North

Northern Portugal, known as the "Nation’s Birthplace", is a region where history, culture and nature are perfectly combined, making it a very special destination. With a vast territory divided among mountains, beaches and urban areas, the North is much more than gastronomy and Port Wine.

The religious heritage, modern architecture, natural parks and hospitality are important attractions of the place where Portugal was founded in the 12th century. Oporto, a World Heritage city, is the gateway for those who want to visit this region, and can be the starting point of a trip through its natural and cultural diversity.

You will enjoy a visit to the historical centers of Oporto and Guimarães, the Archaeological Park of Vale do Côa and the Alto Douro Vinhateiro, a man-made landscape on the banks of the Douro River. All four of them are classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

Those who enjoy outdoor activities will take advantage of the various protected areas, in particular the Peneda and Gerês Parks. In this region of mountains and natural parks, the patrimony spreads throughout castles, such as the Guimarães Castle, or sanctuaries and churches that turn into excursions stages during summer.

Next to rural hermitages we can find the baroque of Northern Portugal, made of granite and gilded carving. In cities that knew how to preserve the human scale, such as Viana do Castelo, Braga, Lamego, Chaves or Vila Real, or in manor houses and mansions, we find an authentic reception, from who genuinely likes to welcome and share their gastronomy and traditions.