Frequently asked questions
Ponta Delgada: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is May-September. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Ponta Delgada: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +25.0°C, during the day — up to +24.7°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Ponta Delgada: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +11.0°C, during the day — up to +16.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Ponta Delgada: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +24.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Ponta Delgada: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on autumn-winter (October-February). During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Ponta Delgada: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "black volcanic sand" surface, black sand, clear water. The most popular beaches: Milícias Beach and Pópulo Beach. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Ponta Delgada: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as high — swimming is only recommended in specially designated areas. Lifeguards are on duty on the beaches.
Ponta Delgada: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: sea urchins, jellyfish. Portuguese man o' war and jellyfish may be present. Follow lifeguard instructions on beaches.. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Ponta Delgada: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $163.00 (≈ 13 679 ₽ · ≈ 146 EUR) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the
trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Ponta Delgada: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $35.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $120.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $180.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $300.00 per night, an apartment — $100.00 per night, a villa — $150.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Ponta Delgada: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $12.00, dinner at a restaurant — $25.00, a cup of cappuccino — $3.00, a 0.5L beer — $4.00, a 1.5L bottle of water — $1.50. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Ponta Delgada: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $20.00, a single public transport ticket — $2.00, a short taxi ride — $8.00, car rental — $40.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Ponta Delgada: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Portas da Cidade (City Gates) — Ponta Delgada's main landmark, three arches built in the 18th century.; Fortress of São Brás — Historic fortress with the Azores Military Museum.; José do Canto Garden — One of the city's largest gardens with exotic plants.; Gruta do Carvão — The longest underground lava tunnel on São Miguel Island.; Campo de São Francisco — The city's main square with churches and cobblestone mosaics.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Ponta Delgada: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Cozido das Furnas — Traditional Azorean meat stew cooked in volcanic ground.; Fresh Fish — Fish caught in the Atlantic Ocean, grilled.; Pineapples — Famous Azorean pineapples grown in greenhouses.; São Jorge Cheese — Hard cheese with a sharp flavour from São Jorge Island.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Ponta Delgada: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Old Town — Historic centre with cobblestone streets, shops and restaurants.; Milícias and Pópulo Beach Area — Coastal zone with popular beaches and a promenade.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Ponta Delgada: is a visa required?
Visa: required (Schengen). Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Ponta Delgada: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Аэропорт Жуана Паулу II (code PDL). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $20.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Ponta Delgada: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — EUR. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $163.00 (≈ 13 679 ₽ · ≈ 146 EUR). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Ponta Delgada: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Ponta Delgada: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as moderate. There is not much nightlife, but the basics are available.
Ponta Delgada: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Sete Cidades Lake — Famous twin lake in a volcanic crater, ~30 km.; Furnas — Town with hot springs and volcanic pools, ~40 km.; Furnas Valley — Picturesque valley with geothermal activity.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.
