Ponta Delgada: Evening Food & Wine Walking Tour Azores

Summary

Azorean wines, historic taverns and an evening tasting walk in Ponta Delgada

You’ll wander through Ponta Delgada’s historic streets with a small group, tasting unique Azorean wines paired with local cheeses, seafood, and meats—all while hearing stories from your guide about island life. Expect laughter over unfamiliar flavors, cozy taverns full of character, and moments that linger long after the last glass is empty.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to laugh so much with strangers over a glass of white that tasted almost salty, like it had soaked up the Atlantic. The first stop was this old jail—now a wine bar, which sounds odd but actually felt kind of perfect for Ponta Delgada. Our guide, João, told us how volcanic soil makes Azorean wines so different. He handed me a slice of local cheese (I wish I remembered the name) and said it paired best with the minerally whites—he was right. You could smell the ocean in there, even though we were blocks from the harbor.

We wandered through narrow streets as dusk settled in, passing tiled doorways and people chatting on stoops. At one point I nearly tripped on a cobblestone because I was distracted by the smell coming from a tiny kitchen window—garlic and something smoky. We stopped at what João called “the oldest harbor tavern,” where he poured us a fortified wine I’d never heard of. It was sweet and strong; my friend made a face but then went back for seconds. There were locals at the bar who nodded at us like we belonged there for a minute.

I liked that we weren’t rushed—at each spot, João told stories about Azorean food traditions and let us ask anything (someone asked about pineapple liqueur and he just grinned). The last place had these little bites of seafood that tasted so fresh it almost made me sad to leave them behind. By then everyone was talking more freely, swapping travel tips and laughing about our attempts at Portuguese pronunciation (mine’s hopeless). The walk wasn’t far—maybe 1.5 km—but it felt like we’d covered way more ground in terms of taste and conversation.

I still think about that first sip of red wine under those old stone arches. If you’re curious about Azorean wine or just want an evening that feels both relaxed and quietly special, this food & wine tour in Ponta Delgada is worth it—even if you can’t pronounce half the cheeses.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Evening wine and food walking tour

• Meet guide in Ponta Delgada
• Walk through historic downtown
• Visit repurposed 1600's jail
• Stop at oldest harbor tavern
• Taste artisanal liqueurs
• Explore gourmet shops and classy bars
• Sample 5 premium Azorean wines
• Enjoy local food pairings
• Learn about Azorean wine culture
• Conclude tour with surprises

Top questions

How long is the Ponta Delgada evening food & wine tour?

The tour lasts about 3 to 3.5 hours in total.

How far do you walk during this Azores food tour?

The walking distance is around 1.5 km (about 1 mile).

Are all food and drinks included in the price?

Yes, all tastings—five wines plus food pairings—are included.

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?

Vegetarian options are available but not for every item; vegan diets can’t be accommodated.

What types of wines are tasted on this Ponta Delgada tour?

You’ll try volcanic whites, modern reds, and one fortified Azorean wine.

Are there non-alcoholic options available?

Mineral water is always available; local craft beers may also be offered.

Is hotel pickup included for this walking tour?

No hotel pickup; you meet at a central location in downtown Ponta Delgada.

Can people with dietary restrictions join?

Diets like vegan, halal or kosher can’t be accommodated; contact ahead for other restrictions.

What’s included

Your evening includes five different Azorean wines paired with local foods such as cheese, seafood or meat (menu varies), mineral water throughout the walk, plus stories and guidance from an expert local guide as you explore several historic venues across downtown Ponta Delgada before finishing back near your starting point.