Vila do Porto Shopping and Districts

(Vila do Porto, Azores, Portugal)



Santa Maria is a quiet backwater in mainland European terms, but it still has plenty of shopping opportunities to suit the local population.

As far as tourists are concerned, the real pleasure of shopping in Vila Do Porto is the chance to support the local economy by investing in handicrafts and Portuguese wines that are deeply ingrained in the local tradition. Cash is important in all but the biggest Vila Do Porto shops, so be sure to have plenty on hand when venturing out to towns in the countryside.


When to Shop, and Where

The most comprehensive shopping options in the Azores Islands are on Sao Miguel, but there are also several shops around Vila Do Porto. A few of the bigger hotels near the marina have their own dedicated shopping areas, but tourists spend most of their time exploring traditional markets and small-town shops across the island.

The traditional atmosphere of Vila Do Porto is a breeding ground for handicrafts, which make excellent souvenirs. Locals are skilled at embroidery and lace is a popular take-home treat. You'll find lace in markets around Vila Do Porto and Santa Barbara, but you can also pick it up in airport boutiques.

Other handicrafts worth seeking out include lacquered wicker products. These come in all sizes and are popular purchases for Portuguese mainlanders. You'll also find an abundance of textiles and woven goods in local markets. Look for sweaters, bedspreads and tablecloths.

The delicate Azorean ceramics are highly sought after and have been a traditional island product for generations. They are unlike any ceramic goods found in mainland Portugal. Ceramics from Vila Do Porto come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and favourites include kitchenware, teapots and vases.

For many tourists, the local food products are particularly enticing. Azorean honey is well-regarded throughout Portugal, but the wine is what really gets tourists raving. Bear in mind that you can't take a bottle of wine in your carry on luggage, so it may be more convenient to pick up a bottle in the airport after you have passed through security.