Viana do Castelo

This old port town helped to shape the Portuguese Empire back in the 15th century. Viana do Castelo is a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. This small and charming coastal town has many wonders worth a short trip from Porto, in order to spend one day visiting its old town.

The narrow streets with cobblestones and colorful houses are a must for photography lovers, where you can fully enjoy the traditional houses from the north, ornated with tiles for insolation. Important landmarks are to be uncovered such as The Hospital Ship Gil Eannes one of the few fishing ships that went to Newfoundland and Greenland for cod during the middle of the 20th century; the Basilica of Santa Luzia, a neo-byzantine religious building located atop and granting a stunning vista of Viana’s downtown and the Lima River water bank; The Eiffel Bridge, considered an exquisite architectural landmark from the 1800s in the north of Portugal, used today as one way to arrive to Viana do Castelo.

Nonetheless, this quaint old town is much more than a rich history. Its harbor, nestled on the Atlantic Ocean, leads to famous beaches and outskirt towns such as Vila Praia de Âncora, known today as a summer destination or even secluded beaches like the Praia do Cabedelo, perfect for water sports, swimming, or sunbathing.

For those who wish to participate in festivals and events, Viana do Castelo is filled with a few: Festas da Agonia, the Filigree Festival, and many religious festivals.
Still, even nowadays it is possible to have the 1960s Woodstock music festival in Portugal. In Vilar de Mouros, just 20 mins by car, every year famous musicians and bands gather in August for almost one weekend in August and give a blast of show.

Delightful cafes and restaurants have their tables and chairs on the outside during the summer season, where you can indulge your palate with a glass of beer, coffee, or even the popular green wine. For shopping and market lovers, don’t miss out on the iconic jewelry and unique handcraft that are handmade by locals.

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