DISCOVER PORTO &
NORTH PORTUGAL

Coastal Wonders

DISCOVER HISTORIC CITIES, BREATHTAKING LANDSCAPES, AND COASTAL ENCHANTMENT

The region stretching from the Douro River to the border with Spain represents Northern Portugal.

Although Porto stands as the largest city, there are other captivating destinations worth exploring. Among these are UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Guimarães, renowned as the birthplace of Portugal, Braga, and the picturesque Douro Valley.

Braga holds significance as a key Portuguese city and ranks among the earliest Christian cities in the world, boasting a rich history of over 2,000 years. Guimarães referred to as “The Birthplace of Portugal,” once was the place where the first Portuguese king was born (1109 ac). It is renowned for its exceptional castle, medieval streets, and historic center, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Unveiling Portugal

For wine lovers, a tour to the Douro Valley is a top priority on the agenda, wine tastings in local wineries, picnics in vineyards, Douro river boat cruises, there are several options to enjoy. Yet there’s another gem awaiting discovery, located in the Northwest of Portugal is the Vinho Verde region, renowned for producing Alvarinho premium white wines with a distinctive fruit freshness. Despite its name, “green wine,” it’s not about color but rather denotes the youthful and refreshing qualities of the wines crafted from native grape varieties.

Despite the frequent rainfall and chilly winters, the rugged landscapes of Peneda-Gerês National Park, Alvão, and Montesinho Natural Parks offer breathtaking landscapes, characterized by dense greenery, winding rivers, and rugged mountains.

The coastline is marked by expansive sandy beaches and picturesque dunes.Along the coastline, Viana do Castelo and Vila Nova de Gaia are our top choices. Climate-wise, the eastern part experiences hot summers and chilly winters, while the western part enjoys temperate summers and mild winters, influenced by the Atlantic Ocean’s moderating effect.

In our opinion, the people from the North exemplify warmth and hospitality, perhaps owing to lesser exposure to tourist crowds compared to Lisbon or the Algarve. Their deep-rooted reverence for traditional customs, notably showcased during events like the Nossa Senhora da Agonia Pilgrimage in August. Here, you’ll encounter women adorned in Portuguese golden filigree earrings and resplendent traditional dresses, embodying a rich cultural heritage.