Angra do Heroismo

When planning a journey to Portugal, pay attention to Angra do Heroismo — a historical gem of the Azores, located on Terceira Island. This city, included in the UNESCO World Heritage list, attracts tourists with its unique colonial architecture and the atmosphere of old Europe in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.

Since the city is located on an island, the primary way to get here is by plane; however, for moving between local settlements, travellers often use buses or rented cars.

The fastest and most common way to reach the city is by air. The international airport Lajes Field (TER) serves as the island's main air gateway, receiving both scheduled flights from the mainland and aircraft from neighbouring islands of the archipelago.

The airport is situated in the northeast of the island, and thanks to well-established air connections, you can arrive here with comfort at practically any time of the year. After landing, tourists can easily continue their journey to the historic centre, as the airport is well-connected to the city by a transport network.

In the city of Angra do Heroismo, as on the entire island of Terceira, there is no railway service. The specific relief of the volcanic island and its small size make the construction of railways impractical, so there are no train stations here.

For travel between towns and sightseeing, tourists are recommended to use alternative modes of transport, such as buses or taxis, which handle passenger transport across the island excellently.

Bus service on Terceira Island connects Angra do Heroismo with other settlements, including the airport area and the city of Praia da Vitória. This is a reasonably budget-friendly way to travel, allowing you to enjoy views of green pastures and the ocean along the way.

A bus trip from remote parts of the island to the city centre may take from 30 to 50 minutes depending on the route and the number of stops. Buses run regularly; however, tourists should check the schedule in advance, as there may be fewer trips on weekends.

Travelling by car is one of the most convenient options to get to Angra do Heroismo from the airport or other towns on the island. The road from the main air hub takes about 20–25 minutes (approximately 20 km) along a modern highway passing through the picturesque central part of the island.

A taxi is also a popular option, which can be found at designated stands. This will save you the need to study maps and allow you to reach the hotel door with comfort, especially if you are travelling with heavy luggage.

To ensure your stay in this amazing city is hassle-free, we have prepared a list of useful recommendations considering the specific island nature of the region.

1. Clothing and Weather. The weather in the Azores is changeable: in a single day, the sun may shine and rain may fall. Be sure to bring a waterproof jacket and comfortable flat shoes for walking on cobblestones.
2. Transport. Public transport runs on schedule, but for complete freedom of movement and visiting natural attractions, it is better to rent a car.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Euro (EUR). Cards are accepted in most places, but keeping some cash for payments in small cafes or souvenir shops is always useful.
4. Health and Safety. The city is very calm and safe for tourists. Medical services are at a high level, and pharmacies are easily found by the green cross on the sign.
5. Communication. Locals speak Portuguese, but in tourist zones, hotels, and restaurants, the staff usually speak good English.
6. Local Etiquette. The Azoreans are a hospitable and polite people. It is customary to greet others when entering a shop or lift, and not to raise your voice in public places.
7. What to Avoid. Be careful when swimming in the ocean: currents can be strong. Swim only in designated areas and natural pools where there are lifeguards or protection from waves.
8. Extra Tip. Try the local delicacy — the Dona Amélia pastry, which includes honey, cinnamon, and raisins; it is a true taste of the island's history.

By following these simple tips, you can feel confident and enjoy every moment of your journey through the Azores.