Viana do Castelo, located on Portugal’s northern coast, is a charming, family-friendly destination that offers a wealth of activities for all ages, from exploring the town’s historic center and museums to enjoying outdoor pursuits like beach-going, surfing, and hiking in the nearby hills. The Viana do Castelo Festival, also known as the Romaria de Nossa Senhora da Agonia, is an annual event held in August that celebrates the town’s fishing heritage with a colorful procession of traditional costumes, music, dancing, and a stunning fireworks display, attracting thousands of visitors from around Portugal and beyond. Here’s what you need to know for your family trip to Portugal:
Things to Do in Viana do Castelo With Kids
Here are a few ideas for things to do in Viana do Castelo with kids:
- Visit the Sanctuary of Santa Luzia. This stunning sanctuary is perched on a hilltop overlooking the city and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. There are also several gardens and a playground on the grounds, making it a great place to spend a day outdoors.
- Explore the Castle of Santiago da Barra. This medieval castle is one of the most iconic landmarks in Viana do Castelo. Kids will love exploring the castle’s towers, dungeons, and ramparts.
- Take a walk along the River Lima. The River Lima is a beautiful river that runs through the city of Viana do Castelo. There are several parks and walkways along the riverbank, making it a great place to take a stroll or have a picnic.
- Visit the Gil Eannes Museum. This museum is dedicated to the history of Portuguese fishing and whaling. Kids will learn about the different types of fish that are found in the Atlantic Ocean, as well as the dangers that fishermen face at sea.
- Go shopping in the old town. The old town of Viana do Castelo is a charming area with narrow streets, cobblestone lanes, and colorful houses. There are also several shops and boutiques selling souvenirs, clothes, and other goods.
- Enjoy the local cuisine. Viana do Castelo is home to a variety of delicious restaurants serving traditional Portuguese food. Kids will love trying dishes like bacalhau (codfish), francesinha (a sandwich made with bread, ham, sausage, and cheese, covered in a rich tomato and beer sauce), and pastel de nata (a flaky pastry filled with custard).
Things to Do During Viana do Castelo Festival
The Viana do Castelo Festival is a week-long celebration that takes place in the city of Viana do Castelo, Portugal, every year in August. The festival features a variety of events and activities, including concerts, parades, fireworks, and a food festival.
Here are a few ideas for things to do during the Viana do Castelo Festival with kids:
- Attend a concert. The festival features a variety of concerts, including performances by local and international artists. Kids will love dancing and singing along to their favorite songs.
- Watch a parade. The festival features a variety of parades, including a traditional Portuguese folk parade and a children’s parade. Kids will love seeing the floats, costumes, and music.
- See the fireworks. The festival features a spectacular fireworks display that is sure to wow kids of all ages.
- Visit the food festival. The food festival features a variety of traditional Portuguese dishes, as well as international cuisine. Kids will love trying new foods and meeting new people.
Where to Eat in Viana do Castelo With Kids
Here are some of the best places to eat in Viana do Castelo with kids:
- O Asiático: This restaurant serves delicious Asian food in a casual setting. There is a children’s menu with options like chicken nuggets, fried rice, and noodles.
- O Trevo: This restaurant serves traditional Portuguese food in a family-friendly atmosphere. There is a large outdoor terrace that is perfect for families with young children.
- O Sabor do Mar: This restaurant serves seafood in a charming setting. There is a children’s menu with options like fish and chips, grilled fish, and shrimp scampi.
- Adega do Luís: This restaurant serves traditional Portuguese food in a rustic setting. There is a large fireplace that makes it a cozy place to eat on a cold day.
- O Forno: This restaurant serves pizza and other Italian dishes in a casual setting. There is a children’s menu with options like cheese pizza, pepperoni pizza, and spaghetti and meatballs.
Where to Stay in Viana do Castelo With Kids
There are a number of great places to stay in Viana do Castelo with kids. Here are a few of my favorites:
- Hotel FeelViana: This family-friendly hotel is located in the heart of the city, within walking distance of all the major sights. It has a large outdoor pool, a playground, and a kids’ club.
- Pousada de Viana do Castelo – Historic Hotel: This historic hotel is located in a beautiful 17th-century building overlooking the river. It has a large garden, a playground, and a kids’ club.
- Fábrica do Chocolate Hotel: This unique hotel is located in a former chocolate factory. It has a chocolate museum, a chocolate bar, and a kids’ club.
- Casa do Monte de Roques: This charming guesthouse is located in the countryside, just a short drive from the city. It has a large garden, a playground, and a kids’ club.
- Apartamentos Senhora da Guia: These apartments are located in a quiet area, just a short walk from the beach. They have fully equipped kitchens, making it easy to prepare meals for your family.
When to Go to Viana do Castelo
The best time to visit Viana do Castelo is during the spring (March-May) or fall (September-November) when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists. The summer months (June-August) can be very hot and humid, and the winter months (December-February) can be cold and rainy.
Here is a more detailed breakdown of the best time to visit Viana do Castelo, based on your interests:
- For the best weather: The best time to visit Viana do Castelo for the best weather is during the spring (March-May) or fall (September-November). The weather is mild and sunny during these months, with average temperatures ranging from 15-25 degrees Celsius (59-77 degrees Fahrenheit).
- For fewer tourists: If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, the best time to visit Viana do Castelo is during the shoulder seasons (April-June and September-October). The weather is still pleasant during these months, but there are fewer tourists than during the peak summer months.
- For specific events: If you’re planning to attend a specific event in Viana do Castelo, such as the Viana do Castelo Festival, you’ll need to plan your trip accordingly. The festival takes place every year in August, and it’s a major tourist attraction.
How Long to Stay in Viana do Castelo
The amount of time you need to stay in Viana do Castelo depends on your interests and what you want to see and do. If you’re just interested in seeing the city’s main sights, you could easily do it in a day or two. However, if you want to explore the surrounding area, such as the beaches and mountains, you’ll need to spend more time.
3-Day Viana do Castelo Family Itinerary
Here is a suggested 3-day itinerary for a family trip to Viana do Castelo during the festival:
Day 1:
- Arrive in Viana do Castelo and check into your hotel.
- Take a walk around the old town and visit the main sights, such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria, the Castle of Santiago da Barra, and the Gil Eannes Museum.
- Have dinner at one of the many restaurants in the old town.
Day 2:
- Visit the Viana do Castelo Festival. The festival features a variety of events and activities, including concerts, parades, fireworks, and a food festival.
- Kids will love dancing and singing along to their favorite songs. They will also enjoy seeing the floats, costumes, and music.
- See the fireworks. The festival features a spectacular fireworks display that is sure to wow kids of all ages.
- Visit the food festival. The food festival features a variety of traditional Portuguese dishes, as well as international cuisine. Kids will love trying new foods and meeting new people.
Day 3:
- Visit the beaches in the Viana do Castelo area.
- Go surfing, swimming, or sunbathing.
- Have lunch at a seafood restaurant on the beach.
- Take a boat trip to see the dolphins.
This is just a suggested itinerary, of course. You can tailor it to your own interests and time constraints. No matter how long you stay, you’re sure to have a wonderful time in Viana do Castelo.
How to Get Around Viana do Castelo
There are a few different ways to get around Viana do Castelo. The most popular way is to walk or bike. The city is relatively small and easy to get around on foot or by bike. There are also a number of public transportation options available, including buses, taxis, and ferries.
- By foot or bike: Viana do Castelo is a relatively small city, so it’s easy to get around on foot or by bike. The city center is pedestrianized, so it’s a great place to wander around and explore the shops, restaurants, and historical sites. There are also a number of bike paths that wind through the city and the surrounding countryside.
- By bus: The city’s bus network is operated by AVIC and Transcunha. There are a number of different bus routes that serve the city and the surrounding area. Buses are a great way to get around if you’re on a budget.
- By taxi: Taxis are readily available in Viana do Castelo. They can be a bit expensive, but they’re a convenient way to get around if you’re short on time.
- By ferry: There is a ferry that runs between Viana do Castelo and Praia do Cabedelo. The ferry is a great way to see the city from the water and to get to the beach.
- By car: If you’re driving, be aware that the streets in Viana do Castelo can be narrow and winding. It’s also important to note that parking can be expensive in the city center.
