Sao Miguel’s main town is attractive, although it is a bustling conurbation lacking the relaxed atmosphere that is the islands’ most appealing feature. But as it is the main gateway to the Azores, it is worth a visit.

The three arches in the main square, Praca Gonzalo Velha Cabral, were part of the gate through the original city walls.In front of the square, a road continues along the harbour front as far as the imposing fortress of Sao Bras; behind that is an attractive square, Praca 5 de Outubro, whose highlight is the charming little Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Esperanca. In contrast with the ornate gilding around the altar, its walls are covered with blue and white tiles depicting Biblical scenes. From the square, follow the narrow street that runs parallel with the harbour road. This was once Ponta Delgada’s main thoroughfare and is lined with two-storey houses with iron railings round their balconies and towers providing look-out posts. But the main attraction of Sao Miguel is its scenery.