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Best Things to Do in Ponta Delgada, Azores on a Day in Port

Almost every transatlantic crossing, except Queen Mary 2, (what I’ve named the “Atlantic Express”) pays a call at Ponta Delgada, on the island of Saõ Miguel, in the Azores. 

More times than not, I hear people asking the ship’s shore excursion desk what are the best things to do in Ponta Delgada.

Here’s what I recommend to do in Ponta Delgada while visiting this middle of nowhere island!

While cruise lines constantly try to devise new and exciting shore excursions, it can seem pretty limited at first glance. An island in the middle of nowhere of which most people aren’t familiar. Surprisingly, there is actually quite a bit to do in Ponta Delgada.

Best Things to Do in Ponta Delgada, Azores

See Related: More Ponta Delgada in a Nutshell

There’s a lot to see, taste and do in Ponta Delgada even from right where you dock. If you have mobility concerns, there’s a elevator to get from the embarkation level to the plaza and shops level. 

All the restaurants offer free wifi with a meal. Great place to catch up with email and FaceTime. In addition to grabbing lunch, there’s a pharmacy, souvenir shops and clothing stores.

Walk a little ways past the port. Then cross the boulevard and climb up the narrow street to the cathedral. This is an easy uphill stroll to do in Ponta Delgada while the rest of the island is very hilly. Nice spot just to sit and relax and look out at the harbor.

If you decide to take a bus tour and head out into the verdant countryside, you will see some spectacular scenery. In the spring, colorful red and violet azaleas, yellow and deep purple-colored pansies are in bloom all around.

Where are the famous Hot Springs in Ponta Delgada?

First stop on your island tour might be to Caldeira Velha, a boiling hot sulphur spring. Watch your step. Seriously. Innocuous little puddles are actually small boiling cauldrons. Avoid those at all times. Saõ Miguel is bursting with incredible natural wonders. Definitely, not what you’d expect to do in Ponta Delgada. Or see!

Back on the bus. Another beautiful drive at dizzying heights. I had to close my eyes as we climbed higher and higher weaving along  narrow switchbacks. If there was a guard rail, I couldn’t see it from the bus window.

When you finally reach this point, you’ll forget about the cliff-hugging road to get here. This is highest lake on the island; the crystal blue water of magnificent Lagoa do Fogo, (Fire Lake). 

Set in the crater of an extinct volcano, the lake was formed after an eruption in 1563. Thus the name Fire Lake. The lake is slightly less than 100′ deep but extends nearly two-miles across. We were so lucky to have sunshine up here. At this elevation, fog and mist are the rule, not the exception.

Ponta Delgada and Pineapples

Another interesting, and tasty, place to visit is the Arruda Pineapple Plantation! Yes…pineapples!

Believe it or not, despite the pervasive fog and endless mist, Saõ Miguel is known for its pineapples! Go figure. Weather in the Azores is nothing like Hawai’i where you’d expect to find the best pineapples. But wait til you try one of these.

You’ll be handed a pamphlet about pineapple growing and go on a short tour of the greenhouse (a very short tour!) with an even shorter explanation on growing pineapples in the Azores. Apparently it has to do with the volcanic soil, similar to the abundance of lush lemon trees in Sicily under the gaze of Mt. Etna, I’d guess.

It’s a quirky little tour, but worth a visit. Be sure to buy a little souvenir bottle of pineapple liqueur to bring home.

See Related: Five Reasons to Take a Cruise Line Shore Excursion

Time to head back into town. Take note of this three-arch structure. It’s the threshold to Ponta Delgada, the Portas de Cidades.

Built in 1753, these were once the official Doors of the City of Ponta Delgada and located on the waterfront. The iconic structure was moved to Gonçalo Velho Cabral Square in 1952 when this area was developed.

Just takin’ a rest…

Time for a late lunch. Or an early dinner if your ship is docked through the evening. I walked to Restaurante Adega Regional from the harbor.

No reservations needed, especially at this early dinner time. First up, a bottle of chilled Azorean wine. Along with pineapple plantations, the Azores have become a prominent wine producer. 

Vineyards thrive in the volcanic soil as well as from the ever-present warming winds and high humidity caused by the Gulf Stream.

White wines from the Azores are made primarily from Arinto grapes. Smaller quantities are produced using Verdelho and Terrantez do Pico grapes. The Verdelho that I had was semi-sweet and went very well with my dinner, and especially with the cheese.

From wondering what in the heck to do, to realizing that your day went by in a blink. If your ship leaves the island before sunset, head out on deck for sailaway. The coastline of this volcanic beauty of an island is worth battling the wind to get a good photo.

I’m already looking forward to my return. Now that I know the best things to do in Ponta Delgada, I can head out in search of more adventures in the Azores.

PIN AND SAVE FOR LATER!

<– Day 7 – Day 9 –>

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Hi Jean, I agree…the sidewalks are a work of art. Thanks for your comment. Sherry

I still remember those beautiful stone sidewalks from my first stop there. Later we took a tour of the island but it’s the sidewalks I remember best.

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Sete Cidades Nature Walk

Dolphin & Whale Adventure

Swimming with the Dolphins

Lagoa do Fogo Nature Hike

Full Day Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo Exploration

Small Group Azorean Cooking in Outside Farmhouse

Private Half-Day Sete Cidades

Private Whale Watching

Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal

ShoreExcursions.com offers an excellent variety of independent shore excursions in Ponta Delgada, Portugal.

Explore the Wonders of Ponta Delgada

Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Ponta Delgada, Portugal with our exceptional shore excursions. Immerse yourself in the enchanting landscapes and captivating culture of this picturesque destination. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, our carefully crafted tours offer something for everyone. Get ready to embark on a journey that will leave you with cherished memories for a lifetime.

Immerse Yourself in History and Culture

Unearth the fascinating history and vibrant culture of Ponta Delgada with our immersive shore excursions. Step back in time as you explore the charming cobblestone streets lined with traditional Portuguese architecture. Marvel at the impressive landmarks, such as the iconic Portas da Cidade and the stunning Sao Sebastiao Mother Church. Our expert guides will share captivating stories and insights, bringing the past to life before your eyes. Indulge in local delicacies, visit traditional markets, and connect with the warm and friendly locals. Immerse yourself in the authentic flavors and traditions of this remarkable destination.

Nature’s Paradise: Unforgettable Landscapes

Prepare to be awestruck by the breathtaking natural wonders that Ponta Delgada has to offer. Join our exhilarating shore excursions and discover the stunning beauty of the Azores’ volcanic landscapes. Explore the tranquil Lagoa das Sete Cidades, a captivating twin lake nestled in a vast crater. Marvel at the striking blue and green hues that paint the horizon, creating a mesmerizing sight. Trek through lush forests, feel the mist on your face at cascading waterfalls, and breathe in the fresh, invigorating air. Nature enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise as they witness the awe-inspiring beauty of Ponta Delgada.

Thrilling Adventures for Adrenaline Seekers

Calling all adventure seekers! Brace yourself for an adrenaline-fueled experience in Ponta Delgada. Our exhilarating shore excursions offer a range of thrilling activities that will satisfy your craving for excitement. Embark on a whale watching expedition and witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Dive into the crystal-clear waters and explore vibrant marine life during a scuba diving adventure. For the ultimate adrenaline rush, try your hand at canyoning and rappel down breathtaking waterfalls. Ponta Delgada is a playground for thrill-seekers, promising unforgettable adventures and memories that will last a lifetime.

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Ponta Delgada cruise shore excursions - Ponta Delgada Forum

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The cruiseship we are travelling on is offering the following shore excursions in Ponta Delgada:

1. Crater Lake scenic drive (Sete Cidades crater)

2. Furnas Valley

3. Ribeira Grand & Fire Lake

We would appreciate any comments (suggestions, transportation tips etc) regarding any of the sites noted above.

If you have been to more than one place, how would rank them in terms of which place you would recommend visiting first (if one had to make a choice)?

Any other sites in or near Lisbon that you would recommend that is not on the list?

Furnas Valley is the most exotic, whith geisers and a termal pool, and a meal cooked under the ground (cozido).

Sete Cidades and Fire Lake are great scenerys.

There have been a few posts this year on this topic so if you put 'cruise' or something similar in the search box you will get to the various replies.

The former is to the west and the latter to the east of Ponta Delgada so its choice of one or the other. Both have their merits, the dramatic crater lake views or Fire Lake (Lagoa Fogo)and the gardens at Furnas.

In a previous post I punted for Sete Cidaddes crater for the views so I had better stick to that but the gardens and hot springs at Furnas are equally good. I think the key is; how much time will your tour give you time in one place to wander around? If there is 2 hours or so then go for Furnas and the Terra Nostra gardens + hot springs. If it is simply off and back on the bus then Sete Cidaddes.

At first it seems odd that they would seperate sete cidades village and scenic drive but there are many scenic spots and other lakes around the main crater which obviously one tour focuses on while the other takes you down into the valley of the crater and the village that sits there. It would also seem that if they're offering a trip to Furnas then your stay here must be long enough to accomdate the trip. Going to Furnas would probably mean the trip would fill your day and you'd have little or no time to explore Ponta Delgada - I assume the Sete Cidades tours would allow for that since it's closer and would take less time. I love the city and there's lots to do and see here (except on Sundays when most of the shops are closed and restaurant choices are limited) but if you're looking for exotic then Furnas is the place - previous posts are right on the money - the gardens and calderas are not to be missed. Plus the trip there and back will give you a scenic tour of the island overall.

When is the ship arriving?

How many hours are you staying on S.Miguel, Azores?

What is the name of the ship?

We prefer to walk but are also interested in learning a bit about the Lagarta trolley. Does it cover any areas or sites that we would miss if we simply walked?

Would also appreciate any recommendations for a great caldeirada in Ponta Delgada. Many thanks!

I have lived here now for about 10 years, I arrived for the first time on a cruise ship and fell in love with the Island and have never looked back!

This is one destination where you do not have to book a cruise ship tour, go online and find one of the very very good taxi drivers who specialize in island tours and book with them.

it's a better because your tour can be tailored to the weather, for example,the Sete Cidades tours will be disappointing if there are low clouds the day you are here.

The taxis will get you back to the ship on time and can work out cheaper.

Off the top of my head 'Ricardo amazing tours' or 'GaryAzores' (who has also replied to your post) are both excellent.

p.s. Bathing in the thermal pool in Furnas is very special.

We've decided to stay in Ponta Delagada & not take a taxi tour to other parts of the Island. We'll see the various sites in the city, soak up some local culture & have some traditional cuisine. We're good walkers & can cover a lot of ground on foot. But I was curious about the Lagarta trolley. Do you know anything about it? Thanks.

The lagarto trolley you refer to is I think a deisel road train which offers trips in and around Ponta Delgada (largarto means lizzard). It starts opposite the Fort of Sao Bras further along the Avenida.

If you walk down that way you will pass close by the Convent and Chapel of Esperanca (hope) which houses the famous statue of Snr. Santo Cristo, I'm not Catholic but every time I visit the Chapel, showing friends around, I feel moved.

The interesting architecture of the City is all within walking distance and there are many good places for lunch, the beef and pork on the Island is good, also you will see Bacalhau (dried cod) on many menus.

Thanks again! Will definitely make the effort to get to Chapel de Esperanca to see the image of Santo Cristo. Ponta Delgarda seems to be rich in churches & we have a great day planned of church-hopping around the city.

Remeber that you arrive on Saturday, and that means that unfortanality the local traditional shops and the fruit market are open only in the morning, so that leaves you only to go to the churchs in the afternoon, that are worth to see, but being the first time to Sao Miguel, and missing the nature things, like Furnas lake or Sete Cidades lakes or even the Fire lake is a pity, because in my opinion the nature things are the main reason to come to the Azores. So dicide well what are you giong to do here.

The three crater lakes are very beuatiful and it is a tough decision to choose the best place, but if the weather is foggy, in my opinion choose Furnas lake, because the fog is not a problem and the main gole is the hot springs.

Bye! Have a nice vacation!!!

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Ponta Delgada Azores (Portugal) Cruise Port Guide: Review (2023)

Overview for cruise visitors to Ponta Delgada. Things to do and must-know. Attractions, shore excursions, and sightseeing. Where ships dock, how to explore and get around, maps, tourist info, and basics.

By: Editor-in-Chief Update: May 23, 2023

Anyone that knows Ponta Delgada well wonders why cruise ships don’t call at this port more frequently. Is there much to do? Yes. Have you been to Ponta Delgada and didn't find anything appealing to enjoy? Could it be that you missed something? That's not surprising.

• Where is Ponta Delgada

Where cruise ships dock

Shuttle bus.

• Cruise terminal
• Things to do in Ponta Delgada
• Top attractions of Ponta Delgada and Sāo Miguel
• Shore excursions (Shorex)
• Discover on your own
• Sightseeing
• What's within walking distance
• How to get around
• Must-know: tourist info, language and currency
• Safety, emergencies, and basics

There are many things to do on the lovely island of São Miguel, where Ponta Delgada cruise port is. But, and this is a big but, most cruise lines rarely offer several of the most extraordinary attractions.

The port of Ponta Delgada (in the Azores, Portugal) is the gateway to a good number of stunning sites located between 3 and 28 miles (4,8 and 45 km) from the cruise piers and terminal.

Cruisers who like a stroll close to the port will discover a few charming sites near the piers. But you have to travel inland to enjoy spectacular landscapes. And unique gastronomic delights. For one-of-a-kind experiences, you must venture out to sea.

Ponta Delgada is a cruise port of call usually visited in Transatlantic and European Atlantic itineraries during the Spring-Summer season. As many as 149,000 passengers and over 140 cruise ships visited Ponta Delgada in 2019.

Ponta Delgada is very safe. The area around the port has a very pleasant character, is very clean and well maintained. The local population is friendly, polite and speak English very well. For those cruising with families, there are just a few exciting things for kids to do. Cruise passengers with walking difficulties will find it simple to wander around in Ponta Delgada on your own.

Where is Ponta Delgada cruise port

Ponta Delgada is in the middle of the Atlantic ocean, far from other cruise ports. Funchal (Madeira) and the other islands in the Azores are the only ports close by. The cruise port in Ponta Delgada is 900 miles (1450 km) West of Lisbon and 2570 miles (4,136 km) East of New York.

Bathed by the Atlantic Ocean, Ponta Delgada is on the South Coast of the island of Sāo Miguel and, with a population of around 68,809, is the largest city of the Azores. The Azores is an archipelago with nine islands and Sāo Miguel, often referred to as the emerald green island thanks to its flora, is the largest. The island is 35.8 miles (62 km) long, and its maximum width is 9.8 miles (15.8 km).

Cruise ships dock in two distinct areas, both close to the historical downtown of Ponta Delgada. If you have been to Ponta Delgada before, you may be under the impression that cruise ships always dock by the Terminal Maritimo , which is where ships moor most of the time.

However, when more than two cruise ships call at Ponta Delgada it is possible to dock at the long pier (parallel to the city) that is also a breakwater.

The Terminal Maritimo , also known as Portas do Mar (Sea Doors), is on a modern complex with cafes, restaurants, and shops. It has a long pier for two large ships and is around 700 feet (200 meters) from the main avenue of the historical city.

This avenue along the harbor (Portuguese: Avenida do Infante Dom Henrique ), leads to the main square and heart of Ponta Delgada, another 700 feet (200 meters) farther west.

The breakwater pier is 0.85 miles long. It is used primarily by cargo ships and occasionally by cruise ships. It ends by an old fort (Forte de São Brás), and next to another major square in Ponta Delgada.

When cruise ships dock at the industrial pier, passengers are prohibited to walk to town if cargo is being unloaded. The good news is that a shuttle bus will be provided. The main cruise terminal is so close to the old city that a shuttle bus is not needed.

Cruise terminal services and amenities

Do not expect to find any amenities or services at the industrial pier. Except for cruise excursion buses and a few taxis. By contrast, cruise passengers will find in Terminal Maritimo the following services and amenities:

Be aware that cruise passengers will have to pass by x-ray scanners at the terminal to re-enter the ship.

Things to do in Ponta Delgada cruise port

The island of Sāo Miguel has quite a few highlights. But when cruisers ask "What is there to do in Ponta Delgada?" whale watching is undoubtedly the most spectacular experience you must enjoy in Ponta Delgada. Surprisingly, it is seldom mentioned and rarely offered.

Amazingly only a couple of cruise lines offer whale-watching excursions. It is mindboggling considering that the best time for whale-watching in the Azores is between May and September, precisely when cruise ships call at Ponta Delgada.

For those that are not thrilled or feel intimidated to encounter massive whales on a small boat, there are many scenic sights to marvel at and experiences to enjoy. Here are the top things to do on a cruise to Ponta Delgada:

• Enjoy whale and dolphin watching
• Marvel at Sete Cidades crater lakes
• Visit the active geysers at the Furnas Valley
• Explore Ribeira Grande town
• Walk around Ponta Delgada historical center
• Stroll through the Terra Nostra botanical gardens
• Discover a pineapple plantation
• Tour a tea plantation
• Drive a 4WD through off the beaten track sites
• Savor a cozido (stew) cooked in hot springs
• Taste Azorean wines and cheeses
• Shop for local handicrafts and gourmet delicacies

Top attractions in Ponta Delgada cruise port and Sāo Miguel island

Cruise travelers will have the opportunity to experience the best things to do in Ponta Delgada in the following sites:

• Sete Cidades crater lakes The “Lake of Seven Cities” is a natural wonder of mesmerizing beauty. Must-see: the two lagoons (green lagoon and blue lagoon), Vista do Rei sightseeing point, the village and church of Saint Nicholas. Distance from port: 16 miles (26.6 km), under a 40-minute drive. Learn more on Wikipedia
• Lago do Fogo The Lake of Fire is a pristine volcanic crater with a stunning lake. Must-see and do: sightseeing from “Miradouro da Lagoa do Fogo” (viewpoint), hiking to the edge of the lake, sandy beach, and endemic flora. Distance from port: around 16.5 miles (26.6 km), 25-minute drive. Learn more on Wikipedia
• Furnas Valley Active volcanic complex with dozens of hot springs (fumaroles). Must-see and do: Pico do Ferro viewpoint, Lagoa das Furnas , Nossa Senhora das Vitórias chapel Terra Nostra botanical garden, savor Cozido nas Caldeiras - meat and vegetable slow-cooked stew. Distance from port: 28.4 miles (45.6 km), 45-minute drive. Visiting time: 2 to 3 hours (not including lunch). Learn more on Wikipedia
• Parque Terra Nostra This stunning botanical garden features a casino within a hotel and a natural hot-water swimming pool (yes, you can swim here). Distance from port: 42.9 miles (26.7 km), 45-minute drive. Discover more on the official website in English.
• Ribeira Grande The first capital city of the Azores dating back to the late 15th century. Must-see: Igreja Matriz (main church), Municipal (Ethnographic) Museum, Azorean Emigration Museum, and Santa Bárbara surfing beach. Distance from port: 13.3 miles (21.4 km), around a 20-minute drive. Learn more on Wikipedia .
• Arruda Pineapple Plantation Azores pineapples are known for being small but very juicy and sweet. Must-see: plantation and store where you can purchase pineapple liqueurs and sweets. Distance from port: 3.1 miles (4.9 km), 10-minute drive. Read more on the official website in English.
• Gorreana Tea Plantation Dating back to 1883 and claiming to be the oldest and only operational factory in Europe, this 32-acre farm produces 44 tons of tea annually. Must-see: beautiful sights, picking and packing to tea, a museum with the original equipment. Distance from port: around 19.1 miles (30.8 km), 30-minute drive. Learn more on the official website in English.
• Ponta Delgada historical center To find out more about all the top attractions in the historical center of Ponta Delgada keep reading this port guide or click here .

Adventure, thrilling and fun activities

Except for 4WD tours, dolphin and whale watching, cruise excursions do not offer most activities listed below. You will have to book these with alternative online and local tour services. Here are the top thrilling activities you may enjoy when calling on a cruise to Ponta Delgada port:

• Bicycle rides
• Big Game Fishing
• Birdwatching
• Horseback riding
• Paragliding
• Scuba Diving

Cruise shore excursions and tours

Obviously, all cruise lines callling at Ponta Delgada offer many and diverse shore excursions in Ponta Delgada. Royal Caribbean offers 4 shore excursions , Norwegian Cruise Line has available 8 shore tours , and Carnival lists 7 cruise excursions .

Celebrity Cruises offer as many 8 shore explorations , Holland America lists 6 cruise excursions and Princess has available 8 excursions in Ponta Delgada cruise port.

The upper-premium cruise lines like Oceania and Viking visit Ponta Delgada cruise port on many/a few itineraries. Oceania Cruises organizes 12 shore excursions in Ponta Delgada. Although most luxury cruise lines include shore excursions with the cruise fare, Regent, Seabourn and Silversea offer unique and diverse explorations ashore in Ponta Delgada. Regent lists 11 excursions , Seabourn has 8 excursions , and Silversea offers 12 excursions .

There are also excursions offered by the following reputable private online services and local tour operators:

• Shore Trips
• Shore Excursions Group
• Tours by Locals
• Cruising Excursions
• Shore Excursioneer

Local tour operators

Amongst the many local tour operators, none of which are affiliated, endorsed, or approved by IQCruising, the following have received excellent reviews and gave secure websites:

• futurismo.pt
• picosdeaventura.com
• epicadventures.com
• whalewatch.com
• azoresgolfislands.com
• azoresfishing.pt
• azoresshoreexcursions.com

Explore Ponta Delgada on your own.

Cruise passengers that like to explore ports on their own will find a few attractions nearby to discover on foot. There is also one sightseeing train and the sightseeing yellow bus. Public transportation is good but not easy to navigate for tourists. Close to the port, the are taxi ranks, which is an affordable way to get around.

Sightseeing in Ponta Delgada

The Yellow bus sightseeing hop-on hop-off has two main routes. Both cost € 22.00 and start by the São Brás Fort within walking distance from the port. One tour has seven stops sightseeing Ponta Delgada, Ribeira Grande, and the Fire Lake (Lagoa do Fogo). The second tour covers Ponta Delgada and the Seven Cities Lagoon and has six stops in between.

The Lagarta tourist train has four tours: a city tour, a garden tour, a beach tour, and a heritage tour. All these tours start at São Brás Fort and cost € 7.50. For more information check the official websites:

• Yellow Bus Hop-On Hop-Off
• Lagarta Tourist train

What's within walking distance of the cruise port

Close to the cruise port and the terminal, between 500 feet and ¾ of a mile, there are many landmarks, churches, museums and highlighst to explore on foot. These are the top attractions in the historical center of Ponta Delgada:

• Main square. The heart of downtown with statue of Gonçalo Velho Cabral (the Portuguese navigator who discovered the Azores) at its center. The town hall square is next to it.
• City Gates. On the main square, the three-arched “Portas da Cidade” is a main landmark impossible to miss.
• St Sebastian Church. The main church in the city, the Igreja Matriz de São Sebastião is located next to the main square. The interior is a must-see.
• Synagogue Museum. The old synagogue is now a museum (Museu Hebraico Sahar Hassamaim), less than 500 feet west of the main square.
• Military Museum at São Brás Fort Dating back to 1552, this fort overlooking the ocean houses a military museum.
• St Joseph Church The very large Igreja de São José is one of main buiildings in the square next to the Military Museum.

Must-know: tourist info, language, and money matters

Portuguese is the official language but English is widely spoken. The English speaking cruise passenger will easily communicate with locals pretty much everywhere.

Currency and money matters

The Euro (€) (EUR) is the legal tender in Portugal as a full member of the European and Monetary Union. US$ dollars or any other currency are NOT accepted and you must have Euros to pay for services or purchases in cash.

Credit cards: Most credit cards are accepted. DoubleCHECK

There are ATM machines by all banks, sometimes labeled “Multibanco” where you can cash Euros with both your debit card and credit card.

Tipping: Tipping is not expected in restaurants, cafes, or bars as employees have labor contracts with all sorts of benefits. However, it is customary to round up the check but always less than 5%. The same applies to taxi drivers.

Haggling: Haggling is not expected on any shops or services with exception of street vendors - be aware that many are not legal and you can get your purchases confiscated.

Business and commercial opening hours

Museums open from 10 am to 5 pm but close on Mondays. Shops are open on weekdays from 9 am to 7 pm, although some may be closed for lunch between 1 pm and 3 pm. Many shops close on Saturday after 1 pm. Shopping malls are open 7 days a week and on holidays from 10 am to 11 pm. Banks are open Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 3 pm.

Safety, US travel advisory, and basics

Ponta Delgada and all the Azores are well known for being very safe.

For comprehensive and updated information about traveling to Portugal see the U.S. Department of State website page evolving advisory.

Covid-19 advice for cruises to Ponta Delgada (Portugal)

For updated coronavirus (Covid-19) information and travel advice to Portugal and Ponta Delgada visit the website of the U.S. Embassy in Portugal . For more Traveler's Health advice to Portugal see the CDC Website .

Ponta Delgada Basic Info at a Glance

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Ponta Delgada, Azores Shore Excursions

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Ponta Delgada Shore Excursions: Land & Sea Vistas

On a port of call at the Azores’ capital city of Ponta Delgada, shore excursions on the colorful island of São Miguel point the way to the island’s most delightful sights.

The island of São Miguel, the largest of the nine-island chain that comprises the Azores, is located west of Portugal’s mainland. It maintains vestiges of its days as an important trading port in the 18th and early 19th centuries. Ponta Delgada shore excursions show off the island’s most important historic sites and areas including the city’s three arches, churches that date back to the mid-1500s, a commercial port and railway, and palaces and manor houses that attest to the city’s past wealth from commercial shipping.

São Miguel, like its Azores sister islands, was formed out of erupting volcanoes. You can book Ponta Delgada cruise excursions that take you to Sete Cidades for a spectacular view of two crater lakes, one emerald green and one sky blue, that are 1,900 feet above sea level. The village of Sete Cidades is nestled in the remains of the crater and is surrounded by dense forest. Whether you tour this site by motor coach or in a 4x4 land vehicle from your Ponta Delgada cruise , you’ll be awed by the beauty of the pristine landscape.

For other ways to enjoy the island’s beauty, book Ponta Delgada shore excursions to the bustling mountain city of Ribeira Grande. Explore the Terra Nostra Garden Botanical Park, a wonderland of trees, canals, and grottoes that was started in 1775 by United States Consul Thomas Hickling. After an enjoyable time strolling the area, relax in a geothermal hot spring for a while.

In addition to its reputation for glorious land and sea vistas, São Miguel is well known as a natural habitat for orcas as well as sperm, humpback, and blue whales. For an exciting day of whale spotting, book one of our eco-adventure excursion cruises . Soon after setting out from the marina, your marine biologist guide is likely to point out pods of bottlenose dolphins and quite possibly a sperm whale or two.

Food adventurists will enjoy a dinner of Azorean specialties served in grand style at the elegant main restaurant of a five-star hotel located just a short stroll from the port. As you savor the delectable dinner and wine selections, you’ll be treated to a folkloric show that includes music and dancing.

Learn More About Celebrity Cruises Shore Excursions

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