One Day in Ponta Delgada, Portugal

  • 9:00 AM: Mercado da Graca
    10 minutes (1.3 miles) from the airport

    Mercado da Graca is a famous marketplace in Ponta Delgada where you'll find a variety of regional flavors, including local cheeses and wines, as well as fresh fish and fruits. This is a unique spot to gather local goods or grab a quick bite to eat.

  • 10:30 AM: Porto das Capelas
    20 minutes (7 miles) from Mercado da Graca

    Porto das Capelas is a picturesque fishing village located on the north shore of the island. With stunning coastal landscapes, this is a great spot to take some photographs or just relax and enjoy the serene surroundings.

  • 12:30 PM: Restaurant Coliseu
    15 minutes (5 miles) from Porto das Capelas

    Experience Ponta Delgada's local cuisine and enjoy lunch at Restaurant Coliseu. Their specialties include seafood, steak, and local cheese, all at reasonable prices, paired with a selection of fine regional wines.

  • 2:00 PM: Forte de Sao Bras
    5 minutes (1 mile) from Restaurant Coliseu

    Forte de Sao Bras, a 16th century fortress, is located in the heart of Ponta Delgada. The fortress is now home to the Azorean military museum and has a fantastic overview of the city from the lush gardens in the inner courtyard.

  • 4:30 PM: Poços de São Vicente
    25 minutes (9 miles) from Forte de Sao Bras

    Take a dip in the natural swimming pools at Poços de São Vicente. These springs have crystal-clear waters that are rich in minerals, and are surrounded by lush vegetation.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Mercado da Graca (1 hour, 15 EUR)
  • Porto das Capelas (2 hours, free)
  • Restaurant Coliseu (1.5 hours, 25 EUR)
  • Forte de Sao Bras (2.5 hours, 3 EUR)
  • Poços de São Vicente (2 hours, free)
  • Total Estimated Cost: 43 EUR

Transportation

It's recommended to rent a car or use ride-hailing services to get around the island. Traveling around the island usually takes around 15 minutes by car depending on traffic. The estimated cost for rental cars starts at 35 EUR per day, and ride-hailing services typically cost 10 EUR for a 20-minute ride.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, visit the Mata-Jardim Jose do Canto botanical garden or the fishing village of Ferraria. If you have less time and prefer a more relaxed day, head to the Terra Nostra botanical garden and hot spring.

Airports

Ponta Delgada Airport (PDL) is located just 3 miles (5 km) outside of the city center. The primary gateway to the Azores, the airport serves flights to several other regions in Portugal, as well as international destinations across Europe, America, and Canada.

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