Top things to do in Valadares (Portugal)

Welcome to Valadares, Portugal!

Valadares is a beautiful city located in the northwestern part of Portugal, on the Atlantic coast. The city is a popular tourist destination and offers a wide range of attractions to visitors. From pristine beaches to historic landmarks, Valadares has something for everyone. In this guide, we will cover some of the top tourist attractions in Valadares.

Beaches

Valadares is known for its beautiful beaches that stretch along the coastline. Here are some of the top beaches to visit in Valadares:

  • Praia de Valadares Norte is a stunning white sand beach stretching over 1km, perfect for swimming, sunbathing or simply taking a stroll on the sand. URL: www.playocean.net/portugal/...

  • Seawater Sculpture Beach is a unique beach with sculptures made from the natural rock formations, located at Tv. Caetano Remeão 101.

  • Praia das Pedras is a small and picturesque beach surrounded by rocks and cliffs, located at R. Loubet Bravo 96.

  • Praia das Pedras Amarelas is another beautiful beach with soft golden sand and clear blue waters, located at 1225, Av. da Beira-Mar 1170. URL: www.playocean.net/portugal/...

  • Praia da Sãozinha is a secluded and peaceful beach, perfect for those seeking solitude. The beach is located at R. Henrique Galvão 145. URL: www.playocean.net/portugal/...

  • Praia de Dunas Mar is a large and popular beach with a wide range of amenities including beach bars, restaurants and water sports facilities. The beach is located at Av. Gago Coutinho 153. URL: www.playocean.net/portugal/...

  • Praia de Salgueiros is a family-friendly beach with a calm sea, making it perfect for swimming and relaxation. The beach is located at Av. da Beira-Mar C2. URL: www.playocean.net/portugal/...

  • Praia de Francemar is a quiet beach located at R. Onofre Domingues Ferreira 59F. The beach is perfect for those who want to escape the crowds and relax in peace. URL: www.playocean.net/portugal/...

Landmarks and Museums

Valadares has a rich history and culture, and there are several landmarks and museums worth visiting to learn more about the city's past and present.

  • Village House - Rail Park and rural Museum is a must-visit for those interested in the city's rural history. The museum is located at R. Aldeia 776 and offers a unique glimpse into the local way of life.

  • Half Rabbit is a statue located at R. de Santa M.nha 5-39 that has become something of a landmark in Valadares. The statue is a quirky and fun photo opportunity for visitors to the city.

  • Luís I Bridge is an iconic metal bridge that crosses the Douro river, connecting Porto and Vila Nove de Gaia. The bridge carries a low-level road and a high-level metro line, making it an important transportation hub in the city.

  • Fountain of the Virtues is a beautiful fountain located at Calçada das Virtudes 5. The fountain is a popular spot for photographers and is surrounded by beautiful gardens.

  • Aqueduto do Sardão is an impressive aqueduct located at R. Arcos do Sardão. The aqueduct was built in the 18th century and is a testament to the city's engineering ingenuity.

  • Miradouro da Serra do Pilar is a hilltop viewpoint located at Largo Aviz. The viewpoint offers breathtaking views of the city and the Douro river, making it a popular spot for tourists.

  • Edifício Heliantia is a modern and unique building located at R. Heliantia 82. The building is home to the Heliantia College and is worth a visit for its stunning architecture. URL: www.colegioheliantia.pt/ins...

Other Activities

Valadares offers a wide range of other activities for visitors to enjoy, from horseback riding to hiking. Here are some of the top activities to try in Valadares:

  • Centro Hípico de Valadares is a horseback riding service located at Tv. Barreiros. The center offers horseback riding lessons and tours through the beautiful countryside.

  • Hill Garden is a hilltop park with palms and a cable car, located in Jardim do Morro. The cable car leads to this hilltop green space with benches and a grove of palm trees at the summit. The park is a popular spot for picnics and relaxation. URL: www.cm-gaia.pt/

  • Poças is a natural pool located at R. Visc. das Devesas 168. The pool is fed by natural springs and is a popular spot for swimming and relaxation.

Conclusion

Valadares is a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. Whether you're interested in history, culture or simply relaxing on the beach, Valadares has something to offer. Be sure to check out all of the attractions mentioned in this guide and enjoy your stay in this stunning Portuguese city!