The most important cities
TRAVEL AND DISCOVER
Listed by distance from Fujacos, these are the main cities you can visit from our accommodation. Travel through hundreds of years of history, discover incredible places, landscapes, monuments and entertainment. A world of adventure ready to be discovered, which will please children and adults, shall we begin?
VALENÇA
🚙10Km ⏱️15min
This historic city is famous for its fortified architecture and medieval features. One of the main highlights of Valença do Minho is the Fortaleza de Valença, an impressive fortified structure dating back to the 12th century. The fortress is surrounded by huge walls and offers panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. You can walk along the ramparts and explore its various towers and bastions. Within the walls of the Fortress, Valença's historic center is a maze of narrow cobbled streets and granite houses. The Manueline and Baroque houses add a special charm to the city. Valença is also known for its craft stores, where visitors can find typical products from the region, such as lace and embroidery at a very low price, and the stores are open every day of the week and weekend. Valença do Minho is also known for its cultural events and festivals. The "Ethnographic Parade" is a popular event where locals dress up in traditional costumes and recreate scenes from rural life in the region.
MONÇÃO
🚙11Km ⏱️16min
The town is known for its colorful façades and sash windows, typical of the architecture of the Minho region. The main point of interest in Monção is its medieval fortress, known as the Fortaleza de Monção or Monção Castle. This impressive defensive structure dates back to the 12th and 13th centuries and offers panoramic views of the River Minho and the surrounding countryside. Within the castle walls, there is a church and a museum that houses artifacts and exhibitions about the town's history. In addition to the fortress, Monção is known for its medicinal spas, which are famous for their therapeutic properties and are a popular attraction for tourists in search of well-being and relaxation. The town is also famous for its production of Alvarinho wine, a variety of white wine characteristic of the Minho region. The vineyards around Monção are a stunning landscape and it is possible to visit local wineries to taste and learn more about the production of Alvarinho wine.
TUI
🚙13Km ⏱️18min
Tui is a historic city, with a rich history dating back to the Romans. The city was founded by the Romans in the 1st century BC and was an important commercial center during the Roman Empire. Tui was also an important town during the Middle Ages, and has been the seat of the diocese of Tui since the 6th century. The city's highlight is its imposing Cathedral of Santa Maria de Tui, a beautiful Romanesque and Gothic style building dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries. The cathedral has an impressive facade and a charming cloister that is worth visiting. In addition to the cathedral, Tui has other interesting attractions, such as the Diocesan Museum, which houses a rich collection of sacred art, and the Convento de Santo Domingo, which is an old convent converted into a hotel and cultural space. Tui's relaxed and welcoming atmosphere is perfect for strolling its picturesque streets, exploring the shops and enjoying the local cafes and restaurants. Galician cuisine is famous for its fresh seafood and traditional dishes, and Tui is no exception, offering delicious cuisine to visitors. Tui is also known for its traditional festivals and celebrations. The Holy Week Festival is one of the most important in the city, with exciting processions and religious ceremonies that attract people from all over the region. Tui's strategic location, on the banks of the River Minho, makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the Galicia region and neighboring Portugal. Furthermore, the proximity to the Portuguese city of Valença do Minho allows for a unique experience of cultural exchange between the two countries.
VILA NOVA CERVEIRA
🚙27Km ⏱️25min
It is a land of deer and arts. The Plastic Arts Biennial fills it with color and news and, annually, “Crochet Sai à Rua” spreads works throughout the city. If the arts theme interests you, even if the visit does not fall on the Biennale dates, it is possible to visit its Museum and discover many of the works of contemporary art included in previous editions of the festival. In the center, it is worth enjoying Praça da República, with its restaurants and terraces, and some very interesting buildings, such as the Igreja Matriz and the imposing Casa Verde. For those who want to explore the river, it is possible to take boat trips to the two islands: Ilha dos Amores and Ilha da Boega. But Cerveira's trademark is the famous Miradouro do Cervo, where a statue of the animal overlooks the surrounding view. It was here that a huge swing appeared, so big that it is difficult to make it fit in the photograph. Nearby, there is also the Espírito Santo Viewpoint, with the view framed in what remains of a stone door. These two viewpoints are located in the beautiful Serra da Gávea, with a privileged view of the Minho border. On Saturdays you can visit the Cerveira fair, which is one of the largest in the country with more than 500 vendors with their stalls and sales stands.
BAIONA
🚙27Km ⏱️25min
Baiona is a city known for its historical significance, its beautiful beaches and its welcoming atmosphere. Baiona's main highlight is its well-preserved historic center. Traditional houses with colorful facades create a charming atmosphere. In the heart of the center is Praça de Santa Liberata, a lively place where residents and visitors gather to enjoy cafes, bars and restaurants. One of Baiona's most important landmarks is the 12th-century fortress known as the "Castle of Monterreal" or "Parador de Baiona". Located on a peninsula, it offers stunning views of the ocean and the nearby Cíes islands. The castle was originally built to protect the city and today houses a hotel that maintains its historic structure. Baiona is also famous for its connection with the history of the discovery of America. It was in this city that the Caravela Pinta, one of the three vessels of Christopher Columbus' expedition, arrived in 1493 after his voyage of discovery of the New World. A replica of the caravel, called "A Pinta", can be visited in the port of Baiona. Baiona's beaches are another notable attraction. The main beach, Praia de Santa Marta, is a beautiful stretch of golden sand, perfect for relaxing in the sun or playing water sports. The city is also known for its festivals and cultural events. One of the most important festivals is the Festa da Arribada, which celebrates the arrival of the caravel Pinta and brings lots of entertainment, music and typical costumes.
MELGAÇO
🚙34Km ⏱️26min
Few destinations manage to combine the diversity of offers in such an excellent way as Melgaço: it has a very pleasant and well-kept historic center, rich and tasty cuisine, international wine fame, a huge range of extreme sports and untouched nature destinations. This municipality is known as the most radical destination in Portugal, due to the way it explores the River Minho to please children and adults alike. Between canyoning, canoeing, pendulum jumping, sliding, abseiling and much more, it will be difficult to choose. It has also been a famous Portuguese spa destination for many decades. Furthermore, there is the Peneda-Gerês Natural Park right on your doorstep and the beautiful village of Castro Laboreiro, with landscapes to explore and a vast history. Valença has the delicacy of a small town within its walls. The Fortaleza de Valença is, without a shadow of a doubt, the biggest brand image and it is within it that the most characteristic area of the city is located. The imposing doors allow us to understand that many years of history have passed there: what we see dates back to the reign of D. Afonso III and was an important point of defense for Alto Minho. Today, it is a monument that houses the old part of the city, where the streets and buildings are more traditional and where it is possible to find dozens of towel shops — or had Valença not had the reputation of being a great destination for enriching your trousseau. There are also bastions, chapels and churches to visit. Outside the walls of this fortress, there are several monasteries, green areas to explore and even an eco-trail that connects Valença to Monção along the riverbed, taking advantage of the route of the old railway line. From Monte do Faro, it is possible to see Valença below, the River Minho and Spain, on the other bank. The view, especially with the golden tones of the late afternoon, is unforgettable.
SISTELO 🚙40Km ⏱️50min
With around 270 inhabitants, the quiet village of Sistelo, in the municipality of Arcos de Valdevez, began to receive more visitors when, in 2018, it was chosen as one of the winning villages in the 7 Wonders of Portugal competition. In the middle of the Peneda-Gerês National Park, next to the source of the Vez River, stands a magnificent green terraced landscape that earned it the nickname “the little Portuguese Tibet”. For a panoramic view, be sure to go up to the Chã da Armada viewpoint to admire the terraced and mountain landscape. The village is situated in the Vez River Valley, surrounded by lush, green mountains. Terraces, or agricultural terraces, are a prominent feature of the landscape, where agriculture has been practiced for centuries. These terraces create a spectacular view of green steps stretching up the mountain slopes. The walkways attracted many tourists to the region, but it was in 2017 when the Sistelo Cultural Landscape was recognized by the President of the Republic as a National Monument that the village emerged from anonymity. It is the first time that such a classification has been given to a village as a whole, cultural and natural heritage, which until now was only attributed to built heritage. If you like nature walks and if the weather invites you, follow the nine-kilometre Trilho das Brandas de Sistelo that starts in the village and is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful walking routes in Portugal. You can also walk along the famous Sistelo Walkways that connect the medieval bridge of Vilela to the iconic village along the Vez river. Afterwards, enjoy a picnic or dive into the clear waters of Praia Fluvial de Sistelo.
VIGO 🚙45Km ⏱️50min
The city is famous for its fresh and delicious fish and seafood, which are abundant in its restaurants and markets. Constitution Square, located in the historic center of Vigo, is a popular meeting point for locals and visitors. From there, narrow, winding streets stretch, full of shops, cafes and lively bars, where you can try local cuisine and the famous "pulpo a la gallega" (Galician-style octopus). Nightlife in Vigo is lively, with many bars and clubs that liven up the city's nights. The natural beauty of Vigo's surroundings is also remarkable. The Cíes Islands, an archipelago of three islands located in the Ria de Vigo, are considered a true natural paradise, with white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. These islands are part of the Maritime-Terrestrial National Park of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia, protected by their rich biodiversity. For sports lovers, Vigo is home to the famous football club, Celta de Vigo, which plays in La Liga, Spain's top football league.
PONTE DE LIMA 🚙49Km ⏱️36min
The city's name, "Ponte de Lima", derives from its famous Roman bridge that crosses the Lima River, being one of the oldest Roman bridges in Portugal still in use. The bridge is one of the city's main landmarks and offers spectacular views of the river and the surrounding area. Avenida dos Plátanos, with trees lined up to describe a beautiful green frame, is a kind of transition between the town and what nature has to offer us: the lakes of Bertiandos and S. Pedro d'Arcos, the ecovias, the hiking trails and even nature sports such as canoeing and tree climbing. Without forgetting, of course, the river beaches. Ponte de Lima is famous for its annual festival, the Horse Fair, which takes place in September and is one of the oldest and most prestigious equestrian fairs in Portugal. During the fair, the city comes to life with horse shows, races, parades and cultural events, attracting thousands of visitors. The famous International Garden Festival, which takes place every year from May to October, is a renowned event that attracts visitors from all over the world. Creative, themed gardens are displayed in various locations throughout the city, creating an enchanting and inspiring atmosphere. The gastronomy of Ponte de Lima is delicious and reflects the rich gastronomic tradition of Minho. Fish and seafood dishes are especially popular, such as "arroz de monkfish" (rice with swordfish), "lampreia à bordalesa" (lampreia cooked in red wine sauce) and "sarrabulho" (a type soup made with pork blood and meat). Furthermore, the city is known for its Vinho Verde, a variety of wine characteristic of the Minho region. For children — and also for older children — there is the Portuguese Toy Museum. A visit to Ponte de Lima is not complete without seeing the famous battalion of Roman soldiers and the legend of the River Lethes, the river of forgetfulness.
COMBARRO 🚙61Km ⏱️47min
Combarro is a small and picturesque fishing village located in the province of Pontevedra, in the Galicia region, in northwestern Spain. This charming village is famous for its traditional stone houses, known as "hórreos" and "cruceiros", which are symbols of Galician culture and history. The main highlight of Combarro are its hórreos, which are elevated stone and wooden constructions, historically used to store food, especially corn and potatoes, protecting them from humidity and rodents. These hórreos form a unique and enchanting setting, and many of them are lined up at the water's edge, providing a magnificent view over the Ria de Pontevedra. Another characteristic element of Combarro are its stone crosses, which are religious monuments in the shape of a cross, present in various places in the town. These cruises have an important spiritual significance for the local community and add a special touch to the village atmosphere. Furthermore, Combarro has narrow, winding streets, with stone sidewalks and traditional houses, which contributes to the village's picturesque and welcoming atmosphere. Visitors can explore the streets, discovering small craft shops, restaurants serving delicious fresh seafood dishes and bars where they can taste local wines from the Galicia region. Combarro also offers stunning views of the sea and surrounding countryside. Visitors can enjoy the tranquility of the Galician coast, with its beaches and natural coves. The rich culture and traditions of Galicia are evident in Combarro, and local residents take pride in preserving their historical and folklore roots.
VIANA DO CASTELO 🚙64Km ⏱️53min
It is known as one of the most beautiful cities in the North of Portugal and one of the most characteristic in Minho. Its privileged location next to the sea has given it one of the best panoramic views in the region, there is no doubt about it. But it is for its customs that Viana do Castelo stands out most. When we think of Viana, we immediately think of the Vianesa costume and filigree hearts. It is therefore mandatory to visit the Costume Museum and learn all the history behind this very typical costume, discover its variations and how proud it is to have the opportunity to wear it at the Festas de Nossa Senhora da Agonia, which take place every years in the month of August. The Basilica of Santa Luzia is another highlight of Viana do Castelo. Located at the top of Monte de Santa Luzia, it offers stunning panoramic views of the city and coast, making it one of the main observation points in the region. The climb to the Basilica of Santa Luzia can be done by car, but many visitors choose to climb on foot or use the old funicular, which offers a quick and theatrical journey to the top of the mountain. During the climb, you can enjoy the beautiful surrounding landscapes, making the visit even more special. The city is also known for its traditional festivals and celebrations. The Senhora da Agonia Festival, held in August, is the city's biggest festival and attracts thousands of visitors. It is a colorful and lively celebration, with processions, music, dancing and fireworks. In the city, there is the historic military ship Gil Eanes to visit, a historic center of unique beauty and even a bridge designed by Gustave Eiffel. For those with a sweet tooth, there are internationally famous Berlin balls to try, the famous “Natário balls”.
BRAGA 🚙79Km ⏱️59min
It is one of the oldest cities in Portugal, with a rich history that dates back to the Roman period when it was called Bracara Augusta, founded by Emperor Augustus between the years 15 and 13 BC. It was also the conventual capital, capital of the Roman province of Gallaecia and the Kingdom Suevo. Known as the "City of Archbishops", Braga is one of the oldest cities in Portugal and has a rich cultural and religious heritage, the Braga Cathedral, or Braga Cathedral, is one of the city's main tourist attractions. This magnificent cathedral is a mix of architectural styles, including Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque, and offers stunning views of the city from its towers. The city is known for its religious festivities, with emphasis on Holy Week in Braga, which attracts thousands of worshipers and tourists. The religious rituals and processions held during Holy Week are an impressive display of faith and devotion. The Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte is an impressive religious and tourist attraction, it is considered one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Portugal and has also been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2019. The Sanctuary is dedicated to Senhor Bom Jesus do Monte and consists of a church, a monumental staircase, a set of chapels and well-kept gardens. The most iconic attraction is the majestic Escadaria do Bom Jesus, which consists of a series of 573 steps adorned with beautiful sculptures, fountains, chapels and statues depicting scenes from the Passion of Christ. There is a funicular that transports visitors to the top of the mountain, providing an easier way to enjoy the view. It was built in 1882 and is one of the oldest funiculars in the world still in operation, and one of the first in the Iberian Peninsula. Braga's cuisine is delicious, with emphasis on traditional dishes such as "rojões" (fried pork) and "papas de sarrabulho" (a type of soup made with pork and rice). Regional sweets are also unmissable, such as "toucinho-do-céu", but don't leave Braga without trying one of the best Portuguese convent sweets, the “abade de Priscos pudding”.
BARCELOS 🚙84Km ⏱️64min
Famous for its legend of the Rooster of Barcelos, a story that dates back to the 17th century. Legend has it that, many centuries ago, a Galician pilgrim was traveling on his way to Santiago de Compostela and stopped to rest in the city of Barcelos. Unfortunately, the pilgrim was wrongly accused of theft and sentenced to death. Before being executed, he asked to be taken to the judge responsible for the case. The judge was about to enjoy a roasted rooster as a meal, and the pilgrim pointed to the rooster and said that as proof of his innocence, the rooster would crow after his execution. The judge did not take the request seriously and ignored the pilgrim, taking him to execution. At the moment the sentence was carried out, the roast rooster stood up from the table and crowed, proving the pilgrim's innocence. The judge rushed to the execution square in time to avoid the execution and find the real criminal, who was later arrested. In gratitude for his saved life, the pilgrim carved a cross and returned to Barcelos to build a chapel in honor of Saint James. The Mascot of Portugal is this same rooster from Barcelos. Although these are spread throughout the city, they are small, large and transformed into everything you can imagine: from key rings to suitcases, from cups to soft toys. The city also has a strong tradition in crafts, including ceramics, embroidery and ironwork. But Barcelos also has a lot of history to tell. Let the Palace of the Counts of Barcelos say so, today in ruins, dating back to the 17th century. XV. Or the beautiful building where Barcelos City Hall is now located. Or Largo do Apoio, the oldest square in the city. One of Barcelos' main attractions is the Barcelos Fair, which takes place every Thursday and is one of the oldest and most traditional fairs in Portugal. The fair is a feast of colors and aromas, where visitors can find everything from local agricultural products to crafts and clothing. The gastronomy of Barcelos is delicious, with emphasis on traditional dishes from the north of Portugal, such as "duck rice", "bacalhau à Minhota" (cod with vegetables) and "francesinhas" (sandwiches stuffed with meat and spicy sauce) .
O GROVE 🚙97Km ⏱️66min
The Grove is famous for its stunning beaches and unspoilt natural landscapes. The beaches are very diverse, ranging from small isolated coves to extensive beaches with fine sand. Among the most popular beaches are La Lanzada Beach and A Toxa Beach. The waters are ideal for bathing, water sports and fishing, making O Grove an attractive destination for sea lovers. The city is known for its medicinal thermal waters, found on A Toxa Island. There is a luxury spa on this island where visitors can enjoy wellness and relaxation treatments. Gastronomy is also a strong point in O Grove, especially its fresh seafood. The city is famous for seafood and fish, and local restaurants offer a variety of delicious dishes, such as the famous seafood "almejas a la marinera" and "pulpo a la gallega" (Galician-style octopus). Additionally, The Grove is a popular location for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling, as the region is surrounded by lush natural scenery and natural parks. One of O Grove's main tourist attractions is the Seafood Festival, held annually in October, which attracts visitors from all over Spain and the world. During the festival, tourists can taste a wide variety of fresh seafood while enjoying traditional Galician music and dance.
GUIMARÃES 🚙100Km ⏱️72min
It is on the walls of Guimarães Castle that it is written “Portugal was born here” and that is exactly how it was. It is the cradle of the Portuguese nation. The historic center has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001 and invites you to take a walk (without forgetting to pass through Rua de Santa Maria). The Palace of the Dukes of Bragança, right next to the Castle, with its many chimneys, and its Museum, about Portuguese discoveries, are also historical points of great interest. This Palace was, for example, the residence of the dictator Salazar. In the Church of São Miguel, it is still possible to see the baptismal font where D. Afonso Henriques was baptized. Using the Penha Cable Car, you can go up from the city to Monte da Penha, where the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora do Carmo da Penha is located. In the squares and squares — Largo da Oliveira, Largo do Toural and Praça de Santiago — there are dozens of terraces where you can have a snack or a meal.
PENEDA GERÊS
🚙110Km ⏱️90min
The Peneda-Gerês National Park is one of the best nature destinations in the country, perfect for hiking and high mountain adventure. There is no shortage of remote villages to discover, the most beautiful waterfalls and idyllic Portuguese lagoons for a refreshing swim in the summer, and phenomenal viewpoints from which to admire some of the most amazing landscapes of Minho. The park is certainly home to a hundred granite villages that have changed little since the creation of Portugal in the 12th century. the only national park in Portugal and is located in the extreme northwest of the country, covering part of the Minho and Trás-os-Montes regions. With an area of approximately 700 km² The park is home to a wide variety of fauna and flora, including several species of wild animals, such as the Iberian wolf, roe deer, garrano (wild horse), golden eagle, among others. With a mountainous landscape rich in rivers and streams, the park offers several spectacular waterfalls that enchant visitors with their beauty and natural energy. Among the most famous waterfalls in Gerês, the following stand out: Cascata do Arado: Located on the Arado River, it is one of the most iconic waterfalls in the region. Its waterfall forms a curtain of white water that falls into an emerald green natural pool, creating a stunning scene. Access to Cascata do Arado requires a moderate walk, but the reward is worth it. Fafião Waterfall: Located on the Fafião River, this waterfall is impressive for its height and the stunning landscape that surrounds it. Access is a little more difficult, but the tranquility of the place and the natural beauty make the visit rewarding. Leonte Waterfall: Also known as Pitões das Júnias Waterfall, it is one of the highest waterfalls in the region. Its waterfall forms an impressive image, especially after periods of rain, when the water flows abundantly. Fecha de Barjas Waterfall: This waterfall is surrounded by dense and lush vegetation, creating a magical environment. The water falls in several smaller falls, forming a series of natural pools inviting for a dip. Tahiti Waterfall: The peculiar name of this waterfall is due to the peculiar shape of the pool it forms, resembling the map of French Polynesia. It's a popular place to swim and cool off on hot summer days.
SANTIAGO COMPOSTELA
🚙110Km ⏱️90min
It is the capital of the province of A Coruña and is widely known as an important religious pilgrimage destination, attracting millions of visitors from around the world. Santiago de Compostela's main landmark is its Cathedral, a magnificent masterpiece of Gothic and Romanesque architecture. The Cathedral of Santiago, also known as the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, is the final destination of the famous Camino de Santiago (Camino de Santiago de Compostela), a network of pilgrimage routes that stretch across Europe and take pilgrims to arrive to the city in search of religious purpose and spirituality. In addition to the cathedral, the historic center of Santiago is charming, with picturesque streets and squares. Praça do Obradoiro is an emblematic place, where visitors can admire the majestic facade of the cathedral and the historic buildings that surround it. Santiago de Compostela is a university city, home to one of the oldest universities in Spain. The university's presence adds a young, lively atmosphere to the city, with many students and a rich cultural scene, including events, festivals and artistic activities. Galician gastronomy is another attraction in Santiago de Compostela. Local restaurants offer a variety of delicious dishes, such as "pulpo a la gallega" (Galician-style octopus), fresh seafood and traditional delicacies from the region. The city also has a rich history and cultural heritage. In addition to the cathedral, there are several museums and monuments that tell the history of the city and the region, including the Museum of the Galician People and the Monastery of San Martiño Pinario. The spiritual and cultural atmosphere of Santiago de Compostela makes it a special and unique place for visitors. The mix of pilgrims, students and tourists creates a special energy in the city, which is rich in tradition, history and religious significance.
PORTO
🚙119Km ⏱️76min
It is the second largest city in the country and the main city in the North region. Porto is famous for its rich cultural heritage, its enchanting architecture, its delicious cuisine and, of course, the Port wine, which is named after the city. Porto has a history that dates back to Roman times, and this heritage can be seen in its many monuments and historic buildings. The area of Porto's historic center, known as Ribeira, is one of the most picturesque parts of the city, with narrow cobblestone streets, colorful houses and pretty riverside squares. This area has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and offers visitors a charming and authentic atmosphere. One of Porto's main landmarks is the Ponte Dom Luís I, an impressive iron bridge that crosses the Douro River and connects the city to the neighboring city of Vila Nova de Gaia. From the bridge, you can enjoy stunning views of the river, the surrounding hills and the famous Port wine cellars in Gaia. Speaking of Port wine, a visit to the cellars is a must when visiting Porto. The Port wine cellars are located in Vila Nova de Gaia, where visitors can learn about wine production, enjoy tastings and appreciate the rich history of this fortified and tasty wine. Porto Cathedral, an impressive cathedral, is another important point of interest. Its construction began in the 12th century and features a mix of architectural styles, including Romanesque and Gothic. Furthermore, Porto is known for its delicious cuisine. Local restaurants offer a variety of traditional dishes, such as the famous "francesinha", a meat sandwich with spicy sauce and melted cheese. It's also a great place to enjoy fresh seafood dishes and indulge in delicious desserts. The city is also known for its lively atmosphere, especially at night. The streets of Porto come alive with bars, cafes and fado houses, where you can enjoy traditional Portuguese music. In short, Porto is a charming and captivating city, full of history, culture and delicious cuisine. With its authentic atmosphere, beautiful monuments and stunning views of the Douro River, Porto is an unmissable destination for anyone visiting Portugal.
VILA NOVA DE GAIA
🚙124Km ⏱️80min
The city is mainly known for its famous cellars of the world-renowned Port wine. The cellars are located along the banks of the Douro River and are where Port wine is aged and stored. Visitors can take guided tours of the cellars, learn about the wine production process and taste different varieties of Port. Vila Nova de Gaia offers stunning views of Porto, with its skyline marked by Ponte Dom Luís I, an impressive iron bridge that connects the two cities. From the Gaia bank, you can enjoy beautiful views of the river, the historic center of Porto and its surrounding hills, as well as dozens of typical restaurants and cafes. In addition to Port wine, Vila Nova de Gaia is known for its stunning beaches. Miramar Beach is one of the most popular, with its golden sands and a beautiful setting made up of cliffs and a seaside chapel. Other beaches such as Praia de Lavadores and Praia da Madalena are also very popular with residents and tourists. The city also has a rich history, with several monuments and historic buildings. The Serra do Pilar Monastery, for example, is an impressive 16th century building that offers panoramic views of the river and the city of Porto and a unique sunset where hundreds of people gather listening to music and lying on the grass.
AMARANTE
🚙137Km ⏱️86min
The historic center of Amarante is one of the city's main attractions. Its cobblestone streets and well-preserved buildings reflect the region's rich architectural heritage. The old center is dominated by the Church and Monastery of São Gonçalo, an impressive baroque construction dedicated to São Gonçalo de Amarante, a local patron saint. The São Gonçalo Bridge, which crosses the Tâmega River, is one of the most emblematic landmarks in Amarante. This double-arch bridge offers a beautiful view of the river and the historic city center. Amarante’s gastronomy is a true delight. The city is famous for its "São Gonçalo cake", a delicious dessert made with almonds and eggs. It is also known for its meat dishes, such as "roasted goat" and "rojões", which are traditional dishes from the region. Another notable attraction of Amarante is the surrounding nature. The city is situated in a mountainous and green region, offering opportunities for hiking and enjoying the natural landscape. Amarante Forest Park is a great place for outdoor activities and picnics amid nature. Furthermore, Amarante has the largest mountain water park on the Iberian peninsula, which delights everyone in the summer. Amarante is also known for its lively carnival, with parades, music and dancing that liven up the city during the festive season.
AVEIRO
🚙187Km ⏱️111min
Aveiro is a charming city located in the central region of Portugal, known as the "Portuguese Venice" due to its canals and estuaries that run through the city. It is the capital of the Aveiro district and is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Aveiro's main distinguishing feature is its canals, which wind through the city and are crossed by colorful bridges. The "moliceiros", traditional boats painted with bright colors and ornate designs, navigate the canals, providing enchanting tours of the city's main tourist attractions. One of Aveiro's icons is Praça do Peixe, a lively fish market where local fishermen sell their fresh catch directly to the public. It's a great place to try seafood and traditional dishes from the region. Aveiro's architecture is another highlight. The Art Nouveau style buildings are especially notable, with their decorative facades and vibrant colors. Aveiro Station is a famous example of this architectural style and is a must-see for architecture lovers. Aveiro is also known for its beautiful beaches, located along Costa Nova, a coastal area close to the city. The beaches have sand dunes and colorful fishermen's houses called "palheiros", which are striped in vibrant tones, creating a unique landscape. Another popular attraction in Aveiro is the University of Aveiro, which gives the city a young and lively feel. The university has modern architecture and offers a lively and cultural atmosphere. Aveiro's gastronomy is rich and tasty, with emphasis on seafood dishes and the famous "ovos moles", a traditional sweet made with egg yolks and sugar, usually placed in wafer shells. Aveiro is also famous for hosting the Canal Festival, an annual event that celebrates the city's culture and tradition with music, art and entertainment along the canals and streets.
COIMBRA
🚙240Km ⏱️144min
Known for being the home of one of the oldest universities in the world and for its rich history, culture and enchanting architecture. The University of Coimbra is one of the city's main highlights. Founded in the 13th century, the university is one of the oldest continuously operating universities in the world. Its main building, the Sé Velha, is a masterpiece of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, with stunning views over the city. The "Pátio das Escolas", located within the university campus, is another notable point of interest, with its impressive library and the statue of the famous student João III, known as "D. Joãozinho". In addition to the university, the historic center of Coimbra is a true trip to the past. Cobblestone streets, stone buildings and old churches create a charming atmosphere, especially along Rua Ferreira Borges and in the Alta area. One of the attractions not to be missed is a visit to “Portugal dos pequenitos”, a theme park with miniatures of all regions of Portugal and Portuguese discoveries, a must-see for younger children and their parents alike. Sé Nova is another impressive cathedral in Coimbra, built during the Renaissance and offering panoramic views of the city. Next to Sé Nova is Quinta das Lágrimas, a historic property with charming gardens and a famous romantic history. Coimbra is a city with a rich cultural life. It has several museums, theaters and cultural spaces that offer exhibitions, events and shows throughout the year. Coimbra's gastronomy is also a pleasant experience. The city is famous for "leitão asado" (roasted pork) and delicious desserts, such as "pastel de Tentúgal" and "arrufadas de Coimbra". Coimbra's lively and youthful atmosphere is influenced by the presence of the university and students. The streets come alive with cafes, bars and cultural events, especially during school hours.
NAZARÉ
🚙325Km ⏱️180min
The biggest wave in the world surfed to date was in Nazaré, more than 36 meters high. The heart of Nazaré is Praia da Nazaré, a wide expanse of golden sand and crystal clear waters. The beach is a popular meeting place for both tourists and locals. During the summer, the beach comes alive with colorful umbrellas and beach huts, creating a lively and relaxing atmosphere. Nazaré is known for its maritime traditions, and you can see fishermen working with their nets and traditional boats at Praia da Nazaré. The women of the village wear colorful typical costumes, a tradition that has been maintained over the years. One of Nazaré's main attractions is "Sitio", a steep hill that towers over the village and offers stunning views of the ocean and surrounding countryside. At the top of the hill is the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Nazaré, an important pilgrimage site with a charming church. One of Nazaré's most famous features is its giant waves. Due to the unique formation of the seabed off the coast, Nazaré is known for producing some of the biggest waves in the world. Professional and amateur surfers come from all over the world to tackle these challenging and exhilarating waves. Praia do Norte is the specific point where you can find these spectacular giant waves. Furthermore, Nazaré's cuisine is delicious, with emphasis on fresh and delicious seafood dishes, such as "arroz de marisco" and "roasted sardines". Beachfront restaurants are perfect for enjoying these delicacies while enjoying the ocean view.