Things to do in Angra do Heroismo

Angra do Heroismo is the town most visitors reach first on Terceira, built around a natural harbour that made it a key Atlantic stopover for centuries. Its historic centre sits at the foot of Monte Brasil, a volcanic headland now cut with walking paths and old fort walls, roughly a 15-20 minute walk from the main square.

Expect narrow streets of black basalt and painted facades, a working marina, and a climate where a clear morning can turn to rain within the hour, so pack for both. Most sights in the centre can be covered on foot in half a day; a car only becomes useful once you head out to the rest of the island.

Rooms in the old town run from around 70 to 150 EUR a night in July and August, less outside peak season.