Visiting Porto is a fantastic idea. It is a charming city from every perspective: good wine, tasty dishes, numerous historic places, short distances, comfortable enough to cover them by walking. But if you want to travel further away, we recommend you some villages near Porto. Some of them are just a few miles away but they are so mesmerizing that deserve your attention.
Charming villages around Porto you should visit
Amarante
It is located 45 minutes away from Porto in the north direction. The Tamega river flows through the village and crosses the outstanding Roman bridge (it is the identity mark of the village). The most beautiful part is the old town: small with the Sao Gonçalo church being the most characteristic landmark of the village. What else can you explore in Amarante? The house of the Pascoares (the famous poet), the mountains of Marao, Aboboreira and the museum Solar dos Magalhaes.
Matosinhos
Matosinhos is an independent municipality of Porto but part of the so-called “Grande Porto”. Both cities are located very closely with good transport links, one of the reasons many of the inhabitants of Matosinhos study or work in Porto. Matosinhos beautiful beaches are the best in the region to practice surf, windsurf or bodyboarding; there are classes on offer where you can learn more. If you go with children, Sea Life Porto is a mandatory stop as it is the most famous aquarium in the city.
The park of the Cidade and the Queijo castle are another two incredible places to visit in the region.
Vila Nova de Gaia
This is the closest village to Porto and you can reach it by crossing the Duero river, that’s why it seems like it’s a part of Porto. Attention, wine lovers: the best wineries of this region of the country can be found there. Amongst the travelers who go to Porto, it is very typical to take photos with the Vila Nova de Gaia in the background: it’s an incredible place with its colorful houses.
Santa Maria da Feira
This municipality is located less than half an hour by car from Porto. It is a cultural hotspot and we’ll tell you why. The International open-air theatre festival takes place in May. In August, they celebrate the enormous and super famous medieval fair; in fact, it’s the biggest recreational medieval exhibition in Europe. In December, the thematic Christmas park opens its doors. Moreover, there are different and interesting museums: The paper museum ‘’Terras de Santa Maria’’, the Museum Convent dos Lóios, the Santa Maria de Lamas museum…On top of that, in Santa Maria da Feira, you can encounter one of the most beautiful castles in Portugal.
Braga
One of the closest and most famous villages near Porto. To not rush through it, we recommend you to spend the whole day there since there are numerous beautiful gardens, churches and mansions. They date back from the 17th century and all of them are worth the visit. A highlight of the trip is the Bom Jesus do Monte complex, the Cathedral, the Town Hall, the Episcopal palace, the Santa Barbara garden… Also, stop at the Plaza de la República and pass through the street Rua do Souto, which is full of shops and cafeterias.
Vila Cha
It is located 20 km away along the coast from Porto. It is a typical coastal village with many pubs to eat in. The colorful houses make a perfect shoot for your photos. The golden sand of the beach makes it a perfect spot for the family: it’s very clean and not too big.
Arcozelo
Very close to Porto, to be precise 15km away, this little municipality which landmark is the original Capilla do Senhor da Preda is lying on a rock above the sea, attached to the shore. You will love it! It is an ideal place to visit with your significant one or with children since it is one of the most peaceful places in this region.
Esposende
Esposende is situated on the coast, 50 km away from Porto. This is another village close to the city, that spills charm all the way around. The seafront promenade stands out with its soft sand and a sculpture that is a tribute to the sailors and the people whose jobs are related to the sea. It is a perfect spot for sunset strolls.
Guimaraes
This village is a little further away from Porto, 60 km from the city, but it is the most famous one on the list. Why? Because it is declared as a World Heritage site due to its multiple historical and cultural spots such as the beautiful castle with the Tower Torre del Homenaje, the Roman chapel of San Miguel or the palace of the Dukes of Braganza… Is it already lunchtime? Then visit the main square Largo da Oliveira, where are several local specialties to try.
Are you planning your route now? Do us a favor, visit the villages near Porto to enhance your travel. You don’t want your escape to cost your life? Then, check out this 10 free things to do in Porto. You are welcome! ?