Amarante is known as the city of Vinho Verde, a young white wine, dry and somewhat effervescent.
That alone would be a great reason to visit this small town located 50 km away from Porto, but there’s more!
This charming village is full of history, calming landscapes and beautiful places to visit. Here are our top 3 things to do during your visit to Amarante:
1. It is impossible to go to Amarante and miss the gorgeous São Gonçalo Church and Convent, dated from the 16th century. The convent was built in a place where a small medieval chapel dedicated to São Gonçalo de Amarante existed. A curious fact: inside the church, you can see this saint’s grave.
2. On your way to the church, cross the renewed medieval bridge (also named after São Gonçalo) and take a lot of pictures of the Tâmega river – a beautiful river that comes all the way from Spain and ends at the Douro river. Enjoy the views and the relaxing atmosphere.
3. Take some time to visit the Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso Museum, located in the Convent since 1947. It’s collection focuses on Portuguese Modern Art, mainly paintings and sculptures and has works of great national artists like António Carneiro, Acácio Lino, Teixeira de Pascoaes, Agustina Bessa and, of course, Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso. Tickets cost 1€.
And, of course, don’t forget to try the famous Vinho Verde that goes especially well with the local food: codfish, veal, and lamb. Get lost in the narrow medieval streets of Amarante and you’ll surely find a great place to eat like royalty! If you’re still felling hungry after returning to Porto, catch a Food Tour with Wine Tasting with us! ;)
Want to discover other destinations to visit near Porto? Check all the posts in our Outside Porto section: Guimarães and Barcelos.
