and September. High summer attracts the likes of the short-finned pilot whale and Sowerby's beaked whale. The graceful humpback whale is often observed and, if you're very fortunate, the mightiest animal on the planet may slip into view: the blue whale.

Dolphins seen regularly are Risso's, bottlenose, Atlantic spotted, and striped, among others. A two- to three-hour whale and dolphin watching tour is a quick and easy way to get out on the water and see some wildlife.

Other top whale watching spots in the Azores are the waters around Faial Island and Pico Island . Faial Island is home to an important whale monitoring center in the city of Horta.

Lagoa das Sete Cidades

The spectacular volcanic caldera (crater) lake of Lagoa das Sete Cidades is one of the great natural wonders of the Azores archipelago. On the northwestern tip of São Miguel and reached by vehicle, the "Lake of Seven Cities" is absolutely mesmerizing in its beauty.

Nearly five kilometers in length, two kilometers wide, and roughly 12 kilometers in circumference, this is the largest freshwater lake in the Azores and in fact consists of two lagoons: the Green Lagoon and the Blue Lagoon . An emerald mantle of rolling hills and lush vegetation frames both, and in some places, the cliffs drop 500 meters into the mirror-like waters.

The pretty village of Sete Cidades lies on the crater floor and can be reached by crossing the road bridge that divides the two lakes.

You can easily spend a day here. The water's edge is a perfect place to unpack a picnic, and the more adventurous can follow one of the footpaths that skirt the crater's rim. A stunning panorama unveils itself from the Vista do Rei viewpoint, named from King Carlos's visit in 1901, where both lakes can be admired. Bear in mind that a capricious Mother Nature can sometimes spoil the scene with unpredictable spells of mist and rain, but even in these conditions the place is very atmospheric, if somewhat chilly.

Lagoa do Fogo

The "Lake of Fire" is another breathtaking caldera with a lake at the bottom. Its remote setting, more or less in the middle of São Miguel Island, makes this impressive volcanic crater especially appealing to outdoor enthusiasts - there is a moderately difficult 14-kilometer uphill walk that starts from Ribeira da Praia on the south coast that ends overlooking the crater's rim.

A steep, narrow path takes hikers down to the lake's edge and - believe it or not - a sandy beach. There are no settlements here. Instead, the whole area is a protected nature reserve, and the crater's walls are studded with a number of endemic plant species.

If heading to the lake by vehicle from the northern coastal town of Ribeira Grande, you can turn off the main road beforehand and explore Caldeira Grande . Here, you'll find a pool fed by a warm waterfall, where you can indulge in an invigorating mineral-rich bath - an idyllic way to soothe stiff joints and niggling aches and pains. It's a popular beauty spot, and you may have to share this natural "Jacuzzi" with the locals.

Furnas and the Caldeiras das Furnas

With its gushing geysers, burping mud, and hot bubbling springs, the spa resort of Furnas positively trembles with geothermal activity. A historically active volcanic complex, Furnas embraces a small village; a renowned spa facility; the verdant Parque Terra Nostra ; and the impressive Lagoa das Furnas , the second largest lake on São Miguel.

There's been a functioning spa here since the 19th century, and patients still flock to its doors seeking remedies for skin complaints or hoping to alleviate tired and aching muscles. Sightseers, on the other hand, come here to cure their wanderlust.

There are dozens of hot springs, or fumaroles, dotting the landscape, gaping holes of boiling mineral waters that emerge from the ground, gasping and hissing and emitting a sulphurous, iron-laced vapor.

The northern shores of the Lagoa das Furnas, about two kilometers south of the village, are so hot that islanders come here to cook the famous Cozido nas Caldeiras - a rich meat and vegetable stew. The ingredients are placed in a sealed pot and lowered into a hole in the ground and left to cook slowly for up to seven hours.

Be sure to sample this unique island specialty in one of the traditional village restaurants, but leave time afterwards to walk off the rich concoction in the Terra Nostra botanical garden . In spring this well-tended oasis blossoms with hydrangeas, camellias, hibiscus, and magnolias. The garden, which is embellished with water features and planted with more than 2,000 different trees, is set within the Terra Nostra Garden Hotel, and non-residents are charged a modest entrance fee.

Official site: http://www.parqueterranostra.com

Plantações de Chá Gorreana

The Gorreana Tea Estate is the only tea plantation in Europe, and makes for a very interesting diversion. Family-owned and sited on gently undulating slopes near Ribeira Grande , the 50-hectare estate produces some 30 tonnes of tea a year.

Four different leaf varieties are organically grown and harvested here between April and September: green tea, black tea, orange pekoe tea, and broken leaf. You can walk the tidy terraces where the shrubs are cultivated before touring the factory to see the leaves being processed.

The most traditional aspect of the production line is the sorting room, where teams of ladies dressed in blue smocks and wearing hair nets sort and pack the tea by hand.

A small museum exhibits some of the original machinery used when production started in 1883, and an adjacent shop stocks individual packets of tea, as well as special presentation boxes containing all four varieties. You can also enjoy a cup or two on the terrace while admiring the fabulous sea views.

Address: Estrada Regional, Ribeira Grande, São Miguel, Azores

Official site: https://gorreana.pt/en/

Ponta Delgada, on the island of San Miguel, stretches along its waterfront, and the town's tourist attractions are fairly close together. So most hotels in the central area are within walking distance of the churches and museums, as well as to the marina, where boats leave for whale watching cruises. Here are some highly rated hotels in Ponta Delgada:

  • Luxury Hotels : Ponta Delgada's most upscale accommodation is the Azor Hotel , with large rooms, many of which have balconies overlooking the marina. Guests enjoy the rooftop pool and free breakfast, and the hotel is a short walk from the historic center's attractions. Hotel Marina Atlantico also overlooks the marina, and spacious rooms on the upper floors have good views. The included breakfast buffet has a large range of dishes to choose from.
  • Mid-Range Hotels: In the center of town, close to restaurants and shopping, Sao Miguel Park Hotel has a health club with a sauna, whirlpool tub, indoor and outdoor pools, and a Turkish bath. Lince Azores Great Hotel is about a 10-minute walk from the downtown area, and has a pool and free underground parking. This, plus the hotel's easy access to major roads make it a good choice for visitors who rent a car to tour the island. It's an easy walk from the marina and downtown, or an inexpensive mini-bus ride. Balconies at Grand Hotel Acores Atlantico overlook the marina and ocean, near the center of town. The hotel has a pool, sauna, and fitness area.
  • Budget Hotels: The Art Deco Hotel Talisman overlooks a peaceful garden in the heart of the old town, close to restaurants and attractions. Rooms are big, and the included breakfast is abundant. Balconies at the contemporary Hotel Canadiano surround a quiet courtyard, and guests have free parking. It's a 10-minute stroll to the historical center and seafront restaurants and attractions. Hotel do Colegio occupies a historic building in an excellent in-town location, with an adjacent restaurant. The staff is exceptionally accommodating and will arrange transport from the airport.
  • Half-Day City Walking Tour: With so many things to do and places to see, it's worth considering joining a Ponta Delgada Walking Tour . This way, you are guaranteed an entertaining and highly educative introduction to this historic destination. This four-hour tour through the historical center takes you to the city's traditional market as well as its beautiful churches, gardens, and museums.
  • Full-Day Island Tours: The largest of the archipelago's nine islands, São Miguel is best discovered at leisure over a few days. Spend one day on the São Miguel West Tour , which takes in Lagoa das Sete Cidades and other fabulous natural attractions such as Lagoa do Fogo . The following day, travel the opposite direction on the São Miguel East Tour , where places like Furnas are the headliners.

Praia das Milícias : Also known as Praia Grande, this is the largest and most popular of São Miguel's beaches. Located five kilometers from Ponta Delgada, Milícias is blanketed with dark volcanic sand, a natural feature typical of all the islands in the Azores archipelago. A huge beach (in English grande means "big"), Milícias is a favorite with families, drawn to the warm, shallow waters that lap the beach and the leisure amenities that include cafés, toilets, and showers, and access for those with mobility issues.

Praia do Pópulo : As its name suggests, this popular stretch of sand is a real crowd-pleaser, especially with surfers. Located in Rosto de Cão on the outskirts of Ponta Delgada, this is a small, fairly exposed beach that has reasonably consistent surf. A year-round hit with the surfing fraternity, Pópulo fills up in summer with sunseekers.

Água de Alto : A 30-minute drive east out of Ponta Delgada brings you to Água de Alto, which is situated in Vila Franca do Campo. Set in a sheltered bay and blessed with a generous swathe of sand, Água de Alto is one of the more tranquil beaches on the island: there is just one café serving the area, and beach facilities are limited.

The Azores' famously capricious weather is sometimes difficult to predict, although it's mild year-round. Generally, however, the summer months herald a dry, sunny, though often humid interlude. The best time to visit Ponta Delgada is late spring. Rain is infrequent, the flowers are still vibrant, and the city is still relatively devoid of tourists. But the whales have arrived!

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If you've fallen for the charm and beauty of the Azores, your next visit to Portugal should include the Madeira archipelago, the country's other volcanically charged destination. Funchal is the port of entry for all visitors. Back on the mainland, tick off the best places to visit and then follow our great itineraries to make the most out of your time exploring this small but hugely diverse nation.

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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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

quad bikes

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

Full Suitcase Travel Blog

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

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: February 9, 2024

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

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 .

Ponta Delgada city in the Azores

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.

Portas da Cidade - best things to do in Ponta Delgada Azores

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.

Igreja de Sao Sebastiao and Largo da Matriz in Ponta Delgada

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.

Bell Tower and Town Hall of Ponta Delgada (Camara Municipal)

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.

Ponta Delgada aerial view from Torre do Relogio ou Torre Sineira

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.

Ponta Delgada harbor and waterfront area Portas do Mar

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.

Best things to do in Ponta Delgada - Forte de Sao Bras

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.

Holy Christ of Miracles chapel in Ponta Delgada (Santuario do Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres)

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.

Best things to do in Ponta Delgada - Palace of Sant Ana

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 .

Discovery of the Azores azulejos panel at Jardim José do Canto in Ponta Delgada

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.

Azorean pineapple for sale at Mercado da Graca market in Ponta Delgada

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.

Azores pineapple plantation in Ponta Delgada

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.

Lagarta tourist train in Ponta Delgada, Azores

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 .

Carlos Machado Museum in Ponta Delgada

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…

St Pedro church in Ponta Delgada (Igreja de São Pedro)

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.

Things to do in Ponta Delgada - Jardim Antonio Borges

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.

Whale watching near Ponta Delgada

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.

Azores souvenirs for sale in Ponta Delgada

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

Hotel Talisman and a narrow old town street in Ponta Delgada

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!

What to do in Ponta Delgada on Sao Miguel island in the Azores, Portugal

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

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

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!

Thursday 13th of January 2022

I'll be travelling to Ponta Delgada this weekend. This will be a useful guide and I'll try to visit as many of those places as I can. Thanks for producing this.

Have a wonderful time in the Azores, Chris!

The Intrepid Guide

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

top 10 things to do in ponta delgada 2018

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

things to do in ponta delgada 2018 azores travel guide Swimming with Dolphins

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

top 10 things to do in ponta delgada in 2018 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)

top 10 things to do in ponta delgada in 2018 Portas da Cidade City Gate

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

top 10 things to do in ponta delgada in 2018 Parish Church Sao Sebastiao

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!

top 10 things to do in ponta delgada in 2018 Parish Church Sao Sebastiao at night

5. Relax in Campo de São Francisco

ponta delgada tourist

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.

top 10 things to do in ponta delgada in 2018 Campo de Sao Francisco

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

top 10 things to do in ponta delgada in 2018 Forte Sao 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.

top 10 things to do in ponta delgada in 2018

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

top 10 things to do in ponta delgada in 2018 Hermitage of the Mother of God sunset

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.

top 10 things to do in ponta delgada in 2018 Hermitage of the Mother of God

8. Wander Through the Grottoes at António Borges Garden

top 10 things to do in ponta delgada in 2018 antonio borges jardim paths

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.

top 10 things to do in ponta delgada in 2018 - antonio borges jardim

9. Visit the Famous Azorean Arruda Pineapple Plantation

top things to do in ponta delgada in 2018 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.

top 10 things to do in ponta delgada 2018 Pineapple plantation

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!

top 10 things to do in ponta delgada 2018 Pineapple plantation

10. Find the Quirky Street Art

top things to do in ponta delgada in 2018 whale and fish

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.

top 10 things to do in ponta delgada 2018 street old man

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.

top things to do in ponta in 2018 delgada old woman

Where to Eat in Ponta Delgada

Where to eat in the Azores in 2018

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

Where to stay in the Azores in 2018 - 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

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top 10 things to do in ponta delgada 2018

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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You may also like, 5 day azores itinerary: 26 top things to..., 11 reasons why you should visit the azores....

ponta delgada tourist

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 :)

ponta delgada tourist

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!

ponta delgada tourist

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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How to spend a day in the Azores' capital of Ponta Delgada

Devorah Lev-Tov

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."

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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.

ponta delgada tourist

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.

ponta delgada tourist

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.

ponta delgada tourist

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

Ponta Delgada, Azores: 12 Things To Do In My Hometown

ponta delgada tourist

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

ponta delgada azores avenida

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! 🏃

hotels ponta delgada azores safest areas

2 Santuário de Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres

ponta delgada azores santo cristo lights

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)

ponta delgada azores 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

ponta delgada pineapple plantations arruda

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

ponta delgada azores farmers market mercado graca

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)

ponta delgada azores gardens antonio borges park

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

  Ver esta publicação no Instagram   Uma publicação partilhada por BRUN🌎 (@bruno_mb) a 16 de Jul, 2017 às 3:36 PDT

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

ponta delgada azores 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 $

ponta delgada hotel azor

Octant Ponta Delgada

Premium hotel with modern design and within walking distance to the city center and to the ocean.

ponta delgada neat hotel avenida sao miguel hotels

Neat Hotel Avenida

Style levels are high and the location is unbeatable, just a few steps from Ponta Delgada’s seaside avenue.

ponta delgada where to stay low budget out of the blue

Central Guesthouse

If your budget is limited and you just want a clean and convenient place to stay, this is it.

Where to shop in Ponta Delgada?

ponta delgada azores shopping parque atlantico

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.
  • Boca de Cena : an experience. This restaurant is a one-man show where the same person cooks, serves and manages reservations. Delicious.
  • 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🌎

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Ponta Delgada

ponta delgada tourist

  • 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 tourist

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 ]

ponta delgada tourist

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 ]

Map

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 ]

ponta delgada tourist

  • 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 )
  • 37.73624 -25.67267 3 Forte São Bras , R. Eng. Abel Ferin Coutinho 10 . M-F 10:00-18:00 . A 16th-century fort that was in use until World War II. You can walk on the ramparts, explore the tunnels, and view a variety of old military equipment in the military museum. Adult €3, senior €1 . ( updated Feb 2024 )
  • 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.

ponta delgada tourist

  • 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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Aye Wanderful

Ponta Delgada Travel Guide: Gateway to the stunning Azores

Ponta Delgada Travel Guide Portas de cidade City Gates

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.

Miradouro da Boca do Inferno | São Miguel | Azores Travel Guide Sao Miguel itinerary | 5 days in Azores | 1 week in Azores

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.

Ponta Delgada Travel Guide Sunset Harbour

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!

Things to do Ponta Delgada Travel Guide Buildings

City centre.

Ponta Delgada Travel Guide Harbour walk

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.

Ponta Delgada Travel Guide Portas de cidade City Gates

Portas da Citades

Ponta Delgada Travel Guide Portas de cidade

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.

Ponta Delgada Travel Guide Town hall

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!

Things to do Ponta Delgada Travel Guide City view

View of the city from the City Hall Bell Tower

Things to do Ponta Delgada Travel Guide Harbour

View of the harbour from the City Hall Bell Tower

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

Exploring the lanes

Things to do Ponta Delgada Travel Guide Streets

Colourful buildings

Things to do Ponta Delgada Travel Guide Ice cream shop

What will you choose? 😉

Things to do Ponta Delgada Travel Guide Florist

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).

Things to do Ponta Delgada Travel Guide Graca farmers market

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!

Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour in Azores, Portugal

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.

Ponta Delgada Travel Guide Forte de Sao Bras

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.

Ponta Delgada Travel Guide Pineapple plantation

Greenhouses in Pineapples A Arruda

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

Jardim António Borges

Ponta Delgada Travel Guide Garden 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.

Ponta Delgada Travel Guide Botanical gardens

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.

Things to do Ponta Delgada Travel Guide Sabores Graca Farmers market

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.

Things to do Ponta Delgada Travel Guide Sabores Lunch

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!

Ponta Delgada Travel Guide best lunch Sabores

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.

Ponta Delgada Travel Guide Dinner veg risotto Big21

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.

Ponta Delgada Travel Guide Dinner veg Salad Tasquinha Vieira

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

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Things to do Ponta Delgada Travel Guide

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

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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! 🙂

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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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Best Things To Do in Ponta Delgada Azores

The beautiful city of Ponta Delgada is the perfect place to start exploring Sao Miguel, the largest island of the Azores archipelago. Whether you have a half day or more, there are lots of things to do in the Ponta Delgada.

Enjoy a walk through Ponta Delgada discovering the city’s gardens, museums and stunning waterfront. The city is the main tourist and economic hub of the Azores.

It’s easy to spend a day or more relaxing and exploring this charming city.

Cobblestone square City Gate Ponta Delgada

Table of Contents

Ponta Delgada Itinerary

This is our recommended itinerary for a 3 day visit to Ponta Delgada. Just adjust it to fit your timeline.

For cruise passengers, who only have one day in Ponta Delgada, the waterfront is the perfect area to visit.

  • Day 1 .  The waterfront must-sees.  Walk along the waterfront to visit: 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 many 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 .

Map of Ponta Delgada

Cruise port passengers can stroll the waterfront or take the entire walking map route.

Ponta Delgada Map

7 Best Things To Do in Ponta Delgada

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

  • See the City Gates .
  • Visit the Fortress of Sao Bras .
  • Take a Whale Watching Tour.
  • Take a Walking Tour along beautiful streets of the city.
  • See Ponta Delgada from City Hall Bell Tower .
  • Visit Ponta Delgada Museums .
  • Visit Ponta Delgada Gardens .

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.

Woman statue clock tower City Gate Ponta Delgada

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

Stone walls Fortress Sao Bras Ponta Delgada

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.

Military vehicles Ponta Delgada Azores' Military Museum

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

Woman Ponta Delgada city and marina behind

Whale watching is a popular activity around many of the Azore 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. 

Here are the 3 most popular whale watching companies in Ponta Delgada:

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.

Narrow cobblestone street Ponta Delgada

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.

People in Campo de Sao Francisco Ponta Delgada

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.

Man looking at Emigrant Monument Ponta Delgada

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.

Fountain in center of Vasco de Gama Square Ponta Delgada

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.

Flowerbed fountain statue Ponta Delgada City Hall

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 .

Front Sao Sebastiao Church Ponta Delgada

This area has lots of restaurants.

Woman Ponta Delgada cafe tables

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 Museum is housed in three 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.

Cobblestone designs of Ponta Delgada Sidewalk

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.

Man taking photo Jose do Canto Palace

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.

Side and main altars Saint Anne's Chapel

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.

Man standing by tree's buttress root

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.

Woman flowerbed Conceicao Palace

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 Gruta do Carvao’s How does it work webpage for more information about visiting.

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 Charming House

Ponta Delgada Restaurants and Food

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

Woman holding wine glass in Singular Bistro

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.

Produce stand Ponta Delgada Grace Market

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.

Sailboat middle of Parque Atlantico shopping center

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.

Moorings Ponta Delgada Marina

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.

Swimming pool Ponta Delgada

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.

Ocean shoreline green hills

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Valerie Vanr

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

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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

15 Things to do in Ponta Delgada for Sustainable Travelers

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.

ponta delgada church

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

futurismo - 15 Things to do in Ponta Delgada for Sustainable Travelers

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

whale watching in sao miguel, ponta delgada

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 

beach cleaning

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

swim with dolphins in sao miguel, 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

Hiking to Lagoa do Fogo, Sao Miguel, things to do in ponta delgada

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

waterfalls in sao miguel

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

Pilot whales as seen during a whale watching tour in ponta delgada

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

coastal line sao miguel

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

birdwatching sao miguel azores

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

traditional food from azores

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

biking in sao miguel

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

ponta delgada sao miguel by night

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

Why Sailing is the Best Form of Sustainable Travel, sailing boat, sea, boat hitchhiking

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

wines of azores, sao miguel

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

15 Things to do in Ponta Delgada for Sustainable Travelers

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! 🌍🚀

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Ponta Delgada Is Great For

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THE 10 BEST Ponta Delgada Tours & Excursions

Ponta delgada tours.

  • Sightseeing Tours
  • Ports of Call Tours
  • Walking Tours
  • Private Tours
  • Wine Tours & Tastings
  • Multi-day Tours
  • Cultural Tours
  • Historical & Heritage Tours
  • Self-Guided Tours & Rentals
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  • The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

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1. Half-Day Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour in Ponta Delgada

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2. São Miguel West Full Day Tour with Setes Cidades Including Lunch

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3. Small-Group Ponta Delgada Food Tour in Azores

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4. Quad Biking - Sete Cidades from North Coast (Half Day)

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5. Wine & Food Evening Walking Tour in Ponta Delgada

ponta delgada tourist

6. Furnas Night-Time Experience with Thermal baths and Dinner

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7. São Miguel East Full Day Tour with Furnas Including Lunch

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8. Canyoning Experience - half day

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9. 8-Hour Private Tour in 4x4 Vehicle from Ponta Delgada

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10. Guided Electric Mountain Bike in Sete Cidades

ponta delgada tourist

11. Whales and Dolphins + Vila Franca Islet (full day with lunch)

ponta delgada tourist

12. Ponta Delgada: Shore excursion, Blue & Green lake, 4 hours Tour

ponta delgada tourist

13. E-bike Sete Cidades- "All Mountain" bike program

ponta delgada tourist

14. Side by Side Tour - Sete Cidades from North Coast (Half Day)

ponta delgada tourist

15. Full Day Private Tour West & East in São Miguel Island

ponta delgada tourist

16. Hidden Gems of Sao Miguel Island Full Day Tour with Lunch

ponta delgada tourist

17. Private Full-Day 4x4 Tour to Furnas Volcano

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18. Shore Excursions to the volcano and crater of Lagoa das Sete Cidades

ponta delgada tourist

19. Canyoning in the Ribeira dos Caldeirōes Natural Park

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20. Off the Beaten Track Half Day Sete Cidades Jeep Tour

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21. Private Full-Day 4x4 Tour to Lagoa do Fogo & Lagoa das Sete Cidades

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22. Quad /2pax – Off-road Excursion w/ lunch – From Ponta Delgada to Sete Cidades

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23. Buggy Off-Road Excursion from Ponta Delgada to Sete Cidades - HD

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24. Azores Whale Watching & Islet Boat Tour

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25. Exploring a Volcano Crater - Quad and Buggy 4x4 Experience Tour

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26. Buggy – Off-road Excursion w/ lunch from Ponta Delgada to Sete Cidades (Shared)

ponta delgada tourist

27. Half Day 4x4 Private tour from Ponta Delgada Azores

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28. Azores Sete Cidades Green & Blue Lakes - Private Tour

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29. Whale Watching Activity in North Coast

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30. Cheese & Wine Tasting in Ponta Delgada - Azores

What travelers are saying.

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  • Alessandro A 2 contributions 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Best way to to see the views Filipe was an incredible tour guide and took care of us throughout the experience as we had a lot of rain. Despite this, we enjoyed every minute of this unprecedented way to see some of the most breathtaking views otherwise inaccessible without an exhaustive hike! It’s the most fun you can have outside with your clothes on! Can’t wait to do it again in the summer. Read more Review of: Side by Side Tour - Sete Cidades from North Coast (Half Day) Written March 4, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

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  • Half-Day Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour in Ponta Delgada
  • São Miguel West Full Day Tour with Setes Cidades Including Lunch
  • São Miguel East Full Day Tour with Furnas Including Lunch
  • Furnas Night-Time Experience with Thermal baths and Dinner
  • Small-Group Ponta Delgada Food Tour in Azores
  • Hungry Whales Cultural and Food Tours
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"Azorean Gem and Natural Wonders"

Ponta delgada tourism.

Ponta Delgada, the largest city in the Azores archipelago, is a spectacular port city in Portugal. It is renowned for its picturesque harbor, beautiful terraced gardens, and volcanic landscapes. Tourists come to explore the striking beauty of the region and experience its unique culture.

The city's location on the north coast of S‰Ûªå£o Miguel Island makes it the perfect base for exploring the rest of the Azores, with nearby beaches, fishing villages, and beautiful volcanoes. Key attractions of the city include the iconic 15th-century S‰Ûªå£o Miguel Castle, the Dom Joao III Museum which houses a wide variety of artifacts from the Azores' history, and the Ponta Delgada Municipal Garden, a stunning example of terraced gardens. The city also boasts a vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars and clubs, as well as the popular annual Azores Carnival, which celebrates the Portuguese culture with parades, dancing, and traditional food. Other highlights include whale-watching expeditions, exploring lagoons and beaches, and visiting historical sites. For travelers looking to get the most out of their trip to Ponta Delgada, there are a number of tour operators offering guided tours and excursions. Additionally, the city is well connected to the rest of the Azores by ferry, with regular services to other islands. Before visiting Ponta Delgada, travelers should make sure to research the best time to visit in order to avoid the peak tourist season, as well as the city's high temperatures in summer. Furthermore, it is important to check entry and visa requirements for visitors from outside the EU.

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Ponta Delgada Walking Tour: The Ultimate Guide

  • 2023-10-23 2023-10-23

Welcome to Ponta Delgada, the charming capital city of the Portuguese archipelago of the Azores. With its cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and stunning coastal views, Ponta Delgada is a perfect destination for a walking tour. Best of all, you can explore the city and its many hidden gems for free! In this guide, we’ll take you through the best routes, landmarks, and tips for an unforgettable Ponta Delgada walking tour.

Route 1: Historic City Center

If you’re interested in history and culture, this route is a must. Start your walking tour at Portas da Cidade, the iconic city gates adorned with arches and statues. From here, stroll along Rua dos Mercadores, a bustling street lined with shops and cafes. Take a moment to admire the beautiful Church of São Sebastião as you make your way to the municipal gardens.

Continue on Avenida Infante Dom Henrique, where you’ll find the famous Carlos Machado Museum. This former 18th-century convent is now home to fascinating exhibitions showcasing the island’s history. As you walk along the avenue, you’ll also encounter grand colonial-style buildings that speak to Ponta Delgada’s rich past.

Make a pit stop at Praça Gonçalo Velho Cabral, a charming square surrounded by colorful buildings. This is the perfect spot to rest and soak in the relaxed atmosphere. From here, head towards Portas do Mar, a modern marina offering sweeping views of the harbor and the Atlantic Ocean.

Route 2: Coastal Promenade

If you prefer a more scenic experience, the coastal promenade is the ideal choice. Start at Parque Urbano, a lush park with gardens, ponds, and peaceful pathways. As you follow the coastline, you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the ocean, cliffs, and the famous Forte de São Brás.

Continue your walk towards the village of São Roque, known for its picturesque fishing harbor and colorful boats. Don’t forget to explore the whimsical street art that adorns the walls of the village, adding an artistic touch to the experience.

Cross the iconic Ponta Delgada Pedestrian Bridge to reach the nearby islet of Vila Franca do Campo. During low tide, you can even take a swim in the natural swimming pool formed by volcanic rocks. It’s truly a unique experience!

Tips for a Great Walking Tour

1. stay hydrated.

Walking can be thirsty work, especially under the warm Azorean sun. Make sure to bring a water bottle and stay hydrated throughout your tour.

2. Wear comfortable shoes

Given the cobblestone streets and uneven terrain, comfortable footwear is essential. Opt for sneakers or sturdy walking shoes to ensure a pleasant experience.

3. Bring a map or use a mobile app

Ponta Delgada is a relatively small city, but having a map or using a reliable mobile app can help you navigate and discover all the hidden corners and attractions.

4. Take your time and enjoy

Don’t rush through the tour. Take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the city’s atmosphere, chat with locals, and delight in the beautiful sights along the way.

In Conclusion

A walking tour of Ponta Delgada is an excellent way to explore the city’s history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you choose the historic city center route or the scenic coastal promenade, you’ll be captivated by the charm of this vibrant city. Remember to prepare for your walk with comfortable shoes, plenty of water, and a sense of adventure. Get ready to create unforgettable memories and experience the magic of Ponta Delgada!

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  1. Best Things to Do in Ponta Delgada, Azores

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  2. Ponta Delgada walking tour

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  3. Ponta Delgada Travel Guide: Gateway to the stunning Azores

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  4. Ponta Delgada

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  5. What to See in Ponta Delgada

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  6. 9 Top Tourist Attractions in Ponta Delgada & Easy Day Trips

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  1. Ponta Delgada Island and Carnival Pride Europe

  2. Ponta Delgada Portas da Cidade Açores

  3. 240215 Exploris Expedition : Ponta Delgada-Ponta Delgada

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  5. Ponta Delgada Azures Portugal 🇵🇹 Cruise Life Travel

COMMENTS

  1. Visit Ponta Delgada

    Since 2004 that the festival honoring the third person of the Holy Trinity is a tourism attraction and a landmark of the ... Micaelense Colosseum. Informação para o mapa. Elementos. Micaelense Colosseum. Rua Lisboa Ponta Delgada Ilha De São Miguel 9500-216 Ponta Delgada, Portugal.

  2. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Ponta Delgada (Updated 2024)

    4h Half-Day Amazing Private Coastal Fishing. 5. Adventure Tours. from. $530. per group (up to 4) Bottom Fishing at the Azores, Half day fishing Ponta Delgada. 4. Audio Guides.

  3. Top 20 Things to do in Ponta Delgada, Azores

    2. Jardim António Borges. 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.

  4. 9 Top Tourist Attractions in Ponta Delgada & Easy Day Trips

    2. Convento e Capela de Nossa Senhora da Esperança Convento e Capela de Nossa Senhora da Esperança . Arguably the most visited of Ponta Delgada's cultural attractions, the Convent and Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Esperança (Our Lady of Hope) was completed in 1541 and is still occupied by nuns of the order of St. Francis.. A veritable treasure trove of religious art, the chapel is embellished ...

  5. 15 Best Things to Do in Ponta Delgada (Portugal)

    In the church there's a Baroque altar with gilded woodwork and beautiful tile panels. 3. Portas da Cidade. Source: flickr. 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.

  6. Ponta Delgada, Portugal 2024: All You Need to Know Before You Go

    Plan Your Trip to Ponta Delgada: Best of Ponta Delgada Tourism. About Ponta Delgada. As the Azores' capital city, Ponta Delgada serves as a gateway to the archipelago's famous crater lakes, volcanoes, and rugged coastline. The city itself blends modern comforts with Gothic churches, historic forts, and traditional Portuguese taverns. ...

  7. 16 Best Things to Do in Ponta Delgada, Azores (+Map & Tips)

    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.

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

    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 ...

  9. What you should do with a day in Ponta Delgada

    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.

  10. Ponta Delgada, Azores: 12 Things To Do In My Hometown

    In Ponta Delgada, all roads lead to Avenida.. 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 ...

  11. Ponta Delgada

    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, ... 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.

  12. Ponta Delgada Travel Guide: Gateway to the stunning 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.

  13. Best Things To Do in Ponta Delgada Azores

    Ponta Delgada Whale Watching Tours. Many companies offer whale watching tours based in the Ponta Delgada Marina. Whale watching is a popular activity around many of the Azore 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 ...

  14. Ponta Delgada

    Ponta Delgada. A 'slender tip of land, vanishing into the sea': this is how Gaspar Frutuoso, historian and priest of the 16th century, explains in his work 'Saudades da Terra' the name 'Ponta Delgada'. The origin of this parish, so marked by the sea, dates back to 1552. With an area of 8.8 km², Ponta Delgada is known for the fertility of its ...

  15. 15 Things to do in Ponta Delgada for Sustainable Travelers

    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.

  16. Ponta Delgada, Portugal 2024: What to Know Before You Go

    About Ponta Delgada. As the Azores' capital city, Ponta Delgada serves as a gateway to the archipelago's famous crater lakes, volcanoes, and rugged coastline. The city itself blends modern comforts with Gothic churches, historic forts, and traditional Portuguese taverns.

  17. Ponta Delgada

    Ponta Delgada began as a simple fishing village whose fishermen were once attracted by its safe coves, but soon began to play the role of main port of the São Miguel Island.The city grew and in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries the convents, churches and manor houses flourished and still today they integrate the historic centre.Ponta Delgada is today a cosmopolitan

  18. THE 10 BEST Ponta Delgada Tours & Excursions

    These experiences are best for tours in Ponta Delgada: Half-Day Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour in Ponta Delgada; São Miguel West Full Day Tour with Setes Cidades Including Lunch; São Miguel East Full Day Tour with Furnas Including Lunch; Furnas Night-Time Experience with Thermal baths and Dinner; Small-Group Ponta Delgada Food Tour in Azores

  19. Ponta Delgada Tourism (2023)

    Ponta Delgada, the largest city in the Azores archipelago, is a spectacular port city in Portugal. It is renowned for its picturesque harbor, beautiful terraced gardens, and volcanic landscapes. Tourists come to explore the striking beauty of the region and experience its unique culture. The city's location on the north coast of S‰Ûªå£o ...

  20. Ponta Delgada Walking Tour: The Ultimate Guide

    2023-10-23. Welcome to Ponta Delgada, the charming capital city of the Portuguese archipelago of the Azores. With its cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and stunning coastal views, Ponta Delgada is a perfect destination for a walking tour. Best of all, you can explore the city and its many hidden gems for free!

  21. Posto de Turismo

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  22. THE TOP 10 Ponta Delgada Tours & Excursions (UPDATED 2024)

    A: The best tours in Ponta Delgada according to Viator travelers are: Half-Day Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour in Ponta Delgada. Small-Group Ponta Delgada Food Tour in Azores. Quad Biking - Sete Cidades from North Coast (Half Day) Canyoning Experience - half day.