Chaves Travel Guide
Discover the best things to do in Chaves, a historic town in Northern Portugal. From sightseeing to outdoor adventures, find out how to make the most of your visit.
- Introduction to Chaves
- List of Places to Visit in Chaves
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Chaves
- Best Things to Do in Chaves: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Chaves
- Food and Drink Scene of Chaves
- Where to Stay in Chaves: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Chaves: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Chaves
- Best Time to Visit Chaves
- Do’s and Don’ts of Chaves
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Chaves: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Chaves
- Where to Go Next from Chaves: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Chaves
Located in the Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro region of Northern Portugal, the town of Chaves offers visitors a unique blend of cultural heritage, outdoor adventures, and culinary delights. Known for its hot springs and medieval castle, Chaves is a popular destination for those seeking a relaxed and authentic Portuguese experience.
List of Places to Visit in Chaves
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Chaves Castle: Built in the 9th century, this medieval castle offers visitors stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
- Municipal Museum: Housed in a former convent, this museum showcases local history and art.
- Roman Bridge: One of the oldest bridges in Europe, this Roman bridge crosses the Tâmega river and provides a picturesque spot for photos.
Natural Attractions of Chaves: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Hot Springs: The Thermal Spa of Chaves offers several hot springs and jacuzzis for visitors to relax and unwind in.
- Ponte de Trajano: This stunning Roman bridge spans the Tâmega river and offers visitors breathtaking views of the landscape.
- Parque Natural de Montesinho: A nature lover’s paradise, this national park offers hiking trails, bird watching, and the opportunity to see local wildlife.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Chaves
- Ecovia do Tamega: This 40 km cycle path connects Chaves to the nearby town of Vila Real and offers stunning views of the river and surrounding countryside.
- Serra do Larouco: For those seeking a more challenging hike, this mountain range offers incredible panoramic views of the region.
Best Things to Do in Chaves: Activities and Tours
- Wine Tasting Tour: Northern Portugal is famous for its wine, and a tour of the local vineyards is a must for any wine enthusiast.
- River Rafting: For those seeking adventure, the Tâmega river offers the opportunity to go white water rafting.
- Local Food Tour: Indulge in the local cuisine with a food tour that takes you to the best restaurants and markets in Chaves.
Week-Long Itinerary for Chaves
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Explore the Castle and Municipal Museum |
| 2 | Relax in the Thermal Spa and visit Roman Bridge |
| 3 | Hike in Serra do Larouco and have a picnic lunch |
| 4 | Take a cycling tour of the nearby vineyards |
| 5 | Visit nearby Montesinho National Park |
| 6 | Go river rafting on the Tâmega River |
| 7 | Indulge in a food tour of the local cuisine |
Food and Drink Scene of Chaves
Must-Try Dishes
- Cozido: A hearty stew made with pork, beef, and vegetables.
- Alheira: A type of sausage made with chicken or game meat.
- Bacalhau: Portugal’s most famous dish, this salt cod is typically served with potatoes and vegetables.
Local Beverages
- Vinho Verde: A crisp and refreshing white wine that is perfect for warm weather.
- Port Wine: A fortified wine that is famous around the world.
- Licores: A strong liqueur made with fruit and herbs, perfect for after dinner.
Where to Stay in Chaves: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Aquae Flaviae - Premium Chaves: A luxury hotel with an on-site restaurant and spa.
- Hotel Casino Chaves: A modern hotel with a casino and outdoor pool.
- Hostel Solar Chaves: A budget-friendly option with clean and comfortable rooms.
What to Buy in Chaves: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Folar de Chaves: A traditional bread made with ham and sausage.
- Donas Amarelas: A local pastry made with lemon and honey.
- Hand-woven blankets: Made in the nearby village of Boticas, these blankets are perfect for snuggling up on cold nights.
Local Culture and Customs of Chaves
- Language: Portuguese is the official language, but many locals also speak Mirandese.
- Religion: The majority of the population is Catholic.
- Festivals: The town hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Feast of Saint Antonio and the Medieval Fair of Chaves.
Best Time to Visit Chaves
The best time to visit Chaves is from April to October when the weather is warm and dry.
Do’s and Don’ts of Chaves
Do:
- Try the local wine and cuisine.
- Visit the hot springs for relaxation.
- Take part in local festivities and traditions.
Don’t:
- Ignore local customs and traditions.
- Leave without trying the local wine and cuisine.
- Neglect to pack comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring.
Safety and Health
Safety in Chaves
Chaves is a safe town, but visitors should take the usual precautions when traveling, such as keeping an eye on their belongings and staying aware of their surroundings.
Health in Chaves
No specific health concerns are associated with Chaves, but visitors should always ensure they are up to date on routine vaccinations before traveling.
Getting to Chaves: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Chaves
Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport in Porto is the closest international airport to Chaves, located less than a 2-hour drive away.
Bus Stations Near Chaves
Chaves has a bus station that serves both local and regional routes.
Other Options
Renting a car is a popular option for visitors who want to explore the surrounding countryside at their own pace.
How to Get Around in Chaves
Chaves is a small town that can be easily navigated on foot or by bicycle. Taxis are also available for those who prefer not to walk or cycle.
Where to Go Next from Chaves: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Vila Real: A charming town known for its Baroque architecture and wine.
- Porto: Portugal’s second-largest city, known for its historic center, port wine, and charming riverside district.
- Douro Valley: A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its wine, scenery, and historic towns.
Conclusion
Chaves is a hidden gem in Northern Portugal that offers visitors a unique blend of cultural heritage, outdoor adventures, and culinary delights. Whether you’re looking to relax in the thermal baths, hike in the mountains, or indulge in the local cuisine, Chaves has something for everyone.
