The Azores are small islands and the cities and towns scattered across them are also pretty small. Nothing like London, Paris or Rome, they’re often really tiny. But each one is unique, a jewel in the crown of the island it graces. These places are ancient, colourful, exciting and utterly beautiful. Here’s what you need to know about villages, cities and towns on Sao Miguel, Terceira and Santa Maria islands, part 1 of our guide to the urban side of Azorean life.
Cities and towns on São Miguel Island
The capital Ponta Delgada is the biggest city of all – cobbled streets, whitewashed buildings, the blue Atlantic and a backdrop of lush green volcanic landscapes. Old-world European charm is the name of the game here. The City Gates or Portas da Cidade’s trio of arches is a delight, the city centre is vibrant and exciting, and the 1500s Forte de São Bras reveals the island’s chequered history. Don’t miss the City Hall Bell Tower with its panoramic rooftop views, Carlos Machado Museum, the Jardim Antonio Borges, and the brilliant Mercado da Graça market. Plus there are whale-watching tours to be had off the coast.
Povoação is the island’s oldest settlement, dating back to the 1400s, and its great age is reflected in the remarkable buildings. The surrounding area is stuffed with natural wonders including epic waterfalls and variety of well-laid-out hiking trails of varying difficulty.
Ribeira Grande was founded way back in 1478, with a centre that’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the beautiful Paços do Concelho town hall, the 1500s Nossa Senhora das Mercês church, Ribeira Grande museum and the village’s beautiful botanical garden. It’s also perfect for snorkelling, diving, enormous fun for experienced surfers at Praia do Areal de Santa Barbara, and excellent surf schools.
Nordeste is home to the popular Farol do Arnel lighthouse, the oldest in the Azores Islands and a wonderfully romantic spot, the ultimate in Instagrammable. The viewpoint at Miradouro da Ponta do Sossego reveals breathtaking panoramas and Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeirões is a paradise of waterfalls, watermills, and ridiculously green and verdant jungly vegetation. Then there’s Poço Azul, an enchanting lake with famously vivid blue waters.
Vila Franca do Campo offers more cobbled streets and pretty pastel-coloured homes, the 1500s Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Assunção, and the Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo volcanic crater with its gorgeous Lagoa Azul Nature Reserve. The Lagoa de Congro, a freshwater lake accessible by foot, is quite simply idyllic.
Furnas comes with yet more stunning natural beauty, a fascinating cultural heritage, and endless ways to relax, chill, and watch the world go slowly by. The 1700s Terra Nostra Botanical Garden, with its bizarre steaming volcanic vents, thermal pools and famous steaming lake, and the thermal pools at Poça da Dona Beija, are havens of relaxation. Furnas Lagoa lake is bright green, an extraordinary sight thanks to its unique iron and copper-rich water.
Lagoa offers lovely scenery, including the awesome Sete Cidades crater lakes, along with interesting potteries to visit, a really pretty waterfront with quaint fishing boats, and chilled-out Água d’Alto beach.
Cool conurbations on Terceira Island
Terceira is home to the city of Angra do Heroísmo, the island’s capital. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, steeped in history with zillions of amazing old buildings to admire. Don’t miss magnificent Sé Cathedral with its Manueline Gothic architecture, Angra do Heroísmo Museum, Angra Marina and the mighty Monte Brasil volcanic cone overlooking it all with endless panoramic views and varied hiking trails. You’ll find the Fortress of São Sebastião at the volcano’s summit. There’s an 1800s theatre to see performances at, called the Angra do Heroísmo Angra Coliseum, and the vibrant Festas do Espírito Santo festival to enjoy in summer.
Praia da Vitória is next in size, a modern place near Terceira Lajes Airport. It offers a beautiful beach, da Vitória Beach, along with the iconic Ponta da Vigia Lighthouse, Praia da Vitória Municipal Museum, Algar do Carvão volcanic cave, nearby Terceira Natural Park with its eye-candy volcanic craters and lakes, and whale watching in the crystal-clear waters.
Urban delights on Santa Maria Island
Vila do Porto, the island’s capital, is packed with culture and history including the 1400s Igreja Matriz church, the fort at Forte de São Brás, and the Museu de Santa Maria. The town square itself is really lovely, named the Praça da Republica and lined with traditional Azorean houses. The Rua do Comércio is home to great shops and cafes and the island’s cheese, Queijo de Santa Maria, is a top taste experience in the town. The annual festival, Espírito Santo, brings everyone on the island together.
Sao Lourenco is an idyllic village loved by nature and beach fans with the pristine Praia Formosa and Barreiro da Faneca’s golden sands. Diving is a big deal here, along with magical hiking.
There’s so much more! So come back for part 2 of our guide to the cities and towns of the Azores.
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