12 days in Ponta Delgada, Lisbon & Porto Itinerary

As the busy capital of São Miguel, Ponta Delgada represents the most visited place on the island. Known for its historical buildings, the city offers 17th- and 18th-century convents and churches, as well as cobbled pedestrian streets and hidden squares.

Eschew the tourist crowds and head to Poca Da Dona Beija and Furnas. Get outdoors at Caldeira das Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo. You'll find plenty of places to visit near Ponta Delgada: Furnas (Furnas Research and Monitoring Centre & Terra Nostra Gardens). And it doesn't end there: enjoy the sand and surf at Praia de Santa Barbara, look for all kinds of wild species at Environmental Interpretation Centre of Caldeira Velha, contemplate the waterfront views at Lagoa Azul, Sao Miguel Acores, and contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Nossa Senhora da Paz.

To find maps, other places to visit, ratings, and tourist information, use the Ponta Delgada trip builder.

New York City, USA to Ponta Delgada is an approximately 15-hour flight. Traveling from New York City to Ponta Delgada, you'll lose 4 hours due to the time zone difference. Traveling from New York City in September, you will find days in Ponta Delgada are a bit cooler (74°F), and nights are about the same (65°F). Wrap up your sightseeing by early afternoon on the 8th (Fri) to allow time for travel to Lisbon.

Built on seven hills, Lisbon has experienced a renaissance in recent years, making it the cultural star of Portugal.

Bring the kids along to Praia da Nazare and Pego Beach. Templo Romano de Evora (Templo de Diana) and Capela dos Ossos will appeal to history buffs. Change things up with these side-trips from Lisbon: Monastery of Alcobaca (in Alcobaca), Sintra (Castle of the Moors & Sintra National Palace) and Se Catedral de Evora (in Evora). There's lots more to do: take in the architecture and atmosphere at Carmo Convent, appreciate the history behind Santuario Nacional de Cristo Rei, snap pictures at 25 de Abril Bridge, and let your taste buds guide you at a local gastronomic tour.

For ratings, where to stay, more things to do, and more tourist information, go to the Lisbon trip itinerary planner.

You can fly from Ponta Delgada to Lisbon in 4.5 hours. Traveling from Ponta Delgada to Lisbon, you'll lose 1 hour due to the time zone difference. Expect somewhat warmer weather when traveling from Ponta Delgada in September: highs in Lisbon hover around 80°F, while lows dip to 63°F. Cap off your sightseeing on the 14th (Thu) early enough to travel to Porto.

Called "Oporto" by many, the city of Porto along the Duoro River lent the country and Port wine their names. Portugal's second-largest metropolis dates back to the 4th century, representing both a rich cultural past and industrial present through its architecture and style.

On the 14th (Thu), admire the striking features of Palacio da Bolsa, then contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Igreja da Ordem Terceira de São Francisco, and then enjoy breathtaking views from Clerigos Tower.

To find more things to do, where to stay, traveler tips, and tourist information, refer to the Porto tour planner.

Getting from Lisbon to Porto by flight takes about 3 hours. Other options: take a train; or drive. Prepare for slightly colder weather when traveling from Lisbon in September: high temperatures in Porto hover around 75°F and lows are around 58°F. On the 15th (Fri), you'll have the morning to explore before heading back home.