Looking to spend 3-4 days around the Minho region after 3 days in Lisbon (where we've been before) in early September. DH and I are active 60-somethings and right now I'm looking at Viana do Castello as a base. Being by the ocean sounds wonderful to this Arizonan, and it seems like we could get to a few other towns by train or bus (we won't have a car) fairly easily if we desire. We like to hike, eat good food, drink wine, and visit historical sights. From Portugal we are continuing to Tuscany to meet friends, so we probably don't need to do the Douro area on this trip. Would appreciate your suggestions!
Posted by
Cascais, Portugal
1902 posts
Be sure to verify the ease of using a bus or train in this region. I had a car and the driving was easy. I used Braga as a base and was satisfied with it. Lovely town with many restaurants, etc. Guimarães might be a bit more central. Viana is a bit away from the areas I visited, even though we did drive there one day. But, I understand the interest in staying on the coast. I think you will enjoy the area, wherever you end up as a base.
Posted by
Austin, TX
2587 posts
I ported in Porto (sounds like the name of. a song) a cruise or two ago and took an excursion to Braga.
Loved Braga. it was really beautiful with a lot to do. It is a very religious community with many churches and a Marion Shrine. The Shrine was on the top of. a hill and had a hotel with restaurant.
Because it was. Sunday, most shops were closed but for one. And a couple on my excursion bought this truly beautiful table cloth and napkins.