Pedro DominguesYou will discover some of the main charms of northern Portugal if you visit Viana do Castelo. I’m sure you won’t be indifferent to the landscapes and waterfalls of Serra d’Arga, to Mount of Santa Luzia or even to the river Lima itself, which flows into the Atlantic Ocean next to the city.
I lived in Viana do Castelo for 1 year, a few years ago. It was for a short time, but it was enough for me to fall in love with the city and its historic center, and to get to know it well. Without a doubt, I highlight the Hospital Ship Gil Eannes, which for me is one of the most spectacular museum spaces in Portugal.
In the surroundings, I cannot fail to mention the incredible viewpoints, of which I prefer the Viewpoint of São Silvestre, and also the river Neiva (to the south), still so wild. 🙂
2 days are enough for the main highlights of Viana do Castelo. 4 days will be ideal to discover its secrets in more detail! In this article I share with you all things to do in Viana do Castelo, what to see and visit on a 2 to 4 day itinerary through the north of Portugal and High Minho.
Where is Viana do Castelo located in Portugal?
Viana do Castelo is located in High Minho region, being its district capital.
The municipality of Viana do Castelo does not border Galicia, in Spain, but it does border the district of Braga, namely the municipalities of Esposende and Barcelos. An itinerary that includes Viana do Castelo may very well also include some of the main highlights of southern Galicia (province of Pontevedra and Vigo), Braga or even Peneda Gerês National Park.
MORE ARTICLES FROM THE NORTH OF PORTUGAL: - Porto Itinerary - Things to do in Porto - Best Museums in Porto - Best Churches and Cathedrals in Porto - Best Parks and Gardens in Porto - Best Port Wine Cellars in Porto - Best Beaches in Porto - Best Day Trips from Porto - Best Matosinhos Beaches - Things to do in Matosinhos - Things to do in Vila do Conde - Things to do in Póvoa de Varzim - Things to do in Vila Nova de Gaia - Things to do in Espinho - Minho | Northern Portugal Itinerary - Things to do in Ponte de Lima - Things to do in Monção - Things to do in Valença - Things to do in Caminha - Things to do in Braga - Things to do in Guimarães - Things to do in Barcelos - Things to do in Esposende - Things to do in Arcos de Valdevez - Peneda Gerês National Park Itinerary - Best Hikes and Trails in Peneda Gerês National Park - Best Peneda Gerês National Park Waterfalls and Lagoons - Douro Valley Itinerary - Douro Valley Wineries - Best Douro Viewpoints - Things to do in Peso da Régua - Things to do in Lamego - Things to do in Pinhão - Best beaches in Northern Portugal - Trás-os-Montes Itinerary - Things to do in Bragança - Montesinho Natural Park Itinerary - Douro International Natural Park Itinerary
Travel Tips to visit Viana do Castelo
1. Rent a car to visit Viana do Castelo
No need to have a car to visit Viana do Castelo, if you intend to just go the city center and up to the Sanctuary of Santa Luzia. You will find easy transportation from Porto, by train or by bus, so just rent a car if you really want to go explore the outskirts.
If you do need a car, do your car research with Discover Cars before renting one. It allows very nice comparisons between the most common car rental companies.
2. How to get to Viana do Castelo?
If you want to visit Viana do Castelo but haven’t bought tickets to Portugal yet, I recommend that you use Skyscanner or Google Flights to do a search before buying them, comparing prices and flight conditions. You have many connections with Porto from abroad.
As for public transport, always check Rome2Rio website to find out all the possible ways to reach your destination. Check also the trains website: CP – Comboios de Portugal, and Rede Expressos (buses).
3. Guided Tours to visit Viana do Castelo
I always use Get Your Guide and Civitatis on my own trips, so this is what I recommend you do. They have a rating and review system that lets you see how other travelers have classified each tour, so you can always choose with some idea if they’re really worth it.
In the case of guided tours to visit Viana do Castelo, these are usually based on tours that combine the city with other locations in Minho region, for example, Ponte de Lima. They usually depart from Porto or Braga.
Guided Tours with Get Your Guide and Civitatis 1 - Viana do Castelo & Ponte de Lima Guided Tour 2 - Full-Day Tour of Minho Region 3 - Private Day-Trips from Porto
4. Take out Travel Insurance when visiting Portugal
To be protected against several types of travel hazards, I also recommend that you take out travel insurance for your stay in Portugal, and I recommend to do it with World Nomads.
5. When to visit Viana do Castelo?
Viana do Castelo can be visited at any time of the year. However, visit in the summer if you want to enjoy the beaches on the county’s coast or do activities on Lima or Neiva rivers. As far as Serra d’Arga is concerned, you can travel to the main places by car, but if what you want is to walk in nature and follow its trails, choose spring. 😉
As for the city, visit it during the Pilgrimage of Senhora da Agonia, in the week of August 20th. It is undoubtedly a major event in Portugal, which brings together thousands of people in the streets, while the image of Senhora da Agonia, patroness of fishermen, is carried in procession to the sea. This pilgrimage dates back to the 18th century.
The pilgrimage I just mentioned is without a doubt, and by far, the most important festivity, and the one that I consider unmissable. But here are two others in the municipality: the Roses Festival, in Vila Franca do Lima (May), or the Festivities dedicated to Senhora da Encarnação, in Vila Mou, in the week of Pentecost.
6. Gastronomy in Viana do Castelo
Viana do Castelo is famous for Natário’s Balls of Berlin. Do I consider them special when compared to others in Portugal? No, I don’t think they’re special or the best berlin balls I’ve ever tasted, but you can’t miss trying them. The most famous ones are those by Manuel Natário, but you also have those by José Natário. These are different pastry shops/cafes in the city.
If you go to Manuel Natário, bear in mind that there are scheduled times for the berlin balls to be available (ask in advance directly at the pastry shop), and that huge queues form to buy them and take them home. If you want to buy a box of berlin balls, there is no way to avoid the queue, however, those who want to eat the balls in the café don’t have to wait, or didn’t have to the last time I visited. 😉 I ordered a warm berlin ball and a glass of Green Wine, also traditional in the region.
- For more serious food, there is no doubt that Bacalhau (cod fish) in different forms stands out, for example Viana style or Gil Eannes style.
- Don’t forget Pescada à Vianense (Hake Fish).
- There is also stuffed Santola (crab) if you are a seafood lover.
- You can try some good Minho-style rojões or opt for a Cabrito à Serra d’Arga (roasted kid).
- Arroz de Sarrabulho is typical of Ponte de Lima, but you can also find it here, and if it’s your first time in High Minho, it’s really unmissable, but know that it’s made with animal blood! 😉
- As for sweets, try the Half Moons of Viana, Viana pie, or the small cakes called Sidónios and Manjericos.
7. Restaurants in Viana do Castelo
- Restaurant Camelo
- Tasquinha da Praça
- Tasquinha da Linda
- O Tabernão
8. Accommodation tips in Viana do Castelo
| Accommodation | Score | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Pousada de Viana do Castelo | 8.7 | Mount of Santa Luzia |
| Flag Design Hotel | 9.0 | Viana City Center |
| Casa Melo Alvim | 8.7 | Viana City Center |
| Hotel Fabrica do Chocolate | 9.0 | Viana City Center |
| Hotel FeelViana | 9.2 | Praia do Cabedelo |
| Dona EmÃlia Guest House | 9.4 | Viana City Center |
| Casa Manuel Espregueira | 9.5 | Viana City Center |
| Hotel Laranjeira | 8.9 | Viana City Center |
| Botoeira da Praça | 9.5 | Viana City Center |
| Quinta de Valverde | 9.3 | Mount of Santa Luzia |
| Casa do Nato | 9.5 | Carreço (north of Viana) |
Things to do in Viana do Castelo | Portugal
If you only have 1 day for your trip to Viana do Castelo, focus on the historic center and Mount of Santa Luzia. If you have 2 days to travel, you can go discover Pincho Waterfall, in Serra d’Arga, and the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora do Minho, at the top of the mountain range. With full 4 days, then I believe you will be able to do everything or almost everything I propose below. It depends on your pace, so I recommend that you adjust the time of the itinerary to your way of travelling.
Map | Things to do in Viana do Castelo
Visit the Historic Center of Viana do Castelo
The Historic Center of Viana do Castelo has a lot to visit. If you don’t have much time, focus on Republic Square, on the Cathedral, on Avenida dos Combatentes da Grande Guerra, on the Hospital Ship Gil Eannes, on the riverside area, and also on the Costume Museum, to discover some of the region’s traditions.
I’m going to start this list of things to do in Viana do Castelo Historic Center with the hospital ship because there is a huge parking lot next to it, which will probably be the best place to park your car when you arrive in the city (if you’re not arriving by bus or train).
1. Hospital Ship Gil Eannes
Gil Eannes Hospital Ship is spectacular. I have visited it 3 times already, and it has always surprised me, being always worth it. It’s a museum inside a ship, and you have access to most of the compartments, for example to the infirmary and surgery rooms, and of course to the engine room.
With regard to its history, it dates back to 1955, when it was built in Viana do Castelo. For many years it was a support ship for the Portuguese cod fleet that sailed through the Greenland region, having been recovered and restored at the end of the 20th century, opening to the public for visits in 1998.
Below I leave you with many pictures of what you will find on the ship. You can find out more on Gil Eannes Foundation website, for example about opening hours and prices for your visit.
2. Viana do Castelo Cultural Center and Liberty Square
The Cultural Center of Viana do Castelo is right next to the hospital ship Gil Eannes, on the banks of river Lima. I’ve never visited the inside, but the outside looks very modern. It is a space used mainly for cultural shows, concerts and festivals, with capacity for around 2000 people.
Also stroll through Liberty Square and admire the monument to the 25th of April, built as a gateway to Lima River. Sunsets at this location or the surrounding area are very pleasant. 😉
3. Statue of Viana
The statue of Viana is a must see for me. It stands at the beginning of Viana do Castelo Public Garden, and consists of a female figure holding a Portuguese caravel. It dates back to the 18th century.
4. Public Garden and Marina of Viana do Castelo
I recommend that you do not miss the riverside walk in Viana do Castelo, passing by the city’s Marina, and going beyond the Eiffel Bridge to the Urban Ecological Park.
Along Avenue 5th of October, you will find the Public Garden of Viana do Castelo. Consider walking through it until you get to the Marina area, and only then cross to the riverside.
5. Eiffel Bridge of Viana do Castelo
The Eiffel Bridge is from the 19th century. It was built in iron, and came to replace a previous wooden bridge that crossed the river Lima. Its name comes from Gustave Eiffel, the engineer responsible for its construction, and also for the construction of the Eiffel Tower in France. It is very beautiful to see the reflection of the bridge in the river.
6. Viana do Castelo Urban Ecological Park and Barracão dos Touros River Beach
It is not mandatory to take a trail through the Urban Ecological Park of Viana do Castelo, but here is some information about it. It has a total of about 4km of paths and walkways, it is very green, and is located next to the stream of São Vicente. An excellent spot for birdwatching, if you are a fan of it.
In the summer you will find a lot of people on the river beach of Barracão dos Touros, right on Lima river. I’m not sure, but I believe the name came from the old bullring that existed nearby.
7. Chocolate Factory
If you follow the sequence shared in this itinerary, always on foot, the Chocolate Factory will appear on your return to the city centre. The oldest chocolate factory in Portugal operated there until 2004, later moving to Barcelos. It has a small museum and a shop where you can buy different chocolate products. I found the museum a little expensive, mainly because I was a customer of the store, so I was honesly expecing a discount. Entry was €5.
If you look closely at my recommendations for accommodation to sleep in Viana do Castelo, you will realize that one of them is Hotel Fabrica do Chocolate. I remember that when I visited the store they told me that they offer Chocotherapy treatments at the hotel, such as chocolate massages. 😉
8. Chapel of Souls
The Chapel of Souls is a very simple church, in Frei Gonçalo Velho square. It is, however, a very important church in Viana do Castelo, as it was once the mother church of the city, before the construction of the current Cathedral (15th century). Its original construction dates back to the 13th century, having been rebuilt in the 18th century. Its name comes from the fact that in its churchyard there was a cemetery until the 19th century.
9. Malheiras Chapel
Back to the Historic Centre, you will find another small church, this one called Malheiras Chapel. It is from the 18th century, and built in the Rococo style.
10. Teatro Municipal Sá de Miranda and Convent of Sant’Ana
Resist the urge to head towards the heart of the city (Republic Square), and head instead towards the railway line, admiring the façade of both the Theater Sá de Miranda and Church of Charity in the Convent of Sant’Ana. The first is considered the city’s main cultural building, having been built in the 19th century. The second dates from the 16th century, having been built to house Benedictine nuns of noble origins. Its tower stands out.
11. Railway Station Square in Viana do Castelo
In Station Square, at the top of Avenida dos Combatentes da Grande Guerra, the Statue “Vira Maria, Vira Manel” stands out, in honor of the city’s folklore tradition. For those who want to take the elevator to the Sanctuary of Santa Luzia, which I will mention later in this article, the ideal is to do it at this point in the itinerary, crossing the train line here.
12. Távoras Palace
Although Avenida dos Combatentes da Grande Guerra is the main avenue in Viana do Castelo, I recommend that you head to Republic Square walking along the road of Mordomas da Romaria, full of houses with coats of arms, such as Távoras Palace. It is in this 16th-century palace that the City Council of Viana do Castelo is currently based.
13. Republic Square: Fountain, Old Town Hall and Misericórdia Church
Republic Square is the heart of the city. Of particular note are the Old Town Hall, Misericórdia Church, the Fountain in the center of the square, and also the Costume Museum building at one end.
- The former Town Hall building was built with several arches. On the ground floor you will probably find a temporary exhibition, during your visit to Viana do Castelo.
- The Fountain at Republic Square served for a long time as a point of supply of drinking water to the population.
- Misericórdia Church, in turn, is also a very beautiful building, with arches on the ground floor and balconies on the upper floors. Inside, the frescoes on the ceiling and the tiles on the walls stand out.
- The 3 monuments are from the 16th century.
14. Costume Museum of Viana do Castelo
The Costume Museum is housed in the old Banco de Portugal building. Inside you will find many costumes on display, not only the traditional popular costumes of Viana women, but also costumes that were once used in the rural areas of the villages of Viana do Castelo. The Vianesa costume was used until the beginning of the 20th century, but is still seen today at the main festivals.
This is a very visual museum with colorful and unique costumes on display. Of note is the gold that the women wore with the costume, and you can visit the museum vault to take a closer look at all the jewelry. If you’ve never heard of Portuguese Filigree, this is an excellent place to learn about it and admire pieces of art in gold, such as the beautiful Heart of Viana.
Filigree is an art that was born in ancient Mesopotamia, 3 millennia BC. It arrived in Europe through the trade routes of the Mediterranean Sea, and in Portugal it is known that filigree is produced at least from the 8th century AD. Later it came to acquire its own style, very different from that found in other parts of the world.
Filigree is basically an art that consists of joining gold threads to produce pieces of jewelry. The Heart of Viana, the most famous piece you will find in Viana do Castelo, was created at the request of Queen D. Maria I, in honor of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Only later did it become a symbol of love.
Learn more about this fantastic art on the official Portuguese Filigree Website.
15. Cathedral of Viana do Castelo and Casa dos Velhos
The Cathedral of Viana do Castelo has a very robust and fortified appearance, in the style of ancient Romanesque churches. It was built in the 15th century, and I highlight not only its two towers, but also the sculptures of the apostles in the entrance porch: Saint Peter, Saint Paul, Saint John, Saint Bartholomew, Saint James and Saint Andrew.
Next to the Cathedral is the former Casa dos Velhos, also from the 15th century. The coat of arms over the arch of the house stands out.
16. Old Hospital, Casa dos Nichos, and Amália road
In this old part of the city, Amália road is for me the most beautiful, with lots of flowers. In the surroundings, be sure to visit the Old Hospital and Casa dos Nichos.
- The Old Hospital was once a hostel for pilgrims from Santiago de Compostela, founded in the 15th century. Today it houses the Interpretive Center of the Portuguese “Caminho” (path) in the Coast.
- As for Casa dos Nichos, also from the 15th century, stand out the sculptures on the facade representing the Scene of the Annunciation.
17. Avenida dos Combatentes da Grande Guerra
I have already mentioned it several times in this itinerary to visit Viana do Castelo. At one end is Liberty Square and Lima River, on the other side is the Railway Station Square. From there you can see Mount of Santa Luzia, with its well-known sanctuary.
18. Chapel of Nossa Senhora das Candeias and Mercury Fountain
On the other side of the city, crossing Avenida dos Combatentes da Grande Guerra, head to Vasco da Gama Square. In it you will find another church and a fountain: the Chapel of Nossa Senhora das Candeias and the Fountain of Mercury.
19. Church of São Domingos and Museum of Decorative Arts
More imposing will be the Church of São Domingos, in the square with the same name. It is what still survives today of the former Convent of Santa Cruz, from the 16th century.
The Museum of Decorative Arts is located in the Palace of Barbosa Maciel (18th century), and you will find there a diverse collection of paintings, tiles, furniture, sacred art, crockery and sculpture. I found it interesting, but in my opinion it doesn’t come close to the quality of the previous ones already mentioned.
20. Dom Fernando Garden
In Dom Fernando Garden you will enjoy watching the birds in the central lake. Also noteworthy are the bandstand and basketball court.
21. Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Agonia
The Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Agonia is one of the main places of the August pilgrimage to Viana do Castelo. The Church dates from the 18th century and the fact that its tower was built away from the main building stands out, supposedly to facilitate the traditional pilgrimage rounds around the chapel.
22. Fort of Santiago da Barra and Statue of the Vianesa Woman
To finish the city center of Viana do Castelo, I recommend stopping at the fortress of Santiago da Barra. It was closed when I last passed by, and I confess that I never entered it. The Fortress is imposing, having its origins in the 15th century to protect the mouth of River Lima. It only acquired its current appearance in the following centuries.
Facing the river is a statue in honor of the Vianesa Women. A must for anyone going for a walk around the fortress.
Visit the Mount of Santa Luzia
The Mount of Santa Luzia is usually visited due to the Sanctuary of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. In my opinion, it is a mistake to visit only the Sanctuary. Do you know Citania de Santa Luzia? And what about the Convent of São Francisco do Monte?
1. Santa Luzia Funicular
To climb the mountain, you can take Santa Luzia funicular or elevator. In the summer it works every day and with extended hours, but in the remaining months of the year you will have to be aware of some restrictions. This funicular overcomes a difference in level of 160 meters in a journey of 650 meters: it is the longest in Portugal. 😉
2. Sanctuary of Santa Luzia
The Sanctuary of Santa Luzia is also known as the Sanctuary of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. For me, it is one of the wonders of Portugal, despite its recent construction, at the beginning of the 20th century. Its viewpoint is brutal, unparalleled, especially if you climb to the dome of the monument.
3. Citania of Santa Luzia
Citânia de Santa Luzia is located behind the inn of Viana do Castelo, recommended as accommodation in this article. I don’t understand why so few people visit it, given that it has an extensive cluster of ruins from an ancient castrejo settlement, inhabited in the Iron Age and in Roman times.
4. Convent of São Francisco do Monte
Another of the fascinating places on Mount of Santa Luzia, but a little far from the previous ones, is the Convent of São Francisco do Monte, or more precisely, its ruins. It is a pity that it has been abandoned and vandalized over time. Today it is in a depressing state, being consumed by vegetation.
There are those who like abandoned and isolated places, so I leave it here as a suggestion because of that. The access gates to the convent are closed, but it is possible to go around them on the left, entering the ruins that way. It was one of the first three convents of the Order of Friars Minor to be built in Portugal, dating from the end of the 14th century.
5. Arches of Fincão
Finally, I highlight the Arches of Fincão, what remains of a structure that formerly routed and supplied water to a good part of the city of Viana do Castelo.
Visit Serra d’Arga in Viana do Castelo
Serra d’Arga is much more than the famous Pincho Waterfall and the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora do Minho. There is a lot of nature to discover, especially if you also visit the area of it belonging to Caminha. 😉 Viana do Castelo contains the southern part of Serra d’Arga.
1. Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora do Minho
The Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora do Minho is located at the top of Serra d’Arga, on an extensive plateau, at an altitude of over 800 meters. It is then logical that the view is incredible from there. 😉
2. Serra d’Arga trails in Viana do Castelo
I definitely highlight the PR4 and PR5 in Viana do Castelo.
- The PR4 is the Sunset Trail.
- The PR5 is Pincho Waterfall Trail.
Both pass by old mills and waterfalls, however it is possible to reach Pincho Waterfall by car, so you don’t need to walk the trail if you only want to reach it.
I strongly recommend that you start both trails next to Café Caçana or on the bridge nearby, next to the river beach of Manadelo. The most interesting part of Pincho Waterfall trail is the one that goes from this beach to the waterfall, but be careful: it is not easy to do.
Another awesome trail in Serra d’Arga, and the most complete of them all (in my opinion), is the PR1 VCT – Sacred Mountain Trail. Without a doubt it is the best way to get to know the region.
3. Pincho Waterfall
Pincho Waterfall is the main one of a succession of waterfalls called “Bad Wound Waterfalls”. In winter, great care is needed in this area, as the floor of stone is very slippery.
4. Trás do Âncora Waterfalls and Manadelo River Beach
I marked these two places on the map of this article. From the bridge mentioned above, if you go downriver you will find several waterfalls called Trás do Âncora. If you go upriver you will find the river beach of Manadelo, and then the incredible Dark Lagoon of Âncora River. The river beach is not exactly a beach, but another lagoon, and there is no infrastructure there, so be aware of that.
5. Dark Lagoon in River Âncora
The Dark Lagoon has a beautiful waterfall, and in winter you will find many other waterfalls falling down the slope where you will walk. 😉 It’s a fast and nice route, but not easy to walk for everybody. Here, bathing is not recommended, so it is preferable to go back to the lagoon at Manadelo River Beach.
6. Pereiro Waterfall
Another waterfall on the outskirts of Serra d’Arga that you will find next to a tarred road in Vilar de Murteda.
7. Tourim Bridge and Bouça Mé Mill
Tourim Bridge is an ancient Roman bridge built to cross the river Âncora in the past. The current structure is from the 17th or 18th century, but still maintains the original design and style.
In turn, Bouça Mé Mill is very beautiful with its surrounding park and small waterfalls. It has a picnic area.
8. Esturranha Lagoon
In this article with things to do in Viana do Castelo, I already wrote about Pincho Waterfall, which has a lagoon, and also about Manadelo River Beach. Both are spectacular and great for a swim, but I recommend that you opt to have fun only in Esturranha Lagoon. It will be safer and you will have plenty of space to enjoy yourself. It’s a fabulous place, suitable even for younger children (with supervision!).
9. Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Cabeça
At last, the Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Cabeça. It is only optional but a beautiful place in the region, originating in the 17th century.
Visit the Atlantic Coast of Viana do Castelo
As far as Viana do Castelo Coastline is concerned, it is spectacular, if the cold sea water doesn’t bother you. Be sure to visit the beaches and fortresses, or even the viewpoints.
1. Beaches in Viana do Castelo
There are several beaches, but I highlight the following:
- Afife Beach
- Paçô Beach
- Carreço Beach
- Lumiar Beach
- North Beach
- Coral Beach
- Cabedelo Beach
- Amorosa Beach
- Castelo de Neiva Beach
The beaches of Cabedelo, Amorosa and Castelo de Neiva are south of the mouth of river Lima. The rest are to the north. While to the south you will find extensive beaches with few rock formations, to the north you will find a very rugged coastline. I recommend the southern beaches if you want to spend a nice afternoon relaxing or surfing. In terms of landscape, the north is more beautiful. 😉 My favorite is Cabedelo Beach.
2. Viewpoint of the Chapel of Santo António
The beach of Afife can be very pleasant, but I liked the viewpoint much more from the hill where the Chapel of Santo António is located. Optionally you may reach another viewpoint in Afife by walking the mountain roads following PR8 Trail of Viana do Castelo.
3. Forts of Paçô and Areosa
The Forts of Paçô and Areosa are part of a set of 4 forts built between Viana do Castelo and Caminha to reinforce the defense of the coast in High Minho. They were built after the Restoration War.
4. Lighthouse, Mills and Tower of Montedor
The Northern Coastal Ecovia is available for use during your visit to the coast and beaches of Viana do Castelo. It is very pleasant to ride a bicycle there, for example, or simply walk.
On the ecovia, I recommend taking a detour between Fornelos Beach and Montedor Tower. This route is closer to the sea and consists of the best and most beautiful stretch of coast that I found in Viana do Castelo, full of incredible rock formations to be admired, and a lot of vegetation typical of coastal areas. You’ll also find Roman salt pans around.
Nearby, you can visit the Montedor Lighthouse, 103 meters above sea level. It came into operation in 1910, being the northernmost lighthouse in the country.
Be sure to check also the Windmills of Montedor. They are simple windmills, but they have been restored, so they are very picturesque now.
5. Bandeiras Viewpoint
From Bandeiras Viewpoint you will have an excellent view of the town of Montedor, and also of the coast between Carreço and Lumiar. These beaches are rich in rock formations close to the water, which in certain areas protect the sand from the force of the sea waves.
6. Mouth of River Lima
The mouth of Lima River has two huge pontoons. If you’re willing to walk, head to Coral Beach, and from there, go all the way to the end of the pontoon next to it. It is about 1km long, but the views are obviously promising, both to the mouth of the river and to the gigantic beach of Cabedelo.
Visit the Surroundings of Lima River
In the Lima river there is more to discover: river beaches and viewpoints, for example. I highlight São Silvestre viewpoint as the only mandatory place of the list that follows.
1. Santa Justa Viewpoint
Santa Justa viewpoint is not mandatory. You have to walk to get there, but you can leave your car nearby, next to the chapel with the same name. The spectacular thing about this place is that you have a beautiful view of Lima and Neiva valleys from there, despite the fact that the rivers are at a great distance.
2. Viewpoint of the Chapel of Senhora do Castro
I like this second viewpoint much more. The landscape is the same, but closer, as you can see in the photos below. The enclosure of the Chapel of Senhora do Castro has a beautiful garden and even a small lake and space for picnics.
3. Viewpoint of Senhora da Guia
The Viewpoint of Senhora da Guia is again optional. It overlooks Lima valley, but it is not as high as the previous ones, which prevents you from seeing the waters of the river.
4. Horse Car Museum
I didn’t visit it, but should be very interesting. I passed by there, but I had not booked the visit in advance, as required.
5. Lanheses Pier
Lanheses is one of the main villages of Viana do Castelo, so you should at least visit its centre, namely Largo da Feira, and then the docks next to Lima River. It is a very pleasant place for a sunset or a sunrise. A swing is available! 😉
6. Viewpoint of São Silvestre
This is the best viewpoint over Lima river, rivaling the one you get from the Sanctuary of Santa Luzia. For me, coming here is absolutely mandatory, not forgetting to climb the stairs to the statue of São Silvestre, for the best view. From there you can see a huge stretch of the river, and you’ll even find the ruins of a small fort on the top of the hill.
Do you agree that this is the best viewpoint in Viana do Castelo? Tell me in the comments if you agree. 😉
7. River Beaches in River Lima
I didn’t visit the river beaches in the summer, so I can’t say if they are perfect for a dip in the river or not. I consider them only as interesting stops to observe the landscape.
- Barco do Porto River Beach
- Preguiça River Beach
- River Beach next to the Chapel of São Lourenço and the Eiffel Bridge.
8. Castle of Portuzelo
Optionally, pass by the Castle of Portuzelo, located in the parish of Santa Marta. It has a fortified appearance and was built in the mid-19th century by a noble family from Viana do Castelo. Today it is possible to rent the Castle of Portuzelo for an overnight stay, but the price is naturally not friendly. 😀 Not for every wallet!
Visit Neiva River, south of Viana do Castelo
Neiva River is the natural border between Viana do Castelo and Esposende.
1. Mouth of Neiva River
I recommend 2 fabulous trails to do next to Neiva River. The first has wooden walkways and is the PR1 of Esposende – Between Neiva and the Atlantic. I only did the part that goes between the Chapel of Santa Tecla and the mouth of the river.
2. Azenhas, Pontes e Praias Fluviais do Rio Neiva
The second trail I recommend is the one that follows the river passing through its various water mills, old bridges and River Beaches. I went through its main highlights:
- Sebastião Bridge and Azenha Branca
- The Bridge and Watermill of Minante
- Grilo Bridge and Mill (the best place on this trail, in my opinion!)
- Várzea River Beach
- Azenha da Morena
- And Azenha da Almerinda
3. Castro de Moldes
Castro de Moldes is not on river Neiva banks, but it is located on a hill very close to it, and has a perfect view of the Atlantic coast and Neiva valley. There is an official trail that passes through there, called PR13 VCT – Trail of Castro de Moldes. You can get there by car, however, so walking is not mandatory in this case.
Other places to visit in Viana do Castelo
This section is about other places not to be missed when visiting Viana do Castelo, but don’t think they are less interesting! 😉 Quite the opposite!
1. Convent of São João de Cabanas (and Blue Lagoon!)
What most fascinated me about this place was not the convent, but the surroundings. Upstream there is a trail that passes by a small lagoon and waterfall called Blue Lagoon. Everything is beautiful there, and I think I caught the place in spectacular light. The Convent belonged to the order of São Bento, and from what I understood it is a crossing point on the Camino de Santiago.
2. Dark and Cascudo Lagoons in River Pego
The last places to mention related to Viana do Castelo are Dark and Cascudo Lagoons, both on a slope where river Pego flows. They are called Poço Negro and Poço Cascudo in portuguese. The best of them is undoubtedly Dark Lagoon, but be aware that it is not a very safe place, being more for adventurers.
Things to do in Viana do Castelo surroundings?
This article was a complete list of things to do in Viana do Castelo. However, Viana do Castelo is just one municipality in Minho region and therefore, there are many more things to do that you shouldn’t ignore.
Close to Viana do Castelo, I recommend heading to the neighboring municipalities of Esposende, Barcelos, Ponte de Lima or even Caminha and Valença do Minho. Why not visit some of the best tourist spots in Monção or even head to Peneda-Gerês National Park?
1. Visit Esposende
If you are looking for more sea beaches not far from Viana do Castelo, you can go to Esposende, on Braga District. 😉 How about visiting the place where Cávado river meets the sea, while practicing some water sports there?
2. Visit Barcelos
You can also opt for Barcelos, to discover the region where one of the greatest symbols of Portugal and Portuguese craftsmanship emerged: the Barcelos rooster.
3. Visit Ponte de Lima
East of Viana do Castelo, you can also visit Ponte de Lima, considered by many to be the oldest village in Portugal. It has an important Roman/Medieval bridge, but there are many other amazing places to discover, and excellent cuisine.
4. Visit Caminha and Vila Nova de Cerveira
In Caminha and Vila Nova de Cerveira you will discover the mouth of River Minho and the border with Galicia, in Spain. I have to highlight some places located in Serra d’Arga, such as the small village of Arga and the Monastery of São João d’Arga. In addition, there are impressive viewpoints in the region, such as Miradouro do Cervo, Miradouro da Fraga, Miradouro do Sino dos Mouros and Miradouro do Cruzeiro. 😉
5. Visit Valença do Minho
Moving to Valença do Minho, still on the banks of River Minho, the imposing fortress stands out, which reminds us of important battles that Portugal fought on the border with Spain, in the past.
6. Visit Monção
Monção has good food and good green wines, more precisely the Alvarinho Wine. 😉 Go taste it and a traditional Roasted Lamb, and then visit the Palace of Brejoeira.
7. Visit Peneda-Gerês National Park
If you are a nature lover, then you will really find interesting some of the best mountain trails in Gerês, in search of its most fascinating waterfalls and lagoons. 😉 This is Portugal’s only national park, and has some of the most beautiful scenery in the country.
Other Itineraries and Travel Guides in Portugal
- N2 Portugal Road Trip Itinerary
- Madeira Itinerary and Travel Guide
- São Miguel Itinerary and Travel Guide (Azores)
- Terceira Itinerary and Travel Guide (Azores)
- Pico Itinerary in Azores
- Faial Itinerary in Azores
- Minho | Northern Portugal Itinerary
- Porto Itinerary and Travel Guide
- Things to do In Braga (Minho)
- Things to do in Guimarães (Minho)
- Peneda Gerês National Park Itinerary
- Douro Valley Itinerary
- Trás-os-Montes Itinerary
- Things to do in Bragança
- Montesinho Natural Park Itinerary
- Douro International Natural Park Itinerary
- Things to do in Aveiro
- Things to do in Coimbra
- Things to do in Leiria
- Things to do in Fatima
- Things to do in Nazaré
- Things to do in Peniche
- Things to do in Évora (Alentejo)
- Things to do in Beja (Alentejo)
- Algarve Road Trip Itinerary
- Things to do in Lagos (Algarve)
- Things to do in Portimão (Algarve)
- Things to do in Faro (Algarve)
- Things to do in Tavira (Algarve)
I hope you enjoyed this article and list of things to do in Viana do Castelo. Have a nice stay in my country! 😉
