The Camino Portugues is the second most popular of the Camino pilgrim routes, stretching for over 600kms heading North from Lisbon to Santiago de Compostela. Today we introduce you to 6 beautiful cities on the Camino Portugues from Lisbon:
LISBON
Vibrant Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, is the traditional starting point for pilgrims on the Camino Portugues.
There is so much to see, do and taste in this superb city by the Atlantic Ocean before starting your journey to Santiago: wander the cobbled streets of Alfama, take in panoramic views from São Jorge Castle, admire the exquisite Manueline architecture of UNESCO-listed Jeronimos Monastery and the iconic Belem Tower, and treat your tastebuds to a delicious Pastel de Belem or Pastel de Nata.
COIMBRA
Lovely Coimbra was once Portugal’s capital and it is home to Portugal’s oldest University, and one of the oldest in Europe too, founded in the 13th century. Explore its charming Old Town, visiting the Romanesque Cathedral Se Velha, admiring its architecture and if you have time, pay a visit to one of the many great museums in the city; there’s even a small museum dedicated to Fado music.
PORTO
Colourful Porto on the shores of the Douro River is one of our favourite cities on the Camino Portugues; Porto captivates visitors with its charm, great food and laid back atmosphere.
Not to be missed in UNESCO-listed Porto: stroll the Ribeira riverfront, walk across the San Luis Bridge to Gaia built by a disciple of Gustave Eiffel, take a Port wine tour in Vila Nova de Gaia, climb up the 225 steps to the top of the Clerigos Tower for great views of the city.
It is here, in Porto, where the traditional Camino from Portugal splits, and pilgrims can continue their Camino journey along the coastal trail or take the classic inland tracks.
VALENCA-TUI
Valenca in Portugal and Tui in Galicia, are ‘twin towns’ eyeing each other from opposite sides of the River Minho. The towns are connected by the International Bridge over the River Minho since 1885, also sometimes called ‘Friendship Bridge’.
In Valenca do Minho, the 13th century fortress enjoys wonderful panoramic views of the river and the town’s former rival across the Minho. Across the river in Tui, you must visit the impressive Romanesque St Mary”s Cathedral and wander the cobbled streets of the old town. Valenca and Tui are located on the classic Camino Portugues route to Santiago.
BAIONA
The pretty coastal town of Baiona, in Galicia’s Rias Baixas, is a wonderful place to enjoy a sunset over the Atlantic Ocean and views of the Cies Islands after a long day walking the Camino de Santiago, while sipping a glass of local Albariño wine and local seafood delicacies.
It is believed this was the first port of call for the La Pinta ship in 1493, part of Christopher Columbus’ expedition across the Atlantic, bringing news of the ‘discovery’ of the New World. Baiona is located on the Coastal Camino Portugues route to Santiago.
PONTEVEDRA
Pontevedra is a charming little city and a hidden gem loved by pilgrims on the Camino Portugues. The historic Old Quarter is a maze of beautiful cobbled streets and pretty squares such as Praza da Leña, quaint buildings and archways resembling the Old Town in Santiago. The 18th century Virxe da Peregrina sanctuary, the Virgin of the Pilgrims, is a must-stop for pilgrims on their way to Santiago.
We hope you enjoyed our blog about 6 beautiful towns and cities on the Camino Portugues. Many of these places are included in our upcoming Camino Portugues Coach and Walking Tour and our Camino Portugues Guided Tours.
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