Barcelos: The Complete Guide

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Krzysztof Golik

Barcelos is a picturesque town in Northern Portugal, celebrated for its vibrant markets, artisanal craftsmanship, and traditional Portuguese charm. One of the main attractions for visitors is the weekly market, one of the largest and most historic in the country. This bustling event offers a mix of fresh produce, hand-painted ceramics, textiles, and regional delicacies, creating a colorful and lively atmosphere that reflects the town’s deep-rooted traditions. Strolling through the marketplace provides an immersive experience where travelers can engage with local artisans and savor authentic Portuguese flavors.

Beyond its markets, Barcelos boasts scenic riverside views and charming medieval streets, perfect for leisurely exploration. The Cávado River, which runs through the town, offers peaceful walking paths and stunning vistas, particularly near the ancient stone bridges connecting different neighborhoods. The historic center is filled with traditional houses, cozy cafés, and intriguing local landmarks, making it easy to soak in the essence of the region while discovering hidden gems along the way. Whether admiring the famous Barcelos Rooster, a symbol of Portuguese folklore, or simply wandering through picturesque alleyways, the town exudes a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere.

Food lovers will find Barcelos to be a gastronomic delight, with numerous taverns serving classic northern Portuguese dishes, including bacalhau (salted cod), rojões (pork stew), and hearty soups that showcase the richness of regional cuisine. Pairing these meals with Vinho Verde, the crisp and refreshing white wine produced in the surrounding region, adds to the authentic culinary experience. Whether enjoying local gastronomy, exploring the town’s artisan heritage, or embracing its tranquil riverside setting, Barcelos offers a charming and culturally immersive escape that perfectly reflects the spirit of northern Portugal.

History of Barcelos

Early History of Barcelos

Barcelos, located in the Braga District of Portugal, has a rich history that dates back to Roman times. Archaeological findings suggest that the area was inhabited long before the Roman occupation, but it was the Romans who established the first significant settlement here. The town’s strategic location near the Cavado River made it an important hub for trade and communication.

Barcelos in the Middle Ages

During the Middle Ages, Barcelos grew in prominence. In the 12th century, it became part of the Portuguese kingdom under King Afonso I. The town was granted a charter in 1140, which helped boost its development. The construction of the Barcelos Castle in the 14th century by the first Duke of Braganza, D. Afonso, further solidified its importance. The castle served as both a defensive structure and a residence for the nobility.

The Legend of the Rooster of Barcelos

One of the most famous stories associated with Barcelos is the legend of the Rooster of Barcelos. According to the legend, a pilgrim on his way to Santiago de Compostela was falsely accused of theft and sentenced to hang. The pilgrim vowed his innocence and, in a miraculous turn of events, a roasted rooster crowed to prove his innocence. This legend has become a symbol of faith and justice and is commemorated by the iconic Rooster of Barcelos, which is now a national symbol of Portugal.

Barcelos in the Modern Era

In the 18th and 19th centuries, Barcelos continued to thrive as an important agricultural and pottery center. The town became renowned for its colorful ceramics and pottery, which remain significant to its cultural and economic life today. The weekly market, one of the largest in Portugal, has been held since the Middle Ages and continues to be a major attraction, drawing visitors from all over the region.

Barcelos Today

Today, Barcelos is a vibrant town that blends its rich historical heritage with modern amenities. Visitors can explore its historic sites, including the ruins of the Barcelos Castle, the medieval bridge, and the numerous churches and chapels scattered throughout the town. The local craftsmanship, especially the famous Barcelos pottery, continues to be a significant draw for tourists. The town also hosts various cultural events and festivals, celebrating its traditions and fostering a sense of community.

Visiting Barcelos for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Barcelos on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

This website uses affiliate links which earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

This complete guide to Barcelos not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Barcelos and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Torre do Cimo da Vila

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Pedro

The Torre do Cimo da Vila, also known as Torre de Barcelos, Postigo da Muralha, Torre da Porta, Torre da Porta Nova, or Torre da Cadeia, is situated in the parish of Barcelos, comprising Vila Boa and Vila Frescainha. This tower, located in the city and municipality of the same name, in the district of Braga, Portugal, has been declared…

---

Location: Torre da Porta Nova, Largo da Porta Nova, Barcelos, Portugal | Distance: 0.2km

---

Visiting Torre do Cimo da Vila

We recommend to rent a car in Portugal through Discover Cars, they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies. Book your rental car here.

Olaria de Barcelos (Ceramics Museum)

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Halley Oliveira

The Barcelos Ceramics Museum, housed in the historic Casa dos Mendanhas, a prominent building from the 18th century, showcases a collection of approximately 7,000 pottery pieces from across Portugal and Portuguese-speaking countries, with the primary focus being on pieces from the local region. The museum features a range of interesting pieces, including everyday utilitarian and recreational pottery, as well as…

---

Location: Museu de Olaria, Rua Cónego Joaquim Gaiolas, Barcelos, Portugal | Hours: Tuesday to Friday: 10am - 5.30pm; Saturday and Sunday: 10am - 12.30am / 2pm - 5.30pm; Closed: Mondays, 1st january, Easter Sunday, 15 August, 1st November, 24 and 25th December | Distance: 0.4km

---

Visiting Olaria de Barcelos (Ceramics Museum)

Here is a complete selection of hotel options in Barcelos . Feel free to review each one and choose the stay that best suits your needs.

Igreja Matriz de Barcelos

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Lameiro

The parish church of Barcelos, dedicated to Santa Maria Maior, is a 14th-century monument that still retains its original sturdy medieval appearance. It is adorned with some decorative and architectural features that showcase the imposition of the Gothic style onto a Romanesque structure. The third Count of Barcelos, D. Pedro, initiated its construction, and his coat of arms can still…

---

Location: Igreja Matriz de Santa Maria Maior, Barcelos, Portugal | Distance: 0.5km

---

Visiting Igreja Matriz de Barcelos

Paço dos Duques - Museu Arqueológico de Barcelos

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Joseolgon

As one enters Barcelos via the bridge spanning the River Cávado, a garden with the ruins of the former Palace of the Counts of Barcelos comes into view, bearing witness to the city's medieval past. The remains are a vestige of a construction from the early 15th century, commissioned by D. Afonso, the eighth Count of Barcelos and the first…

---

Location: Museu Arqueológico, Barcelos, Portugal | Hours: Summer: 9am / 7pm; Winter: 9am / 5.30pm; Open every day | Distance: 0.5km

---

Visiting Paço dos Duques - Museu Arqueológico de Barcelos

A day trip from Barcelos offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Barcelos provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary. If you are looking to rent a car in Portugal I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Esposende

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Otávio Nogueira

Esposende, a coastal gem in northern Portugal, offers visitors a relaxed atmosphere and a beautiful mix of sea, river, and countryside. Located between Porto and Viana do Castelo, it sits at the mouth of the Cávado River and is part of the Green Coast (Costa Verde), a region known for its natural beauty and temperate climate. The town is ideal…

---

Visiting Esposende

Braga

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Feliciano Guimarães

Braga is a town steeped in history, with a plethora of churches, palaces, gardens, and fountains visible almost everywhere you turn. The Romans knew it as Bracara Augusta, and it has been inhabited by various conquerors, including the Suevi, Visigoths, and Moors. For centuries, it has served as an archiepiscopal seat and pilgrimage site, with the Visigoths reputed to have…

---

Visiting Braga

Viana do Castelo

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Sergei Gussev

Viana do Castelo, situated amidst an estuary of the Lima River and rolling hills, is a charming city in northern Portugal that is renowned for its traditional character. Despite being a significant hub for deep-sea fishing, as well as housing industries such as pyrotechnics, wood manufacturing, ceramics, and boat building (which have experienced a resurgence after years of decline), the…

---

Visiting Viana do Castelo

Guimarães

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Feliciano Guimarães

Guimarães, often regarded by the Portuguese as the birthplace of their country, is blessed with an abundance of riches that can be almost overwhelming. Nestled at the base of a mountain range, this city, which served as the first capital of Portugal, has managed to preserve a medieval ambience at its core. It was in Guimarães where Afonso Henríques, the…

---

Visiting Guimarães

Porto

Porto or Oporto is the second-largest city in Portugal, the capital of the Oporto District, and one of the Iberian Peninsula's major urban areas. Oporto city proper, which is the entire municipality of Porto, is small compared to its metropolitan area, with an estimated population of just 231,800 people in a municipality with only 41.42 km2. Porto's metropolitan area has…

---

Visiting Porto

Espinho

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Ricardo Saraiva de Almeida

Espinho, located in northern Portugal, is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, seafood delicacies, and relaxed atmosphere. The town’s golden sands and rolling Atlantic waves make it a popular destination for beach lovers and surfers alike. Praia de Espinho, one of the main beaches, offers stunning sea views and a lively boardwalk lined with restaurants and cafés,…

---

Visiting Espinho

Vigo

CC BY-SA 1.0 / Zarateman

Vigo is a city and municipality located along the Atlantic Ocean in the province of Pontevedra, Galicia, northwest Spain. It serves as the capital of the county of Vigo and the Vigo metropolitan area. Vigo is the most populous municipality in Galicia and the 14th largest in Spain, notable for being the most populous Spanish municipality that is not a…

---

Visiting Vigo

Vila Real

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Varun Shiv Kapur

Vila Real, the capital of Trás-os-Montes in Northern Portugal, is a bustling town located on a plateau in the foothills of the Serra do Marão. The town is connected by bridges that span the deep ravines created by the Corgo and Cabril rivers, which converge here. From a terrace high above, once the site of a castle, visitors can enjoy…

---

Visiting Vila Real

Peso da Régua

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Vitor Oliveira

Peso da Régua is a town located in the Alto Douro wine region in Northern Portugal, and it is considered the capital of the Upper Douro province. The town is situated on the banks of the Douro River, and it is an important center for the production and trade of port wine, which has been the main economic activity in…

---

Visiting Peso da Régua

Lamego

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Vitor Oliveira

Lamego is a city located in the Viseu District in Northern Portugal. It is situated in the Douro Valley region, known for its picturesque landscapes and world-renowned wine production. Lamego has a rich history, with evidence of human settlement dating back to prehistoric times. In the Roman period, the city was an important center for trade and agriculture, and later…

---

Visiting Lamego