Northern Portugal isn’t talked about enough. This area of Europe has a great mix of history and culture, along with perfect weather and great affordability. This article will dip into some of its natural beauty and why you should swap out the Algarve for an authentic, northern Portuguese experience.
Porto and Beyond
Porto is the vibrant gateway to Northern Portugal. Being the nation’s second-largest city, its history can be traced back to over 300 BC when it was a Celtic settlement. It soon became Roman, and the port has been key to its trading and colonial history. Many would automatically assume this makes Porto highly unaffordable but it’s not the case, and the city remains to be cheaper than Lisbon. There’s a lot to see within the city of court, but once you head outside of it, you really begin to see the beauty of the country.
One option is the Portuguese Coastal Camino which leaves from Porto. The scenic pilgrimage route winds through many villages and coastal landscapes. Because of its proximity to Santiago, the route is an authentic one, and you can see this in the types of villages and monuments you pass on the way.
If you want to get about faster, you can drive inland towards Melgaço, which is a hilly quaint village on the border. Plus, you’re right beside Peneda Geres Natural Park, which is a huge national park littered with Wolves, mountains, and pre-historic remains. This park alone has many great trails for both casual walkers and experienced hikers alike.
Natural and Cultural Gems
Portugal is great for those who like to relax and dine out late into the evening, but the north is particularly great for wine lovers. The picturesque vineyards of the Douro Valley allows visitors to explore the birthplace of the world-famous port wine.
The main themes of your visit will be centered around historic villages and unique northern cuisine. However, there will be a chance to see some traditional festivals, like São João. This is a popular annual event in Porto which is celebrated on June 23rd. It honours Saint John the Baptist with city-wide festivities, including street parties, fireworks, music, and of course, the tradition of hitting people with plastic hammers.
Northern Portugal has innumerable opportunities to explore villages that see very few tourists. The benefit is, though, if you find yourself wanting to head to a city where English is better understood, you’re only a stone’s throw from Porto.
It would be remiss to not mention beaches. For those seeking coastal escapes, the serene beaches of Viana do Castelo and Matosinhos are very quiet and unspoiled. There are some busier beaches in Porto for those looking for some music and more amenities as the sun sets.
Conclusion
Northern Portugal is a region that effortlessly mixes affordability with rich cultural experiences and world-class landscapes. There’s both city and village life, along with long coastal walks and national parks. This less explored part of Europe (so much so there are even wolves in some mountainous parts) is an immensely rewarding destination for travellers seeking an authentic journey.
