North Tour

Viana do Castelo & Ponte de Lima & Barcelos

Our journey begins in the comfort of your hotel, where we’ll be ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure through the North of Portugal. The first destination is Viana do Castelo, a charming city filled with history, culture, and stunning landscapes. During the drive, you’ll be able to admire the beauty of the region’s green landscapes, with mountains and the ocean in the background, creating a unique setting.

Upon arriving in Viana do Castelo, our first stop will be at the Sanctuary of Santa Luzia. This imposing sanctuary, located on top of the mountain, offers a spectacular panoramic view of the city and coastline. If you wish, you can climb to the top of the tower, where you’ll enjoy a 360º view of the city, the Lima River, and the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a breathtaking visual experience, sure to be one of the highlights of our tour.

Next, we will explore the historic center of Viana do Castelo, a place full of charm and history. We’ll walk along the narrow and picturesque streets, passing by the Sanctuary of Senhora da Agonia, one of the most important churches in the city, dedicated to the patron saint of Viana do Castelo. During the visit, you’ll also have the option to explore the Gil Eannes Hospital Ship, a boat converted into a museum that tells the history of maritime healthcare, offering a unique insight into naval medicine and the history of Viana.

After this historical immersion, we’ll continue our journey to Ponte de Lima, considered the oldest village in Portugal. Along the way, get ready to be enchanted by the lush landscapes and charms of this region. Upon arriving in Ponte de Lima, we’ll explore iconic monuments and learn more about its history, from the majestic medieval arch to the banks of the Lima River. We’ll also delve into its cultural heritage, which includes the famous Roman Bridge and the traditional markets that exude life and tradition.

During lunch, we’ll have the opportunity to savor a typical regional dish: the delicious “arroz de sarrabulho”, a specialty with intense flavors that is part of the Minho region’s gastronomy. After the meal, we’ll head to our next destination: Barcelos, a city famous for its heritage and the iconic figure of the Galo de Barcelos (Rooster of Barcelos).

Upon arriving in Barcelos, we will explore the historic center, which is truly an open-air museum. We’ll visit key sites such as the Church of Bom Jesus da Cruz, the Paço dos Duques (Duke’s Palace), and the medieval center of the town, filled with traditional cobblestone streets and colorful buildings.

Before returning, you’ll have time to admire the famous Barcelos Roosters, the symbol of the city and the entire Minho region, representing good luck and prosperity.

In the late afternoon, we’ll return to Porto, with the feeling of having explored some of the most charming and historic cities in northern Portugal, immersed in their culture, tradition, and stunning landscapes.

Travelers per tour (ᵃ)

6

Duration

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Activity level

Moderate

Price (ᵇ)

200 €

Start Time

08:00

Meeting Point

Hotel

Conditions

Car or Van

What's included?

Guide / Transport

Full Itinerary

8:00 AM – Pick-up in Porto and journey to Viana do Castelo

Visit the Sanctuary of Santa Luzia

Walk through the historic center of Viana do Castelo

Travel to Ponte de Lima

Lunch with a typical regional dish: arroz de sarrabulho from Ponte de Lima as a suggestion

Stroll through the streets of Ponte de Lima

Travel to Barcelos

Visit the Church of Bom Jesus da Cruz, Paço dos Duques, and the medieval center of the village

Return to your hotel in Porto

Transportation

Car or Van – We use a Car (up to 4 people) or Van (up to 6 people), depending on your needs and preferences. The vehicle is very comfortable, clean, and air-conditioned.