Vila Franca do Campo

Overview

Vila Franca do Campo is a historic town on the southern coast of São Miguel Island in the Azores. It is known for its beautiful harbor, historic churches, and the nearby islet of Vila Franca do Campo Islet, a protected natural reserve.

Vila Franca do Campo is significant for its historical role as the former capital of the Azores and its unique natural beauty.

Cultural Scenic Historical

Location

Address

Vila Franca do Campo, São Miguel, Azores

Neighborhood: Central Vila Franca do Campo

Coordinates

37.724100, -25.482300

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$5

Children

$2.50

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

May-June, September-October

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

4-5 hours

Full Experience

full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild

• spring flowers
• gardens in bloom

summer

warm

• extended daylight hours

autumn

cool

• autumn foliage

winter

cool

• holiday decorations

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book boat tours in advance
Bring ID
Check weather forecast

What to Bring

essential

ID water sunscreen

seasonal

jacket umbrella

not allowed

large bags drones without permit

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate

• sun exposure
• uneven surfaces

Medical facilities: nearby health center

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, credit cards

Currency

EUR

Typical Costs

entry $5

boat tour $20

food $15

souvenirs $10

Dress Code

casual, comfortable shoes, light clothing in summer, walking shoes, inappropriate clothing for churches

Booking Tips

• 1-2 weeks for boat tours
• local tourism website
• 48 hours
• available for some attractions

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Azores Travel App

Size: 60 MB

Features: Map, Boat tour bookings, Attraction tickets

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafes

Charging Stations: Cafes, Visitor center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: João Paulo II Airport (PDL)

Distance: 25 km

Travel Time: 30 minutes

taxi

$35 30 min

public_transport

$5 45 min

From City Center

Distance: 2 km

bus

$1.50 10 min

taxi

$10 5 min

walking

25 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Rich history and beautiful scenery

Historical Significance: Former capital of the Azores, important maritime history

Insider Tips

Free entry to some attractions early morning
Best local cuisine at the harbor restaurants

Local Recommendations

• Try local pastries at the bakery
• Ask for local guide Manuel

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Olá

thank_you Obrigado

where_is Onde é

how_much Quanto custa

beautiful Bonito

ticket Bilhete

Guide Languages: Portuguese, English, French

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Vila Franca do Campo Islet

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: wide angle for the islet

Result: stunning coastal views

#azores #vilanfranca #islet

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, public spaces

prohibited areas inside churches during services

flash photography allowed in most outdoor areas

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy permit needed

tripod policy allowed in public spaces

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Furnas

Distance: 15km

Walking: not walkable

Type: Natural Reserve

Ponta Delgada

Distance: 25km

Walking: not walkable

Type: City

Reviews

4.6

Based on 1,200 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Book boat tours online"
"Visit early for fewer crowds"
"Great views from the islet"

Contact Information

+351 296 280 000

info@vfdc.pt

www.vilanfrancadocampo.pt

Social Media

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