The Azores: São Miguel City Escape
Stay in a fabulous hotel in the heart of historic downtown Ponta Delgada!
What's Included?
Why we love this deal:
- This travel package takes the stress out of having to plan everything yourself. All you have to do is pack your bags and bring your adventurous spirit;
- Explore all that charming, historic Ponta Delgada has to offer just steps from your hotel: visit the bustling farmer's market, shop for unique pieces made by local artisans, and marvel at the beautiful European architecture around every corner;
- Delight your tastebuds when you explore Ponta Delgada's burgeoning foodie scene! Discover tried and true regional favorites and creative new menu styles available at all the new restaurants popping up around the city;
- Rent a car or book a sightseeing tour and venture out to explore the island with ease from your centrally located hotel;
- Breakfast may be included during your stay, depending on the accommodation selected;
- You can customize your travel itinerary according to your preferences. Options include: adding additional nights to your stay, car rental, or some other experience to make your itinerary even more unique and special;
- You won't have to worry about anything, as we have taken care of everything for you.
Itinerary
Transfer to the hotel.
Suggestion for the day:
- Take the day to stroll around Ponta Delgada’s city streets. Ponta Delgada, the main city, is not only the hub of the island but the capital of the Azores. Ponta Delgada evokes all the charms of Europe with cobbled streets, sidewalk cafes, and a thriving culinary scene. Or book here your Ponta Delgada City Tour.
Not to miss:
- Portas da Cidade
- Louvre Michaelense
- Pineapple Plantations
- Matriz Church
Suggestion for the day:
- Visit Sete Cidades (Lagoa das Sete Cidades, Lagoa de Santiago, Lagoa do Canário and Boca do Inferno Viewpoint) and take this opportunity to visit the neighboring village of Mosteiros - ideal for sunset! Once you’re in the west part of the island you can also indulge in a ocean thermal bath at Ferraria.
or
- Book here a guided tour around the west part of the island that will have you discovering this and much more in the company of a local guide.
Suggestion for the day:
- Head to the north side of the island to visit the Protected Natural Reserve of Lagoa do Fogo and take this change to visit (and maybe bath) in the thermal pools of Caldeira Velha. Once you’re here you can also visit the Salto do Cabrito waterfall! On your way to Furnas, we recimmend that you stop at Porto Formoso and Gorreana Tea Plantations (the only ones in Europe). In Furnas there’s just so much to explore, such as the lake, the Pico do Ferro Viewpoint, the Grená Park, the caldeiras, the fumaroles, the Terra Nostra Park, the Dona Beija hot springs and so much more. Make sure to try out the local delicacies: the cozido das Furnas and the bolos lêvedos!
or
- Book a Furnas guided tour here.
Suggestion for the day:
- Take the day for a hiking adventure
Recommended hikes:
Suggestion for the day:
- Embark on a Whale and Dolphin Watching Experience
- The Azores Islands are known for their unparalleled beauty and biodiversity, adored by outdoor adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. But what people may not know is that the Azores is also one of the fastest-growing whale watching destinations in the world. Located in the Atlantic Ocean between Portugal and North America, the Azores are a permanent home and natural point of passage to more than 20 different types of whale and dolphin species, making the islands one of the world’s largest whale sanctuaries.
Book here.
Suggestion for the day:
- Take the day for a food and wine experience.
Recommended experiences:
*itinerary presented is a suggestion and the length of stay may vary. All tours are suggestions unless specifically stated.
Flexibility Policy
About the Destination:
Often referred to as Europe's “Best Kept Secret”, the Azores have become an increasingly popular destination with year-round appeal for travelers. Just four hours from Boston, the Azores are now easier to access and explore than ever before. São Miguel Island is a beautiful green jewel in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. With stunning lush landscapes, exotic plants, dormant volcanos, hot springs, and surrounded by clean waters, São Miguel is the perfect vacation destination for adventure seekers and those looking for an off-the-beaten-path European destination.
Fans of adventure sports will enjoy kayaking and stand up paddle-boarding in the beautiful lakes or ocean, surfing the Atlantic waves or canyoning down the gorgeous waterfalls around the island. Go hiking and explore the island's wonders on foot with the mighty Atlantic as the background. Discover hidden beaches and marvel at the many waterfalls around the island. If this isn't tantalizing enough, think about seeing Earth breathing through fumaroles and mud pots, and then enjoying a relaxing soak in a natural hot spring gazing at the stars.
Enjoy the island's quaint fishing villages, seaside restaurants, and delicious seafood. Taste a superb meal cooked under the ground, the cozido, and the locally grown sweet pineapple. There are numerous vacation activities to be enjoyed on the island. Take advantage of this great vacation package and have a great adventure!
In downtown Ponta Delgada try to:
- Discover the historical city of Ponta Delgada with its cobblestone streets and black and white mosaic pavements
- Check out the local farmers' market (Mercado da Graça) and taste the local produce
- Explore the burgeoning foodie scene at one of the city's many new restaurants
- Visit the Pineapple Plantation in Fajã de Baixo
- Head out in your rental car and easily explore some of the island's sights like Sete Cidades or the north coast's tea plantations
Check out our Azores Travel Guide for more informations and tips.