Ponta Delgada
---Azores---Portugal.jpg "The astonishing Lagoon of the Seven Cities")
The main town and capital of the island of São Miguel, and of the Azores Archipelago, Ponta Delgada has a rich history stretching back over 500 years, showing its importance as a key trading post between Europe and the Americas. The island is home to beautiful lakes, mountains, sandy beaches and the twin crater lakes of the extinct Sete Cidades Volcano. The cobbled streets and colourful houses are undeniably Portuguese, and are a perfect blend of historic and modern buildings, intermingled with parks, enchanting squares and a modern marina. The striking, three-arched city gates, Portas da Cidade, which once stood in the harbour and now resides in Gonçalo Velho Cabral Square, were dedicated to the Portuguese navigator who discovered the Azores.
Top Experiences
Sete Cidades Crater Lakes
These exquisite lakes are one body of water occupying two craters, separated just enough that their waters are distinct colours: green and blue. One of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal, the lakes are surrounded by lush forest for a truly magical scene.
Cruises to Ponta Delgada
Natural Wonders & Wildlife of the Azores & Madeira • T2408
- Marvel at the wonders of beautiful Portuguese islands
- Explore volcanic sites in the Azores
- Go in search of whales with ORCA on Bolette
Portugal's Islands in Search of the Meteor Shower • L2424
- Discover the natural wonders of the Azores
- Join ORCA to search for marine life from Balmoral
- See the Perseid Meteor Shower and hydrangeas in bloom
Easter Escape to Portugal's Unspoilt Islands • L2505
- Spot a variety of marine life from Balmoral with wildlife charity ORCA
- Explore the botanical gardens on Madeira with a local orchid expert
- Discover the legend of Sete Cidades crater lakes on Sao Miguel Island
Volcanic Islands of the Azores & Madeira • S2417
- View the volcanic 'Sete Cidades' crater lakes in the Azores
- Admire the blue hydrangeas in full bloom in the Azores
- Spot sperm whales and other marine life with ORCA representatives
Volcanic Islands of the Azores & Madeira • S2420
- Uncover the verdant volcanic vistas of the Azores and Madeira
- Relax in hot springs, taste Port wine and ride Lisbon's iconic trams
- Spot a variety of marine life from Borealis with wildlife charity ORCA
Volcanic Islands of the Azores & Madeira • S2422
- Explore the volcanic, emerald-green islands of the Azores
- Join ORCA conservationists on Borealis' decks to spot marine life
- Taste authentic Port wine in Oporto and Madeiran wine in Funchal
Island-Hopping in the Caribbean • S2501
- Enjoy an island-hopping cocktail of winter sun and fascinating culture
- Learn about the history of St. John's at English Harbour
- Encounter marine life in Dominica and Barbados
Volcanic Islands & Hidden Gems of Portugal • T2416
- Discover the Sete Cidades crater lakes from Ponta Delgada
- Search for dolphins and whales from Bolette's decks with ORCA
- Embrace Portuguese traditions and savour local cuisines
Natural Wonders & Wildlife of the Azores & Madeira • T2425
- Relax in the soothing Hot Springs in the Furnas Valley
- Spot marine life from the decks of Bolette with ORCA conservationists
- View the stunning Crater Lakes of Sete Cidades
