Õtaka

Known as the "Green Island", Sao Miguel is the largest and most populated island in the Azores. Filled with beautiful lakes, waterfalls, volcano craters and endless fields of hydrangeas, it's absolutely a stunning destination. By putting this guide together, I wanted to help you make the most out of your time in Sao Miguel. This guide includes 👉 Advice on getting to Sao Miguel 👉 Guidelines on renting a car 👉 12 Hotel recommendations (at least half of which I've personally visited) 👉 23 Places to explore 👉 9 Suggested excursions 👉 21 Restaurant and bar recommendations and so much more!

São Miguel travel guide

Ponta Delgada is the capital of the Azores. "Thin Cape" sits on the southwest shore of São Miguel Island, the largest island in the autonomous archipelago. The city was a small fishing village until a 1522 earthquake destroyed Vila Franca do Campo, the island's original capital. Ponta Delgada quickly got an upgrade. Its economy and size grew with the citrus-exporting business. Black-and-white basalt buildings--a bell tower, churches, squares--still fill the city's historic core. New gourmet restaurants and waterfront bars do, too. It's easy to get to know Ponta Delgada by walking, as the narrow streets all eventually lead down to the large marina. Let your Azorean adventure begin! This detailed guide includes: Places: neighborhoods Stay: hotels Eat: coffee shops, ice cream stands, restaurants Drink: rooftop bars Do: botanical gardens, churches, fountains, gates, marinas, public parks, roads, squares, statues, tourist offices