Must-See Road Trips in the Porto Region with a Rental Car
The Porto region is rich in history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore all of this at your own pace. Here are some must-see road trips you can take from Porto:
1. Douro Valley: The Wine Route
Distance: Approximately 100 km from Porto
Duration: 1-2 days
Itinerary:
- Peso da Régua: Start your journey in the heart of the Douro wine region. Visit Quinta do Vallado or Quinta da Pacheca for a wine tasting and a tour of the vineyards.
- Pinhão: Continue along the N222, considered one of the most beautiful roads in the world, until you reach Pinhão. Take a boat trip on the Douro River and admire the terraced vineyards.
- São João da Pesqueira: Visit this picturesque village and explore the Museu do Vinho do Porto to learn more about the history and production of port wine.
2. Braga and Guimarães: The Cradle of Portugal
Distance: Approximately 55 km and 50 km from Porto, respectively
Duration: 1 day
Itinerary:
- Braga: Start your day in Braga, known as the "Rome of Portugal." Visit the Braga Cathedral, the Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary, and the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Sameiro. Stroll through the historic center and discover many churches and monuments.
- Guimarães: Continue to Guimarães, the "birthplace city" of Portugal. Explore the Guimarães Castle, the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, and the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
3. Costa Verde: Beaches and Tradition
Distance: Approximately 15-30 km from Porto
Duration: Half-day to 1 day
Itinerary:
- Matosinhos: Start with a relaxing morning at Matosinhos Beach, ideal for surfing and other water sports. Have lunch at one of the many seafood restaurants along the shore.
- Leça da Palmeira: Visit the Boa Nova Tea House, designed by famous architect Álvaro Siza Vieira, and the Leça Lighthouse.
- Vila do Conde: Continue to Vila do Conde and explore the historic center, featuring the Santa Clara Monastery and the Vila do Conde Aqueduct.
4. Aveiro: The Venice of Portugal
Distance: Approximately 75 km from Porto
Duration: 1 day
Itinerary:
- Aveiro Center: Begin with a moliceiro boat ride through the city’s canals. Visit the Aveiro Museum, located in the former Convent of Jesus, and admire the Art Nouveau architecture throughout the city.
- Costa Nova: Head to Costa Nova to see the colorful striped houses and enjoy the beaches in the area.
- Aveiro Salt Pans: End your day with a visit to the Aveiro salt pans, where you can learn about traditional salt production.
5. Gerês: Nature and Adventure
Distance: Approximately 100 km from Porto
Duration: 1-2 days
Itinerary:
- Peneda-Gerês National Park: Hike spectacular trails such as the Currais Trail or the Roman Geira Trail. Visit the Tahiti and Arado waterfalls, and relax in the thermal baths of Caldas do Gerês.
- Traditional Villages: Explore villages like Lindoso and Soajo, known for their granaries and rural landscapes.
6. Sanctuary Route
Distance: Variable
Duration: 1 day
Itinerary:
- Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies (Lamego): Approximately 110 km from Porto. Climb the 686 steps to the sanctuary and enjoy panoramic views.
- Sanctuary of Sameiro (Braga): An important pilgrimage site, located about 60 km from Porto.
- Sanctuary of Saint Benedict of the Open Door (Gerês): Combine with a visit to Gerês, located about 90 km from Porto.
Final Tips
- Prepare for the Roads: Some roads can be winding and narrow, especially in rural and mountainous areas. Drive carefully and follow the signs.
- Parking: Plan where to park, especially in larger cities like Braga and Guimarães. Use parking lots to avoid fines and stress.
Exploring the Porto region by car offers unparalleled freedom to discover the many wonders this area has to offer. Make the most of your trip and create unforgettable memories!