Viana do Castelo

City Overview

Viana do Castelo is renowned for its scenic downtown, 19th-century boulevards, narrow lanes lined with splendid Manueline houses.

Viana do Castelo not only abounds in architectural marvels but is also a great beach destination. It is one of Europe’s emerging kitesurfing Meccas thanks to its propitious winds and great surf. The sand stretches for miles and offers splendid views over the Atlantic.

Sightseeing

Head to the town’s scenic old town with its quiescent narrow pedestrian lanes, spacious plazas, and many beautiful churches.

Known as the Cathedral of Saint Mary the Great, the place of worship is one of Vina do Castelo’s main landmarks. Built in the 15th century, it is one of the prime examples of Portuguese Romanesque architecture and features a magnificent.

Go to the revivalist Santuario de Santa Luzia, one of Europe’s most grand cathedrals. The 1909 house of worship features the Iberian Peninsula’s largest rose windows (Europe’s second-largest), a humongous dome, and a spacious altar with a beautiful sanctuary.

Beaches

One of the best things to do in Viana do Castelo is to go kite-surfing on Cabedelo Beach. Here you will not only find wind, waves and Portuguese sunshine.

Cafes & Restaurants

Viana do Castelo offers plenty of local Portuguese food choices with sea delicacies like oysters, cod, and sardines. Head to Peixaria Costa Norte, a seafood market for the freshest sea catch. The local  food and wine choice are great with multiple great restaurants.

Stop at a bakery or a cafe to eat the famous Portuguese desserts over a cup of coffee or eat a slap-up dinner on a restaurant’s veranda.

Other

Currency - Euro (EUR)

Language - Portuguese

Visas - Not needed for travellers from the US, Canada and Europe

Best Time To Visit - March – October

Timezone - Western European Standard Time (GMT)

Homosexual Activity - Legal