Experience a mix of island relaxation and historical charm on a city break to Ponta Delgada.
City breaks to Ponta Delgada
Once a small fishing village, Ponta Delgada is now a cosmopolitan city that offers a great blend of old-school charm and modern vibes. One of the city’s star features is the Igreja Matriz de São Sebastião. This Gothic-style, 16th-century church boasts the city’s signature black-and-white basalt design and has an impressive clock tower that stands tall overlooking the city. Head to São Brás Fort if you love a bit of history. Check out the fortress’s military museum and take in the gorgeous hilltop views – it’s like stepping into a time machine, but with better scenery. And, if you want a break from the hustle and bustle, take a stroll through the Jardim Mata José do Canto – a peaceful botanical garden hidden in the heart of the city. Picture mini bamboo forests, rose gardens and tropical plants and wildlife.Best time to go to Ponta Delgada
This city is a great year-round destination, with mild temperatures even in the winter months. If it’s the sun that you’re after, the temperatures hit that sweet spot in July and August – the thermometer rises to the mid-twenties, and cloudy days are few and far between. For a more chilled trip, September-October and May-June are ideal for catching some sun before the buzz of the summer months. And, while November to February is the quietest and cheapest time to visit, you may find more rainy than sunny days, so dodge the showers by admiring the cultural sites or hitting the thermal pools.