12 Best Things to do in Ponta Delgada, The Azores

Planning a trip to Ponta Delgada? You’re in for something completely different.

Set on São Miguel in the Azores, this isn’t your typical island getaway. Yes, you’ve got dramatic coastlines and ocean views, but what really makes this place stand out is everything happening inland! From volcanic crater lakes and steaming geothermal valleys to rugged hiking trails, this place has some of the wildest landscapes in Europe. So how do you go about seeing it all?

Things to do in Ponta Delgada

1. See the best of São Miguel’s west Coast in one full day 

This São Miguel west tour ended up being one of the best ways for us to see the island without having to plan a thing. If it’s your first time in the Azores, it’s a no-brainer! 

What we loved most was how much variety it packed into one day. Instead of just heading to one viewpoint and calling it a day, we moved between crater lakes and coastal cliffs, and stopped at lots of quiet, tucked-away spots we definitely would have missed on our own.

Of course, Sete Cidades is the standout! Seeing Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde from viewpoints like Boca do Inferno and Vista do Rei was even more impressive than we had imagined. The stop in Mosteiros was another highlight, and we loved seeing the volcanic coastline up close.

Another thing that really made the experience for us was our local guide. Daniel was so knowledgeable and passionate about the island – and no, I’m not just bigging him up because we have the same name! Lunch was a nice bonus too, as we got a proper local meal involving fresh fish, rather than just a quick snack or a packed lunch. 

Overall, we think this is the perfect introduction to São Miguel, especially if you want to see the island’s most iconic spots without the stress of driving! And we’re not the only ones who love it, as it has over 1,600 glowing reviews!

2. Taste your way through the flavors of the Azores

This food tour was our favorite thing that we did in Ponta Delgada! We booked it for our first day here, and we’re so glad that we did. It’s a guided walking tour, so it really helped us to get our bearings – and not just in terms of the city, either. It was a fantastic introduction to the food scene, and it helped us a lot with eating out during the rest of our stay.

We started at Portas da Cidade and then spent the next few hours wandering through the Old Town, stopping at a mix of local markets and small, traditional eateries. The variety of food was fantastic, as we got to try everything from local cheeses and cured meats to fresh seafood and traditional pastries. Nothing felt rushed either, as each stop gave us enough time to actually enjoy what we were eating rather than just quickly tasting and moving on!

We also have to give a shoutout to our guide, Isha, who was just amazing. Azorean cuisine is quite different from mainland Portugal in some ways, so having a local to explain the local specialties – and the traditions behind them – made a huge difference. By the end of the tour, we knew exactly what to look out for on menus and what dishes we wanted to order again!

If you’re into food at all, we think this is a must-do in Ponta Delgada, especially early in your trip. It’s popular, though, so grab your spot sooner rather than later.

3. Go whale watching

Whale watching is one of the most exciting things to do in Ponta Delgada, which is why we love this tour! The Azores sit right along major migration routes, which means there’s always the possibility of spotting different species, from playful dolphins to massive sperm whales and even blue whales at certain times of year.

One of the best things about this experience is that there are two boat options, so it suits different travel styles. The catamaran is the more relaxed choice, offering a smooth and stable ride with plenty of space to move around. It’s ideal for families and anyone prone to seasickness, as it allows you to enjoy the views in comfort.

On the other hand, the speedboat is much faster-paced and more adventurous. It’s a smaller, open-air zodiac that gets you closer to the water and out to sightings more quickly, which can make the experience feel more immersive and exciting!

Best of all, both versions of the tour are led by experienced guides and marine biologists, which adds a ton of value! You won’t just spot wildlife, you’ll also learn a lot about what you’re seeing and hear interesting facts about the different species and conservation efforts in the region.

Whale watching is always an epic experience, and this tour does it so well. It offers incredible scenery and bucket-list wildlife encounters, so we think it’s a no-brainer while in Ponta Delgada.

4. Wander through Ponta Delgada’s Old Town

Ponta Delgada’s Old Town is basically the historic center of the city, and it’s the best place to get a feel for what life here actually looks like! We like exploring here because you don’t need to try to tick off a bunch of attractions – it’s more about enjoying the cafes and local shops, which are housed in charming historic buildings. It’s fun to just relax for a while and soak it all in!

The first thing that you’ll probably notice about Ponta Delgada’s Old Town is the black and white stonework. It runs through the pavements and buildings and gives the whole area a really distinct look that feels quite different from mainland Portugal. You don’t need long to explore, either! Around 2 to 3 hours is plenty, and if you’re staying nearby, you can just walk straight out of your hotel and into it.

The Old Town is easy to explore. Everything is close together, so you won’t get lost, and it’s all completely walkable. We didn’t plan anything in advance; we just headed into the center and ambled around. 

Most of the main spots are within a few minutes of each other, and you’ll almost definitely pass Portas da Cidade, the iconic arches right by the seafront. Just behind it is Igreja Matriz de São Sebastião, which is worth a quick look for the detail on the front. From there, we wandered over to Praça Gonçalo Velho Cabral, which was a bit livelier, and then on to Mercado da Graça, where we grabbed lots of juicy, fresh fruits! 

5. Abseil, jump, and scramble through the ravines of Ribeira Grande 

This canyoning experience is easily one of the most fun and adventurous things to do in Ponta Delgada, especially if you want to see a more rugged side of the island. While a lot of São Miguel’s highlights are viewpoints and scenic drives, this gets you right into the heart of the landscape!

The tour takes place near Ribeira Grande, in a lush, green valley filled with waterfalls and clear streams. It feels like a natural playground! You’re not just walking through it either, you’re climbing, scrambling, abseiling down waterfalls, and even jumping into natural pools if you’re up for it. The jumps are optional, so you can take it at your own pace, which makes it a good option for beginners.

One thing that really stands out about this experience is how well it’s run. The guides are experienced, friendly, and very focused on safety, which makes a big difference, especially if it’s your first time canyoning. They talk you through everything step by step, so you always feel comfortable, even when you’re doing something a bit outside your comfort zone.

It’s also a great activity to mix into your itinerary because it works in almost any weather. In fact, a bit of rain actually adds to the experience, as the waterfalls are even more impressive.

If you’re looking to add something active and memorable to your trip, this is a great choice. It’s a little bit challenging and a completely different way to experience São Miguel – no wonder it has hundreds of glowing reviews!

6. Get off-road above the north coast on a quadbike

This quad biking tour is easily one of the most exciting ways to explore São Miguel, especially if you want something a bit more hands-on than your typical sightseeing trip. Instead of just pulling up to viewpoints, you’re actually driving through the landscape! It’s super exciting, and an awesome way to work some adrenaline into your Ponta Delgada trip.

The route takes you through the Sete Cidades area, which is one of the most beautiful parts of the island. You’ll start on regular roads, but it doesn’t take long before you head off-road onto dirt tracks, coastal paths, and mountain trails that most visitors would never reach on their own. That’s a big part of what makes this tour so special! 

One of the standout moments is reaching the higher viewpoints around the crater. From up there, you get these sweeping views over the lakes and the coastline. It’s impressive from a car, sure, but arriving on a quad bike really takes it to the next level.

Driving an ATV is also surprisingly easy to pick up, even if you’ve never driven one before. The guides give clear instructions and lead the way the entire time, so you can focus on enjoying the ride without worrying about navigation. Overall, this is a great option if you want to experience São Miguel in a more active and memorable way.

7. Swim in the volcanic rock pools at Mosteiros 

If you’re looking for a free swimming spot that still feels a bit special, Mosteiros is a great shout! It’s on the northwest tip of the island, but we promise that the gorgeous setting makes it well worth the drive.

The pools here are naturally formed from old lava flows, which have created these sheltered little basins right along the coastline. Waves crash against the outer rocks, but inside the pools it’s usually much calmer, so you get the best of both worlds!

What really makes this spot stand out, though, is the backdrop. You’ve got the famous Mosteiros rock stacks rising up out of the sea just offshore, and it’s easily one of the most photogenic places on the island.

There’s also a small black sand beach next to the pools, plus some basic facilities and a café if you want to grab a drink or snack. It’s not overly developed, but there’s enough there to make it worth hanging out for a while.

It’s about a 45-minute drive from Ponta Delgada, and the route along the north coast is really scenic, so it doesn’t feel like a chore to get there. We’d recommend going in the afternoon if you can, as the light hits the pools and rock stacks much better then. And if you’ve got time, it’s also worth stopping in Ginetes on the way back for a coffee and some great views over the west side of the island!

Related Read: The Azores are just one incredible part of the country! Read our guide to the best things to do in Portugal for more travel inspiration across the mainland and islands.

8. Journey to the island’s volcanic heart

This Furnas Valley tour is one of the most unique experiences you can have in Portugal, and it’s an absolute must if you’re visiting São Miguel! While the island is full of incredible scenery, Furnas is completely different – and totally unique. I mean, it’s a geothermal area, so the landscape is actually alive! 

What makes this tour so great is how much it fits into one day without feeling rushed – you’d never be able to do it all on your own! You’ll start along the north coast with stops at places like the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Peace and Miradouro de Santa Iria, where you get those sweeping ocean views, before heading to the Gorreana tea plantation. It’s one of the only tea plantations in Europe, and walking through the fields is a really cool and unexpected experience.

Once you reach Furnas, things get even more interesting. At Lagoa das Furnas, you can actually see the famous “cozido” stew being cooked underground using volcanic heat. It’s such a unique tradition, and then you get to sit down and eat it for lunch, which makes it even better!

The afternoon is just as good. You’ll explore the geothermal area in the village itself, see bubbling hot springs, and you’ll have the option to visit Terra Nostra Park and relax in the warm thermal pool surrounded by lush gardens. If you want to see a completely different side of São Miguel, this is easily one of the best ways to do it!

9. Conquer the craters of Sete Cidades on two wheels

This e-bike tour around Sete Cidades is such a cool way to explore the area, and it’s definitely not your typical bike ride! Instead of cycling through flat city streets or sticking to paved paths, you’re riding along the rim of a volcanic crater – yes, really!

What makes this experience stand out is the mix of adventure and accessibility. Normally, getting around Sete Cidades involves a lot of driving and short stops at viewpoints. But here, you’re actually moving through the landscape the entire time, which is so much more exciting! The electric bikes are a big part of that, too. They take the effort out of the uphill sections, so you can focus on the scenery rather than worrying about the climb.

The route itself is really varied. You’ll ride along dirt trails, quiet backroads, and, best of all, sections right along the crater rim! The views over the famous blue and green lakes below are so beautiful they almost feel surreal, and you’ll have plenty of time to stop for photos and just take it all in. 

This is so much more adventurous than your standard guided tour, but at the same time, it’s still very beginner-friendly. The guides are there the whole time, and the pace is relaxed enough that you don’t need to be an experienced cyclist to enjoy it. If you want a unique way to see Sete Cidades, this is definitely it!

10. Hike to the Crater Lake at Lagoa do Fogo

If you enjoy hiking, this is one you won’t want to skip! We can never resist a good trail, and Lagoa do Fogo was definitely one of our favorite hikes on the island. It feels a lot more raw and untouched compared to places like Sete Cidades, which makes it all the more special.

The lake sits inside a protected volcanic crater, surrounded by steep green ridges, and there’s basically nothing else around. Nothing commercial, and no crowds! We loved feeling so far removed from civilization.

It’s about a 30-minute drive from Ponta Delgada to the main viewpoint, Miradouro da Lagoa do Fogo. Even if you don’t hike down, the view from the top is worth it on its own, as on a clear day you can see right across the island.

Of course, we couldn’t resist heading down. The trail to the lake takes around 45 to 60 minutes, and while it’s well-marked, it does get quite steep in sections. That said, if you enjoy hiking, it’s all part of the fun.

Reaching the lake at the bottom feels incredibly rewarding. The water is crystal clear, and the whole place is completely unspoiled. We ended up lingering here for a while, just taking it all in.

The full hike is about 5 km (about 3 miles) out and back, taking roughly 1.5 to 2 hours. Just be prepared for changing weather, it can shift quickly up here, so bring a waterproof layer and try to start earlier in the day before the clouds roll in.

Related Read: Not sure what to pack for the Azores? We’ve put together a detailed Portugal packing list with everything we recommend bringing to Ponta Delgada here.

11. Soak away the day in the geothermal waters of Furnas 

If you’re looking for a fun way to spend an evening in São Miguel, this geothermal tour is it! It’s a lovely way to relax and enjoy the benefits of the mineral-rich waters in the Furnas Valley, without having to rush.

The tour starts around 6 pm with hotel pickup. From there, you head out along the south coast as the light starts to soften, and you’ll stop at viewpoints like Pico do Ferro, where you can look out over the volcanic crater as the sun begins to set. It’s a pretty epic view! 

By the time you reach Furnas, the crowds have thinned out, and the whole area feels much quieter and more serene. It’s a completely different vibe compared to visiting during the day, and we like that this tour focuses on the thermal baths rather than trying to cram a lot into a busy daytime itinerary. 

Soaking in the warm, mineral-rich waters in the evening is such a treat, especially since you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery and steam rising around you. Is it just me, or does that sound like absolute bliss?

Another thing that makes this tour stand out is the flexibility. You can choose between a private experience or a small group, so it feels a bit more personal either way. There are plenty of spas in Ponta Delgada, but soaking in a raw volcanic setting is even more memorable, and the water will make your skin feel super soft afterward! 

12. Dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Azores

Did you know that the Azores Islands are a great place to go scuba diving? Yup, while most people come here for the landscapes above ground, what’s going on beneath the surface is just as impressive. And that’s why we love this tour!

The waters around São Miguel are full of volcanic formations, which makes the underwater scenery really stand out. Instead of coral reefs like you’d find in tropical destinations, you’ve got dramatic rock formations, caves, and lava structures that create a totally different kind of dive environment. It’s very unique, and it fits the rugged nature of the Azores perfectly.

Marine life here is also really interesting because of the island’s location in the Atlantic. You can spot a mix of species you wouldn’t normally see together, including colorful fish, octopus, and sometimes even larger pelagic species, depending on the conditions. You won’t necessarily see huge schools of fish, but you will experience a lot of variety and unique creatures!

Another thing that makes this experience stand out is the quality of the guides. Many of them have a strong background in marine biology, so you also learn a lot about what you’re seeing along the way. That adds a bit more depth to the experience, especially if you’re curious about the Azores’ environment. If you want to experience the Azores beyond the viewpoints and hikes, this is such a memorable way to do it.

Related Read: Planning to explore beyond Ponta Delgada? Check out our São Miguel itinerary for the best hikes, viewpoints, hot springs, and day trips around the island.

Where to Stay in Ponta Delgada

Now that you know what to do in Ponta Delgada, you just need a great place to stay! We suggest staying in the center of town to make life easier, especially if you’re planning lots of fun activities. Staying centrally means you’ll be in the right place for tour pick-ups, and you’ll have great restaurants and interesting architecture right on your doorstep. Plus, there’s something for everyone here, so with that in mind, we’ve outlined our top hotel picks for every budget!

Octant Ponta Delgada – $$$

If you’re looking to treat yourself a bit, Octant Ponta Delgada is easily one of the most luxurious options on the island. It sits right on the waterfront, so you get those amazing ocean views pretty much everywhere, from your room to the pool area.

The rooms are modern and spacious, with a clean, minimal design that lets the views do most of the talking. It feels polished without being over the top, which we really like! One of the highlights here is the outdoor pool overlooking the sea, plus there’s a spa and the on-site restaurant is also a great option for dinner if you don’t feel like heading back out in the evening.

Rooms here start at around €450 per night during the summer months. Read the amazing reviews and book your stay here!

Hotel Do Colegio – $$ 

We think that Hotel Do Colegio is the perfect mid-range option  in the heart of Ponta Delgada. If location is high on your list, it doesn’t get much better than this! You’re in the historic center, so you can walk pretty much everywhere, from the marina to restaurants and the main sights.

The building itself is part of the charm. It’s set in a 19th-century former school and conservatory, and the interiors still reflect that history in a subtle way. The rooms are spacious and recently updated, so you get a nice mix of character and comfort without it feeling dated. There’s also a small pool, which is a nice bonus, especially after a day out exploring the island. 

Rooms here start at €250 per night during peak season. Check availability and book your stay here!

Azoris Royal Garden – $ 

Azoris Royal Garden is one of those places that feels like a bit of a hidden gem. It’s technically a 4-star hotel, but the prices are often much more budget-friendly than you’d expect, which makes it great value for what you get!

The rooms were renovated recently, so everything feels modern, clean, and comfortable without trying too hard. It’s not ultra-luxury, but it’s definitely a step up from your typical budget stay.

One of the standout features here is the outdoor pool and garden area. It’s a really nice space to relax after a day of exploring, with plenty of loungers and a calm, laid-back vibe. There’s also an indoor pool, spa, and even a gym, so you’ll have everything you need.

Prices here start at €200 per night. Check availability and book your stay here!

Related Read: Want a more detailed breakdown of the best areas to stay across the Azores? Check out our full guide on where to stay in the Azores here!

Thanks for reading!

Ponta Delgada ended up being one of the most unique island destinations we’ve visited in Europe. Between the volcanic lakes, rugged coastlines, geothermal valleys, and incredible local food, every day here felt completely different from the last. We loved how easy it was to balance adventure with slower moments, whether that meant hiking around crater lakes, soaking in thermal pools, or wandering through the Old Town with a tasty treat in hand.

If the Azores are just the start of your travels, be sure to check out our other Europe travel guides here for more destination ideas, tours, and travel tips to help plan your next adventure. We’ve also linked a few more guides below to help inspire the rest of your travels. Cheers!

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