Situated at the foothills of the majestic slopes of Serra do Marão, Vila Real is a small, lively city in north-eastern Portugal. Founded by King Dinis in 1289, Vila Real played an important role in the history of Portugal. It was the birthplace of Diogo Cão, the first explorer to reach the Congo river, and António da Silveira Pinto da Fonseca (known as the Count of Amarante), who was an influential member of the Portuguese military and lead numerous uprisings against the Liberal constitution. Many aristocrats built grand palaces here during the 16th and 17th centuries, befitting the city’s literal name, ‘royal villa’.
Vila Real is an ideal base for exploring the Douro river valley and following the famous Port Wine Route. Port wine begins its life in wine estates south of the city, planted in terraced vineyards along steep riverbanks. Early autumn is the best time to visit as many farms welcome visitors and you can watch the workers picking grapes, often singing while they work. For centuries, agriculture has been an important means of livelihood in this region.
There are many charming towns and villages near Vila Real, including Peso da Régua and Sabrosa, which boasts 15th century houses and vineyards set above the Pinhão river. Sample excellent wines throughout the region, including those from Mesão Frio and Murça, a town also known for its local honey, goat’s cheese and sausages. The historic city of Chaves is famous for its hot springs and the Roman bridge, which was built around AD 100. Also worth visiting are the nearby towns of Bisalhães, renowned for its unusual black pottery and Boticas, where you can taste the famous vinho dos mortos (wine of the dead), which is buried in deep cellars to mature.
Palácio de Mateus (Mateus Palace) (Vila Real)
The splendid Palácio de Mateus manor house is depicted on the labels of the famous Mateus rosé wine. Built in the 18th century, the building has an impressive baroque façade and ornate pinnacles on the roof. The beautifully landscaped gardens feature elegant statues as well as a stunning reflecting pond in the front of the palace. Musical events often take place in the palace and guided tours are also possible.
Santuário de Panóias (Vila Real)
A short distance from Vila Real, this ancient shrine was used as a place of worship and animal sacrifice. Dating back to the early 3rd century, this unique site is composed of three huge granite rocks with cavities dug out of them. Inscriptions in Latin and Greek describe the rituals undertaken at this sacrificial site, first used by tribes to worship the god Serapis and then by Romans, Celts and Visigoths, who made sacrifices to their own gods.
Parque Natural do Alvão (Alvão Natural Park)
Discover the pristine beauty of Alvão Natural Park, a protected area extending over 7,220 hectares (17,841 acres) with two distinct territories: a mountainous zone which is often covered in snow and a basal zone of river valleys. Rare species found in the park include Iberian wolves and golden eagles, as well as an enormous diversity of trees and plants. Visitors can try rafting down the many watercourses or simply enjoy the unspoilt scenery of cascading waterfalls and traditional villages built from slate and schist.
Igreja de Santa Bárbara (Santa Barbara church) (Boticas)
This former parish church contains a wooden pelican from the 17th century in the sacristy. According to local folklore, the bird wounded its own breast to feed the baby birds with its blood, symbolising the way Jesus gave his own blood to his people.
Ponte de Pedrinha (Little Stone bridge) (Boticas)
This Romanesque bridge containing five arches traverses the Beça river. According to the local legend, the Moors building the bridge only worked at night because they were afraid of getting killed during the day. The workers had to flee before the bridge was finished, but only one stone was missing, so it became known as the Little Stone bridge.
Igreja Matriz do Divino Salvador (Church of the Divine Saviour’s Mother) (Ribeira de Pena)
This sober 18th century church is the most important monument in Ribeira de Pena. The striking features include the baroque façade, high altar and beautiful wooden confessional chairs. This was also the place where Portuguese writer Camilo Castelo Branco got married when he was 16 years old.
Ponte de Arame ou Ponte Pênsil (Wire Bridge) (Ribeira de Pena)
The Ponte Pênsil is a wire suspension bridge that crosses the Tâmega river, connecting the towns of Ribeira de Pena and Santo Aleixo d’Além Tâmega. The 20-metre long bridge is a fascinating historical attraction, suspended by over 100 twisted wires, with two steel cables that support the bridge. It was built to serve the populations of both sides of the river and until 1963, was the only crossing point for local inhabitants.
Parque de Lazer de Bragadas (Bragadas Leisure Park) (Ribeira de Pena)
Surrounded by pine trees, this park is situated in a beautiful forested area and offers visitors an open space to relax. Ideal for groups and families, facilities include picnic tables, barbecue grills, a soccer field, children’s playground and a covered shelter for over 300 people.
Situated north of Porto, the city of Barcelos is known for its handmade ceramics, especially the Galo de Barcelos – a colourful cockerel which is acknowledged as an unofficial national icon and often used as a symbol of Portugal. The medieval walled town is situated on a hill above the Cavado river, its charming streets lined with baroque houses.
Every Thursday, the local market in Campo da República attracts tourists and visitors from all over the region. Feira de Barcelos is a decidedly rural affair, with stalls offering seasonal fruit and vegetables, homemade cheeses and beautiful ceramics, as well as all kinds of handicrafts featuring the trademark Barcelos cockerel.
Other local attractions include the Nossa Senhora do Terço church, the Centro do Artesanato de Barcelos (handicrafts centre) and the ruins of the 15th century Paço dos Duques de Bragança (Palace of the Dukes of Bragança), which have been transformed into an open-air archaeological museum. This site also features a cross which describes the story of Galo de Barcelos.
The legend of Galo de Barcelos
According to the legend, a crime was committed in Barcelos and the local inhabitants were worried because the culprit had not been found. One day, a Galician pilgrim arrived in the village and, because he was a stranger in these parts, he became a suspect. The authorities decided to arrest him, even though he protested his innocence. No one believed that this stranger was on his way to the medieval pilgrimage route of Santiago de Compostela.
The pilgrim was sentenced to hang at the gallows. Before his execution, the Galician asked to see the judge who had found him guilty. When they arrived at the judge’s house, he was having a banquet with his friends. The pilgrim again protested his innocence and, to everyone’s disbelief, pointed at the roasted cockerel on the table and said: ‘If I am innocent, this cockerel will crow three times.’
Remarkably, what seemed impossible came true! When the pilgrim was about to be hanged, the cockerel stood up and crowed three times. The judge was so astonished by this miracle that he released the pilgrim. After a few years, the pilgrim returned to Barcelos and built a monument in devotion to the Virgin Mary and St James.
Since then, brightly painted ceramic cockerels have been sold throughout Portugal as a symbol of good luck.
Situated at the mouth of the Lima river, between the ocean and the mountains, the charming city of Viana do Castelo is steeped in tradition. Historically, the city was a crucial point of departure during the Age of Discovery, when many Portuguese explorers embarked to discover the unknown world.
Today, Viana do Castelo is a lively fishing port, renowned for its compelling architecture, featuring Manueline and Renaissance influences as well as innovative contemporary design. Below the hills of Santa Luzia, the narrow, winding streets are lined with beautiful palaces and houses constructed over the centuries. Visitors will also enjoy the beautiful Cabedelo beach across the Lima estuary.
Throughout the Minho province, many religious festivals and popular fairs are held throughout the year. Festivities in Viana do Castelo culminate in the middle of August with the celebration of the Romaria de Nossa Senhora d’Agonia, which dates back to the 18th century. For three days, the streets are filled with people enjoying the parade of floats, towering puppets and colourful local costumes, as well as traditional music and food.
The nearby town of Ponte de Lima boasts a fine Roman bridge, a lively market and neighbourhoods of impressive rural mansions and old cottages. Along the Minho river, which separates Spain from Portugal, interesting border towns include Caminha, Valença, Monção and Melgaço. Other places to visit include the quaint towns of Paredes de Coura, Arcos de Valdevez and Ponte da Barca. Every two years, Vila Nova de Cerveira hosts a contemporary arts festival.
Igreja da Misericórdia (Misericórdia church) (Viana do Castelo)
This unique 18th century church is composed of an illustrious combination of Roman archways, Renaissance balconies and intricately carved pillars. The ornate interior decoration features baroque and Rococo influences including gilded engravings, sculptures and paintings. Some of the finest Portuguese azulejo panels, representing passages from the Bible, can be found in this church.
Citânia de Santa Luzia (Santa Luzia citadel) (Viana do Castelo)
The ruins of a fortified Iron Age village can be found on the outskirts of Viana do Castelo, on top of Santa Luzia hill. Featuring unique polygon-shaped stone houses, successful excavations have shown that the Romans occupied this village until the 5th century. This citadel has also been classified as a national monument.
Parque Nacional da Peneda-Gerês (Peneda-Gerês National Park)
The unspoilt natural beauty of Portugal’s only national park spans over 700 square kilometres (270.3 square miles). Visitors can trek through the wilderness and enjoy breathtaking scenery, from high peaks and wooded valleys to waterfalls and calm rivers ideal for water sports. The park boasts a wide variety of fauna and flora as well as tiny remote villages.
Termas de Peso (Peso Spa) (Melgaço)
Situated in a forested green valley filled with the sound of running water, this spa is a peaceful resort recognised for its therapeutic potential. The rich mineral waters have been used in the treatment of many ailments since the late 1800s, including obesity, diabetes and high cholesterol. Extending over 2 hectares (4.9 acres), the resort also contains a camping site and bungalows, as well as a mini-golf course, tennis court and café.
Castelo de Melgaço (Melgaço Castle) (Melgaço)
One of the most important military bastions along Portugal’s northern border, this Romanesque castle was built in the 12th century and later fortified by a wall connecting it to the city. The only remains of the medieval fortifications are the keep of the castle, part of the fortress, three towers and the northern and western doors. The castle was classified as a national monument in 1910 and the keep has been transformed into a museum.
Centro Tesal Termas de Monção (Monção Spa) (Monção)
This luxurious modern spa is dedicated to traditional thermal treatments, boasting over 5,000 m2 (53,820 square feet) of facilities. The warm, sulphurous waters are believed to have healing properties to treat a wide range of disorders. From the superb hydrotherapy circuit and massage to specific treatments focusing on relaxation, stress relief and weight loss, visitors will enjoy the beautiful location surrounded by nature.
Núcleo Megalítico do Mezio (Megalithic Nucleus of Mezio) (Arcos de Valdevez)
This prehistoric site is composed of a dozen megalithic monuments which were used as burial sites during the the Copper Age by local shepherds and famers. Also known as Antas da Serra do Soajo, this site is important not only for its archaeological artefacts, but also valuable as a unique example of prehistoric funerary spaces.
Castelo de Santa Cruz (Santa Cruz Castle) (Arcos de Valdevez)
Overlooking the village of Vila Fonche, this strategically-positioned Romanesque castle was one of the first infrastructures to support human settlements in this area. Archaeologists have discovered defensive features including evidence of protective walls and the foundations of a keep. The castle was probably abandoned around the mid-13th century.
Mosteiro de Ermelo (Ermelo’s Monastery) (Arcos de Valdevez)
Situated near the Lima river, this former Benedictine monastery was built in the 13th century and later adopted by Cistercian nuns and monks. The temple was eventually converted to a parish church. Despite suffering damage over time, the monastery’s unique architecture and cultural heritage has been acknowledged and it was classified as a national monument in 1977.
Situated in the district of Braga, the quaint city of Guimarães is one of Portugal’s most important historical destinations. Portugal’s first king, Afonso Henriques, chose this former Roman city to be the administrative capital of the Portuguese kingdom after his victory at the Battle of São Mamede in 1128. Known as the birthplace of the nation, Guimarães is a fascinating place to visit, with its proud castle and well-preserved medieval quarter. The city was declared an UNESCO World Heritage site in 2001.
This charming old town is a maze of narrow winding streets, flanked by old houses decorated with statues which lead to the impressive main square, Largo da Oliveira and the old Ducal Palace. For a true taste of the medieval atmosphere, visit Guimarães during the first weekend of August for the annual Festas Gualterianas (held since 1452), which features a medieval-style handicraft market, arts fair and lively costume parade.
Guimarães has been designated the European Capital of Culture for 2012 and will showcase a wide selection of concerts, events and exhibitions to celebrate this achievement.
Castelo de Guimarães (Guimarães castle)
The impressive square keep of the Guimarães castle dominates the skyline for miles around. This shield-shaped castle was built in the 10th century to protect the town against invaders and was expanded in the 12th century as an arsenal and palace. Legend has it that Portugal’s first king was born here. Visitors can also walk along the castle walls and visit the tiny Romanesque chapel of São Miguel. In 1910, the castle was declared a national monument.
Paço Ducal (Ducal Palace)
The restored Ducal Palace features unusual architectural influences from northern Europe. Built in the 15th century by the first Duke of Bragança, the impressive manor house was left to ruins until it was restored during the Salazar dictatorship. The museum and main state rooms contain impressive pieces of Renaissance furniture, exceptional Flemish tapestries and Persian carpets. The Palace is national monument and is used today as an official residence by the Portuguese President.
Mosteiro de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira (Nossa Senhora da Oliveira Monastery)
This monastery church was founded by King Afonso Henriques and restored during the reign of King João I in celebration of his victory at the Battle of Aljubarrota in 1385. Famous for its ornate Manuelian-style tower, the church has an interesting local legend. An olive tree was planted in front of the church to supply olive oil for the altar lamps, but it withered and died. Later on, a local tradesman placed a cross on the site and the tree miraculously sprung to life! Unfortunately, the olive tree currently on the site is not the original.
Museu de Alberto Sampaio (Alberto Sampaio museum)
The Alberto Sampaio museum contains valuable collections of some of the best religious art, silverware, sculptures and famous Portuguese azulejos to be found in the country. Of particular interest is the chain mail tunic allegedly used by King João I at the Battle of Aljubarrota and a silver triptych depicting the Visitation, Annunciation and Birth of Christ.
Teleférico da Penha (Penha Cable Car)
Visitors enjoy marvellous panoramic views of Guimarães from Penha hill. To get there, take the cable car, which not only offers an alternative to the road system, but also gives passengers a spectacular bird’s eye view of the city.
Braga is situated in the heart of the fertile Minho province in north-western Portugal, surrounded by a gently rolling landscape of mountains and forests. One of Portugal's main religious centres, the city is renowned for its baroque churches, splendid 18th century houses and beautiful parks and gardens. The old city is solemn and antique, although industry and commerce have brought a modern way of life, complemented by local universities, contemporary restaurants and lively bars. On Thursday mornings, Braga hosts the largest market in the region, with stalls selling everything from fresh produce to traditional ceramics.
The city’s history is evident in its numerous churches and monuments, the principal landmarks including the striking Sé Cathedral and the 17th-century church of Santa Cruz. On a hill about 5 kilometres (3.1 miles) south-east stands the sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, which is an important pilgrimage site. Beyond it is Mount Sameiro, where a colossal statue of the Virgin Mary overlooks the city. A short drive from Braga, the Citânia de Briteiros is an impressive archaeological site from the Iron Age.
Beautiful, wild beaches can be found along the coast in Esposende, Ofir and Apúlia. The whole district is famous for its festivals and local gastronomy, boasting traditional recipes include codfish (cooked in hundreds of different ways) and oven-roasted duck with rice.
Sé Cathedral (Braga)
In the historic centre of Braga stands the oldest cathedral in Portugal, the Sé, containing a wealth of sacred art treasures. Building began in 1070 and was influenced by a combination of Gothic, Renaissance and baroque styles. Highlights include the ornate Manueline towers and roof, as well as the carved altarpiece and twin baroque organs. The tombs of Dom Henrique and Dona Teresa, parents of the first King of Portugal are located in the Capela dos Reis (Kings’ chapel).
Santuário do Bom Jesus do Monte (Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary) (Braga)
This spiritual sanctuary is considered one of the most beautiful in Portugal. Surrounded by magnificent gardens, the neoclassical church was designed by Carlos Amarante in the late 18th century. The famous baroque stairway zigzags up to the church, featuring enchanting fountains and statues along the way. Visitors can also take the funicular (cable car) or drive to the top to enjoy the peaceful ambience and outstanding views.
Citânia de Briteiros (Briteiros citadel) (Briteiros)
One of the best preserved archaeological sites in the Minho is the Citânia de Briteiros, the ruins of a Celto-Iberian settlement dating back to 300 BC. Archaeologists have discovered the foundations of more than 150 round stone huts, paved roads, cattle sheds and water conduits. Two huts have been reconstructed on site and fascinating relics are on display at the Museu de Martins Sarmento in Guimarães, including painted pottery, carved stones, weapons and jewellery.
Igreja de Santa Cruz (Santa Cruz church) (Braga)
Built in the 17th century, the Santa Cruz church boasts an intricate stone façade and was designed in a baroque mannerist style. The elaborate interiors include intricate gold carvings on the organ and pulpits, a high nave and beautiful azulejo panels.
Jardim de Santa Bárbara (Santa Bárbara Garden) (Braga)
The Santa Bárbara Garden is one of the most beautiful in Portugal. Dating back to the 17th century, this elegantly landscaped square is located near the former Archbishop’s Palace and features colourful flowers, lush plants and extraordinary topiaries.
Ruínas romanas de Bracara Augusta (Roman ruins of Bracara Augusta) (Braga)
The ruins of Bracara Augusta can still be seen today, a city founded by Emperor Augustus between 300 BC and AD 400. It became the Roman capital of northern Iberia and was later occupied by Visigoths and Arabs. Since the 1970s, efforts have been made to preserve the complex archaeological structures that still remain.
This comprehensive tourism destination and holiday hotel guide contains Portugal's latest information, plus
and much, much more
English 
Português 
Deutsch