4. São Brás Fortress

The São Brás Fortress is a defensive construction on São Miguel Island. It's located at the eastern end of the city of Ponta Delgada and is very easily accessible by taking a pleasant stroll along the coast, whether you're in the old town or at the marina of Ponta Delgada.

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Built in the 16th century, the São Brás Fortress is the only one still standing in Ponta Delgada, as the others were destroyed during coastal works. It was created to protect the city against attacks by privateers and pirates. In fact, this fort played a crucial role in the security and defense of the city due to its strategic location.

 

Additionally, visitors to the São Brás Fortress can also explore the Azores Military Museum, where exhibits related to the military history of the region, ancient weapons, and other artifacts can be seen.

 

The São Brás Fortress is open every day from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. It's a worthwhile visit for those interested in such structures and everything related to defense. Moreover, the entrance fee, €3 per person, is quite affordable.

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MORE PRACTICAL INFORMATION:

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1. Day Trips from Ponta Delgada:

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Ponta Delgada is the starting point for most day trips in São Miguel. These are a great option if you don't have a private vehicle, don't want to worry about transportation, or simply want to enjoy the insights of a local guide throughout the visit. Here are our favorites:

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• Excursion to Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo. You can also do this same excursion by Jeep.

• Night excursion to the Furnas hot springs.

• Kayak tour on Lagoa das Furnas + Terra Nostra Park.

• Excursion to Povoação and Nordeste.

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You can also book this 2-day tour of São Miguel, which includes 2 meals. We find this option really interesting for those who will be on the island for a short time and want to explore it to the fullest, comfortably, over 2 days.

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2. Our Recommended Hotels in Ponta Delgada:

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Ponta Delgada is the best option for staying in São Miguel. Hotel prices range from €50 to €100 per night, although they can go higher during peak season or depending on the amenities you seek.

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There is quite a selection of accommodations in this city, so choosing the best option can be tough. Here are our TOP 3 hotels in Ponta Delgada to help you decide:

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• Herdade do Ananás, cozy and unique with its pineapple greenhouse.

• Comercial Azores Boutique, in the center of Ponta Delgada.

• Canadiano Urban Nature, with a perfect quality-price ratio.

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All these hotels have free parking and offer great value for money. And if you can't find availability in any of them, keep searching on Booking.com for the best accommodation deals in São Miguel.

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