If you have limited time for your trip to Portugal, it’s best to focus on exploring the sights, sounds, and tastes of northern Portugal. Rushing through the country can make you feel like you haven’t truly experienced the people and their culture.
Northern Portugal offers opportunities for hiking in the mountains, discovering historic medieval cities, relaxing on stunning beaches, and indulging in wine tastings. What more could you want from a trip.
10. Lamego
Lamego is a charming village located in the Douro region, known for its production of delicious port wines. While visiting, it’s highly recommended to try some of their famous wines. This village has a rich historical background, as it was in Lamego that Portugal’s first king, Afonso Henriques, began his reign in the 12th century.
The Se, the main church in Lamego, was also constructed by the king himself. Additionally, there are other interesting landmarks such as a castle from the 12th century and a fortress built in the 13th century, both perched on a hill overlooking the town. Within the town, you can find an ancient stone cistern that dates back to the Arab rule era.
However, the most popular attraction in Lamego is the enchanting Our Lady of Remedies sanctuary. This sanctuary, adorned with two bell towers, stands proudly above the entire town.
9. Viana do Castelo
Viana do Castelo is a city with a rich history as a port, and it was quite popular among Portuguese explorers who would come here after their voyages. The city has many old buildings that were constructed during the 16th century, which was an important time for its development.
There are several notable attractions in Viana do Castelo, such as the beautiful Renaissance fountain in Major Square, the Geraz do Lima carriage museum, the Romanesque cathedral from the 15th century, and the Flemish-style church called Misericordia of Viana do Castelo from the 16th century.
If you ever feel weary of the medieval architecture, you can always enjoy some leisure time on the nearby lovely beaches.
8. Praia da Costa Nova
If you travel around the world, it’s unlikely you’ll find many places with houses that look like the ones in Praia da Costa Nova. These houses, located in a fishing village near Aveiro, are painted in bright stripes of red, blue, and green, with white accents.
Some stripes go across, while others go up and down, and some houses even have a combination of both. Originally, these unique homes were built by fishermen as shelters, but now they are used as vacation homes.
If you’re in the north of Portugal and love seafood, this is a great place to indulge in delicious fresh seafood dishes. Additionally, Praia da Costa Nova is a popular spot for surfers, especially when the sea is rough, which happens quite frequently.
7. Porto
Porto is the second largest city in Portugal after Lisbon and is quickly becoming a popular travel destination in western Europe. While exploring Porto, you can wander through its narrow streets in the old town area called Ribeira or visit the impressive plazas in the newer parts of the city.
Porto is famous for its dessert wine called port and you can learn about it by taking a tour of the port wine cellars along the Douro River. If you’re interested in history, the old town is filled with beautiful Baroque buildings and monuments, including the statue of King Pedro IV in the Praça da Liberdade.
Additionally, Porto offers a lively nightlife scene for those who want to experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
6. Amarante
When people think of saints, they usually think of them doing incredible things like miracles. However, in Amarante, a saint is known for building a bridge. St. Goncalo is credited with constructing a stone bridge over the Tamega River in the 12th century. Amarante is divided by the Tamega River, and the old city is located on the southern side.
The city is famous for its vinho verde, a sparkling green wine, and every June, they hold the St. Goncalo festival to celebrate. Amarante is home to many religious monuments, including the beautiful St. Goncalo Church, which looks even more enchanting when illuminated by sunlight.
The word “amar” means “love” in Portuguese, and it is hoped that visitors will fall in love with the impressive Romanesque architecture found here.
5. Peneda-Geres National Park
Peneda-Gerês National Park is located in mountainous northwest Portugal and it is the only national park in the country. It was established in 1971 with the aim of preserving the environment while allowing for resource development. Inside the park, there is an ancient Roman road that passes through it.
The number of tourists allowed to enter the park is limited by park officials. However, those who visit will discover a few designated camping areas and well-maintained hiking trails that lead to an old monastery and an ancient Celtic settlement known as a castro. Additionally, there are religious shrines located near the main road.
The park is dotted with waterfalls, and when the water level is low, you can catch glimpses of the remains of two old villages that were eventually flooded by a dam.
4. Braga
Braga, Portugal is known to be a highly religious town. It is the third largest city in the country and is filled with numerous churches and monuments, making it impossible to see them all in a single day trip from Porto.
Instead, it would be better to focus on a few key sites, starting with the Baroque Sanctuário do Bom Jesus do Monte, which is the city’s most popular attraction. During Holy Week, Braga hosts impressive events and attracts people from all over northern Portugal.
If you’re not into religious sites, you can also consider visiting the Archbishops Palace or exploring the Tower of Santiago, which was once part of the ancient city wall.
3. Douro Valley
The Douro Valley is incredibly picturesque and would be a great addition to any postcard. It was even recognized by Travel Leisure magazine as one of the top destinations to visit in 2017.
This enchanting valley is famous for its stunning landscapes, including vineyards that can be seen climbing up the mountains, the meandering Douro River surrounded by lush greenery, and charming villages.
The region is renowned for its table wines and port, so make sure to visit a winery where you can relax and enjoy a tasting experience in the world’s first designated wine region.
2. Paiva Walkways
If you’re looking for a unique nature experience, you should definitely visit the Paiva Walkways in northern Portugal. This walk takes you along the Paiva River, which is considered the most beautiful river in the country. The walk is about 8 kilometers long and you’ll be walking on wooden stairs and suspension bridges.
Along the way, you’ll be surrounded by lush vegetation, breathtaking waterfalls, and the river’s crystal-clear water. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some wildlife. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even channel your inner Tarzan by swinging on a rope down to the river.
This walk is not recommended for those who prefer a sedentary lifestyle, but if you want to give it a try, it’s best to start at Espiunca as it’s a less challenging route.
1. Guimaraes
If you enjoy going back to the start, then Guimaraes is the place for you. It is considered the birthplace of Portugal. In this town, you will discover impressive Gothic buildings and a medieval center with charming narrow streets made of cobblestones. Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes as you explore.
Additionally, you can relax in pretty squares with lovely outdoor cafes and immerse yourself in the rich history of this traditional town. One of the main attractions is the remains of an ancient castle that defended Guimaraes from Moor and Norman invasions in the past.
Another must-do activity is taking the cable car to Penha Park, where you can appreciate breathtaking panoramic views and embark on challenging hiking trails.