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Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: EUR
- Languages: Portuguese, English, Spanish, French
- Climate: Mediterranean
- Timezone: Europe/Lisbon
- Population: Approximately 3.6 million people live in Northern Portugal.
- Best Time to Visit: best time to visit is from May to September for pleasant weather.
- Visa Requirements Citizens from the European Union, United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and several other countries can enter Northern Portugal visa-free for short stays up to 90 days. Visa on arrival is generally not available. Travelers from countries requiring a visa must apply in advance or use the Schengen visa system. E-visa options are not typically applicable for Portugal, as it is part of the Schengen Area.
About Northern Portugal
Northern Portugal is a captivating region known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. It offers a perfect blend of medieval towns, lush green mountains, and a rugged Atlantic coastline. The region is famous for its historic cities like Porto, with its iconic riverside and world-renowned port wine cellars. Visitors are drawn to the Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, celebrated for its terraced vineyards and scenic river cruises. Northern Portugal’s unique charm lies in its combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage, including Romanesque architecture, traditional festivals, and gastronomy. The area is less crowded than the southern parts of Portugal, providing an authentic and tranquil experience. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking in Peneda-Gerês National Park, while food lovers will delight in the hearty local cuisine. Northern Portugal is a destination that offers something for every traveler, from history buffs and wine connoisseurs to nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Top Attractions
1. Porto Historic Centre – A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its medieval streets, the Dom Luís I Bridge, and vibrant riverfront. 2. Douro Valley – Famous for its terraced vineyards and scenic river cruises, it is the heart of Portugal’s wine country. 3. Braga – Known as the “Portuguese Rome,” it features stunning baroque churches and religious festivals. 4. Guimarães – The birthplace of Portugal, with a well-preserved medieval castle and charming old town. 5. Peneda-Gerês National Park – The only national park in Portugal, offering hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife.
Popular Activities
Visitors can enjoy wine tasting tours in the Douro Valley, river cruises on the Douro River, hiking and wildlife spotting in Peneda-Gerês National Park, exploring historic towns and castles, and experiencing traditional festivals and markets. Adventure activities include mountain biking, canyoning, and surfing along the Atlantic coast. Cultural experiences such as visiting local artisans, attending Fado music performances, and sampling regional cuisine are also popular.
Northern Portugal Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of Portugal
- Duration Range: Visitors can enjoy wine tasting tours in the Douro Valley, river cruises on the Douro River, hiking and wildlife spotting in Peneda-Gerês National Park, exploring historic towns and castles, and experiencing traditional festivals and markets. Adventure activities include mountain biking, canyoning, and surfing along the Atlantic coast. Cultural experiences such as visiting local artisans, attending Fado music performances, and sampling regional cuisine are also popular.
- Group Size: Flexible group sizes
- Difficulty Level: All Comfort Levels
- Recommended For: The best time to visit is from May to September for pleasant weather. Pack comfortable walking shoes, light clothing for summer, and a jacket for cooler evenings. Respect local customs by greeting with a handshake and using polite language. Northern Portugal is safe, but keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded areas. Euros are the currency; credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases. Learning basic Portuguese phrases can enhance interactions.
Average Tour Price: $75
Lowest Price Tour: $50
Highest Price Tour: $200
1639 Available Tour Excursions in Northern Portugal
Rafting is defined as going down the river with rapids in inflatable boats. In the end, we booked an experience with a toast from Alvarinho Quintas de Melgaço.
Price: $53.99
Duration: 3 hours
Half day Porto Photo Tour in the historical center, through old, hidden and colorful streets, admiring the most stunning viewpoints, appreciate the famous hand painted tiles and street art all over the places, to make the most beautiful pictures and in the meantime, listen the history of the most important moments of the city. And, after the experience you'll receive at least 25 photos of you along the tour in the best spots, edited by a pro and you can use them as you wish. They will become your Porto Photo Story that will help to remember this one-of-kind experience.
Price: $143.96
Duration: 3 hours
I will guide you step by step showing how to work with watercolours in a very relaxed and supportive environment our unique indoor studio gallery Lago Artes. Creating your own art work, to take home, about Porto Landscape and magical views while you learn or develop a new skill will certainly be a meaningful time.. We hope you can join us! See you soon! Very Best Hugo do Lago
Price: $41.99
Duration: 2 hours
Join us on this exclusive Douro Valley tour, tailored just for you and your group. Accompanied by an experienced local guide, immerse yourself in the region's rich history, culture, and breathtaking scenery. Visit a boutique winery and uncover the secrets of wine production, with tastings of premium Port and DOC Douro wines that capture the essence of the valley. Savor a one-hour river cruise from Pinhão, where you’ll marvel at the stunning landscapes shaped by centuries of human craftsmanship and nature’s beauty. Indulge in a traditional Portuguese lunch at a charming local restaurant in the picturesque village of Pinhão, experiencing authentic flavors and warm hospitality. Return to Porto around 17:00 with unforgettable memories of the Douro Valley's wines, traditions, and iconic landscapes.
Price: $335.92
Duration: 9-10 hours
Have you ever thought about seeing Porto from another perspective? Embark on a private yacht and discover the unbeaten city from the waters of the Douro! The trip will start at Marina do Freixo, where you will be received with a welcome drink by our crew. This will be your starting point for a peaceful journey through the waters of the Douro. You will sail towards the mouth of the river, across the 6 bridges that connect the cities of Porto and Gaia. You will have the opportunity to observe the fascinating Ribeira do Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, from its waters. On the other side, you will find Gaia, where the cellars of the sublime Port wine are located. After crossing the Douro bridges, you will find the fishermen's village, São Pedro da Afurada, and Foz do Porto. You then arrive at the high point of the cruise, where you will face the entrance to the immense Atlantic Ocean. Were you excited? Take your private trip, with an exclusive captain and sailor, and get to know Porto in comfort, tranquility and a pleasant atmosphere.
Price: $347.91
Duration: 2 hours
A once-in-a-lifetime experience in the heart of the city may be had by taking a river cruise on the Porto, where you can visit famous sites and be guided by experienced captains. A journey that crosses six bridges in Porto offers a special fusion of adventure, architecture, and history. Sailing beneath these buildings, which include the striking Dom Luís I Bridge and the graceful Ponte do Infante, offers sweeping views and a glimpse into Porto's rich maritime history. It's an amazing adventure that blends the excitement of discovery with historical relevance, providing a new angle on the beauty of the city from the Douro River's waters.
Price: $70.78
Duration: 2 hours
This is our tour specially dedicated to wine and all aspects of its making. Recommended mainly to only true wine lovers. You will sample a vast array of completely different wines from producers with very different backgrounds, experiences and approaches to wine making. Simple, elegant and fruit forward,Traditional, bold and prestigious. Out of the box, creative wines made by non-conformists. You will taste all of the above and by the end of the day you will have the knowledge to pick your wines from Douro and understand its labels and styles, wherever you go. Lunch will surpass your best expectations and you will taste local cuisine paired with yet more lush wines. If you aren't yet sold then get this: your guide is just as enthusiastic about wines and their specifics as you and you will be doing all of the aforementioned in what probably is the most scenic wine region of the world. Make the best of your stay in Portugal and don't miss out on this once in a lifetime opportunity!
Price: $389.90
Duration: 8 hours
Discover the city of Porto, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO since 1996. This unique experience takes place in an E-Mehari (electric car) and connects the narrow streets of the historic center, the right bank of the Douro, Foz and the Atlantic coast. We show the main attractions of the city, its history, culture and gastronomy. We offer a differentiated, fun and professional activity that guarantees a quality service, accompanied by a knowledgeable guide and an environmentally friendly electric vehicle.
Price: $64.78
Duration: 2 hours
In this Wine Tour we give our visitors the opportunity to taste 2 types of wines, DOC Douro and PORTO Wines. You will taste 2 DOC Wines without wood barrels and 1 with and at the end you will taste one 10 years old PORTO Wine straight from the barrel. During this tasting you will visit our winery and know the process of wine making seeing all the traditional methods of our winery.
Price: $38.39
Duration: 0-1 hours
The perfect Overview of Porto! We’ll explore Porto’s best viewpoints off-the-beaten-path as we travel slowly discovering the history and stories of Porto told by your private Local guide. The rhythm is slow-paced with conversation, historical facts, curiosities, stops for photos and to enjoy the views! We’ll go through places like the Cathedral and Miragaia and along the river Douro to Massarelos with his bridges and Foz with the smallest beach in Porto. Then back up the hills to explore Virtudes and Vitória and learn about Clérigos tower and the Lello bookstore neighborhood. Time to cross to Gaia and see the Cais de Gaia, the D.Luis and the Port wine neighborhood and the best viewpoints overlooking Porto to take amazing photos! We´ll finish back at your accommodations. We Offset the Carbon Emissions of Your Tour with us.
Price: $131.97
Duration: 3 hours
Our tour is exclusive, only for you and your guests, up to 6 people, with a duration of 2 hours. The "Amazing" is a 23-foot boat, completely new and super comfortable. Calm navigation, serene. Relaxed environment. We intend to introduce one of the most beautiful areas in the world – the river area of Porto and Gaia, through the River Douro, passing under the 6 bridges that connect the two cities. We share personal experiences and provide a relaxed conviviality with a welcome drink. We depart from Marina do Freixo in the direction of the Foz do Rio Douro / Atlantic Ocean between the shores of the two cities. Crew composed of 2 skippers. If you want a different experience, come and meet us!
Price: $59.99
Duration: 2 hours
This tour is unique not only for its stunning views, but also for the opportunity to experience two distinct realities within the region. You'll visit a small, family-owned business that has been producing wines and olive oils for four generations, and a larger winery that utilizes modern technology to create award-winning Ports. This contrast will provide a clear understanding of the diverse approaches to winemaking. Another unique aspect of this tour is the diverse selection of lunch options. We take the food experience seriously and want you to enjoy top-quality local cuisine. Here are your choices: 1. A mid-range restaurant offering delicious dishes made with fresh, local ingredients; 2. A high-end restaurant; 3. A Michelin-starred chef's restaurant for an unforgettable culinary experience (closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays).
Price: $599.85
Duration: 9 hours
If you want to experience Canyoning for the first time, this is your best option! It is performed in recreational rivers, where you can try different techniques such as classic or guided abseiling, slides, jumps into the water (optional) or even water slides! It´s the tour where you will live an unforgettable experience. Ideal for all kinds of groups or events (birthdays, company groups, scouts, etc).
Price: $83.98
Duration: 5 hours
If you always wanted to know the Douro valley and see the place where the Port wine is born, then this is your best option. This tour was considered by SAPO Viagens as one of the 14 best Wine Experiences in Portugal for 2022. Our tour takes you to the best locations of the valley, to enjoy a reich and comprehensive day. Here you'll have the best of everything: Wines, Gastronomy, Views and in-depth knowledge, guided by a local.
Price: $473.88
Duration: 10 hours
Explore Portugal’s famed Douro Valley on this guided tour, exploring one of the oldest wine regions in the world, do a one hour river cruise, enjoy a wine tasting at a family owned vineyard and have 2 hours free time in Lamego for lunch and to explore this "Monumental" city!
Price: $94.78
Duration: 10 hours
We invite you to meet the Douro as it is, with its rhythm. Embark on a relaxing and inspiring journey where natural beauty meets local culture. Exclusively for your group of up to 7 people. We depart from Cais do Ouro, a meeting point of stories and traditions. We contemplate the beauty of Afurada, with typical houses and connection to fishing. We pass through 6 bridges that are much more than buildings, they are ties of connection between people and places, witnesses of a rich and dynamic past. During the journey, you will have the opportunity to admire the Ribeira do Porto, with its vibrant soul and unique colors, and V N Gaia, with the wine caves of Porto, where time is measured in barrels At sunset, the Douro dresses in magical tones, the sky burns in warm colors and the river reflects the beauty of this unique moment. A toast with Porto wine aboard celebrates this gift from nature. Exclusivity in the Douro, a tour only YOUR Book your seat now and discover the Douro!
Price: $71.98
Duration: 2 hours
This is the perfect Detour for foodies. One of the most significant features of a place's culture is its cuisine. It reflects centuries of history and represents the communion of peoples with the natural resources of their region. On this tour, the objective is to introduce our guests to the ingredients and dishes that made and are part of life in Porto. Taking place in the historic center of the city, the route that joins the various stops for tasting food and drink is also an opportunity to get to know a little more about this city.
Price: $101.97
Duration: 3-4 hours
A perfect tour for any moment of your visit. With this experience, you will be able to get to know Porto's city center with a local. From main attractions, to narrow streets of the most authentic neighborhoods, we will stroll around getting to know history, legends, curiosities and lifestyle. We will pass by the most important monuments such as: University of Porto, Cathedral, Train station, but also viewpoints, old quarters, riverside areas and gardens. We do not enter monuments. Once you know what there is in the city, you can choose what to return to visit.
Price: $12.00
Duration: 3 hours
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2. Check Details
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3. Book Online
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4. Enjoy Your Experience
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Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
Northern Portugal’s cuisine is hearty and flavorful, featuring dishes like Francesinha (a layered sandwich with meat, cheese, and a spicy sauce), Tripas à Moda do Porto (tripe stew), and Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá (codfish casserole). The region is famous for its port wine and other local wines from the Douro Valley. Dining customs emphasize fresh, locally sourced ingredients and communal meals. Noteworthy restaurants include Casa Guedes in Porto, known for its pork sandwich, and DOC by chef Rui Paula in the Douro Valley, offering gourmet regional dishes.
Getting Around
Northern Portugal is accessible by air through Porto Airport, which connects to major European cities. Train services link Porto with other cities and towns, including Braga and Guimarães. Local buses and trams operate within cities. Renting a car is recommended for exploring rural areas and the Douro Valley. Taxi services and ride-sharing apps are available in urban centers. Transportation costs are generally affordable compared to other Western European destinations.
Travel Tips
The best time to visit is from May to September for pleasant weather. Pack comfortable walking shoes, light clothing for summer, and a jacket for cooler evenings. Respect local customs by greeting with a handshake and using polite language. Northern Portugal is safe, but keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded areas. Euros are the currency; credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases. Learning basic Portuguese phrases can enhance interactions.
Culture & Customs
Northern Portugal has a rich cultural heritage with strong religious traditions, including festivals like São João in Porto and Semana Santa in Braga. Social customs emphasize hospitality, respect for elders, and family values. It is customary to greet with a handshake or cheek kisses among acquaintances. Dining etiquette involves waiting for the host to start the meal and enjoying leisurely meals. Traditional music and dance, such as Fado and folk dances, play an important role in cultural events.
