Complete Guide to Northern Portugal (2025)

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 around 1.7 million people (2021) in an area of 2,395 km2 (925 sq mi), making it the second-largest urban area in Portugal. It is recognized as a global city with a Gamma + rating from the Globalization and World Cities Research Network.

Located along the Douro River estuary in northern Portugal, Oporto is one of the oldest European centres, and its core was proclaimed a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1996, as “Historic Centre of Porto, Luiz I Bridge and Monastery of Serra do Pilar”. The historic area is also a National Monument of Portugal. The western part of its urban area extends to the coastline of the Atlantic Ocean. Its settlement dates back many centuries, when it was an outpost of the Roman Empire. Its combined Celtic-Latin name, Portus Cale, has been referred to as the origin of the name Portugal, based on transliteration and oral evolution from Latin. In Portuguese, the name of the city includes a definite article: o Porto (“the port” or “the harbor”), which is where its English name “Oporto” comes from.

Port wine, one of Portugal’s most famous exports, is named after Porto, since the metropolitan area, and in particular the cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia, were responsible for the packaging, transport, and export of fortified wine. In 2014 and 2017, Oporto was elected The Best European Destination by the Best European Destinations Agency. Oporto is on the Portuguese Way path of the Camino de Santiago.

TIP: If you are visiting Porto for just a day and want to make the most of your visit, you may want to consider taking a walking tour with a local guide. This is one of the most complete and best-rated city tours that covers the main, must-see attractions in about 3 hours. If you prefer exploring at your own pace read our Self Guided Walking Tour of Porto (with Maps!).

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 abandoned their heresies there. Braga is also a renowned religious capital, hosting Portugal’s most magnificent Semana Santa (Holy Week) observances, featuring torch-lit processions of hooded participants that may evoke images of the KKK.

Despite its rich history, Braga is a contemporary city, bustling with commerce and industry. The city centre, home to the historic core and cathedral, is surrounded by a thriving periphery that encompasses a range of manufacturing industries such as brick-making, soap-making, textiles, smelting, engineering, and leather goods. With a population of 65,000 residents, Braga’s streets are now noisy, filled with increasing numbers of unsightly and uninspired apartment blocks, and subject to traffic congestion on roads that not so long ago only had a few cars and perhaps a donkey or two. Despite being known as Portugal’s most conservative city politically, Braga has a lively nightlife that has earned it the nickname “Lisbon in miniature,” thanks to its youthful population.

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 first king of Portugal and son of Henri de Bourgogne, a French nobleman, and his wife, Teresa, the daughter of the king of León and Castile, was born. Teresa, who received the county of Portucale as her dowry, eventually gave rise to the name “Portugal.” The area that comprised Portucale was the land that lay between the Douro and the Minho, which included present-day Porto. Teresa and Henri chose Guimarães as their court, where Afonso Henríques was born.

After the death of Henri, Teresa became the regent for the infant king. However, her affair with a count from Galicia and her strong ties with her native Spain caused her to fall out of favor with her subjects. Afonso, as a young man, led a rebellion against the regent’s forces outside Guimarães in 1128. His major victory came in 1139 when he defeated the Moors near Santarém. He broke away from León and Castile and declared himself king of Portucale. In 1143, Spain recognized the newly established kingdom.

In addition to Afonso Henríques, Guimarães was also the birthplace of Gil Vicente (1465–1537?), who is considered the father of Portuguese theatre and is often called the Shakespeare of Portugal. Although trained as a goldsmith, Vicente entertained the courts of both João II and Manuel I with his farces and tragicomedies, as well as his religious dramas.

Nowadays, Guimarães is a bustling town with a keen interest in trade, particularly in weaving, tanning, and the production of kitchenware and cutlery. It is also renowned for its handicraft industries, such as pottery, silver- and goldsmithing, and embroidery.

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.

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 city has managed to maintain its old-world ambiance. Its streets are quaint and narrow, adorned with Manueline-style manors, and occasionally, one can spot an ox cart with wooden wheels clattering along the cobbled lanes.

Viana do Castelo is famous for its local pottery and handicrafts, but it is most well-known for its regional festivals. The annual Festa de Nossa Senhora de Agonia (Festival of Our Lady of Agony), held in late August, is the most prominent of these events. During this festival, women dress up in vibrant regional attire, including bold hues of orange, scarlet, and Prussian blue, paired with layers of golden necklaces featuring heart- and cross-shaped pendants.

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 stunning views of the gorges below. To reach the lookout, head in a straight line from the cemetery. From this vantage point, you can also see houses perched precariously on the edge of the Corgo ravine.

Vila Real’s historic center is worth exploring, and visitors can spend a pleasant two hours or so wandering the streets and stopping in cafes for a glass of port. Most of the town’s interesting sights and buildings are located along Avenida Carvalho Araújo.

The town’s agricultural roots make it an excellent base for exploring the surrounding area, including the Parque Nacional do Alvão to the northwest, which features waterfalls, flower-filled valleys, and ravines. The tourist office can provide maps and suggest places to visit. To reach the park, take the IP-4 west for 10km (6.25 miles), then turn onto the N304 heading towards Mondim de Bastro and Campeã. This scenic drive takes you through some of the most picturesque parts of Trás-os-Montes, though you’ll first need to pass through the drab modern suburbs of Vila Real, which are in stark contrast to the charming historic core.

Visiting Bragança offers a journey into one of Portugal’s most authentic and scenic regions. Nestled in the Trás-os-Montes area of the northeast, Bragança is surrounded by rolling hills, forests, and traditional villages, making it an excellent base for nature lovers and cultural explorers alike. The city itself has a quiet, relaxed rhythm, far removed from the more tourist-heavy destinations further south, which adds to its appeal for those looking to experience a more genuine slice of Portuguese life.

One of Bragança’s main draws is its well-preserved citadel, which includes the iconic Domus Municipalis, a rare Romanesque civic building, and a towering medieval castle offering panoramic views of the countryside. Inside the citadel walls, cobbled lanes and stone houses create an atmospheric setting, perfect for wandering and soaking up the town’s architectural charm. Just outside the walls, the Abade de Baçal Museum adds depth to the visit with its rich collection of religious art and local history.

Bragança is also a gateway to the Montesinho Natural Park, one of Portugal’s largest protected areas, known for its biodiversity and traditional rural life. Hiking, wildlife spotting, and visits to remote villages like Rio de Onor offer rewarding day trips for those with a taste for nature and culture combined. Local cuisine is another highlight—hearty, rustic, and shaped by the region’s geography—featuring cured meats, chestnuts, and wild mushrooms. Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying longer, Bragança offers a deep sense of place and a strong connection to Portugal’s mountainous northeast.

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, perfect for unwinding with a drink while enjoying the ocean breeze. Whether visitors prefer lounging under the sun or taking part in water sports, Espinho delivers an ideal seaside retreat.

Beyond the beaches, Espinho is home to a renowned fish market, where visitors can experience the freshest seafood in the region. The market’s bustling stalls showcase locally caught fish, shellfish, and traditional Portuguese delicacies, creating the perfect opportunity to indulge in authentic flavors. For an unforgettable dining experience, waterfront restaurants serve signature dishes such as grilled sardines, octopus rice, and Bacalhau à Brás, paired with refreshing Vinho Verde. Exploring Espinho’s local cuisine is a sensory delight, reflecting the town’s deep-rooted maritime traditions.

For those seeking cultural and entertainment activities, Espinho Casino offers an exciting nightlife scene with games, live performances, and elegant dining. The town also hosts the Cinemateca Festival, a well-regarded event celebrating film and arts, adding to its vibrant cultural calendar. Meanwhile, scenic coastal walks and cycling paths allow travelers to soak in the town’s picturesque landscapes at their own pace. Whether drawn to relaxation, gastronomy, or cultural experiences, Espinho presents a well-rounded getaway for visitors looking to embrace Portugal’s Atlantic coast.

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 became a significant religious center under the rule of the Visigoths and Moors. In the 12th century, Lamego was conquered by the Christian king Afonso Henriques, who established a bishopric in the city.

One of the main attractions of Lamego is the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies, a Baroque-style church located atop a hill overlooking the city. The church was built in the 18th century and is famous for its ornate façade and sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.

Other notable landmarks in Lamego include the Lamego Castle, which dates back to the 12th century, the Gothic-style Lamego Cathedral, and the historic city center, which features charming cobblestone streets and traditional architecture.

Lamego is also known for its annual festival, the Festas de Nossa Senhora dos Remédios, which takes place in September and attracts visitors from all over Portugal and beyond. The festival features a colorful procession, music, dance, and fireworks, as well as local food and drink.

Overall, Lamego is a beautiful and historic city with much to offer visitors, from its stunning natural surroundings to its rich cultural heritage.

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 the region for centuries.

Peso da Régua is also a popular tourist destination, as it is the starting point for many Douro River cruises and tours of the region’s vineyards and wine cellars. The town itself has a number of attractions, including a historic railway station that dates back to the 19th century, and the Casa do Douro, which is a museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Douro wine region.

Vila Nova de Foz Côa is a municipality located in Northern Portugal, in the district of Guarda. The municipality covers an area of approximately 398 square kilometers and has a population of around 6,500 people.

The town of Vila Nova de Foz Côa is situated on the banks of the Douro River and is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The town dates back to the prehistoric period, and there are several archaeological sites in the area, including the Côa Valley Archaeological Park, which is home to some of the world’s most important rock art.

In addition to its cultural heritage, Vila Nova de Foz Côa is also known for its natural beauty. The surrounding region is home to several nature reserves and protected areas, including the Douro International Nature Park and the Serra da Estrela Natural Park. These areas are popular with hikers, cyclists, and other outdoor enthusiasts.

The town itself has a charming historic center with narrow streets, traditional houses, and historic buildings. There are several restaurants, cafes, and shops in the town, as well as a small museum dedicated to the history and culture of the region.

Overall, Vila Nova de Foz Côa is a great destination for those interested in history, culture, and nature. Its unique blend of prehistoric sites, cultural heritage, and natural beauty make it a fascinating place to explore.

Pinhão is a small town located in the heart of the Douro Valley wine region in Northern Portugal. It is situated on the banks of the Douro River, surrounded by rolling hills covered in vineyards. The town is often considered to be one of the most picturesque in the region, with its traditional whitewashed houses and red-roofed buildings.

Pinhão is known as a hub for wine tourism in the Douro Valley, with many visitors coming to sample the region’s famous port and table wines. The town is home to a number of wine estates and cellars, where visitors can take guided tours and tastings, and learn about the winemaking process.

One of the main attractions of Pinhão is the historic railway station, which is adorned with traditional blue and white azulejo tiles depicting scenes from the region’s history and culture. The station is also the departure point for a scenic train journey along the Douro River, offering stunning views of the vineyards and terraced hillsides.

In addition to wine-related activities, Pinhão offers a range of outdoor pursuits such as hiking, cycling and kayaking, as well as opportunities to sample the region’s traditional cuisine, which includes dishes such as cozido, a hearty stew of meat and vegetables, and bacalhau, a salted cod dish.

Overall, Pinhão is a charming and picturesque town, offering visitors a taste of the Douro Valley’s rich culture, history and natural beauty, as well as its famous wines.