Things to do & places to visit in Northern Portugal, Portugal

Brimming with both history and natural wonder, Northern Portugal is home to Porto, the city that gave the country its name, as well as the important ancient town of Braga. Also here is Peneda-Gerês, Portugal’s only national park, a gorgeous wilderness area of mountains, gorges, water features and wildlife. Many picturesque villages and manor houses dot the countryside. Two areas are UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Alto Douro Wine Region, and the Paleolithic rock art in the Côa Valley.

Northern Portugal #2 destination in Portugal 2023. The average rating score is 4.43 based on 187.2k traveler reviews, of 218 attractions. Timezone: Europe/Lisbon, current date and time: Wednesday, May 01, 2024, 4:41.

Top things to do (28)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Porto Augusto's (1.499 reviews)
- An excellent and fun overview of Port
Wednesday: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Wineries & Vineyards

We loved the introduction into Port and the workings of the Augusto family run organisation. We did the tour (about half an hour) followed by the Port tasting - Our guide Sonia was outstanding and spoke very clearly so that each word could be heard. We also enjoyed the Port VERY much. See more..
5.0 Vieguini - Bike & Scooter Rental Porto - best way to discover the city (895 reviews)
- Beyond Excellent!
Wednesday: 9:30 AM - 7:00 PM Gear Rentals

Vieguini is the first Bike & Scooter rental shop in Porto with the best Prices, Quality and Service. We have the experience and we are the tradition. We know Porto like no one else (European best destination 2017 ! !). We give you the best tips of where to go in town (what you can see and do, where to eat, etc.) and always recommend you the best route according to your will. In Porto there are more than 70kms of cycle way and most part of it is along the river and along the beaches. Vieguini is located right on the main cycle path, in the historic center in front of the Douro river. On the flat and safe area of the city for cycling. You can rent bikes for a few hours or day (s) to visit Porto, but we also prepare our trekking or mountain bikes for holidays and long trips such like Santiago Compostela, Nazaré or Lisbon along the beautiful coast, Douro Valley trips, etc. We collect the bikes wherever you want (for long distances and under request). See more..
4.5 Ponte de Dom Luís I (25.0k reviews)
- Enjoy the views and get some exercise!
Bridges

Built in 1886, this bridge links Porto and Gaia. See more..
4.5 Sao Bento Railway Station (16.9k reviews)
- Porto's old railway station that is a must see!
Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Rail Services • Architectural Buildings

It's a must see when in Porto, with the São Bento railway station building dating from 1904. If you have 20 min's or even longer, the historic the display of Azulejo tiles, laid prior to 1916 that depict Portugal's past, along with inferior ceiling of the São Bento railway station remains a working. There is no cost if not taking a train, but keep a watchful eye out for those just wanting to relieve you of some of your own property, as you scan the interior walls. See more..
4.5 Cais da Ribeira (11.0k reviews)
- Tourist central, but never dull
Spent < 1 hour Marinas • Piers & Boardwalks

Cais da Ribera is the street that runs along the Douro from the Pestana Vintage Hotel to the Ponte Louis I bridge. Home to many bars and restaurants and to the boat trip sellers on this side of the river and to street buskers and musicians ( look out for the old man who paints himself silver and poses as a chiming clock, well worth a few coins. It is a magnet for tourists and is always busy, but always lively and always fun. This section affords great views of the iconic metal bridge and Vila Nova de Gaia on the opposite bank with its many port wine lodges. It also has the advantage of catching the afternoon sun and is a great spot to sit outside one of the many Bart’s with a Porto Tonic and watch the world and his wife walk by. See more..
4.5 Torre dos Clérigos (8.728 reviews)
- A beautiful church with a tower
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Observation Decks & Towers • Churches & Cathedrals

Clérigos Tower is the foremost undisputed landmark of Porto and a reference in the city's history. Clérigos Tower opened its doors in 1763, becoming the highest bell tower of Portugal, with over 75 metres. In 1753 the Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni was invited to design and build this magnificent Heritage, considered National Monument since 1910. The famous church was built in the eighteenth century, between 1732 and 1749 and this was the most emblematic work of the architect Nicolau Nasoni. Is one of the most beautiful temples of baroque feature, and a reference in the history of Porto. The Exhibitions allow to discover the history of the Brotherhood of Clérigos, admire pieces from the eighteenth to the nineteenth century, in painting, furniture, jewellery and vestment collections. Christus collection, on the 3 floor, is a trip through time and space where art and religion complement each other. See more..
4.5 Douro River (7.508 reviews)
- Take the Six bridges cruise
Bodies of Water

The best way to admire the Douro river is taking a river cruise called "Six bridges cruise". It departs from the old town Porto riverfront - Ribeira. First it goes inland to the last bridge, turns around and sails to the Douro confluence with the Atlantic returning then to the starting point. It lasts something around an hour. Very good explanations of passing by attractions along the way with beautiful scenery on both sides of the river. Price is 15 Euros pp, if I remember correctly. See more..
4.5 Bom Jesus Funicular (6.890 reviews)
- You'll be glad you went!
Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Trams

We parked at the funicular and took it to the top. It was interesting to ride the oldest operational funicular on the Iberian Peninsula. The ride is only about 5 minutes, and we chose to ride up but walk back down, so it was only 2 euros each. Seeing Bom Jesus was definitely worthwhile! The basilica is majestic, and although we could only peek inside because of a service in progress, walking around the grounds afforded spectacular views. Not only could we see the city, but also, walking back down allowed us to see the many chapels and sculptures. Looking back up from the bottom really gives you a sense of the scale and symmetry. Highly recommend! See more..
4.5 Palacio da Bolsa (5.539 reviews)
- Great Rainy Day Activity
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 6:30 PM Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings • Civic Centres

National Monument, located in the historical centre of the city, classified as World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the Palacio da Bolsa, built by the Porto Commercial Association on the ruins of the Saint Francis Convent, has become by excellence the Porto city’s drawing room, welcoming the most illustrious visitors, amongst which are monarchs, presidents and ministers from almost every country, transforming this building into the most visited monument in northern Portugal. See more..
4.5 Igreja de São Francisco (3.542 reviews)
- Expensive but worth it
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • Churches & Cathedrals

Set beneath the Bolsa Palace which was partly built on the grounds of St. Francisco convent, this is one of the Porto's best. There's a pretty high entry fee (8 Euros if I remember correctly), but it is worth it. The interiors are unbelievably rich, covered in detailed gilded wood work. Despite the main altar being covered for renovations as many others say here, I still give it 5 as the side chapels are literally stunning. The ticket enables you to visit a museum and catacombs which were really interesting. See more..
4.5 Centro Historico de Guimaraes (3.095 reviews)
- Beautiful city
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Historic Walking Areas

The central area of Guimarães is beautiful. We were there on a rather wet day (rain off and on) but still enjoyed the beauty of the place. Of course, there was the castle, the churches, etc. Those are great for tourists. However, this town looked like a nice place to live as well as a nice place to visit. See more..
4.5 Taylor's Port (2.851 reviews)
- Good place to know the port wine history
Wednesday: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Wineries & Vineyards

Taylor’s, accepted by most wine authorities to be the greatest of all port shippers, invites you to a pleasant and informative tour of its famous lodges at Vila Nova de Gaia. During the tour the visitor will be given the opportunity to learn about the fascinating history of Port wine, as well as that of the House of Taylor Fladgate making it one of the oldest Port companies. See more..
4.5 Graham's Port Lodge (2.601 reviews)
- Porto Tasting in Porto
Wednesday: 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Wineries & Vineyards

RESERVATION REQUIRED. Graham’s Port is owned and managed by the Symington family, ten of whom work in the company (four from the 4th generation and six from the 5th generation of Port producers). They and their ancestors have made some of the greatest Port Wines of all. The magnificent Graham’s cellars were built in 1890 and contain a priceless collection of Port ageing in seasoned oak cascks and in bottle. Visits can only be made by prior appointment so that you will be met on arrival and shown around the cellars by a highly trained guide in the language of your preference. See more..
4.5 Santuário de Santa Luzia (2.395 reviews)
- Beautiful Church
Churches & Cathedrals

A few years ago my wife and I walked through Viana do Castelo, whilst walking the Camino Portuguese and I saw Santuario de Santa Luzia on the hill but didn’t have time to visit. Last week we were back in Viana do Castelo and decided to visit and were not disappointed. Due to it being such a hot day we decided to make the journey up and down via the funicular railway, which itself is impressive. Santuario de Santa Luzia is a fantastic dome roofed church with beautiful paintings on the ceiling. The building is both impressive inside and out. From the steps the views over Viana do Castelo and the Atlantic Ocean as amazingly. Santuario de Santa Luzia is definitely worth a visit. See more..
4.5 Ria de Aveiro (2.098 reviews)
- Boat trip
Wednesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent More than 3 hours Bodies of Water • Piers & Boardwalks

We enjoyed the boat trip even though some family members said it was cringe but if you are in Aveiro, what else are you going to do? It is a must. It lasts around 45 minutes and you get to hear some interesting information about the city so why not. We paid 13 euro per person. See more..
4.5 Liberdade Square (2.032 reviews)
- Beautiful square even under renovation
Wednesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks

The Liberty square is one of Porto's main squares right in the city center. It occupies a huge block beneath the imposing City Hall towering at the northern end. During our second visit to this great city this June it was under heavy subway construction, but its beauty is still visible and I remember it from our previous visit 9 y ago. See more..
4.5 Estadio do Dragao (2.000 reviews) from $12.85
- Exceptional
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks • Arenas & Stadiums

Have you ever thought of taking a seat on the 22nd chair of the Dragao Stadium's Presidential Box? By visiting the Dragao Stadium, you will be able to experience the President's Jorge Nuno Pinto da Costa place and enjoy an inside and privileged look over this worldwide referenced work designed by architect Manuel Salgado. You will have the opportunity to see the pitch from the access tunnel's point of view, to feel the scent of the dressing rooms, to take the coach's seat on the press conference room just like you are making the match analysis... On this path you will appreciate an engineering project that delivers all of the requirements that make it environmentally friendly, you can witness on the stands the 29 kilometres of rows that can fill up to 52 thousand spectators and amaze yourself with the artistic legacy of Master Julio Resende and Alberto Carneiro. All of this in one tour only! See more..
4.5 Paço dos Duques de Bragança (1.898 reviews)
- Well worth visiting
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Architectural Buildings • Castles

My favorite attraction in Guimaraes was the Palace of the Dukes. It was the last dynasty's Braganca who turned it over to the government if it was to be used as a museum. Each well preserved room is magnificent and abundantly rich in historical value. The Chinese vases, the Viking upside down ceilings, the Flanders weavings, and the intricate woodwork blending into the granite stonework. Everything is there. Only the residents of old are missing. See more..
4.5 Sé de Braga (1.536 reviews)
- Older than Portugal
Wednesday: 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM, 2:30 PM - 5:30 PM Spent < 1 hour Churches & Cathedrals

The Cathedral of Braga was consecrated in 1089, about 54 years before Portugal became a country! As is the case in many historical buildings, renovation and rebuilding through the centuries result in a variety of different architectural styles. Today’s church is a mix of Gothic, Manueline and Baroque features. There is a nominal charge to visit the church, and it will cost you a few more euros on top of that for the chapels, high choir, and museum. Go for it! You can view the high choir with its elaborate gilt wood carving and double organs from the nave, and then you’ll wish you were up close. The Chapel of Glory and the Chapel of Kings, both dating to the 1300s, are equally stunning. See more..
4.5 Mercado Bom Sucesso (1.347 reviews)
- A culinary experience
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Farmers Markets

Always fresh, always at hand The past is revisited in the new Bom Sucesso Market, through the familiar colors and scents of fruit and vegetables. One can almost hear the market woman's catchy cries. Modern days are still filled with those scents and colors, but the Market has gone a step further by adding new delicacies and flavors. The place invites visitors to find out more about its history and about the road taken until the present day. In here all five senses are awakened. And at the end of a working day, this inviting and sensorial space is ideal for a snack among friends, ideal to share thoughts and dreams, or to revive old memories. Life can be smooth, even with abounding sensations. Matches your smile Bom Sucesso Market is a Babel made of costumes, routines and traits of people that are here, and people that arrive. There are shopping bags, and little gifts to be exchanged, there are offices closing new deals and opening new doors. There are local people enjoying the place, but also foreign faces, with different accents and languages, already so familiar. In between the hotel and the market area there is bustle and pauses punctuated with fleeting smiles and loud guffaws. We love this concept that becomes more meaningful when a smile flowers from a pair of lips, when people cross each other's paths in a place where so many things happen. See more..
4.5 Serra do Pilar Viewpoint (1.318 reviews)
- The best sunset view in Porto
Lookouts

The view from here is amazing no matter what time of day but the sunsets here are truly breathtaking. The best in town for sure, watching the sun set over the river and the old part of the city. It can be fairly crowded so it's best to arrive a little early and grab a spot along the rail to just relax and watch. See more..
4.5 Parque da Cidade (1.296 reviews)
- A green sanctuary for the people and guests in Matosinhos - thank you!
Wednesday: 7:00 AM - 12:00 AM Parks

By accident, we were forced to stay for 3 days in Matosinhos surrounded by grey concrete buildings. If you are a nature lover, Matosinhos can be quite depressing, sorry to say. Luckily, we took a walk along the coast - direction: Porto - and suddenly this green oasis popped up. Lush green lawns, small lakes, wild birds, locals running or walking their dogs. The park is among the 3 prettiest places in Matosinhos. The beach is the other. Can you mention a third? See more..
4.5 Passadiços do Paiva (1.273 reviews)
- Amazing hike along the Paiva river
Spent More than 3 hours Lookouts

Very nice hike over wooden pathways. We hiked from Areinho to Espiunca and then took a taxi back to the Areinho parking lot. Taxi costs were 15 to 20 euros total for three adults. Toilets are available halfway the hike. You can take a break & a swim in the Paiva river at one of the beaches that you will pass by. See more..
4.5 Ribeira Square (1.203 reviews)
- Magnificent views with street performers and Porto wine
Points of Interest & Landmarks

One of the best spots in Porto. Right by the Douro river at the end of old town with its winding and colorful streets. Plenty of restaurants, have your glass of Porto and watch the street performers, locals and tourists and great views of the iconic Dom Luis bridge. See more..
4.5 Capela das Almas (1.181 reviews)
- Beautiful
Spent < 1 hour Religious Sites

This chapel is jaw droppingly beautiful. Situated in central Porto, a visit will fit easily into any itinerary. It is free to go inside and you can purchase candles etc once inside if you wish to light one. The outside is just breathtaking and well worth seeing, even if you decide not to enter. See more..
4.5 Igreja do Carmo (1.104 reviews)
- Impressive tile mural
Wednesday: 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Churches & Cathedrals

The catholic Church of Our Lady of Carmo, national heritage, is of the baroque-rococo style, belonging to carmelite laymen: the third religious order of Our Lady of Carmo (or Carmel, in english, after Our Lady of Carmel, the patroness of the Order). The Third Religious Order of Our lady of Carmo in Oporto was founded in 1736 and opened for worship on July 24 ,1768. Masses everyday by 9:30 a.m., 3 p.m. and Sunday another mass by 12:30. Rosary: 2:30 p.m. everyday. One may visit the Touristic circuit by a small fee that helps to rebuild and restore its heritage: by 3,5 euros one may visit the Hidden House (narrowest house of Oporto), church, catacombs, sacristy and three other rooms with ancient paintings and vestments, available everytime there isn't an event. To visit only the hidden house, there's a ticket which costs 2 euros. Whenever wishing just to only see the church (with no entry fee), we ask you to be a bit earlier than the time of mass, so not to interrupt the masses. See more..
4.5 Fortaleza de Valenca (1.085 reviews)
- Medieval fortress near Spanish border
Wednesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent 2-3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks

Our walk on the Camino Português led us through the fortress town of Valenca. The original 13th century structure surrounding the old town was fortified in the 17th and 18th centuries. No surprise the high, thick bulwarks proved to be successful in resisting attacks from both Spain and France! The village was quiet in the early morning, with shops just beginning to open. We followed the yellow arrows through the fortress walls to the international bridge that crosses the River Minho (Miño). Goodbye Portugal, hello Spain! Make sure you walk across the bridge to get a photo of one foot in each country! See more..
4.5 Castelo de Bragança (1.074 reviews)
- A town waiting to be discovered!
Castles

Besides been locked in the museum tower 10 min before closing the castle is worth viewing. I had to bang on the for in the darkness like Fred Flintstone until rescued! The walks around it are wonderful! The town council has managed to build boardwalks along the river that are just magic to walk along. The walk along the battlements are a lesson in who built these wonderful buildings. The infrastructure of the modern part on the town are future proofed. A lesson for other towns. A place to be discovered! See more..
4.5 Santuario Nossa Senhora dos Remedios (1.070 reviews)
- Best Approached by the Stairs
Religious Sites

It is all about the journey! From town, there are over 600 stairs with 9 flat landing areas replete with beautiful landscaping, tiles, statues and a fountain, and elegant railings. The view from the town square of stairs ascending to the church forms a dream scape. As you climb, the wonders unfold. Are last you achieve the white and carved facade of the church and you feel a transcendence from the ordinary. You must walk the stairs! See more..
4.5 Ponte Romana e Medieval (1.061 reviews)
- A must-see in the town
Spent < 1 hour Bridges

Really - it's the bridge that gives the town its name! You can't miss it! The bridge offers a lovely view of the surrounding area. See more..