Thanks to its proximity, just an hour by plane from Madrid, the city of Port it’s always worth the detour. The Douro River, tiled house facades, baroque churches and world-famous wines make this destination the ideal getaway plan any time of year. But if you have already been there before or want to add experiences by also exploring the surroundings, we encourage you to make a different plan by visiting five cities where you can go and return on the same day.
Buarcos
You will have to travel about an hour south of Porto to reach Figueira de Foz, a port town next to which is Buarcos, a small fishing village with pretty fishermen’s houses and others of a majestic nature in which the tiled facades so characteristic throughout Portugal. The fort and walls, as well as the small hermitage and the Capela da Senhora da Conceiçao which opens onto the sea are some of the attractions of this charming town.
Why do we recommend it to you? East one of the most traditional seaside resorts in Portugal and also has one of the most impressive beaches in Europe. Its heated swimming pool directly on the sandy beach and next to the sea is perfect if you are traveling with children.
Vila do Conde
In the middle of the Atlantic Ocean and just 27 kilometers from Porto, this charming town has a long history, colorful houses and lots of calm. Located at the mouth of the Ave river, the town remains very linked to maritime tradition. Its enormous aqueduct is the second largest in the country. One of the must-see visits is Our Lady of Socorro Chapel with curved walls decorated with traditional tiles.
Why do we recommend it to you? It is the ideal place to come into contact with nature. It has a 6 kilometer route to be covered by bike or on foot through a path that passes through small fishing villages and where you will find superb viewpoints.
Arcozelo
This small town with beautiful cobbled streets, to which accessible by public transport from Portois the ideal getaway to enjoy the beach and disconnect by the Atlantic in an atmosphere of tranquility. Unmissable visits: the monastery of São Salvador de Grijó (18th century) in Baroque style, stands out for its facade and its beautiful gardens. Arcozelo is also home to Miramar beach, one of the most emblematic in northern Portugal. There is the Capela do Senhor da Pedra, built on the rocks and facing the sea.
Why do we recommend it to you? In addition to escaping the hustle and bustle of the city for a few hours, this will allow you to immerse yourself in the authentic Portuguese essence and enjoy gastronomy with fresh fish as the star dish.
Quintandone
This small inland village is one of the essential stops for those looking for new and unknown corners outside of Porto. It has barely 60 inhabitants and in its narrow cobbled streets you will find the image of a typical traditional village. Located on the Roman roadQuintandona is one of those places far from tourism that stands out for its charm.
Why do we recommend it to you? Its houses built in schist, yellow granite and slate give it a unique character in the entire region.
Vila Cha
Just 25 kilometers north of Porto is this small fishing village of relaxed atmosphere and maritime tradition. It has a vast beach of golden sand to enjoy long walks at any time of the year. Among the places of interest is the Capela do Senhor da Pedraa small chapel located on a rocky enclave offering spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. It is also known for its local cuisine, with dishes such as the “calderada”” (a fish stew) or the popular “sardinhas”, a lagrilled (grilled sardines).
Why do we recommend it to you? It is one of the most beautiful and charming towns in northern Portugal.
A mansion in the most bohemian district of Porto
And after traveling for miles, there is nothing better than taking refuge in a charming and very special accommodation. So as a basis for all these escapades we offer you the One Shot Palacio Cedofeitaa hotel that will add the most chic note to the trip.
Located in an 1885 mansion, it belonged to a Portuguese merchant family and was rebuilt retaining original features such as moldings, mirrors, stained glass, parquet floors and coffered ceilings. But the most special room is the old ballroom, today transformed into the Le Palais restaurant, where one day none other than the soprano María Callas sang. In this spectacular space (inspired by the Palace of Versailles), you can taste the best of Portuguese gastronomy led by chef Paulo Oliveira.
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