In a nutshell

The evocative atmosphere of Ponta Delgada with its lively streets, characteristic market, countless churches and the fort contrasts with the natural beauty of the Sete Cidades massif where we can admire breathtaking views over volcanic lakes.

Main stops

Walk to discover Ponta Delgada
Visit to the evocative Manufacts da Graham
Portas de Cidade arches
Chapel of Our Lady of Hope
Fort of São Brás
Volcanic lages and ancient town of Sete Cidades
Miradouro da Vista do Rei viewpoint and Pico do Carvão

The programme

We set off on foot to discover Ponta Delgada, the largest and most populated city in the Azores and current capital of the archipelago. The fishermen’s village founded 5 centuries ago developed considerably after the earthquake of 1522 destroyed Vila Franca do Campo, the island’s ancient capital.
We pass by some of the city's main sights and reach the famous picturesque Mercado da Graça where the locals buy their fresh products.
We continue along the lively streets as far as the area of Matriz to admire the unique Portas da Cidade composed of three arches, the Church of St. Sebastian with its intricate wooden inlays and watchtower and finally the City Hall with the Statue of St. Michael.
Once in São Francisco square, we can admire the Chapel of Our Lady of Hope and finally the Fort of São Brás, built in the 16th century to defend against the attacks of pirates and privateers.
We leave Ponta Delgada behind us by coach and head out to the western part of the island as we admire the succession of green pastures and woods and blue ocean as far as the Sete Ciudades massif in an area characterised by spectacular volcanic lakes.
After a stroll around the town located in a crater, we head to the Miradouro da Vista do Rei viewpoint offering enchanting views over the Sete Ciudades crater, the lake and the town.
On the way back to Ponta Delgada, we stop briefly at the Pico do Carvão viewpoint where we can admire both the northern and southern part of the island as well as the series of volcanic peaks.

Good to know

Visibility during the tour is subject to weather conditions.
The order of the stops may be subject to modification without prior warning for operational reasons or to avoid the crowds.
We recommend wearing comfortable flat shoes and clothing suitable for the weather as all the places visited except for the local market are outside.
When one of the churches is being used for religious ceremonies, our tour will be limited to the exterior of the building.