About 380km north of Lisbon, Viana do Castelo is a beautiful coastal town perfect for a relaxing weekend break. It’s a four-hour drive or train ride, and once you arrive you’ll be greeted by a mix of history, nature and stunning views. Wander through the charming old town, visit the impressive Basilica of Santa Luzia and take in the breathtaking views from the hilltop. Walk along the riverside, explore the local shops and dine on fresh seafood in one of the many restaurants. Whether you’re looking for history, nature or just a peaceful escape by the sea, Viana do Castelo is a destination not to be missed.
Day Trip from Lisbon to Viana do Castelo: Beaches, History & Travel Tips
If you’re planning to travel from Lisbon to Viana do Castelo, there are several convenient options to suit different preferences and budgets. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the best one.
Travelling to Viana do Castelo from Lisbon is easy, with several simple options to choose from.
The train is a popular choice, with regular departures from Santa Apolónia and Oriente stations. The journey takes around 4 hours and takes you right into the centre of Viana, offering a comfortable and scenic ride.
If you prefer to take the bus, there are regular services from Lisbon’s Sete Rios station. The journey takes around 4.5 hours and is a budget-friendly option, with modern, comfortable coaches dropping you off close to the city centre.
Driving is another great option and takes around 4 hours via the A1 and A28 motorways. A car allows you to explore charming towns such as Ponte de Lima or Caminha along the way, and parking in Viana do Castelo is generally easy to find.
For a more personalised experience, consider booking a private tour. Many include transport, guided visits and stops at key attractions, making your trip even more memorable.
No matter which way you travel, Viana do Castelo is well worth the journey, with stunning coastal views, rich history and a welcoming atmosphere awaiting you.
Best Things to Do and See in Viana do Castelo
Climb to the unique Santa Luzia Basilica
The Santuário de Santa Luzia is located high above Viana do Castelo and offers breathtaking views of the city, river, and Atlantic Ocean. Inspired by the Sacré-Cœur in Paris, this stunning basilica was completed in 1959 and features the largest rose windows in the Iberian Peninsula. You can reach it by car, on foot, or by taking Portugal’s longest funicular. For the best views, climb to the top of the dome, although the final steps are narrow, it is worth the effort. Explore the peaceful grounds, the beautiful interior of the church, and its small museum. A visit to Santa Luzia is a must while in Viana.
Stroll through Praça da República
Praça da República is the beating heart of Viana do Castelo’s historic centre and a must see for visitors. This beautiful square is surrounded by historic monuments like the 16th century fountain, the old town hall and the Igreja da Misericórdia, famous for its stunning blue and white azulejos tiles. You’ll also find the Costume Museum, which displays local traditions. The square is pedestrian only, making it perfect for a relaxing stroll or a coffee in one of the cafes. With its mix of history, culture and charm, Praça da República is a highlight of any visit to Viana do Castelo.
Step Aboard the historic Gil Eannes Hospital Ship
The Gil Eannes Hospital Ship, built in 1955 in Viana do Castelo, was a lifeline for Portuguese cod fishermen in the icy waters of Newfoundland and Greenland. It served as a hospital, icebreaker, tug, and supply ship, playing a vital role in their dangerous journeys. After being abandoned, the ship was saved and beautifully restored by the local community. Today, it’s a must-visit museum near Largo 5 de Outubro, where you can explore its cabins, medical rooms, and decks, and discover a unique piece of Portugal’s maritime history.
Enjoy the beautiful beaches of Viana
Viana do Castelo is a great place for beach lovers, with stunning beaches just a short distance from the city. To the south, Praia do Cabedelo is perfect for relaxing on the golden sands or trying water sports such as kitesurfing and windsurfing. It is easily accessible by car or a quick 5 minute ferry ride across the River Lima. To the north, Praia do Norte is ideal for surfing or swimming in calm waters, and there are even saltwater pools nearby. For a quieter escape, head to Praia de Afife, just 12km away, surrounded by beautiful nature
Visit the Costume Museum
The Museu do Traje in Viana do Castelo is a must for anyone interested in exploring the region’s culture. This fascinating museum has collections of traditional clothing from the Alto Minho, from the everyday outfits used by farmers and fishermen to the vivid costumes worn at festivals such as the Romaria de Nossa Senhora d’Agonia. You’ll also find antique looms, stunning gold filigree jewellery and photographs that bring the past to life. Located in a historic building, the museum is a unique way to learn about the traditions and craftsmanship that make this region so special.
Discover the ancient Citânia de Santa Luzia
The Citânia de Santa Luzia, located on the hill above Viana do Castelo, is a fascinating ancient site from the Iron Age. This pre-Roman settlement was home to the Celts from the 4th century BC to the 1st century AD. You can explore the remains of circular stone houses, walls, and cobbled streets while appreciating stunning views of the River Lima and the coast. The site is easy to visit via boardwalks, with informative leaflets available to guide you. It’s a must for history lovers and those wanting to experience the beauty of Viana do Castelo from above.
Admire the azulejos at Igreja da Misericórdia
The Igreja da Misericórdia in Viana do Castelo is a beautiful baroque church rebuilt in 1714. Located in the heart of the old town, in Praça da República, it’s famous for its stunning azulejos (hand-painted tiles), which decorate both the interior and exterior. Created by António de Oliveira Bernardes, the tiles are some of the most impressive in Portugal. Inside you’ll also find amazing Baroque artwork, making it a must see for anyone visiting the city. A visit to this church is a great way to experience the rich history and architecture of Viana do Castelo.
Taste the flavours of Viana do Castelo
Viana do Castelo is a paradise for food lovers, combining fresh seafood with hearty dishes from the Minho region. Try local favourites like arroz de polvo (octopus rice) or bacalhau à Minhota (salted cod Minho-style). Meat dishes such as rojões (fried pork) and arroz de cabidela (chicken rice) are also popular. Complete your meal with vinho verde, the crisp, slightly fizzy wine from the region, often served in elegant hand-painted jars. For dessert, try pão de ló, a rich and soft sponge cake that’s simply unforgettable.
Where to Stay in Viana do Castelo
We have curated a diverse range of accommodation options that cater to every budget and preference, from charming hotels to cozy apartments and enchanting guest houses. Our selection process involved considering the location of the accommodations, reliable reviews from our partner Booking.com, and the opinions of the members of our Facebook group, Lisbon Travel, which has 40 thousand enthusiastic members. These options have been selected carefully to make sure that your stay in Viana do Castelo is truly memorable.
Recomended Hotels:
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Transportation in Viana do Castelo
Exploring Viana do Castelo is easy and enjoyable, with plenty of transport options to help you get around. The best way to experience the city is on foot, wandering through the historic streets, exploring the local shops and admiring the beautiful architecture.
For amazing views, hop on the Santa Luzia funicular, which takes you up to the Basilica of Santa Luzia and offers stunning panoramic views of the city.
If you prefer a more flexible option, taxis and ride-sharing services are available and convenient. For a more active way to explore, renting a bike is a good choice, especially along the river and coastal paths.
Public buses also connect Viana do Castelo with nearby towns, beaches and attractions, making it easy to see more of the region.
Best Restaurants in Viana do Castelo
We have curated a list of the best restaurants in Viana do Castelo, inspired by the region’s rich culinary and cultural traditions. To create this list, we used trusted TripAdvisor reviews and insider tips from our amazing Lisbon Friends Facebook group, where over 40,000 members share their favourite recommendations.
Louro
Mediterranean, Contemporary, $$ – $$$
O Tasco Regional
Mediterranean, European, $$ – $$$
Restaurante Bota D'água
Seafood, Mediterranean, $$ – $$$
Tasquinha da Linda
Seafood, Mediterranean, $$ – $$$
Best Tours in Viana do Castelo
We have selected a diverse range of tour options to suit all budgets and preferences. Our selection was based on the reliable reviews of our partner GetYourGuide and the opinions of the members of our Facebook group, Lisbon Travel, with 40,000 passionate members. These options have been carefully selected to ensure that your stay in Viana do Castelo is truly memorable.
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