Northern Portugal Travel Guide

Discover the beauty of Northern Portugal with our comprehensive travel guide, including the best places to visit, where to stay, what to do, and more!


Introduction to Northern Portugal

Northern Portugal is a region full of history, natural beauty, and charming cities. It is the perfect destination for travelers who want to experience authentic local culture, try delicious food and explore stunning landscapes.

Northern Portugal is located in the northwestern part of the country, bordering Spain. The region is known for its rich history, beautiful countryside, and charming coastal towns. Some of the most popular cities to explore in Northern Portugal include Porto, Braga, Guimarães, and Viana do Castelo.

List of Places to Visit in Northern Portugal

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Northern Portugal is filled with fascinating museums and historical places. From medieval castles to modern art spaces, there are plenty of options to explore.

  1. Porto Cathedral: This Romanesque cathedral in Porto is a must-visit for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.

  2. Guimarães Castle: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Guimarães Castle is a well-preserved medieval fortress that offers stunning views over the city.

  3. São Bento Station: This beautiful train station in Porto is known for its stunning tile work, which depicts important moments in Portuguese history.

  4. Museu do Abade de Baçal: Located in the city of Bragança, this museum showcases the history of the region with exhibits on prehistoric times, Roman occupation, and modern times.

Natural Attractions of Northern Portugal: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Northern Portugal is home to some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in Europe. From lush green forests to stunning beaches, there is something for everyone.

  1. Peneda-Gerês National Park: This stunning national park is home to some of the most beautiful hiking trails in Portugal, as well as breathtaking waterfalls and natural pools.

  2. Douro Valley: This region is known for its picturesque vineyards and stunning views over the Douro River.

  3. Vila Nova de Cerveira: This charming town located on the banks of the Minho River is surrounded by beautiful hills and forests, making it a popular spot for hiking and cycling.

  4. Vila do Conde Beach: This beautiful beach near Porto is perfect for a day of sun, sand, and surf.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Northern Portugal

There are plenty of hiking and cycling trails throughout Northern Portugal that offer stunning views of the region’s natural beauty. Here are a few of the best routes to explore:

  1. The Serra da Estrela mountain range: This stunning range is home to the highest peak in mainland Portugal and offers hiking trails for all levels of experience.

  2. The Ecovia do Litoral: This 214-kilometer cycling route runs along the coast of Northern Portugal and provides breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

  3. The Alvarinho Route: This cycling route takes you through vineyards and countryside, where you can discover the best wines of the region.

Best Things to Do in Northern Portugal: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of fun and exciting things to do in Northern Portugal. From wine tastings to river cruises, here are some of the best activities to enjoy:

  1. Port wine tastings: Porto is known for its port wine, and there are plenty of opportunities to sample the region’s best wines.

  2. Fado performances: Fado is a traditional Portuguese music genre, and there are plenty of places throughout Northern Portugal where you can enjoy live performances.

  3. River cruises: Take a leisurely cruise down the Douro River and enjoy stunning views of the region’s vineyards and countryside.

Week-Long Itinerary for Northern Portugal

Day 1: Explore the historic city of Porto

Day 2: Visit the Douro Valley and take a wine tasting tour

Day 3: Spend the day hiking in Peneda-Gerês National Park

Day 4: Explore the charming city of Braga and visit the Bom Jesus Sanctuary

Day 5: Visit Guimarães Castle and explore the medieval town

Day 6: Take a leisurely river cruise down the Douro River

Day 7: Relax on the beach in Vila do Conde

Food and Drink Scene of Northern Portugal

Northern Portugal is known for its delicious cuisine, including fresh seafood, hearty stews, and of course, port wine.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Francesinha: This sandwich made with bread, steak, ham, and sausage is a local specialty in Porto.

  2. Bacalhau: Portugal’s national dish, this salt cod dish is served in many different variations throughout Northern Portugal.

  3. Caldo Verde: This soup made with kale and potatoes is a staple dish in the region.

Local Beverages

  1. Port Wine: This fortified wine is produced exclusively in the Douro Valley and is a must-try when visiting Northern Portugal.

  2. Vinho Verde: This crisp, refreshing white wine is produced in the Minho region and is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day.

Where to Stay in Northern Portugal: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of accommodation options throughout Northern Portugal to suit every traveler’s needs and budget.

Porto

  1. Hotel Infante Sagres: This luxury hotel in the heart of Porto has elegant rooms and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city.

  2. City Drops Hostel: This modern, budget-friendly hostel in downtown Porto offers private rooms and dorms.

Braga

  1. Hotel Mercure Braga Centro: This centrally located hotel in Braga offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price.

  2. InLima Hostel: This cozy hostel in Viana do Castelo offers private rooms and dorms and is perfect for budget travelers.

What to Buy in Northern Portugal: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When visiting Northern Portugal, be sure to pick up some local souvenirs and products to bring home.

  1. Port wine: A bottle of this famous wine is the perfect souvenir to take home.

  2. Ceramic Tiles: Portugal is known for its beautiful ceramic tiles, which make for a unique and vibrant souvenir.

  3. Olive Oil: Northern Portugal is home to some of the best olive oil producers in the country, and a bottle of local olive oil makes for a tasty and useful gift.

Local Culture and Customs of Northern Portugal

Northern Portugal has a rich and diverse culture that is worth exploring. Some of the most important customs and traditions in the region include:

  1. Fado music: This traditional music genre is a must-hear when visiting Northern Portugal.

  2. Festivals: The region is known for its colorful festivals and celebrations, such as the São João festival in Porto and the Romaria de Nossa Senhora da Agonia in Viana do Castelo.

Best Time to Visit Northern Portugal

The best time to visit Northern Portugal is from May to September, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, if you prefer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, consider visiting in the spring or fall.

Do’s and Don’ts of Northern Portugal

Do:

  1. Try the local cuisine, including fresh seafood and port wine.

  2. Explore the region’s history and culture by visiting museums and historical sites.

Don’t:

  1. Forget to bring comfortable shoes if you plan on hiking or biking.

  2. Skip a visit to the Douro Valley, one of the most beautiful regions in Portugal.

Safety and Health

Safety in Northern Portugal

Northern Portugal is a safe region to visit, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, it is always important to take basic safety precautions, such as keeping your valuables safe and taking care when walking alone at night.

Health in Northern Portugal

Healthcare in Portugal is generally good, with both public and private medical facilities available. However, it is always a good idea to have travel insurance that covers any medical emergencies that may arise.

Getting to Northern Portugal: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Northern Portugal

The main airport in Northern Portugal is Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport in Porto, which receives flights from major cities throughout Europe and beyond.

Bus Stations Near Northern Portugal

There are many bus stations throughout Northern Portugal, including in Porto, Viana do Castelo, and Braga.

Other Options

You can also reach Northern Portugal by train or car. The region is well-connected by rail, with frequent services to Porto, Braga, and other major cities.

How to Get Around in Northern Portugal

There are many transportation options within Northern Portugal, including buses, trains, and taxis. However, for the most flexibility and convenience, consider renting a car.

Where to Go Next from Northern Portugal: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore Portugal, there are plenty of other destinations that are worth visiting. Some nearby destinations and excursions include:

  1. The Douro Valley: This beautiful region is just a short drive from Northern Portugal and is perfect for a weekend getaway.

  2. Coimbra: This historic city in central Portugal is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe and is known for its stunning views and charming streets.

Conclusion

Northern Portugal is a wonderful destination for travelers who want to experience the best of Portugal’s culture, cuisine, and natural beauty. With its charming cities, stunning landscapes, and friendly locals, this region is sure to capture your heart and leave you with unforgettable memories.

Regions of Northern Portugal Regions of Northern Portugal


    Douro Litoral
    Minho
    Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro