Ponta Delgada, first settled by fishermen attracted by its safe port, soon began to take over as the island’s main port. It is now a dynamic and cosmopolitan city with a highly active outwardly looking cultural scene.

The long road running round the port defines the city’s profile. Walk this coast road and experience its changing nature. Throughout the day, there is a constant stream of those going about their daily activities that, as the evening draws on, gives way, and especially in the summer months, to those of more recreational intent. This amply represents Ponta Delgada’s dynamism and adaptation to modern times while its accesses display the historical marks left by five centuries of history, precious testament to times gone by.

Ponta Delgada is a multi-faceted city where tradition lives on with the contemporary and cosmopolitan, interpreted by the characteristic tranquillity of life on the Azores. The city tells its story through the history of its buildings and gardens. Begin your visit in the central focal point Praça Gonçalo Velho, divided up into its western and eastern zones by gardens and palaces.

On your walk, slow the pace to fully appreciate the monumental impact of the older buildings replete in architectural heritage, such as the Portas da Cidade.

And take full advantage to learn more about Ponta Delgada, visiting the island’s tourism services.