Here are 10 suggestions for places to visit on foot in Ponta Delgada. However, before planning your visit, make sure to check the opening hours of each location, as they may vary depending on the season, holidays, or special circumstances.
If you prefer, you can also join a guided walking tour of Ponta Delgada led by a local guide. This offers the added benefit of hearing stories and interesting facts about the city and its main attractions. BOOK HERE.
1 – Portas da Cidade (City Gates)
This iconic symbol of Ponta Delgada, dating back to 1783, was dismantled and rebuilt in its current location in 1950. With three stone arches, it features the royal and city coats of arms. Its central location also makes it a great starting point for exploring the city on foot.
2- Igreja Matriz (Mother Church)
With an impressive fusion of Manueline and Baroque styles, this church is an architectural gem. Its doors and altars are outstanding examples of religious art, making it a must-see for history and architecture enthusiasts. Google Maps
3 – Torre Sineira (Bell Tower)
Standing nearly 30 meters tall with 106 steps, the Torre Sineira was built in 1724 and reopened to the public in 2013 after accessibility improvements. From the top, you can enjoy a stunning 360° panoramic view of Ponta Delgada. Google Maps
Free admission. Closed on Sundays and public holidays.
4 – Mercado da Graça (Farmers Market)
Mercado da Graça is the perfect place to discover fresh local products. Here, you’ll find a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, fish, meat, and cheese. Open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Closed on Sundays. Google Maps
5 – Museu Carlos Machado (Museum)
Housed in a former convent, this museum offers eclectic exhibits featuring historical artifacts, art, and taxidermy. Founded in 1876 and open to the public since 1880, it plays a key role in preserving and promoting Azorean heritage. If you’re a fan of history and art, this is a must-visit. Tickets: €5 per person. Opening hours: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM. Closed on Mondays.
6 – Plantação de Ananás (pineapple plantation)
Visit one of the pineapple plantations in Ponta Delgada and discover the traditional method of producing this unique fruit. The site features several greenhouses in different stages of the production cycle. The closest to the city center is the Azorean Pineapple Plantation, located on Rua das Laranjeiras, about a 30-minute walk from the City Gates. There are also two other options in town.
7 – Atelier Angela Fernandes
Local visual artist Angela Fernandes draws inspiration from the Azorean natural landscape to create her artwork. Her portfolio includes 7 solo exhibitions and over 10 group shows across Brazil, Spain, and Portugal. Her pieces can be found decorating homes in countries like Canada and the United States.
Angela welcomes visitors to her studio Tuesday through Friday, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
https://www.angelafernandes.com
8 – Walk Along the Marina
For a relaxing break, a stroll along the marina is a great option. You’ll enjoy views of the yachts and the sea, and the area is full of cafés and restaurants with outdoor terraces — perfect for a meal with an ocean view. Swimming is also possible in this area. Google Maps.
9 – José do Canto Botanical Garden
Covering an area of 5.8 hectares, the José do Canto Botanical Garden is a place of great landscape and botanical interest, filled with trees that impress with their monumental size and unique shapes. The garden is open year-round. Google Maps.
10 – São Brás Fort and Azores Military Museum
Last but not least, don’t miss this important 16th-century fort. Built to defend the Azores against pirates, it played a key role during World War II. Known locally as “the Castle,” it is one of the first examples of 360-degree bastioned military architecture in Portugal — a true Renaissance gem. Closed on weekends and public holidays.
Got questions or tips about the Azores? JOIN OUR FACEBOOK GROUP .
The content of this post is the responsibility of its author.
