The city of Ponta Delgada is the starting point for a trip to the largest island in the Archipelago. Discover what you can't miss in the capital of São Miguel Island.
1 - The history
Formerly, a simple and small fishing village, today, the most important trading point and the capital of the largest island of the Azores Archipelago. It is also the largest city and the economic capital of the Autonomous Region of the Azores.
It was declared a city in 1456. Currently, it has more than five centuries of life. It is considered to be modern, cosmopolitan, but without ever neglecting its historical and traditional roots.
2 - The Marginal
Traveling along the Ponta Delgada waterfront, on foot or by bicycle, is to get a closer look at the city's roots. It is a place facing the sea. Here you can feel its dynamism
At Portas do Mar you will find a promenade to enjoy good walks at any time of the day. Here there are several commercial and leisure establishments to enjoy.
Walking along the waterfront, you have a wonderful view of the Marina and the Fishing Port. It is also possible to take a nice dip directly into the fresh sea of the Azores in the Portas do Mar Natural Pool, also known as the “Pesqueiro” Pool.
3 - The monuments
As you wander around the city, you will come across the most representative and symbolic monument of the city: the Portas da Cidade. There are three arches facing the sea, thus representing the gateway to the Azores. The volcanic stone monument dates from the 18th century. Next to this monument is the statue in honor of Gonçalo Velho. The two monuments are located in Praça Gonçalo Velho made with Portuguese pavement.
The most emblematic churches in the city are the Igreja de São Sebastião, located in Largo da Matriz, which is why it is also known as the Igreja da Matriz. Here the Manueline and Baroque porticos stand out.
In turn, the Convent and Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Esperança is located in Campo de São Francisco. Inside you will find the Treasure of Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres. Its altar features a complex and heavily worked work in gilded carving. The walls of the place are decorated with Portuguese tile panels. It is in this place that the cult of Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres takes place.
Next to Campo de São Francisco is the Monument to the Emigrants which, as its name implies, is a tribute to the Azoreans who are emigrated all over the world.
In this part of the city we have the São Brás Fort. It is a point of cultural interest. It is currently where the Military Museum of the Azores is located.
Be sure to visit the Bell Tower located in the Ponta Delgada City Council building. At the top, after the climb, you have a fantastic 360º view over the city.
4 - Nature in the heart of the historic center
In the city center you will also find green spaces to enjoy nature. This is the case of the António Borges Garden. Here you will find a park dedicated to nature, with lots of vegetation, lakes, caves and viewpoints.
In the city center you will also find green spaces to enjoy nature. This is the case of the António Borges Garden. Here you will find a park dedicated to nature, with lots of vegetation, lakes, caves and viewpoints.
5 - Regional products
In Ponta Delgada you can find regional products and fresh fruits at Mercado da Graça. It is one of the most emblematic places in the city. You can also find meat and fish.
On Rua dos Mercadores, visit the famous Príncipe dos Queijos store. Here you can taste and buy the best cheeses produced in the Archipelago. The store also has other regional products for sale.
Don't miss the visit to the Augusto Arruda Pineapple Plantation. Visits are free and you can follow and learn a little more about the production and growth process of pineapple in the Azores. You can taste the fruit and other products made with pineapple.
7 - Adventure in the city
Adventure in Ponta Delgada is also possible through fun activities full of emotion. With your family, friends or partner, you can take a whale watching boat trip from the city.
The Azores are a true sanctuary for marine life. So you certainly can't miss this experience. Choose the type of vessel on which you want to discover the Azores sea and set off on an adventure!
Book your Whale Watching here with us here.
8 - The gastronomy
Since you are in Ponta Delgada, take the opportunity to discover the regional dishes of the Green Island. There are several restaurants in the city that bring you the best of São Miguel's cuisine. Try the meat dishes and the fish and seafood dishes.
One of the most famous meat dishes is the Regional Steak. This consists of a good piece of meat cooked in a skillet seasoned with lots of garlic and the traditional ground pepper. The sauce is the secret!
In terms of fish, the highlights are the fried mackerel accompanied by boiled potatoes and ground pepper; the grilled tuna steak and the famous grilled limpets.
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