Get to know Viana do Castelo

Nested in Portugal’s green and graceful Viana do Castelo, it is one of the country’s most charming and culturally rich cities. Here, history and beauty blend effortlessly into daily life.

Begin your journey at the majestic Hill of Saint Luiza. From its summit, enjoy breathtaking views of the sea and mountains. The Sanctuary of Santa Luzia rises proudly above it all, combining stunning architecture with one of the best panoramic sights in Portugal. But there’s more. The city comes alive during the famous Romaria da Senhora da Agonia, celebrating faith and tradition. Streets fill with colour, music, and joy. Local women proudly wear traditional costumes, adorned with layers of gold jewellery passed down through generations.

Moreover, when you visit this city, you discover more than monuments. You experience a way of life. Friendly faces greet you in every square. Local shops sell handmade lace and crafts. Let yourself be swept away by a city where beauty proudly wears its history.

So, visit Viana do Castelo whether you’re looking for panoramic views, cultural depth, or authentic Portuguese charm.

Typical July:

22º C
72º F

Typical January:

13º C
55º F

What to see

Viana do Castelo is a city full of historic places to visit. Get to know which ones:

Sta. Luzia Sanctuary

The city’s most iconic monument, built in the 20th century. Use the elevator to go up the hill and admire the incredible views.

Gil Eanes Ship Museum

Visit this unique Portuguese monument. Built in 1955, it supported Portugal’s large cod fishing fleet.

‘Matriz’ Church

A mostly gothic temple from the 15th century. It’s recognized by the two imposing towers on the façade.

Costume Museum

An exhibition of Portugal’s typical costumes, particularly the local ‘traje à vianesa’, admired for its beauty.

Historic centre

One of the country’s most beautiful and well preserved historic centres. Highlights include Misericódia House, the Fountain and other buildings.

Sta. Luzia Fort

Discover the ruins of the ‘Old Town’, one of the most famous pre-historic fort in northern Portugal.

What to do

There is so much to do in Viana do Castelo! See what to do in this city:

‘Romaria da Sra. da Agonia’

The city’s traditional religious celebration, known for the beauty of the typical costumes and the gold jewelry used by women during the festivities.

Have fun in the river

The Lima River is a crucial part of Viana do Castelo’s identity. Here you can practice jet-ski, canoeing, rowing and others.

Enjoy the beach

Viana do Castelo’s beaches, besides being beautiful, are good places to practice surf, windsurf, kitesurf and others.

What to taste

Viana do Castelo’s typical gastronomy is delicious. Get to know the dishes and drinks you have to try:

Cod dishes

Because of its fishing history, cod is delicious in Viana do Castelo. Taste the region’s numerous cod dishes!

Viana half-moons

A typical pastry from this city with a tasty almond filling.

‘Torta de Viana’

A typical sweet from this region, made with eggs, sugar, flour and orange or lemon.

‘Vinho verde’

Minho region, where Viana do Castelo belongs, is known for ‘vinho verde’, particularly the ‘Alvarinho’ variety.

Places to visit near Viana do Castelo

Located in the North of Portugal, Viana is close to other amazing places. Get to know them:

Braga

In this city history and beauty come together in a unique and unforgettable city.

Douro

A World Heritage site, with one of the most fantastic landscapes spectacularly transformed by Man.

Santiago de Compostela

An intensely religious city, a World Heritage site and an object of pilgrimage, is a unique place in the World.

Gerês

A National Park with an admirable nature and astonishing beauty, this town is a unique destination in Portugal.

Oporto

City of a unique character, full of history and culture combined with the hospitality of its people and magnificent landscapes!

Coimbra

City of the students! Known for its unique beauty, the history, the oldest university in the Country and the Fado!