Excursion Angra do heroismo walking tour tour at Angra do Heroísmo

Spend a morning exploring Angra do Heroismo, a charming UNESCO heritage town with the distinct Mediterranean appeal of cobblestone streets and a certain quiet charm.

Embark from the pier on foot to begin the pleasant stroll through town. Angra is the Portuguese word for inlet or bay. The name "Heroismo," or the heroic, was granted by Queen Maria II when local citizens mounted a successful defense of the island against an attempted overthrow in 1829.

Follow your guide as the walking tour takes you to some of the town's historical highlights. Visit Misericordia Church, built in the 18th century on the site of a 15th century church, and attached to the first hospital in the city. View the carved woodwork, statues, and canvases. Note the 18th-century azulejo-tile panels depicting historical scenes. Also see the 16th century Se Catedral, the main church of the island. Learn about the original construction and the reconstructions of the 1980s.

Then, if it is open, head to the Palácio Capitães Generais, representative of traditional buildings built for the aristocracy and ruling classes. Still used by the Azorean government, this palace at one time was home to King Pedro the 4th. See the Royal portraits and intricately hand carved furniture that are visual testaments to the history of Angra. Explore the public gardens with their gorgeous trees, some centuries old, and the extensive foliage.

Next, stop by a local coffee shop and taste the traditional tea cake, "The Dona Amelia." This royal treat is named after Queen Amelia who visited Angra in 1901 when Portugal was a monarchy. Although these delectable tea cakes appear in cookbooks predating the royal visit, the name was changed in honor of the Queen.

After enjoying this delicious cake with coffee or tea, take the short walk back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Angra do Heroismo, Misericordia Church, Se Catedral, Pal