Ponta Delgada Historical Walking Tour – The Ultimate Guide

Sao Miguel Island is one of the most popular destinations in Portugal, and if you’re planning a trip, you won’t want to miss the Ponta Delgada Historical Walking Tour. This tour is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the city’s history, architecture and culture, and get to know the charming town of Ponta Delgada.

Experience

The Ponta Delgada Historical Walking Tour is a two-and-a-half-hour guided walking tour that takes you through the historical landmarks, squares, streets and buildings of the town. You can book the tour online, and the tour starts with a meetup point at Portas da Cidade, the 18th-century city gate located right next to the quay.

Highlights

There are many highlights to look forward to on your historical walking tour. These include:

1. Discover the history of Ponta Delgada
2. Learn from a knowledgeable guide
3. Get to know the town of Ponta Delgada

Full Description

The tour takes you back through the history of the town, which started as a fishing village in the 15th century. Your guide will inform you about the town’s rich history, including when it was later plundered by pirates and corsairs, and experienced many naval wars and battles. You’ll discover what drew renowned poets, famous sculptors, and prominent politicians to this small seaside town. You’ll walk along the charming narrow streets and admire the beautiful architecture while learning about the people who lived there. The tour includes entry to attractions listed, insurance (personal accident and liability) and lunch. The knowledgeable guide will take you to the best places, making sure you don’t miss the top sights and hidden gems of the city.

What To Expect

The tour is suitable for everyone, and there’s no need to worry about walking distances as this walking tour covers only the most popular and interesting spots in the city. Expect to have an enjoyable and informative few hours as you learn about the town’s rich history and culture. The tour takes place in all weather conditions, so make sure you dress appropriately for the day’s weather conditions. You’ll be on your feet for most of the tour, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes.

How To Book

Booking the Ponta Delgada Historical Walking Tour couldn’t be easier. Simply follow the link to our GetYourGuide partner and book the tour here: book the tour here.

Book Your Tour Now

If you’re planning a trip to Portugal or Sao Miguel Island, then the Ponta Delgada Historical Walking Tour is perfect for you! This walking tour is an essential way to explore the history and culture of the charming town of Ponta Delgada. You’ll discover the town’s hidden gems, learn about the history of the town, and immerse yourself in the culture of the city. So, don’t wait any longer, book your tour today and make unforgettable memories in Ponta Delgada!

FAQ for Sao Miguel Island

Sao Miguel Island is one of the nine volcanic islands forming the Azores archipelago in the mid-Atlantic. Known for its lush green landscapes, hot springs, crater lakes, and scenic coastal drive, it is a popular tourist destination. If you are planning a trip to Sao Miguel Island, here are some frequently asked questions (FAQ) to help you with your planning.

1. What is the best time to visit Sao Miguel Island?

The best time to visit Sao Miguel Island is during the summer months of June to August when the weather is warm and sunny, and there is very little rainfall. However, this is also the peak tourist season, and the accommodation prices and crowds can be high. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, you can visit in the shoulder months of May or September, when the weather is still pleasant, and the prices are lower.

2. What is the currency used on Sao Miguel Island?

The currency used on Sao Miguel Island is the Euro. There are plenty of ATMs and banks on the island, and most hotels, restaurants, and shops accept major credit cards.

3. How do I get to Sao Miguel Island?

You can get to Sao Miguel Island by air or sea. The island has one major airport, Ponta Delgada Airport (PDL), which is served by several airlines, including TAP Air Portugal, SATA Air Azores, and Ryanair. There are also frequent ferry services to the island from other islands in the Azores archipelago.

4. Do I need a visa to visit Sao Miguel Island?

If you are a citizen of the European Union or the Schengen Area, you do not need a visa to visit Sao Miguel Island. If you are a citizen of other countries, you may need a visa, so it is best to check with the Portuguese embassy or consulate in your country before your trip.

5. What are the best things to do on Sao Miguel Island?

Sao Miguel Island has plenty to offer for tourists, including scenic drives, nature hikes, hot springs, and cultural attractions. Some of the must-see attractions on the island include Lagoa das Sete Cidades (Twin Lakes), Caldeira Velha (hot springs), Furnas Lake, and Terra Nostra Park. You can also visit historic churches and museums in the city of Ponta Delgada, the capital of the Azores.

6. What is the food like on Sao Miguel Island?

The food on Sao Miguel Island is a mix of Portuguese and Azorean cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include Cozido das Furnas (a stew cooked underground), Lapas (grilled limpets), and Bolo Lêvedo (a sweet bread). The island is also known for its dairy products, such as cheese and yogurt, as well as its seafood. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes on the island, offering a variety of cuisines to suit all tastes and budgets.

7. What is the weather like on Sao Miguel Island?

The weather on Sao Miguel Island is mild and humid, with temperatures ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F) in the summer. The island is known for its unpredictable weather, so it is best to bring layers and be prepared for rain even in the summer months. The winter months (December to February) can be chilly, with temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 15°C (59°F).

8. What are the best beaches on Sao Miguel Island?

Sao Miguel Island has several picturesque beaches, ranging from rocky coves to sandy stretches. Some of the best beaches on the island include Praia dos Moinhos, Praia dos Mosteiros, Praia de Santa Barbara, and Praia da Conceicao. The island’s volcanic geology also means that there are plenty of natural swimming pools and hot springs to enjoy.

9. Is it safe to travel to Sao Miguel Island?

Sao Miguel Island is a safe destination for tourists, with low crime rates and a welcoming local population. However, like any tourist destination, it is best to take the usual precautions, such as keeping your valuables safe, being aware of your surroundings, and avoiding unlit or isolated areas at night.

10. What is the best way to get around Sao Miguel Island?

The best way to get around Sao Miguel Island is by car. There are plenty of car rental agencies on the island, and the roads are well-maintained and easy to navigate. However, if you prefer not to drive, you can also take local buses or book a private tour with a local guide. Taxis are also available, but they can be expensive. In conclusion, Sao Miguel Island is a beautiful and diverse destination that offers something for everyone. By following these FAQs, you can plan your trip with confidence and enjoy all that the island has to offer.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Sao Miguel Island

Sao Miguel Island is the largest island of the Azores archipelago, an autonomous region of Portugal. This beautiful island offers endless activities for tourists of all age groups. It is a great destination for those who love nature, outdoors activities, and local traditions. In this guide, we will discuss some of the top things to do in Sao Miguel Island as a tourist.

1. Explore the Local Cuisine

In Sao Miguel Island, you will find many delicacies to sample. One of the most famous dishes in the island is “Cozido das Furnas”, a stew made with various meats, vegetables, and beans cooked in a pot buried in the geothermal soil. You can also try “lapas”, a local type of limpet, or “octopus”, “tuna” and “swordfish”, which are abundant in the island. Local wines and cheese are also popular.

2. Go Whale Watching

Sao Miguel Island offers an amazing opportunity to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. The island is located in the migratory route of many cetacean species, such as sperm whales, humpback whales, and dolphins. You can take a boat tour to see these magnificent creatures up close. The best time for whale watching in Sao Miguel Island is between May and September.

3. Visit the Hot Springs at Furnas

The geothermal activity in Sao Miguel Island is an attraction in itself. The town of Furnas is located in a volcanic crater with bubbling mud pools and hot springs. Take a walk through the park and see the boiling “Caldeiras” or “Fumaroles”. You can also relax in the natural hot springs and experience the therapeutic benefits of the sulfuric waters.

4. Hike in the Sete Cidades

The Sete Cidades is a twin lake located in a volcanic crater. The two lakes are different colors, one blue and one green, which creates a unique and stunning view. You can hike around the lake, or even take a kayak or canoe to explore the water. The Sete Cidades is a popular destination for tourists because of its natural beauty.

5. Visit the Pineapple Plantations

Yes, you read that right – Pineapple Plantations! Sao Miguel Island is one of the few places in Europe where pineapples are grown. You can visit the pineapple plantations and learn about the growing process. You can even taste the sweet and juicy pineapples.

6. Experience the Festivals

Sao Miguel Island is famous for its festivals, especially during the summer months. The “Festas do Senhor Santo Cristo” is one of the most popular festivals and attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world. During this festival, the streets of Ponta Delgada, the capital city of the island, are decorated with colorful flowers, and a procession is held in honor of the Holy Christ.

7. Relax on the Beaches

Sao Miguel Island has some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. The most famous beaches are Praia dos Milícias, Praia das Poças, and Praia do Pópulo. These beaches offer crystal clear waters and soft sand, perfect for swimming and relaxing.

Book Your Tour Now

Sao Miguel Island is a perfect destination for those who love nature, outdoors activities, local traditions, and culture. We hope this guide will help you plan your trip to the island and make the most of your time there. Remember to try the local cuisine, go whale watching, visit the hot springs at Furnas, hike in Sete Cidades, visit the pineapple plantations, experience the festivals, and relax on the beaches. Enjoy your trip to Sao Miguel Island!