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Please leave your luggage in the hotel reception each morning (by 9am at the latest) so that it can be transferred to your next hotel. Make sure that your luggage is clearly labelled with the nametag provided. In case of any issues with the luggage transfer, please contact Pedro on (+351) 916 582 978.
Your bike fitting is scheduled for Sunday, 20th September at 3pm at the Parador de Santiago. In case of any issues, please contact Raúl on (+34) 667 60 97 75.
Call the Bike Spain Tours office on +34 915 590 653, or out of office hours call +34 677 356 586. We will get you where you need to be and get you the help you need.
In Portugal, you’ll probably find that mealtimes are similar to what you’re used to at home: lunch is between 12pm – 3pm and dinner from 7pm onwards.
However, this all changes when you cross the border! Spaniards follow a very particular routine in terms of their daily meals, and this is often strictly enforced by restaurant opening hours, especially in small towns!
You can expect restaurants to be open for lunch from approximately 1:30pm – 4pm. Many places will offer a menú del día: a set menu with 2/3 options for each course, usually including a drink, bread and dessert or coffee. Remember that lunch is the main meal of the day in Spain.
Dinnertime in Spain is any time from 8pm onwards. Dinner in Spain is typically a lighter meal.
Cycling the Portuguese Camino is not only a spiritual and cultural journey but also a culinary adventure! Here’s a list of food and drinks to try along the way:
Porto
Carb-load before your Camino with a traditional francesinha: Porto’s famous sandwich made with layers of cured meats, steak, melted cheese, and a rich beer-based sauce. Our favourite place in Porto for a francesinha is Brasão Coliseu.
Portuguese cuisine is famous for its cod. One of the standout dishes is bacalhau à brás: a classic recipe of shredded cod with eggs, onions, and thin potato fries.
Citizens of Porto are nicknamed tripeiros because of their love of dishes made from tripe and offal! If you’re feeling brave, try tripas à moda do Porto: a traditional tripe stew with beans and sausage.
Although pastéis de nata are traditionally linked with the Belem district of Lisbon, these delicious custard tarts are enjoyed all over Portugal! Enjoy one or two with a cup of coffee for breakfast or a mid-morning snack.
Of course, you can’t leave Porto without trying some of the city’s famous port wine! Take a tour at one of the wineries in Vila Nova de Gaia, or ask for vinho do porto at one of the city’s many bars. Port wine is a sweet dessert wine, and the three main types are ruby, tawny and white.
Northern Portugal
As you continue up the coast, you’ll frequently come across beachfront restaurants and bars grilling fish fresh from the ocean. A popular option is sardinhas assadas: grilled sardines on a spit.
North of Porto, you’ll enter the vinho verde wine region. Pair this light, refreshing, slightly sparkling white wine with arroz do tamboril: a delicious dish made with rice and monkfish.
Crossing into Spain
The river Minho, which marks the border between Portugal and Spain, is famous for sável (shad), frequently served with rice.
As you cycle along the Spanish coast, you’ll spot artificial rockpools used to store captured crustaceans popular in local cuisine: bogavante (lobsters), buey de mar (brown crab) and centollo (spider crab).
Galicia is also very famous for pulpo a la gallega: “Galician-style” octopus, boiled and seasoned with paprika, olive oil, and sea salt.
Vigo and the Rías Baixas
In Vigo, the local speciality is chocos en su tinta: cuttlefish cooked in its own ink, served with rice or even in an empanada (similar to a Cornish pasty!). Just after Vigo, you’ll pass through the small town of Arcade, famous for ostras: oysters fresh from the Vigo estuary.
North of Vigo and towards Pontevedra, you’ll enter the Rías Baixas wine region, where you can try albariño wine: a delicious light white popular all over Spain.
The small town of Padrón is of course famous for pimientos de padrón: small green peppers that are usually served grilled and with plenty of salt. But be warned: “algunos pican, otros no” (some are spicy, some are not!)
Santiago de Compostela
Santiago de Compostela is a culinary gem! We highly recommend a tapas crawl to sample as much of the local cuisine as possible. The seafood is of course a highlight, although traditional Galician pork dishes such as raxó and zorza are also very popular. Round off your culinary adventure with a slice of tarta de Santiago: an almond cake dusted with icing sugar in the shape of the cross of St James.
Click here for our packing suggestions for a self-guided bike tour.
Click here for our recommendations for cycling safely and legally in Spain.
Click here for our recommendations on what to do if you experience mechanical issues with your bike during your tour.
Sunday, 20th September: Santiago de Compostela
Accommodation: Parador de Santiago de Compostela
Hotel services: Restaurant, bar, laundry
Meals included: Breakfast
Welcome to the Camino, and the start of an amazing tour!
Arrival at leisure in Santiago de Compostela. You can check into your hotel from 3pm.
3pm: Bike fitting at the Parador de Santiago with our Bike Spain colleague, Raúl. In case of any issues, you can contact Raúl on (+34) 667 60 97 75.
Click here for our Google Maps list of recommendations in Santiago de Compostela.
Santiago de Compostela was, without a doubt, the most important city in Christian medieval Spain. It’s world-renowned for its cultural and religious significance, and each year thousands of travellers come to visit.
Santiago Cathedral: The end of your pilgrimage and top of your tourist list is Santiago’s magnificent cathedral, which dates back to the 11th century and is one of the few catedrals in the world built over the tomb of an apostle. We highly recommend the cathedral rooftop tour (available daily from 10am – 8pm, reservation recommended). You’ll climb up the cathedral tower and out onto the roof for a once-in-a-lifetime angel’s eye view of Santiago, as well as a unique perspective of the stunning cathedral.
Take a stroll in Alameda Park for fabulous views of the cathedral and the rest of Santiago’s UNESCO World Heritage Site old town. Don’t forget to take a picture with the statue of As Marías, two elderly sisters who used to go for a walk in the park every day at 2pm, dressed in their finery, regardless of civil war, dictatorship or inclement weather!
For more insight into the history of the Camino, don’t miss the Pilgrimage Museum (open Tue – Fri 9:30am – 8:30pm, Sat 11am – 7:30pm and Sundays 10:15am – 2:45pm)
Also well worth a visit is the Museum of the Galician People (open Tue – Sat 11am – 6pm and Sun 11am – 2pm), which explores the unique culture and history of this little corner of Spain. The museum is housed in a former Dominican convent, set in beautiful grounds that are now a public park.
Mercado La Galiciana: This gastromarket is just a couple of years old, and it’s the perfect place to enjoy both local and foreign food. There is an amazing range of eateries, and the place itself is beautifully designed (open Sun – Thu 12pm – 12am and Fri/Sat 12pm – 1am)
For a more traditional experience, visit Mercado de Abastos (open Mon – Sat, 11:30am – 5pm). This historic market is extremely popular with locals, and contains a range of restaurants, traditional market stalls, and even a fishmonger that will cook your purchases for you while you wait!
Santiago de Compostela also has a fantastic tapas culture. You will receive one free tapa per drink purchased, so we recommend that you stick with small glasses of albariño wine! Some of our favourites are Bar La Tita (enormous portions of tortilla) Petiscos do Cordeal (seafood), Benboa (seafood), Viñoteca Ventosela (cheese and charcuterie), Raices Gallegas (traditional Galician dishes including zorza and raxo) and Orella (pig’s ear). We also recommend a visit to Bar Orense, which serves wine in a traditional Galician cunca (bowl)!
Monday, 21st September: Santiago de Compostela – Pontevedra
Route: 64.1 km/39.8 miles
Elecation: +803m/+2636 ft
Accommodation: Parador de Pontevedra
Hotel services: Restaurant, bar, laundry
Meals included: Breakfast
The Camino begins!
After checking out of the hotel, please leave your luggage with reception for later collection. Your luggage will be picked up each day from 9am onwards; please make sure to leave it with reception by 9am at the latest.
Today’s ride takes you south from Santiago de Compostela, leaving the historic city behind and heading into the peaceful countryside of Galicia. The route soon becomes increasingly rural, with quiet roads winding through forests, farmland and small traditional villages.
After leaving Santiago, you’ll pass througha series of small villages. The landscape is typically Galician, with lush forests, rivers and small farms providing plenty of beautiful scenery.
Padrón is famous for the small green peppers that bear its name, and it’s well worth taking a break in one of the town’s two main squares – Praza das Traviesas and Praza de Macías – to try a tapa of freshly fried and salted peppers. Just remember the famous saying: “Padrón peppers, some are hot, and others are not!” If you’re still hungry, add a tapa of pulpo, the classic Galician octopus dish.
You can also visit the church of Santiago, which houses the pedrón: a block of granite that was once part of a Roman temple to Neptune and is traditionally said to have served as the mooring point for the boat that brought the remains of Saint James from the Holy Land to Galicia.
Leaving Padrón, the route continues south through the rolling Galician countryside towards Caldas de Reis. The road passes through forests and farmland, with gentle climbs offering panoramic views across the surrounding green valleys. Vineyards and small agricultural plots become increasingly common as you approach the town.
We recommend a stop in the spa town of Caldas de Reis, situated at the confluence of the rivers Bermaña and Umia and well known for its geothermal hot springs. The town is a pleasant place to pause and stretch your legs, with its riverside paths, historic centre and traditional Galician atmosphere.
As you get closer to Pontevedra, the landscape gradually opens out into rolling countryside with gentle climbs before the route brings you across the Puente del Burgo bridge over the Lérez River and into the historic centre of Pontevedra.
Bike shops
O Milladoiro: Millabikes. Tel (+34) 981 940 131. Mon-Fri 10am–2pm/4:30pm–8pm
Padrón: AdeMario Bike Service. Tel (+34) 659 231 910. Open Mon-Fri 9:30am–1:30pm/4pm–8pm
Pontecesures: Beruca Bikes. Tel (+34) 644 596 532. Open Mon-Fri 10am–1:30pm/4:30pm–8:30pm, Sat 10am–1:30pm
Caldas de Reis: García Bicis. Tel (+34) 610 927 109. Open Mon-Sat 9am–1:30pm/4pm–9pm
Pontevedra: El Puerto Bike Workshop. Open Mon-Fri 9:30pm–1pm/5pm–8:30pm
Click here for our Google Maps list of recommendations in Pontevedra.
Top of your list should be the Santuario de la Virgen Peregrina, dedicated to the patroness of the Portuguese Camino and featuring a unique floor in the shape of the scallop shell of St James.
Pontevedra’s well-preserved old town is considered second only to that of Santiago de Compostela, and it’s well worth taking some time to explore its winding streets.
The 16th century Real Basílica de Santa María la Mayor is a spectacular combination of late Gothic and Renaissance architecture.
Those interested in learning a little more about local history and culture can visit the Museo Provincial de Pontevedra (open Tue – Sat 10am – 9pm and Sun 11am – 2pm).
Pontevedra is the capital of the Rías Baixas albariño wine region, so we highly recommend trying some of this light Galician white wine.
Your hotel has its own excellent restaurant, specialising in fresh seafood from the Rías Baixas. If you would like to explore the city a little more, we recommend a tapas crawl around the old quarter to try the local seafood.
For the best pulpo in the city, we recommend Casa Fidel O’Pulpeiro (open Tue – Sat 8pm – 12am). If you are looking for a sit-down meal we suggest Loaira Xantar (open Wed – Mon, 7:30pm – 11pm) or Trasmallo Restaurante (open Thu, Fri, Sat and Mon, 8pm – 11pm), both recommended by the Michelin guide, or Eirado da Leña*, Pontevedra’s Michelin Star spot (open Tue – Sat 9am – 11pm, prior reservation required).
Tuesday, 22nd September: Pontevedra – Baiona
Route: 60.4 km/37.5 miles
Elevation: +822m/2698 ft
Accommodation: Parador de Baiona
Hotel services: Restaurant, bar, swimming pool, laundry
Meals included: Breakfast
Leaving Pontevedra, you’ll head west towards the coast, passing through A Canicouva, where the landscape becomes increasingly rural and wooded. The route then reaches Arcade, a small town famous for the oysters cultivated in the Vigo estuary. If you are a seafood lover, this is a great place to stop at one of the local marisquerías and sample some of the area’s famous oysters. From here, the road continues towards Redondela, with smooth asphalt and rolling terrain making for an enjoyable ride.
Redondela, known locally as the villa de los viaductos, takes its name from the two impressive railway viaducts constructed here towards the end of the 19th century. From the town, you have a choice of three routes:
a) Road bike route via PO-323
The fastest and most direct option, following smooth asphalt roads. There is some traffic, but it provides the most straightforward route towards Vigo.
b) Vía verde (greenway) cycle path
A historic railway line converted into a traffic-free cycle path, with a smooth and well-maintained surface. This is a scenic and relaxing alternative, winding through nature and offering a more leisurely approach to Vigo.
c) Senda das Augas trail
For those looking for a challenge, this stunning traffic-free trail follows a historic water channel through forests and hills, with spectacular views over the Vigo estuary. There are some steep climbs and sections with rough surfaces, so it is not recommended for road bikes or following heavy rain.
Whichever option you choose, you’ll eventually reach Vigo, Galicia’s largest city and one of the most important ports on the Atlantic coast. The approach along the coast is spectacular, with views across Vigo Bay and the Cíes Islands.
It’s well worth stopping in Vigo itself to admire the many sculptures that decorate the city, including one dedicated to Jules Verne’s 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, and to enjoy the city’s fantastic tapas culture. Some of our favourites are Taberna A Pedra (open 12pm – 4pm Wed – Sun), O Portón, situated on the famous fishermen’s street (open 12pm – 4pm Wed – Sun), Detapaencepa (open daily 12:30 – 4pm) and Tapas Areal (open daily 1:30pm – 4:30pm).
Leaving Vigo, the route heads south along the spectacular coastline towards Nigrán. The road widens as you follow the coast, with beautiful views across the bay and the surrounding beaches. In Nigrán, the coastline opens up to reveal a long stretch of golden sand, and dedicated cycle lanes in some sections make for a relaxed ride.
The final kilometres bring you back towards the coast and the beautiful town of Baiona. As you approach the bay, the landscape opens up once again, with views across the Atlantic and towards the Cíes Islands. You’ll cross the Romanesque bridge into A Ramallosa, a small and picturesque town, before completing the final stretch along the coast.
Your ride finishes in Baiona, one of the most attractive historic towns on Galicia’s southern coast.
Bike shops
Pontevedra: El Puerto Bike Workshop. Open Mon-Fri 9:30pm–1pm/5pm–8:30pm
Redondela: Hobbybike. Tel (+34) 630229438. Open Mon – Fri 10am–1:30pm/4:30pm–8:30pm, Sat 10am – 1:30pm
Vigo: Galibici. Tel (+34) 886 908 123. Open Mon – Fri 10am–2pm/4:30pm–8:30pm, Sat 10am-2pm
Vigo: Xtrembike. Tel (+34) 886 116 131. Open Mon – Fri 9:30am–1:30pm/4:30pm–8:30pm, Sat 10am-1:30pm
Click here for our Google Maps list of recommendations in Baiona.
Once in Baiona, you can spend some time exploring the city’s atmospheric historic centre and quaint fishing port. The town’s most important historic building is the Castelo de Monterreal, a medieval fortress that still retains the cannons once used to defend the town from pirates, and which offers fabulous views over the bay from the parapet. Nowadays, it is a luxury hotel; your hotel, in fact!
Take a stroll around the seafront old town, exploring the corridor-like streets full of traditional palaces, built by Galicians who made their fortune in the New World centuries ago.
Baiona was, in fact, the first port in Europe to hear the news of the discovery of America, when La Pinta arrived there on 1st March 1492. A replica of this famous ship can still be visited in the port today (open daily 10:30am – 1pm/4:30pm – 7pm) as well as a sculpture dedicated to the historic encounter between the two worlds.
If your legs are up to it, we recommend the short hike up to the 17m tall sculpture of the Virxe da Roca, where you can ascend the spiral stairs and admire the views from the boat in the virgin’s right hand (open daily 11am – 2pm/4pm – 9pm).
You can also spend some time relaxing on the beach after your cycle ride.
Your hotel has its own excellent in-house restaurant with spectacular views over the bay and the Cíes Islands. Don’t miss the sight of the sun setting into the Atlantic Ocean!
If you would like to explore the town further, we recommend the seafront Taberna Mendoza (open for dinner Mon – Sat).
Wednesday, 23rd September: Baiona – Viana do Castelo
Route: 60.4 km/37.5 miles
Elevation: +526m/1727 ft
Accommodation: Hotel Melo Alvim
Hotel services: Restaurant, swimming pool, laundry
Bike shops
Caminha: myBike. Tel (+351) 962 798 310. Open Mon – Fri 9:30am–1:30pm/5pm–8pm
A Guarda: Insitu Ciclismo. Tel (+34) 605 663 595. Open Mon – Fri 9:30am–1:30pm/4:30pm–8:30pm Sat 10am – 2pm
Baiona: El Reciclista. Tel (+34) 623 043 705. Open Mon – Fri 10am–2pm/4pm–7:30pm
Click here for our Google Maps list of recommendations in Viana do Castelo.
The picturesque town of Viana do Castelo is overlooked by the hilltop Basilica del Sagrado Corazón, which was inspired by the Sacre Coeur in Paris.
Take the funicular up Monte de Santa Lucía to visit the Santuario del Sagrado Corazón de Jesús (open daily 9am – 5pm), and enjoy spectacular views over the Atlantic Ocean.
Learn a bit about local history with a visit to the interesting Gil Eannes museum (open daily 9:30am – 6pm), set aboard a former hospital ship.
Enjoy a coffee or a stroll around Praça de la Republica, the heart of the city’s hitoric centre and home to many of its most important monuments.
Sweet-toothed visitors will love the Fábrica do Chocolate (open daily 10am – 6pm), a chocolate museum housed within a quirky hotel of the same name, which also boasts a chocotherapy spa!
Your hotel has its own excellent craft beer bar and restaurant; however, if you would like to explore the town further, we recommend popular local option Casa Primavera-Taberna Soares (open Wed – Sat and Mon 5pm – 10pm) or Tasquinha da Linda (open Mon – Sat 7:15pm – 10:30pm).
Thursday, 24th September: Viana do Castelo – Vila do Conde
Route: 49.2 km/30.6 miles
Elevation: +333m/+1093 ft
Accommodation: Hotel Lince Santa Clara
Hotel services: Restaurant, gym, spa, swimming pool, laundry
Meals included: Breakfast
Starting in Viana do Castelo, you’ll leave the city by crossing the impressive 19th-century bridge over the River Lima, designed by the famous French engineer Gustave Eiffel. From here, the route heads south through Castelo do Neiva and Estrada, following quiet village roads that wind through gently rolling countryside.
Continuing onwards, you’ll cycle through peaceful rural landscapes of small farms, vineyards, and traditional stone houses. The roads are well paved, traffic is minimal, and this inland section offers a wonderfully relaxed ride before returning to the coast.
As you approach Esposende, you’ll follow the cycle path along the estuary into this charming seaside town. If you’re ready for lunch, Agua Pé (open daily from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm) is an excellent choice, serving fresh local seafood. You may also wish to visit the Forte de São João Baptista before continuing your journey.
Leaving Esposende, you’ll cross the historic Ponte de Fão over the Cávado River before following a combination of quiet backroads and coastal cycle paths. This scenic stretch takes you through pine forests, sand dunes, and beautiful Atlantic coastline.
Continuing south through Estela and Navais, the landscape alternates between peaceful agricultural fields and coastal scenery as you make your way towards Póvoa de Varzim.
From Póvoa de Varzim, the route rejoins the coastline for the final stretch to Vila do Conde. Following the beautiful seafront cycle path, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, sandy beaches, and the local fishing port before arriving in the heart of this historic coastal town.
Bike shops
Esposende: Propedal. Tel (+351) 253 966 831. Open Mon – Sat 9:30am–12:30pm/2:30pm–6:30pm
Viana do Castelo: Stressoff. Tel (+351) 258 110 445. Open Mon – Fri 9:30am–12:30pm/2pm–7pm, Sat 9:30am-1pm
Click here for our Google maps recommendations in Vila do Conde!
Vila do Conde is a pretty town built during the Portuguese Golden Age, or the ‘age of discovery’, when mariners set sail for sub-Saharan Africa and India for the first time. The town is a favourite with daytripping locals, who are attracted to its beautiful beaches, excellent food and relaxed ambience.
The skyline is dominated by the imposing Monastery of Santa Clara, as well as the aqueduct that was built in the 18th century to bring water to the monastery and of which nearly 1000 arches still remain.
Learn about local history with a visit to Vila do Conde’s very own City Museum and the Lace Museum (both open Tue – Sun, 10am – 6pm).
Discover Portugal’s seafaring history aboard Nau Quinhentista, a full-sized replica of a 16th century Portuguese merchant ship, and at the Museum of Naval Construction (both open Tue – Sun, 10am – 6pm)
Enjoy fabulous ocean views from the clifftop Forte de São João Baptista and the nearby Capela de Nossa Senhora da Guia.
Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach!
For dinner, we recommend Restaurante o Cangalho (open Tue – Sat 8pm – 11pm) or Os Eusébios to replace some of those calories with a traditional francesinha (open Tue – Sun 7pm – 11pm).
Friday, 25th September: Porto
Route: 48.1 km/29.9 miles
Elevation: +501m/+1650 ft
Accommodation: Own arrangements
Meals included: Breakfast
Starting in Vila do Conde, you’ll leave town by crossing the River Ave before heading inland towards Madalena. This peaceful stretch passes through beautiful countryside dotted with small chapels, old water mills, and open fields, offering a gentle introduction to the day’s ride.
Continuing through Gião and Carrapata, you’ll follow quiet rural roads surrounded by rolling hills and green pastures, enjoying the tranquil scenery of northern Portugal’s countryside.
As you approach Praia de Angeiras, please be aware that you’ll encounter a stretch of approximately 5 km (3 miles) of cobblestones. These traditional Portuguese streets were originally built for horses and carriages rather than bicycles, so take extra care.
Reaching Praia de Angeiras, you’ll arrive at a charming fishing village where fresh seafood is the local speciality. If you’re ready for lunch, consider stopping at Restaurante Tasquinha das Marés (open Mon – Sat 12pm – 3pm) or Restaurante O Diogo (open Tuesday–Sunday, 12:00 pm–3:30 pm).
From here, the route follows the Atlantic coastline south towards Matosinhos, using a combination of dedicated cycle paths and quiet seaside roads. Along the way, you’ll pass numerous sandy beaches where you can stop for a swim. You may also wish to visit Piscina das Marés (open daily during summer, 9:00 am–7:00 pm), the iconic seawater swimming pool designed by renowned Portuguese architect Álvaro Siza Vieira.
Arriving in Matosinhos, you’ll discover one of Portugal’s most important fishing ports, famous for its excellent seafood restaurants. If you’re looking for a coffee or light meal, Negra Café (open daily from 9am) or A Badalhoca (open Monday–Saturday from 9:00 am) are both excellent choices.
Leaving Matosinhos behind, you’ll cross the bridge over the Leça River and continue south along the coast towards Foz do Douro. Here, elegant villas, cafés, and golden beaches line the Atlantic shoreline, creating one of the most scenic sections of the ride.
You’ll likely pass many pilgrims walking towards Santiago along the wooden boardwalks that run across the beaches. Please remember that these boardwalks are for pedestrians only. The cycling route follows the parallel road, where you’ll usually find a dedicated bike lane.
From Foz do Douro, you’ll follow the well-paved riverside cycle path east along the Douro River. Enjoy spectacular views of the water as Porto’s historic skyline gradually comes into view. The route finishes at the offices of our local partners, Oporto Special Bikes, where you can pick up your luggage and leave your bikes for later collection. In case of any issues, contact Pedro on (+351) 916 582 978.
Congratulations on the completion of your Camino!
Click here for our Google Maps recommendations in Porto!
The city of Porto, built along the hillsides overlooking the mouth of the Douro river, is an outstanding urban landscape with a 2,000-year history. The historic centre, Luiz I Bridge and Monastery of Serra do Pilar, are recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Take the funicular up to the Batalha (old town) and explore the narrow streets and colourful buildings. Don’t miss the Sé, Porto’s fortress-like hilltop Cathedral (open daily 9am – 6:30pm).
Hop over the river to Vila Nova de Gaia and visit one of the myriad of port wine cellars to discover the secrets of the regional vintage. Popular options include Sandeman’s, Taylor’s and Cockburn’s.
Pay a visit to Livraria Lello, widely considered to be one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores (open daily 9am – 7:30pm), or climb the 225 steps of the nearby Clérigos tower (open daily 9am – 7pm) for fabulous views over the city.
Estação de São Bento: Porto’s train station is so much more than a transport hub! This former convent combines a Belle Epoque facade with an iconic interior decorated with 20,000 painted tiles.
Take a walk (or a tram) up to Foz de Douro, and enjoy an afternoon on the beach! This seaside district is full of fabulous restaurants serving up the freshest grilled seafood: try Restaurante Pedro Lemos for a Michelin star option (open Tues – Thu 7pm – 11pm and Fri and Sat 12:30pm – 3pm/7pm – 11pm) or Casa Vasco (open Tue – Sun 12:30pm – 3:30pm/7pm – 10:30pm).
Watch one of Europe’s most spectacular sunsets from one of Porto’s many miradouros (viewpoints). Popular options include Miradouro das Virtudes, Jardim do Morro and the Luis I bridge.
Set in the hilltop old town, Patio 44 serves up high-quality traditional Portuguese cuisine (open Tue – Sat 7pm – 11pm).
Visit Brasão Coliseu (open daily 12pm – 3pm/7pm – 11:30pm) to try a traditional Porto francesinha: an enormous sandwich made with a variety of meats and melted cheese!
Local favourite Restaurante Roma (open Mon – Sat 12pm – 3pm/7pm – 10pm) is a down-to-earth option where the daily menu is determined by the catch of the day.
Family-run Casa Expresso (open Mon – Sat 8:30am – 10:30pm) serves timeless Portuguese fare in a no-frills setting.
Porto classic Adega São Nicolau serves up delicious fresh seafood in the colourful riverfront district (open Mon – Sat 12pm – 1:30pm, prior reservation recommended).
Treat yourself to a special dinner at one of Porto’s seven Michelin star restaurants.
Hotel Casa Melo Alvim
Casa Melo Alvim hotel is located in the historic centre of Viana do Castelo.
It is the oldest urban manor house in the town, having been built in 1509 in the Manueline style. This manor house has been carefully restored, and transformed into a comfortable and welcoming 4 star hotel.
Guests can enjoy a luxury breakfast in the cozy bar with live piano music. A Baroque-style staircase leads to the upper floors and the library.
Parador de Baiona
To the south of the Rías Baixas, protected by the sea and with views over the beautiful Bay of Baiona, is the peninsula of Monterreal. There, we find the Parador de Baiona: a historical castle with spectacular views of the ocean.
A mix between a medieval castle and a Galician stately home, the Parador offers regal and elegant rooms, carefully decorated to will take you back in time to another age. Outstanding features include the majestic stone stairway in the reception area and a huge garden, equipped with a large swimming pool, from where you can view the entire bay.
Parador de Santiago – Hostal Reis Catolicos
The Parador de Santiago is a blend of history, art and tradition. It’s a dream accommodation for pilgrims and the perfect place to end your Camino bike tour from Porto.
The hotel is located in Obradoiro Square near the cathedral, creating an area of spectacular beauty in one of the most visited provincial capitals in the world. A stay at this Parador means a visit to a truly unique and exclusive location.
