PONTA DELGADA
Host City of the Iberian Festival Awards
Ponta Delgada, the host city of this year’s Iberian Festival Awards, is the main urban centre of São Miguel Island in the Azores. Known for its walkable historic centre, oceanfront setting, and close connection to nature, the city offers a balanced mix of culture, heritage, and natural beauty.
Begin the tour at the City Gates (Portas da Cidade), the iconic symbol that welcomes all visitors. From there, walk through the streets of the historic centre, where every building tells the story of the city, featuring traditional tilework, Baroque façades, and intricate details that delight every visitor.
Don’t miss the Igreja de São Sebastião, with its impressive Baroque façade, and the Igreja dos Jesuítas, which houses part of the Carlos Machado Museum – a must-see for discovering Azorean art, history, and culture.
Next, head to the Forte de São Brás, a 16th-century fort offering views over the marina and the ocean. Then, climb the City Hall Bell Tower (Torre Sineira) for a panoramic view of the city from above.
Be sure to stop by the Mercado da Graça, where you can taste fresh fruits, regional cheeses, and explore local handicrafts. For a unique Azorean experience, visit one of the Pineapple Plantations within the city – a delicious and traditional insight into local agriculture. (Tip: For a true local experience, go early in the morning, especially on Saturdays, when the market is busiest.)
By the seaside, Portas do Mar offers cafés, bars, and restaurants, perfect for enjoying the Atlantic breeze while tasting seafood or traditional sweets. Nearby, the Pesqueiro Natural Pools are ideal for year-round swimming.
For those with a car, São Miguel offers unmissable natural landscapes:
-
Sete Cidades and the Lagoa das Sete Cidades: breathtaking viewpoints, walking trails, picnic areas, and safe canoeing on the lake. (Note: Swimming in the lake is not permitted or recommended.)
-
Gruta do Carvão: a fascinating natural lava tunnel, offering a unique underground adventure.
-
Furnas: home to thermal springs, fumaroles, and the famous traditional “cozido” cooked using volcanic heat. Don’t leave without trying the freshly baked bolo lêvedo, a distinctive local specialty. Nearby is the iconic Lagoa do Fogo, one of the island’s most emblematic spots, ideal for hiking and enjoying stunning scenery.
Additionally, visitors can book whale-watching tours and boat trips at various locations around the island to see dolphins, whales, and the rich marine life of the Azores.
In addition, visitors staying in Ponta Delgada during 14–15 March can experience the city as Portuguese Capital of Culture 2026, with events, performances, and exhibitions taking place throughout the historic center and surrounding areas.
Overall, Ponta Delgada offers a balanced combination of urban charm, cultural heritage, seaside relaxation, and easy access to São Miguel’s natural wonders—making it a destination best explored at a relaxed pace.