What to do in Viana do Castelo

Viana do Castelo was one of the most important cities in the world during the Age of Discoveries. Today, a thriving fishing port, the city is a Mecca of architecture with an interesting mixture between culture and adventure sports.

Considered by many as one of the most beautiful cities in Portugal, Viana do Castelo was the parting point for many ships during the Portuguese Discoveries. Located just an hour driving north from Porto, the city is located on the mouth of the Lima River.

Like with other Portuguese cities, people are attracted to Viana do Castelo for its warm mixture of oceanic and Mediterranean weather and its wealthy historic heritage. Replete with architectural treasures like churches, fountains and monasteries, the city is itself a museum. The Praça da República, the Paços do Concelho, and the Cathedral or Igreja Matriz are just a taste of the Manueline, Reinassance, Baroque, and Art Deco styled buildings in the city.

Although mainly a cultural spot, Viana is located on a rich geographical region that has allowed the development of adventure sports. Fortunately for you, when you have finishing delighting your eyes, you can experience this Portuguese jewel in a complete out-of-the-box manner.

The Portuguese coast is famous for its surfing spots, and though Viana do Castelo is not one of the most popular ones, it offers surfers a chance to practice. At Cabedelo beach, surfers can encounter hollow sheltered waves over a sandy seabed where they can learn to ride the tide. Also, Viana attract kitersurfers, at the small town of Moledo you can find winds blowing north or northwest. Winds here are not as powerful as in other spots; this makes Moledo a perfect spot for kitesurfing beginners or people wanting to learn the techniques.

Viana do Castelo’s region is divided by the Lima River that flows to the ocean from the Peneda Geres National Park. Lima River offers fun kayak outings along calm waters with beginner level rapids. There, you can experience the beauty of the natural landscape surrounding Viana with a pinch of adrenaline.

At Peneda Geres National Park you will discover an ancient Roman paved road while surrounded by an oak forest. On this easy 6 kilometers, 4 hour hike, you will soak up all the beauty of the region which made the Roman think they had reached heaven.

Speed junkies will be able to benefit from the whimsical geography of Viana do Castelo. Riding a 4x4 or a mountain bike, you can ride to the top of Monte de Santa Luzia where you will be rewarded with some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world, according to National Geographic.

Whether you are an architectural geek or an adrenaline hunter, Viana do Castelo will make you fall on your knees.