In Porto and the North of Portugal, it is natural to feel joy and gratitude for all that we have and are.
If you have the benefit of time, then we recommend that you explore some great nearby sites, that will allow you to know a bit more about north of Portugal and its traditions.
The Douro valley - there are various ways to get to know this cultural landscape, listed as a World Heritage Site: by road, by train, on a cruise boat and even by helicopter. The mountains and plateaus, valleys and fluvial beaches of rare beauty, the ancient wine cellars and “Quintas”, where some of the best wines in the world are produced, and the unique expressions of rock art are aspects to which no one can remain indifferent.
In the mountainous region and in the natural parks, heritage is revealed through castles, like the one in Guimarães, or shrines and churches that are the summer stage for pilgrimages. At the rural areas we find the North Portuguese baroque made of granite and gilded woodcarvings. In cities that have managed to preserve the human scale, like Viana do Castelo, Braga, Lamego, Chaves or Vila Real, or in manor houses, we find the most authentic Portuguese, the one who genuinely likes to receive, to share his table and traditions.
Highlights:
- Visit Coimbra, home to the oldest university in Europe (Universidade de Coimbra)
- Explore Aveiro, considered the ‘Venice of Portugal’, because of its many canals and the typical boats, Moliceiros.
- Enjoy Guimarães, home of Portugal’s first king Afonso I and thus the cradle of the country.
- Do not miss the Roman catholic archdiocese of Braga, and the sanctuary of Bom Jesus and its shrine.
- Discover Viana do Castelo and its beautiful Santa Luzia Belvedere, as well as Ponte de Lima, a small charming medieval town.
Other locations, no less beautiful or interesting are to be mentioned. Depending on your interest and time, Prime Emotions DMC can tailor your tour package around Portugal.