Self-guided Walking Tour of Lamego (with Maps)
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Lamego, nestled amidst vineyards and maize farms in the Upper Douro Valley, is a town that captures attention with its Baroque architecture, art, and wine. Whether it’s a church or a chapel, each one has a story to tell, with hidden treasures like gilded woodcarving or the tomb of a notable figure.
For the truly devoted, conquering the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios, with its nearly 700 steps, is a must-do experience. While wine is a popular attraction in the trendy Douro Valley, Lamego’s sparkling wine may come as a surprise, stored in town caves and proudly celebrated by locals.
How to Get to Lamego
By Train and Bus: While Lamego doesn’t have its own train station, travellers can take a train to Peso da Régua, then continue by local bus or taxi for the remaining 12 km journey.
By Car: Lamego is easily accessible via the A24 motorway, with direct connections to Vila Real and Viseu. Parking is available near the city centre and at the foot of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remédios. 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.
Where to Stay in Lamego
To enjoy the full experience of a walking tour and Douro culture, stay near the historic core. For a luxury stay, Six Senses Douro Valley offers a high-end escape overlooking the river. For mid-range comfort, Hotel Lamego provides panoramic views and modern amenities. Budget-conscious travellers can opt for Vila Gale Collection Douro for good value with riverside access.
A Brief History of Lamego
Lamego traces its roots back to Roman times and was once part of a strategic network of settlements in the Douro region. It later flourished under Moorish rule before being reconquered during the Christian Reconquista. During the Middle Ages, Lamego emerged as an important ecclesiastical centre—its cathedral, originally founded in the 12th century, stands as a symbol of this legacy. The city also played a ceremonial role in Portuguese history, as some sources suggest it may have hosted the first cortes (medieval parliament) of Portugal, where Afonso Henriques was proclaimed king.
Its prosperity during the baroque period left a lasting imprint, most notably in the opulent Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remédios, which towers above the town. The sanctuary’s monumental staircase, adorned with azulejos and fountains, is one of the most iconic pilgrim sites in Portugal. Over time, Lamego has preserved its historic charm while integrating Douro wine culture, artisanal traditions, and religious devotion into its modern identity.
Today, Lamego is celebrated not only for its architectural gems but also for its connection to the Douro’s winemaking legacy, local traditions, and cultural festivals that draw visitors year-round.
Guided or Self-Guided Tour of Lamego?
While it’s easy to lose yourself in the charm of Lamego’s winding streets, a guided walking tour can bring the town’s layered history to life. The Lamego Walking Tour of the City Center offered through GetYourGuide is a great starting point. Over the course of approximately 2.5 hours, a knowledgeable guide leads you through Lamego’s key sights, including the cathedral, the Episcopal Palace, and the richly decorated churches that define the town’s spiritual heritage. The tour also delves into local stories and lesser-known corners, making it ideal for first-time visitors seeking both context and hidden gems.
Your Walking Tour of Lamego
This blog highlights some of Lamego’s main attractions, but you’re encouraged to linger and explore at your own rhythm. Whether climbing the monumental staircase to the sanctuary, tasting regional wines at a local adega, or discovering artisanal shops in the town centre, Lamego rewards those who take their time. Keep an eye out for the azulejos, fountains, and quiet gardens that offer moments of tranquillity amid the town’s historic splendour.
1. Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios
Parking is available in the centre of Lamego at the Parque de estacionamento. From here you need to cross over to the the Jardim da Avenida Visconde Guedes Teixeira. This avenue has the steps to Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios at its western end and the Catedral de Lamego at its east.
Head up the steps.
There is also the option to park at the top of the hill behind the Santuário de Nossa Senhora dos Remédios.
Located on Mount Santo Estêvão in Lamego, the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Portugal.
The Sanctuary was built between 1750 and 1905, replacing the old chapel dedicated to Saint Stephen. As devotion to the Virgin Mary grew, so did the devotion to Nossa Senhora dos Remédios, who became known as the patron saint of those seeking help for ailments.
The Sanctuary and its impressive 686-step staircase are surrounded by the mystical Parque de Santo Estêvão, with numerous sculptures, fountains, obelisks, and tile panels along the way. The climb to the top is well worth it, offering a spectacular view of Lamego.
The temple features Baroque and Rococo style elements on its granite façade. Inside, visitors can admire the wood-carved image of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios on the main altar, as well as three stunning stained-glass windows depicting Nossa Senhora da Conceição, the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and the Annunciation.
Every year between September 6th and 8th, the city celebrates the Pilgrimage of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios with traditional festivities, attracting pilgrims from all over the world. This is definitely a must-visit place in the region.
Location: Santuário de Nossa Senhora dos Remédios, Lamego, Portugal | Hours: Winter: 8.30 a.m.- 1.30 p.m. / 1.30 p.m.-6.00 p.m.; summer 8.30 a.m. - 7.00 p.m.
Read more about Santuário de Nossa Senhora dos Remédios
2. Sé de Lamego
Return back down the steps along the Escadas da Nossa Sra. dos Remédios. Walk along the avenue until you get to a roundabout and Lamego Cathedral.
The Sé de Lamego is a Romanesque-style building, with Gothic and Baroque elements added over time. Its construction began in the 12th century and was completed in the 18th century. Inside the cathedral, there are several notable features, such as the main altar, the Renaissance-style pulpit, and the pipe organ. The cathedral is also home to the Museum of Sacred Art of Lamego, which houses an impressive collection of religious art from the region.
Location: Catedral de Lamego, Largo da Sé, Lamego, Portugal | Hours: 9am-1pm & 3-6.30pm
Read more about Sé de Lamego
3. Museu de Lamego
Across the roundabout you will see the Episcopal Palace which houses the Museu de Lamego.
The Museu de Lamego is housed in the former Episcopal Palace of Lamego, a 18th-century building with a Baroque facade. The museum’s collection includes paintings, sculptures, textiles, and ceramics, with a focus on Portuguese art from the medieval period to the 19th century. Highlights of the collection include works by Grão Vasco, a Renaissance painter from Viseu, and a collection of Flemish tapestries. The museum also has a significant collection of religious artifacts, including vestments, liturgical objects, and silverware.
Location: Museu de Lamego, Largo Camões, Lamego, Portugal | Hours: 10am -6pm (Tuesday to Sunday) | Price: adult/reduced €3/1.50 | Website
Read more about Museu de Lamego
4. Castelo de Lamego
Head back towards the Jardim da Avenida Visconde Guedes Teixeira and take the first available right up R. da Olaria. As you come to a main road double back on yourself along R. do Castelo, which should be sign posted Castelo. The lane doubles back on itself again and you come to Largo da Cisterna.
The Cisterna de Lamego is located to the left of the square. It is the largest cistern ever discovered in Portugal and has a capacity of 6,000 cubic meters. The cistern was built in the 18th century to supply water to the town and was in use until the mid-20th century. It is covered by a powerful-looking vault that is supported by thick pillars and gives the impression of a huge underground cathedral. The cistern is now open to visitors and is a popular tourist attraction in Lamego, attracting visitors with its impressive architecture and history.
From the Cistern turn left and walk along the R. da Cisterna. You will come to a small museum Centro Interpretativo Do Castelo De Lamego. This free museum tells the fascinating story of 1600 years of history of Lemego.
Turn right and you will reach the Castle.
Castelo de Lamego was constructed during the 12th century and was an important defensive structure during the Middle Ages. The castle underwent various renovations over the centuries, with the addition of Gothic and Manueline elements in the 15th and 16th centuries.
Today, the castle is mostly in ruins, but visitors can still see the remaining walls, towers, and gates that once surrounded the fortress. The castle is situated on a hill overlooking the city and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Location: Castelo de Lamego, Lamego, Portugal | Hours: 10am-12.30pm & 2-5.30pm | Website
Read more about Castelo de Lamego
From the castle turn left to walk along the R. do Castelo, past the cistern and back down the hill to the Jardim da Avenida Visconde Guedes Teixeira and your vehicle.
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