Top 5 Activities to Enjoy in Ponta Delgada

Ponta Delgada, the capital of the Azores, is a stunning collection of islands located in southern Portugal. Formed by volcanic activity, the breathtaking Azores boast unique flora, diverse bird species, crater lakes, and remarkable volcanic caves.

While on a Dinogo cruise to Ponta Delgada, you'll find countless exciting and distinctive activities suitable for the entire family. Similar to other European ports of call, Dinogo provides a range of specially arranged shore excursions just for you. We handle all the planning, so you can simply enjoy the adventure!

Here’s our selection of the top five activities to experience in Ponta Delgada, the largest island in the Azores archipelago.

1. Stroll Through the Capital City

Established in the 16th century, Ponta Delgada serves as the primary fishing and trading hub for the Azores. You’ll discover several historic attractions just a short stroll from your cruise ship in the harbor.

Greeting you at the entrance to Ponta Delgada are the impressive three-arched gates adorned with the royal and city crests. Originally constructed in the 18th century near the old quay, these gates were relocated to Gonçalo Velho Cabral Square during the development of Prince Henry Avenue along the waterfront.

Nearby, you can also visit the Gothic-style Church of St. Sebastian and the Convent and Chapel of Our Lady of Hope, home to the renowned statue of “Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres” (Christ of Miracles).

A visit to the bustling Mercado da Graça is another highlight of the city, where you can find fishmongers offering a variety of seafood alongside farmers showcasing an array of fresh produce.

At this market, you’ll discover produce that’s unique to Portugal, thanks to the volcanic soil and temperate climate, which remains between 50-70 degrees Fahrenheit year-round.

Savor delicious fruits like annonas, resembling pawpaw or custard apples, and araçal, a strawberry-like guava.

From Ponta Delgada, you can effortlessly explore the breathtaking sights of São Miguel, known as the “green island” for its lush scenery and fertile lands.

2. Admire the Green and Blue Lakes

No trip to Ponta Delgada is truly complete without a visit to the stunning Sete Cidades, or “Seven Cities,” a breathtaking area located within a massive volcanic crater.

Sete Cidades has been recognized as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Portugal, and it’s easy to understand why.

The highlight of this region is the pair of neighboring lakes—one a vibrant green and the other a striking blue. According to local legend, the Green and Blue Lakes were formed from the tears of a princess and a shepherd caught in a forbidden romance.

A fantastic spot to admire the lakes is the Vista do Rei (King’s View) Lookout, named after the visit of Portuguese King D. Carlos and Queen D. Amelia to São Miguel in 1901.

After capturing photos of this extraordinary site, head to the charming village of Sete Cidades for a swim in the rivers or to enjoy a delightful buffet at a local eatery.

3. Ribeira Grande Shines in Its Own Unique Way

Ribeira Grande is another essential stop on your cruise to Ponta Delgada. Experience the island’s oldest town on the northern coast, nestled on a volcanic plateau.

Ribeira Grande flourished in the 18th century, featuring flax and wool spinning mills along the river.

The town’s charming historic center has been beautifully preserved. As you wander through its narrow streets, you'll encounter stunning examples of 17th and 18th-century architecture, including the Town Hall with its magnificent outdoor staircase and the Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Estrela, famous for its impressive façade.

Head to the town’s municipal garden to admire some outstanding examples of the New Zealand Christmas Tree.

4. Hike and Birdwatch to Your Heart's Delight

Hiking and birdwatching are fantastic activities to enjoy during your cruise to Portugal. The Regional Government of the Azores has established an extensive network of walking trails, categorized by difficulty level.

Each trail in this network represents a restored path once used by early island inhabitants when they traveled the island without boats.

The islanders used these trails to guide cows to and from pastures, attend local festivities, and transport fish, produce, and other goods for trade.

These paths connect nearly every corner of each island, tracing along the coastline and through the scenic upland interiors, showcasing some remarkably beautiful areas.

As you wander through Ribeira Grande, stay alert for glimpses and sounds of the native birds. While exploring the lush forests of Sete Cidades, you’re sure to encounter Ponta Delgada's vibrant ecosystem.

A haven for birdwatchers, the Azores host around 30 breeding species, including the critically endangered Azores bullfinch.

5. Explore a Volcanic Cave

During the day, head to Ponta Delgada to explore Gruta do Carvão, one of the many volcanic caves scattered throughout the Azores. If you haven’t experienced a volcanic cave before, be sure to add it to your bucket list—they're quite a rare sight!

There are two primary types of volcanic caves: lava tubes and volcanic pits. Like many caves in the Azores, Gruta do Carvão is a lava tube, formed as a channel during a volcanic eruption, leaving behind a long passageway as the lava cooled.

It’s believed that this cave was created between 5,000 and 12,000 years ago.

Hiking tours, stunning beaches, and active volcanoes are just a few of the adventures awaiting you in Ponta Delgada. When you sail with Dinogo, your island experience can be as thrilling or as laid-back as you wish. The most challenging part of your getaway will be choosing which excursion to embark on first!

Whether you’re taking advantage of the onboard facilities or discovering this charming cultural capital, Dinogo will ensure your vacation to Ponta Delgada is truly unforgettable.