Want to know the best things to do in Vila Franca do Campo? In this article, we've got you covered with all the information about Vila Franca do Campo so you can plan your visit to this beautiful town, including everything you can do, along with restaurant recommendations, trails, viewpoints, and a map to help you locate everything with ease.
Vila Franca do Campo has a lot to offer, so it's no wonder it's one of the most visited towns on the island of São Miguel in the Azores. Situated in the southern part of the island, Vila Franca do Campo takes the spotlight in the southern area of our São Miguel guide because, besides being a charming town, it is home to some must-visit places and activities for anyone exploring the Azores, such as the Ermida de Nossa Senhora da Paz, the Islet of Vila Franca, or whale and dolphin watching.
But beyond these places and experiences, the town itself is worth a visit. Vila Franca do Campo boasts an interesting old town with plenty of architectural heritage. In fact, it was the first capital of the island and, for many years, the seat of São Miguel's only town hall.
Let's dive into this post about things to do in Vila Franca do Campo!
For your stay in São Miguel, we recommend the Herdade do Ananás hotel, cozy and unique with its pineapple greenhouse; the Comercial Azores Boutique, located in the center of Ponta Delgada; and Senhora da Rosa, which offers a blend of tradition and modernity, surrounded by nature
Things to Do in Vila Franca do Campo - Contents:
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Getting to Vila Franca do Campo
The easiest way to get around São Miguel Island and reach Vila Franca do Campo is by car. In fact, this is the preferred mode of transportation for visitors due to its convenience, as public transportation can be a bit more challenging. The roads on São Miguel are in excellent condition, and it's worth noting that the locals are really good drivers (at least, that's our impression), so don't hesitate to explore by car!
Getting to Vila Franca by Car and Parking
Vila Franca do Campo is conveniently located close to the main cities of São Miguel Island, such as Ponta Delgada, the capital, or Ribeira Grande. Both cities are relatively near Vila Franca do Campo and are connected by well-paved roads, so there are no complications on the way.
From Ponta Delgada, it takes about 20 to 25 minutes to reach Vila Franca. From Ribeira Grande, it's a bit longer, around 25 to 30 minutes. Once you arrive in Vila Franca, you'll find parking to be quite manageable. There's plenty of space to park in the town center, but we recommend trying to park in the area near the port if you plan to engage in any activities there, as there are several parking lots along the street.
If you haven't booked your rental car yet, don't miss out on the best rental deals on the island, with full coverage to protect you from any issues!
Getting to Vila Franca by Public Transport
Another way to reach Vila Franca do Campo is by public transportation, although it will take more time and may not be as convenient as driving.
From Ponta Delgada, there's a direct bus departing from the historic center of the city, right in front of Portas da Cidade. The bus is either the C315 or the C318, with a frequency of every 60 minutes and a journey of about 55 minutes.
From Ribeira Grande, it's a bit less convenient as there isn't a direct bus to Vila Franca. The optimal way to get there is by taking a bus to Ponta Delgada and then switching to the bus heading to Vila Franca from Portas da Cidade. This journey would take about 2 hours, so we don't recommend it given the short distance between Ribeira Grande and Vila Franca. However, if you have no other options, it's possible to reach Vila Franca by public transport.
If you don't want to rent a car, don't worry! Another way to get to Vila Franca is with this affordable transfer service. Don't waste time on transportation!
Things to Do in Vila Franca do Campo, One of São Miguel's Gems in the Azores
1. The Islet of Vila Franca, an Azorean Wonder
The Islet of Vila Franca do Campo is one of the main points of interest in our São Miguel guide. This natural wonder is located just 1 km off the coast of Vila Franca do Campo and has been part of São Miguel Island's Natural Park since 2008, a protected area, although it was declared a Natural Reserve many years ago to ensure its preservation.
The islet emerged as the visible portion of an underwater volcano that formed approximately 4,000 years ago. Its current configuration is the result of constant erosion caused by the sea on the volcanic cone. Two islets detach from the edges of the crater: one of smaller size, known as "Ilhéu Pequenino," and another larger one called "Ilhéu Grande."
But besides the spectacular nature of this place, the best part is that within the crater, a natural pool has formed where you can enjoy a swim. However, the water is very cold, so we recommend visiting on a sunny day. Additionally, it's important to know that there are no services on the islet, so it's necessary to bring enough water and food.
Visiting the Islet of Vila Franca is quite simple. Our favorite option, which we highly recommend, is this Whale Watching + Vila Franca Islet activity. In this case, you won't disembark on the Islet, but you'll visit it from the boat used for whale watching. You also have the option to book this same activity with transfers from Ponta Delgada.
The other way to visit the Islet of Vila Franca is with this Tour of the Vila Franca Islet. In this case, you will disembark on the Islet and enjoy its natural pool for about 3 hours. After that time, the boat will take you back to Vila Franca.
2. The Ermida de Nossa Senhora da Paz, a Must-Visit Place in São Miguel
The Ermida de Nossa Senhora da Paz is a must-visit place on the island of São Miguel and, of course, it's our favorite building in the Azores islands. You can find all the information about the Ermida de Nossa Senhora da Paz in our São Miguel guide, although in this post, we'll tell you a little about it..
It's a chapel of great importance to the islanders. In fact, a legend says that right there, a shepherd found an image of the Virgin Mary. Whether we believe it or not, the Ermida de Nossa Senhora da Paz is the clear protagonist of the rich architectural heritage of Vila Franca do Campo. Its main staircase and the views from the chapel leave no one indifferent. Seriously, it's really worth approaching this architectural marvel.
From the parking area, you can already appreciate the incredible views of Vila Franca, with the islet in the background, but if you climb all the stairs, the view gets even better. Don't believe us? You'll have to climb to find out! The chapel is surrounded by nature, and if you're lucky, you may also come across some friendly animals. We were greeted by a rooster who was with us throughout the visit!
3. The Historic Center of Vila Franca do Campo
Exploring the historic center of Vila Franca do Campo is something you can't miss if you visit this locality. Its cobbled streets, traditional houses, and gardens are well worth a visit, and we're sure you'll enjoy it.
Senhor Bom Jesus da Pedra Church
The places we recommend visiting in the historic center are:
São Miguel Arcanjo Church
Vila Franca do Campo Municipal Museum
Poço Largo Leisure Park
The Statue of Infante Dom Henrique, in a small square by the sea
Santa Catarina Chapel
São Pedro Church
Senhor Bom Jesus da Pedra Church
But overall, what we suggest is that you wander through its streets and take a leisurely stroll before continuing with your itinerary. In fact, stopping for a meal in Vila Franca do Campo can be a great option, especially if you want to try some delicious seafood.
A good way to explore Vila Franca do Campo is through this Settlers Tour of Vila Franca do Campo, which will introduce you to its main monuments while discovering the prosperous past of the Portuguese Empire. It's a very comprehensive option as it includes an English-speaking guide, entry to the Ethnographic Museum, a visit to a pineapple plantation, and a tasting of typical products. So, don't hesitate and learn about the history of the Azores with this tour!
4. Viewpoints in Vila Franca do Campo
We won't lie to you: the best viewpoint you'll find in Vila Franca do Campo is at the Ermida de Nossa Senhora da Paz. As we mentioned in point 2 of this post, the views from that height are truly incredible. But that doesn't mean that while strolling through Vila Franca, you won't find viewpoints that will leave you speechless.
Among these viewpoints, our favorite is the Ilhéu da Vila Viewpoint, which is about a 10-minute walk from the historic center of Vila Franca. And why do we like it so much? Because from here, you can observe the Vila Franca Islet wonderfully and from a privileged green environment.
This viewpoint is located next to the Poço Largo Leisure Park, which makes it even more beautiful, if possible.
Another viewpoint you can't miss is the Tanque Viewpoint. This is the closest to the historic center and offers good frontal views of the Islet. And if you have time, we recommend that you visit the Água de Alto Viewpoint, very close to Vila Franca do Campo, about a 5-minute drive away.
5. Vila Franca's Beaches, Among the Best in Southern São Miguel
We already know that São Miguel Island is full of incredible beaches, but discovering all the beaches of Vila Franca do Campo is a good plan, especially if you're one of those people who enjoy truly unique and unspoiled coastlines.
In this area, you'll find beaches with easy or difficult access, sandy or rocky, with more or less current... But each beach has its own authentic personality!
Vinha da Areia Beach
Here are the beaches you can visit in Vila Franca do Campo:
Vinha da Areia Beach
Corpo Santo Beach
Poço Largo Beach
And a little further from the center:
Degredo Beach
Ribeira Beach
Calhau da Areia Beach
6. The Ponta Garça Lighthouse in Vila Franca do Campo
The Ponta Garça Lighthouse is a little-known spot for tourism, a hidden gem in Vila Franca do Campo.
The views from this area are very beautiful, and the best part is that the lighthouse can be visited. However, it requires prior appointment, contacting through their website. We're unsure if visits are still being conducted currently, so we recommend that if you want to visit, you speak directly with the contact personnel.
Main Activities in Vila Franca do Campo
1. Whale and Dolphin Watching in Vila Franca
For us, this is one of the 'star' activities to do on São Miguel Island. As we explain in our São Miguel guide, we recommend doing this activity in Vila Franca, although there are also several companies that offer it in Ponta Delgada.
Why in Vila Franca? First of all, we consider this alternative less common, which probably means you'll enjoy this experience with a smaller group. In Vila Franca do Campo, the activity takes place on a small boat instead of a conventional ship, allowing you to get closer to these fascinating animals. Additionally, opting for this location offers an additional attraction: during the boat tour, you briefly visit the Vila Franca Islet.
If you decide to do this activity, you're sure not to be disappointed. In our case, we were lucky to see many dolphins swimming near our boat and also spotted humpback whales from a greater distance. We also appreciated that the company offering this activity cares about respecting the animals and maintains recommended distances to not invade their habitat. In fact, at the beginning of the activity, an explanatory video is shown about the animals that can be seen and the necessary precautions for spotting them, as well as recommendations for protecting the environment and preserving nature.
And in case you decide to do this activity, here are two tips that might come in handy:
Bundle up, even in summer, as it can get quite chilly.
If you're prone to motion sickness, you might want to avoid this activity or take necessary precautions to prevent nausea. The rocking of the boat when it's stationary can be quite nauseating, although the guides are always attentive to help.
2. Kayaking in Vila Franca do Campo
Kayaking in Vila Franca do Campo can be a really great experience. The company Fun Activities Azores Adventure offers this experience in Vila Franca with English-speaking guides. The activity lasts about 3 hours and no previous experience is required to do it safely.
3. Diving and Snorkeling at the Islet of Vila Franca
The company Azores Sub Dive Center offers water activities such as snorkeling and diving around the Vila Franca Islet. These activities are conducted with guides who speak English and other languages.
>> Book the Discover Scuba Diving activity in São Miguel (for uncertified individuals).
>> Book the Diving experience in São Miguel (for certified individuals).
Where to Eat in Vila Franca do Campo, the Best of Azorean Gastronomy
1. Queijadas da Vila (Traditional Cheese Tarts)
First of all, if we talk about gastronomy and Vila Franca do Campo, we can't start any other way than by telling you about Queijadas da Vila. This locality is famous for its Queijadas, so trying one is a must if you visit, especially at the Queijadas de la Vila do Morgado factory, where you can also see the production process.
Facebook of Queijadas da Vila (www.facebook.com/queijadasdavila)
Queijadas da Vila are a local dessert that was started by the nuns who lived in the old Convent of Santo André. That's why the recipe is classified as "a relic" of pastry.
2. The Best Restaurants in Vila Franca
Vila Franca do Campo is a great place for lunch or dinner, especially to try fresh fish. However, there are options for all tastes, so in this section, we'll give you our recommendations so you can choose according to your preferences.
For fish or meat, we really like the restaurant Jaime, a simple, cozy restaurant with good food. Another restaurant for exquisite meat and fish, a bit more expensive than the former, is the Atlântico Azorean Restaurant. Prices are somewhat higher than average on the island, but we assure you it's worth it.
Finally, we can't forget to mention Pizzaria Lua do Sul, perfect for a more casual and quick meal. The pizzas are spectacular, but they also offer other dishes like burgers or chicken wings that are delicious (at least, in our opinion).
Map of Places to Visit in Vila Franca do Campo
Don't miss out on the best activities in Vila Franca do Campo!