Viana do Castelo is one of the most beautiful cities in the north of Portugal . Played a big role  in the Portuguese Discoveries and later in cod fishing which showes a big and tradicional sea connection.

One can reach Viana do Castelo quickly from Porto  or  from Valencia, in Spain.  This city has a privileged geographical situation by the sea and at the end of  a major river, Lima. To see these amaizing views visit  the Santa Luzia Hill or  the Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

Viana is enriched with emblazoned palaces, churches and monasteries , fountains which are a heritage asset worthy of visit. Here you can find all sorts of inspirations like the  Manueline , Renaissance , Baroque , Art Deco or tile .

The heart of the city is easy to find, most historic center streets will take you there. The Republic Square is famous for the Mercy Buiding and the fountain dated from the 16th Century as well as the old Town Hall. Not far away is the Romantic Cathedral and the Parish Church.

Facing the sea that made the history of Viana can be found a baroque church which houses the image of Our Lady of Agony , the fishermen´s  strong devotion. Leaves the church every year on August 20th to bless the sea,  one of the most colorful festivals in Portugal, known for the  women costumes beauty and richness.

Viana is known for the gold filigree  and has been able to maintain local traditions , as can be seen in the Museum of Costume  , the Municipal Museum  or Gil Eanes ship .

Built in the Shipyards of Viana do Castelo to support the cod fishery, the vessel  is here anchored as a symbol  of maritime traditions and shipbuilding city .

But Viana do Castelo is also considered a ” Mecca of Architecture “ thanks to many important names in contemporary Portuguese architecture signing equipment and spaces of the city . This is the case of the Liberty Square Fernando Tavora Library Álvaro Siza Vieira , the Youth Hostel in Carrilho da Graça , Jorge Hotel Axis of Albuquerque or the Cultural Center of Viana do Castelo , Souto Moura , among many others .

On the outskirts of the city it is possible to ride a bike or take a walk on one of the many marked trails, as well as surfing, windsurfing or kitesurfing and bodyboarding on beaches of fine golden sand. And do jet skiing, sailing , rowing or canoeing on the river Lima.

Viana do Castelo is an old city with modern views.