26 Things to do in Ponta Delgada, Sao Miguel
📅 25 September 2023 | Azores Islands, Portugal | ⌛ 25 mins
If you are a first-timer in this travel blog, you are probably wondering “But, where is Ponta Delgada?”. Ponta Delgada is the capital of the Azores islands and is one of the most charismatic cities in the Azores archipelago.
Now, you are probably thinking Is Ponta Delgada worth visiting?. Although, it is not a big city, there are plenty of things to do in Ponta Delgada in the Azores. Whether you would like to explore some churches, gardens, caves, museums or simply walk around, there are lots of options for everyone.
Things To Do in Ponta Delgada Map
Ponta Delgada History
Here’s a little history behind the city of Ponta Delgada and the Azores Islands. The Azores Islands were found in 1427 by Diogo de Silves and for a very long time the island of Sao Miguel was left uninhabited. However, everything changed when Gonçalo Velho Cabral landed on the Azores Islands in 1432 and founded the first settlement. Although, Ponta Delgada is the capital of the Azores Islands now, it has not been settled for a long time until 1450 when a small fishing village was founded.
Unfortunately, a devastating earthquake destroyed the capital of Villa Franca do Campo, which led to proclaiming Ponta Delgada the capital of the Azores islands. The city has been the main economic link for all Azoreans with Europe and the whole world. It was one of the main port stops along the way to the new world and was a sanctuary for many travelers.
Nowadays, Ponta Delgada is still the main stop for most of the travelers coming to the Azores islands. It is the link to each and every of the Azores islands. Thus, it is quite inevitable to miss the town and opt for a Ponta Delgada walking tour and its charming streets. Follow below to find more of what to do in Ponta Delgada, Azores islands…
Museu Carlos Machado
The museum of Carlos Machado was founded in 1876 in the old Santo Andre Convent. It is considered to be the oldest museum in the Azores islands and also the one with the greatest collections.
If you are an art and history lover, you will love the Carlos Machado Museum. This museum gathers in itself all sorts of collections from all over the world. It has all sorts of art collections including Sacred Art, Textiles and Decorative Art. Additionally, you can find a well-preserved collection of musical instruments, geology, natural history and ethnography.
Museu Carlos Machado Overview:
🎟️ Price: 5 EUR
⌚️ Working Hours:
Tuesday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Forte de São Brás
The fort of Sao Bras is one of the most well-preserved military forts in the Azores islands. It has been founded shortly after the islands were settled as a way to protect the settlers against pirate raids.
Nowadays, Forte de Sao Bras is still in use by the military, but you can still visit the fort and its defensive walls. Plus, you can check out the museum that has gathered all sorts of weapons from that period… 👀
Igreja de São José
The church of Sao Jose is another important site in the heart of Ponta Delgada. The church was built around the 16th century and has been serving ever since.
This religious site has a very well preserved its Baroque architecture style since the colonial times of Portugal. It has the easily distinguished gilded woodwork and the hand-painted tiles covering its interior, known as azulejos.
It is definitely worth a visit on your walk around the city of Ponta Delgada!
Santuário de Nosso Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres
Another religious site you can visit to learn more about the old times is for sure the Sanctury of Holy Christ of Miracles. The sanctuary is associated with an old tradition dating back to the 17th century that was about worshipping the Holy Christ of Miracles. This old tradition is in remembrance of the nuns that have travelled the long way to Rome and the Pope to get the papal bull and found the first convent on the Azores islands.
Each year, the people of the Azores islands gather to rule out the procession of this old tradition and worship the Holy Christ of Miracles. It is a great tradition that you can witness if you happen to be on the islands at that time. So, don’t miss out!
Igreja de São Sebastião
This church in the heart of the city of Ponta Delgada is dedicated to the city’s patron saint Sebastiao. The story goes back to the great plague, when the Azores islands were not spared. The devastating plague took the lives of many on the Azores islands at the time. However, after the Black death left the islands at peace, the church of Sao Sebastiao was founded.
Nowadays, the church of Sao Sebastiao is attracting many tourists with its beautiful Baroque Portuguese exterior. Inside of the church you would enjoy masterfully hand-painted tiled paintings and gilded woodwork. Don’t miss it out!
Igreja do Colégio dos Jesuítas
Well, probably you would ask “Is this another church?!” and I would answer “Yes!”. I believe you would then ask “Well, what is the special thing about this one?”. Well, the Church of All Saints was constructed by the first Azoreans ever! That makes it around 5 centuries old!
Honestly, this religious site is going to make you WOW with its incredible gilded woodworks and golden altars. It is absolutely astonishing!
Convento de Nossa Senhora da Esperança
Nestled in the city center of Ponta Delgada, Azores, the 16th-century Convento de Nossa Senhora da Esperança stands as a majestic emblem of both religious devotion and architectural brilliance. Every corner of this splendid edifice tells a tale: from the ornate baroque altar to the masterfully crafted tiles, which paint a vivid picture of sacred events like Mary’s nativity, all under the gifted hand of the famed artist, António de Oliveira Bernardes. But perhaps, its most whispered-about treasure is the awe-inspiring image of the Lord Santo Cristo in the Chapel of Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres, a gift believed to have been bestowed by none other than the Pope himself to two devout nuns in the 16th century!
This isn’t where the treasures end; housed within these ancient walls is one of Portugal’s crowning jewels – the 18th-century religious artifacts of Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres, boasting pieces such as the ethereal Crown of Thorns and the dazzling Resplendor. And as if to add another feather to its cap, the convent also shelters the Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Paz, adorned with enchanting 18th-century tiles. Above all, the high choir stands as a silent witness to time, flaunting altars from different epochs and an array of religious statues, each with a story of its own. Truly, a visit to this convent isn’t just a journey through time; it’s an adventure for the soul!
Portas da Cidade
Feeling lost and don’t know how to enter the city of Ponta Delgada?! Head straight to the Portas da Cidade… the city gates of Ponta Delgada.
Build in the 18th century, the Portas da Cidade were “the way”, but not the only way to enter the city. Their purpose was more symbolical than in terms of defense of the city. The city gates of Ponta Delgada consist of three beautiful arches that feature the royal and city’s coat of arms.
Gruta do Carvão
If you are into caves, you got very lucky! The Gruta do Carvao was found in the 16th century and has been explored ever since!
It is not a very big cave to explore, but it is quite fascinating due to the fact that it is the largest lava tunnel on São Miguel island. Yes, you are going to walk over a lava tunnel! While doing so you will get the chance to explore the so called lava bridges, lava balls and spongy lavas. Enjoy!
Do not miss one of the most fascinating Ponta Delgada attractions and make sure to book your tour here!
Gruta do Carvão Overview:
🎟️ Price
Adult: 5 EUR
Student/Senior: 3 EUR
Children: 1.5 EUR
⌚️ Working Hours:
10:30 AM – 11:30 AM/ 14:30 PM – 15:30 PM/ 15:30 PM – 16:30 PM
See Also: How to Travel to the Azores
Jardim António Borges
The island of Sao Miguel is known as the “Green island” and is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation everywhere. Thus, going to the Jardim António Borges in Ponta Delgada is one of the best activities in Ponta Delgada. This garden is a green masterpiece with great landscaping spread all around it.
The garden was found by Antonio Borges in the 19th century who was a businessman and a politician. He imported various exotic species, which luckily felt at home in the Azores islands. Along with that, he ensured that this garden is his sanctuary by building a couple of ponds and caves to make his garden even more enchanting.
Nowadays, the botanical garden is known as one of the best places for a jog, some yoga, meditation or whatever sparks your soul. I would definitely recommend you to visit this green heaven in the heart of the Azores islands!
Jardim Botânico José do Canto
Although you might consider skipping another botanical garden, I will stop you here and tell you to reconsider your decision. The Jardim Botânico José do Canto has been proclaimed an UNESCO World Heritage Designation and is definitely worth your time!
The garden was established in the beginning of the 19th century by Jose do Canto, a wealthy man with a huge passion for botany. He managed to gather various species from around the world and bring them to his garden. That is why his garden became such an out of this world place with lots of gigantic plants and great landscaping!
Jardim Botânico José do Canto Overview:
🎟️ Price: 4 EUR
⌚️ Working Hours:
Everyday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Arte Urbana
Well, I believe that you are guessing what this sight is about from its name – “Arte Urbana”. Arte Urbana is everywhere in the city of Ponta Delgada. You will notice some great street art graffiti within the streets of the city which are quite fascinating.
Honestly, these pieces of art only make the city more charming and welcoming. 🖼️
Mercado da Graça
I am a sucker for exotic fruits and vegetables! Guess, where I went to seek them?! AT MERCADO DA GRACA!
The prices of the market are quite reasonable, it’s not too expensive nor cheap. You can get fresh bananas, annonas, which I recommend you try, because it is amazing in taste. There is passion fruit, in fact all kinds of passion fruit, mangos and many other weird tropical fruits.
If you want some dairy produce you will be able to find some nice cheese, milk and whatever your tummy desires. Honestly, the market offers everything from fruits and vegetables to fresh fish and meat. You can even find souvenirs to bring back home… 😏
🧐 DISCLAIMER 📖
The Annona is a mostly known as Sugar Apple and is easily found in tropical places. The fruit is known to be extremely high in antioxidants, promotes good eye and gut health and boosts your mood. The taste of the Annona resembles the taste of a custard, but is way fresher 😋
Portas do Mar
The Portas do Mar are the perfect place to have a nice walk around the seashore of the city. It is leading to the marina of Ponta Delgada and offers great views of the Atlantic Ocean.
In addition to all that, there is a theater, lots of restaurants to pick from and even a swimming pool for those who want to relax. Go check it out!
Miradouro Pico do Carvão
Well, the Miradouro Pico do Carvao is slightly outside of Ponta Delgada, but it is definitely something you can do while around the city. The viewpoint is perfect on a sunny day as you can observe the east side of the island and enjoy the beauty of the island.
To get the best shots of this viewpoint, it is best to come early in the morning or at sunset.
Sete Cidades
Sete Cidades, a picturesque village nestled on the island of Sao Miguel in the Azores Islands, is a destination that effortlessly captures the hearts of its visitors. This enchanting village is one of the main tourist attractions and one of the best things to do in São Miguel Island.
The village of Sete Cidades is was founded at the shores of the twin lakes of Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde. These lakes, named for their distinct colors — “Azul” meaning blue and “Verde” meaning green — are separated by a narrow strait, yet each retains its own unique hue. Legend has it that they were formed from the tears of a shepherd and a princess who shared a forbidden love, their tears of different colors meeting but never merging, much like the two lakes themselves.
These lakes, set against the backdrop of verdant hills and calderas, offer breathtaking panoramic views, especially from the viewpoint of Vista do Rei. This spot is named after King Carlos I of Portugal and offers a mesmerizing vista, ensuring that visitors get a bird’s eye view of the two lakes.
Aside from beautiful viewpoints, the Sete Cidades offers serene walking trails that weave through the village and its surroundings, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the local flora and fauna and feel the serene breeze.
These lakes are attracting many visitors each year, due to their enchanting beauty. Thus, while staying in Ponta Delgada, it is best to opt for a day tour to Sete Cidades and explore this magical place!
Lagoa do Canário
Lagoa do Canario is also one of the top attractions close to the city of Ponta Delgada. In fact, it is 30 minutes’ drive away from the city of Ponta Delgada. This enchanting lake is usually overlooked by tourists, as they aim at going to Boca do Inferno. However, this little gem is all you might need on a busy day. Absolutely astonishing and peaceful!
Fun fact is that most people know the lake as the “Snapchat” lake due to its distinctive form if looked from above 🐤
Miradouro da Boca do Inferno
Ahhh! Miradouro da Boca do Inferno! This is probably the king of all the miradouros(viewpoints) in the Azores islands, if not the whole Atlantic Ocean. This breathtaking viewpoint is definitely one that you will remember your whole life.
To be honest, there is no good time to visit the viewpoint. That’s simply because the view is always beautiful there at any time in the day. however, if you want to avoid the overcast and have a clear view, check the Spot Azores Cameras prior to your visit 🧐
Lagoa das Empadadas
These tiny lakes are probably the cutest lakes on the island. They are forming a nice group of lakes close to the island’s most notable spots. The Lagoa das Empadadas are for sure a nice place to visit on your way back from Boca do Inferno. They offer a serene atmosphere and some beautiful gardens to explore…
Pinhal da Paz
Just half an hour away from Ponta Delgada is Pinhal da Paz. This recreational forest reserve is one of the hidden gems on the island of Sao Miguel which is rarely visited by tourists.
It was found in the end of the 19th century by the descendants of Jose do Canto. Just like their accentor, they were very passionate about botany. Thus, the park was filled with many tropical and exotic plants. Within the park you can find wild pines, cryptomeria, hydrangeas, azaleas and various palm species.
Funny thing is that locals come here for picnics and some grill, not to explore the vegetation of the park. But who is going to blame them… I mean – they live in one of the most beautiful places in the world!
Pinhal da Paz Overview:
🎟️ Price: FREE
⌚️ Working Hours:
Monday to Friday 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Saturday to Sunday 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Ponta da Ferraria
If you are yarning some time to relax, I would suggest you go to Ponta da Ferraria. This beautiful place offers a natural swimming pool with unique properties. You get to dip into hot geothermal springs that are regularly washed away by the cold ocean water! How does that sound to you?! I believe it sounds exciting!
Don’t worry about your security, this open pool is secured with ropes to which you can hold on to. The only thing you should consider before going is the tide. It is best to go to Ferraria at high tight, as the water won’t be that hot. You can check it here.
See Also: Azores or Madeira?
Praia dos Mosteiros
After dipping into the hot and cold pool at Ferraria you can check the romantic beach of Mosteiros. This beautiful beach area is a place for unwinding and carefreeness. Once there you will feel and witness the rigid beauty of Sao Miguel island.
Aruda Pineapple Plantation
Have you ever been to a pineapple plantation?! Let me guess! You have NOT! Well, if you are having some free time from strolling the streets of Ponta Delgada, I would suggest you visit this cute pineapple plantation.
Aruda Pineapple Plantation has been established in the 19th century and is growing a unique type of tiny pineapples. The way of producing the pineapples is even more curious than the fruits themselves. The pineapples are grown in greenhouses filled with the finest soils named “hot beds”. After the 4th month of planting the pineapples comes the process of “smoking” them. This makes the pineapples bloom altogether and helps the pineapples grow faster. The result of this process is the sweetest pineapple that exists!🍍
Aruda Pineapple Plantation Overview:
🎟️ Price: FREE
⌚️ Working Hours:
Every day: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Restaurante da Associação Agrícola de São Miguel
This non-vegetarian restaurant is offering the absolute finest beef steaks!
What is making this restaurant so special is the fact that it is using only locally produced beef. In fact, you can enjoy anything from sirloin steak to burgers, soups and some special deserts with locally produced jelly 🥰
Restaurante da Associação Agrícola Overview:
⌚️ Working Hours:
Every day: 12:00 AM – 3:00 PM/ 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Whale Watching in Ponta Delgada
One of the most unique things to do in Ponta Delgada, and one of the best things to do in the Azores as well, is to go for a whale watching tours or a dolphin watching tours. To be quite honest, it is one of the best day trips you can opt for!
The Azores islands are one of the best places in the world to catch these mighty sea creatures. If you get lucky you can see a couple of dolphin species, sea turtles, sperm and blue whales that pass through the Azores islands.
The best time to catch these incredible creatures is from April until October. However, to be guaranteed such a sight, it is best to go from April until June when most of them are passing through.
Wine and Food Tour in Ponta Delgada
There is no way that you will miss a good wine and food tour in Ponta Delgada! This is one of the fun things to do in Ponta Delgada!
Wherever you go in Ponta Delgada check for the fine wine produced on Pico island. When it comes to good food, it is best to try the “Lapas”, the Azorean grilled limpets or any type of seafood that is offered. For dessert, you can always ask for the sweetest pineapple. 🍍
The best time to catch these incredible creatures is from April until October. However, to be guaranteed such a sight, it is best to go from April until June when most of them are passing through.
Read More About the Azores Islands:
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I hope that you have enjoyed reading this article about visiting the Ponta Delgada, Azores! Let me know if you found it useful or would like to add something below 😉
