Welcome
to Azores!
Embrace Nature and Adventure
About the Region
What Makes Azores a Unique Erasmus+ Destination?
Unspoiled Nature & Biodiversity
Volcanic craters, lakes such as Sete Cidades, and the geothermal springs of Furnas. Protected ecosystems that are ideal for environmental research and sustainability. Rich marine life, including whale watching and diving opportunities.
Culture & Traditions
Unique local festivals that preserve Azorean identity. Volcanic stone architecture and historic towns. A welcoming community that values heritage and hospitality.
Distinct Cuisine
The region’s gastronomy is a celebration of the Atlantic, featuring fresh seafood, cataplanas, and locally grown produce. Pair these flavors with regional wines for a true taste of Algarve’s culinary richness.
Learning & Adventure
Courses combining theory with hands-on, field-based experiences. Scenic hiking trails, volcanic landscapes, and crystal-clear lakes. Outdoor activities such as kayaking, whale watching, and nature exploration.
Come Discover
Azores with us!
Explore 100+ courses in our UNESCO Cities: Algarve, Aveiro, Azores Island, Lisbon, Madeira Island, Porto, Malaga, Seville, Valencia and Kraków.
Planned Courses in Ponta Delgada (Azores)
Founded in the 15th century, the Azores have played a significant role in Portugal’s maritime history, strategically located in the 9 islands, each with its own distinct character, has become a symbol of resilience, exploration, and natural beauty.
A Little History
The Azores were uninhabited when Portuguese explorers discovered the islands in the early 15th century. Recognizing their strategic importance, Portugal swiftly established settlements on each island. These islands became pivotal stopovers for ships during the Age of Discovery, serving as key refueling points for explorers and merchants traveling between Europe, Africa, and the Americas.
The Azores flourished as a center of transatlantic trade in the 16th and 17th centuries, connecting the Old and New Worlds. Horta, on the island of Faial, became a bustling port frequented by whalers, traders, and explorers. This period of prosperity attracted diverse influences from Europe, Africa, and Asia, leaving a lasting impact on Azorean culture, cuisine, and architecture. The cobbled streets and stately churches in Ponta Delgada are reminders of this era’s cultural blend and maritime wealth.
Volcanic soils and a mild climate made the Azores ideal for agriculture, leading to the growth of unique crops like tea, pineapple, and tobacco. This agricultural heritage endures today, with local products highly valued across Europe.
Azorean cuisine is deeply rooted in local traditions and the natural abundance of the islands. Fresh seafood, volcanic-grown vegetables, and tender grass-fed beef are central to the culinary experience here. Signature dishes like “Cozido das Furnas,” a stew cooked using geothermal heat, showcase the islands’ volcanic origins. Tuna, limpets, and barnacles are delicacies that highlight the ocean’s bounty, often accompanied by yams and tropical fruits. Azorean cheeses, particularly from São Jorge, are celebrated for their rich, creamy flavors. And for dessert, indulge in sweet treats like “massa sovada” (sweet bread) and pineapple from São Miguel. Every meal in the Azores is a testament to the islanders’ ingenuity and their deep connection to the land and sea, creating a cuisine that’s as unique as the archipelago itself.
The Azores offer a journey through centuries of resilience, adaptation, and innovation, making them a compelling destination for those seeking both historical depth and natural wonder.
Let's get to the good part, shall we?
It’s no secret that Azorean culture is deeply connected to food, with every gathering and celebration offering a chance to savor life through local flavors. The Azores boast a rich culinary scene featuring fresh seafood, tender meats, and unique island specialties. You can enjoy traditional dishes like Cozido das Furnas—a stew slow-cooked using geothermal steam—grilled limpets (lapas), octopus, tuna, and locally produced cheeses. Complement your meal with excellent Azorean wines or passion fruit liqueur, and finish with a sweet treat such as Queijadas da Vila or local pastries. The Azores truly celebrate the harmony of nature and gastronomy!
The airport is located just 5 km from downtown Ponta Delgada.
Taxi: Around 10 minutes, costs approximately €10–15.
Airport shuttle / local bus: Available during the day, cheaper but takes a bit longer.
Private transfer: Can be booked in advance with hotels or agencies.
Car rental: Recommended if you plan to explore the island, with desks directly at the airport.
Explore Ponta Delgada
Ponta Delgada is the vibrant capital city of São Miguel Island, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and picturesque harbor. Visitors can stroll through its charming streets, admiring colonial buildings like the São Sebastião Church and the iconic Portas da Cidade gates.
Sete Cidades
Explore the twin crater lakes of Sete Cidades on São Miguel Island, renowned for their striking blue and green hues. The surrounding caldera offers panoramic views and hiking trails.
Lagoa do Fogo
Lagoa do Fogo, or “Lake of Fire,” is a stunning crater lake nestled within the central mountains of São Miguel Island. It’s one of the most beautiful natural sights in the Azores, with hiking trails leading to breathtaking viewpoints over the lake and surrounding mountains.
Furnas Valley
Visit Furnas Valley on São Miguel Island to experience geothermal activity, including hot springs and fumaroles. Don’t miss the traditional ‘Cozido das Furnas,’ a stew cooked underground using volcanic heat.
Ponta da Ferraria
Located on São Miguel Island, Ponta da Ferraria features natural thermal pools heated by volcanic activity, where visitors can bathe in the Atlantic Ocean’s warm waters.
Poça da Dona Beija
Situated in Furnas Valley, Poça da Dona Beija is a thermal spring surrounded by lush greenery. Visitors can soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters, which are renowned for their therapeutic properties, making it a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
Gorreana Tea Plantation
Visit Europe’s oldest tea plantation on São Miguel Island to learn about tea production and enjoy tastings amidst lush greenery.
Pico Island
Hike Mount Pico, Portugal’s highest peak, for breathtaking views. The island is also known for its UNESCO-listed vineyards and whale-watching opportunities.
Visit Terceira Island (nearby island)
Located in the central Azores, famous for its lush landscapes, historic towns, and traditional culture. Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the island’s capital, showcasing stunning 16th-century architecture.
Associação Agrícola de São Miguel (Traditional Azorean cuisine, including dishes like ‘Alcatra’ (beef stew) and fresh seafood)
Tasquinha Vieira (Variety of petiscos (small plates) and regional specialties)
Queijaria Furnense (Cheese shop with a selection of local cheeses, including the famous São Jorge cheese, ideal for tasting and purchasing souvenirs)
Restaurante O Giro (Seafood dishes and traditional Azorean flavors)
Restaurante Cais 20 (A waterfront restaurant offering a variety of modern seafood and regional dishes complemented by views of the marina).
Whale Watching Tours
The Azores are a prime location for whale and dolphin watching, with several tour operators offering excursions to observe these marine mammals in their natural habitat.
Pineapple Plantation & Food Tours
São Miguel Island is famous for its unique pineapple plantations, where visitors can tour the fields and learn about the cultivation process.
Ponta Delgada Nightlife
The capital city offers a vibrant nightlife with various bars, clubs, and live music venues, providing entertainment for all tastes.
Terceira Island Bullfighting
Experience the traditional Azorean bullfighting, a unique cultural event held on Terceira Island, where bulls are guided through the streets by participants.
Angra do Heroísmo Theatre
Located on Terceira Island, this historic theater hosts various plays, concerts, and dance shows.
Portugal Awards 2020 (27 awards)
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