Portugal road trip: 8 days through the Minho region with Porto, Braga and vinho verde

Day 1: Departure to Porto

Today is finally the day, your adventure in Portugal is about to start! After the outward journey to Porto, you will stay two nights in an excellent Caractère hotel.

Day 2: Porto

Explore nostalgic Porto, located at the mouth of the Douro River. Stroll through the old city districts with their sloping streets, squares and cosy corners. Discover the city's rich history in churches and museums and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Porto is also a city full of creativity, with modern art galleries and studios. Don't miss the futuristic Casa da Música by Rem Koolhaas. Make sure to visit one of the port houses, known as 'armazéns'.

Day 3: Viana do Castelo

In the afternoon, you will travel towards Vila do Conde and Povoa de Varzim, before exploring the charming town of Viana do Castelo. Visit the historic town centre, which bears witness to its colonial past, and reach the soaring Basilica Santa Luzia by cable car.

Day 4: Valenca do Minho - Monçao - Ponte da Barca

Visit Valença do Minho with its impressive defences. Here you can find beautiful table, bed and bath linens and enjoy the medieval atmosphere and tranquillity along the river. Explore the picturesque town of Monçao, famous for Vinho Verde, and admire the flavoursome Minho wine influenced by its climate and granite soil. Continue to Arcos de Valdevez, where you can admire the impressive Nossa Senhora da Lapa church, a Baroque-style gem with a striking oval shape on the outside and an octagonal interior. In Bravães, admire the Romanesque sculptures of the 13th-century Mosteiro de Bravas.

Day 5: Baiona

Cross the border into Spanish Galicia and visit the beautiful medieval centre of Baiona, located in the Bay of Vigo. Admire the well-preserved medieval castle Castelo de Montereal, which towers high above the town. Baiona also has a historical first: it was the first European city to hear news of the discovery of America when the Pinta, one of Columbus' ships, docked here in the harbour. A replica of the ship is one of the city's landmarks.

Day 6: Ponte de Lima - Braga - Bom Jesus - Guimarães / Amarante

Enjoy the natural beauty of Ponte de Lima, an atmospheric town with historical treasures dating back to ancient times. Continue your journey to Braga, the "capital of Baroque". Visit the pilgrimage church Bom Jesus do Monte, famous for its gigantic Baroque zigzag staircase with 14 station chapels. Continue to Guimarães, which was once the capital of Portugal. The imposing Paço dos Duques de Bragança castle on the hill still bears witness to this history. Stay two nights at the Monverde Wine Experience Hotel.

Day 7: Amarante

Discover one of southern Minho's gems. Stroll through the narrow streets with 17th-century houses and colourful wooden balconies. On the banks of the river Tâmega, enjoy the many restaurants that feature terraces over the water.

Day 8: Going home

All good things come to an end. You will hand in your rental car at the airport and fly back home. Still can't get enough of all that Portugal has to offer? At Caractère, we happily extend your trip without any problem!

Frequently asked questions about the Minho region

Do you need a rental car for this road trip?

Yes. A rental car makes it easy to reach villages, vineyards and smaller towns in the Minho region. Public transport is limited.

What is the best travel period for this trip?

April to June and September to October are ideal. The weather is mild and perfect for city walks and wine tastings.

What makes the Minho region special?

The region is known for vinho verde, a fresh wine produced in small vineyards on granite soils. You combine this with baroque architecture, historic towns and green landscapes.

Is there an international excursion during this trip?

Yes. You visit Baiona in Spanish Galicia, where a replica of Columbus’ ship Pinta commemorates the discovery of America.