Shore Excursions Group
Private Half-Day Sete Cidades
Sete Cidades is a civil parish in the west of the municipality of Ponta Delgada, located in the center of a massive volcanic caldera three miles across, also referred to as Sete Cidades. The first Iberian document to refer to Sete Cidades was a Latin chronicle from the city of Porto-Cale (the modern city of Oporto), written in 750 A.D. by a Christian cleric.
After meeting your local, knowledgeable, and friendly driver who is a resident of the island, be provided with a briefing on what to expect during your private tour. Your van will comfortably accommodate eight guests in total and soon you will set off for your first destination.
Approximately 15 minutes from your start location you will stop for a visit to a pineapple plantation (in greenhouses) where you can observe the different growth stages of this fruit and be provided with a delicious liqueur tasting. Travel next to a point, approximately 20 minutes away, known as Pico do Carvao. This scenic landscape overlooks the central part of the island where you can simultaneously see the north and south coast of Sao Miguel.
Returning to your transportation, drive for approximately 15 minutes to one of the most impressive and sought-after views on the island, Vista de Rei viewpoint. This must-do, popular viewpoint overlooking Sete Cidades is named after a visit from the king offers a unique view of Lagoa das Sete Cidades. Photograph the panoramic views over the twin lakes of Sete Cidades from where you can clearly discover the blue and green varied hues of the lagoons’ waters.
From here, begin your drive to Sete Cidades parish a short, approximately 20-minute’s drive away. On the descent into the parish you will have the opportunity to admire Lagoa de Santiago. The peaceful tranquility of this place invites you to make a stop and completely immerse yourself in the surroundings and experience what the Azores is known for.
To end your private tour, return on the approximately 1-hour drive to Ponta Delgada via the island’s southwest coast. In just a few short hours you will have made memories that will last a lifetime, reserve your private tour today and get ready to experience and discover the magical Azores!
Please Note: Vehicles available for this tour accommodate groups of up to 8 guests maximum. Groups with more than 8 guests will need to book multiple vehicles, there are 2 vehicles in total. Please take this information into consideration when booking.
| Day 1 |
Ponta Delgada, the capital of Sao Miguel Island about 930 miles west of Portugal in the Atlantic, is the gateway to exploring the wonders of the Azores, but it also has plenty of attractions to keep visitors enchanted. With its cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings, and ornate churches, Ponta Delgada has a timeless charm. Strolling through the city, visitors will encounter landmarks like the Portas da Cidade, a trio of grand arches that stand as a symbol of Ponta Delgada. The city is also home to beautiful churches like Igreja Matriz de Sao Sebastiao, known for its striking architecture and intricate interior details. For a glimpse into local life, the Mercado da Graça is a lively market offering fresh produce, regional delicacies, and handmade crafts. Ponta Delgada is also a hub for discovering the natural wonders of Sao Miguel. The nearby Sete Cidades, a stunning volcanic crater filled with twin lakes, offers breathtaking views and hiking opportunities. Thermal springs like those in Furnas provide a relaxing escape, while whale-watching tours departing from the city’s marina offer an unforgettable experience of encountering marine life in the wild. Visitors can also enjoy the city’s waterfront promenade, lined with cafes and restaurants serving fresh seafood and traditional Azorean dishes. |
| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
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05/03/22 - 05/15/27 |
Starting At $53 |
Get A Quote |
Guests must be able to climb in and out the van used for transportation, any guest experiencing difficulty climbing two steps may be affected with the ability to step in and out of the van. This tour can accommodate a collapsible wheelchair.
