Search flights to Viana do castelo

Viana do Castelo, defined as being “between the sea, the river and the mountains”, is one of the most beautiful cities in Portugal. Located in Minho, in the north-western region of the country, the city is also bordered by Spain's Galicia region. Located in the center of a triangle constituted by the cities of Vigo, Braga and Porto, Viana do Castelo is 65 kilometers to all these cities. To the west of the city is the Atlantic Ocean. Located on a hill surrounded by green mountains, the city shines with the blue reflections of the Atlantic Ocean and offers you a breath-taking scenery that includes the Lima River.

The history of the city goes back to the first period of Christianity. The city named as “Viana da Fox do Lima” in 1258 by King of Portugal II. Afonso; the city took its current name in 1848 with a decree issued by the country. You can walk around this city hosting countless works of art made with different architectural styles at different times like in a museum. Its old streets, the streets surrounded by trees from the 19th century and the Rokoko palaces surrounding the streets make it a place to see. The Basilica of Santa Luzia, built in the early 20th century, the gothic cathedral in Largo da Matriz, the old town hall in the famous Praça da Republica square, the fountain dating from the 16th century; Paraguaçu and Caramuru monuments built in 2009 are among the most important sights of the city. The city is known at the same time by the filigree gold craftsmanship and you can see many filigree works in the Museu do Traje.

There are bicycle and hiking trails along the coast and along the river in Viana do Castelo. During your mountain walks or cycling tours to discover the beautiful corners of the city you will see aromatic plants, water mills, waterfalls and historic chapels. Surfing, wind - kite surfing and swimming and enjoying the golden sandy beaches are activities that you will not get enough in the city. You will feel the warm atmosphere, on the other hand, in handicrafts and rich Minho culture, especially when exploring local folklore. The Romery (Hajj) Festival, one of the biggest festivals in Portugal, takes place on 20th August every year and lasts for 5 days; and it is the most crowded time of the city. Nossa Senhora da Agonia is a church built in the name of the fishermen's protector saint and is home to this festival, which offers plenty of fun with colourful costumes during the see cortege.

The closest airport you can use to get to Viana do Castelo is Francisco de Sa Carneiro Airport. This airport is in located Porto and 69 kilometers from the city. You can reach the city with a rental car, or by bus, shuttle or taxi.