Last Updated on 17th February 2023 by Sophie Nadeau
One of the most charming towns in Northern Portugal is that of Amarante, a settlement characterised by its impressive bridge and architecture that is typical of the European region. Set against the backdrop of the beautiful Serra do Marão mountain range and a plethora of gorgeous vineyards which produce vinho verde (a green wine that Portugal is known for), here’s your ultimate guide to the best things to do in Amarante.
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What is Amarante famous for?
If you’re wondering what Amarante is known for, then you’re in the right place. The Portuguese town is famous for its rich blend of Renaissance, Medieval, and Romanesque architecture.
As you will also see when discussing the best things to do in Amarante, the town is closely associated with the Christian Saint São Gonçalo, who was born in the town during the 1100s.
Today, many of the most famous landmarks in Amarante are named for the Saint. Nowadays, there is an annual festival dedicated to Sao Goncalo which takes place on the first weekend in June.
One of the more unique customs is that, during this time, bakers in the town make phallic-shaped cakes. It’s believed that women who venerate São Gonçalo will find love shortly after.
Another of the most famous people to have come from Amarante in the district of Porto is Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso. Though he lived until he was just 30 years old, he is now internationally recognised as a cubist painter, and several example of his works of art can be found in the local Amarante museum. Amarante is also believed to have been founded by the Roman Amarantus.
Why visit Amarante?
If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Lisbon or Porto city life, and want to discover q quieter pace, then you need to look no further than the charming town of Amarante.
Boasting several landmarks and tourist attractions, not to mention some incredibly beautiful vistas, the settlement has been inhabited since at least the 4th-century BCE.
Where is Amarante?
Lying in the shadow of the Serra do Marao mountain, Amarante is located in the North of Portugal, around 50 km to the East of the city of Porto. Driving time from Porto to Amarante is around an hour, making this charming town a fairly easy excursion from Porto.
Amarante also acts as an entryway to the Douro Valley and is a great place from which to base yourself to explore the wider region. for more off the beaten path inspiration, be sure to check out our guide to the best-kept secrets of Portugal.
Best things to do in Amarante
Ponte de São Gonçalo
Hands down, the most impressive architectural feature (not to mention the top attraction) in Amarante is that of the bridge of São Gonçalo. There may have been a bridge on site since as early as Roman Times.
However, the first attestation of a bridge in Amarante dates back to the 13th-century. The bridge you see today was a replacement bridge, constructed in the 18th-century after a flood in 1763 all but washed away its medieval predecessor.
The bridge’s historical importance means that it is now classes as a National Monument. The bridge of Amarante runs over the Taméga River and has one way car traffic so be careful when you cross, but be sure to admire the view when walking over it!
Walk along the Tâmega River
Asides from walking over the São Gonçalo bridge, one of the best ways to enjoy the beauty that Amarante has to offer is to stroll alongside the Tâmega River. There is a path which snakes alongside the river just below the heart of town.
Museu Municipal Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso
Despite being set against the backdrop of a former cloisters, the small Municipal Museum of Amarante is actually an incredibly modern attraction, with plenty of art from the 20th-century on display.
Highlights of the museum include pieces by numerous local Portuguese artists. A full-priced adult ticket costs €4.00, though there is free entrance every first Sunday of the month until midday.
Igreja de São Gonçalo
Easily spied from the bridge of São Gonçalo, the church of São Gonçalo is characterised by its Baroque architecture. The ecclesiastical building is dedicated to Saint Gonçalo (1187-1259) and has been classed as a National Monument since 1910.
Constructed in the mid to late 16th-century, the church is free to visit and not-to-be-missed highlights include the ornate High Altar, the final resting place of Blessed Gonçalo de Amarante, and the pipe organ. The views onto the river from the church’s envious vantage point are unparalleled.
Igreja de São Domingos
It’s definitely fair to say that there are quite a few churches in Amarante, and after the Igreja de São Gonçalo, one of the must see churches is that of Igreja de São Domingos. Located in the centre of Amarante, the church was built in 1725 and now houses a museum dedicated to Sacred Art.
Confeitaria da Ponte
For those with a sweet tooth, a visit to the Confeitaria da Ponte pastry and sweet shop (address: R. 31 de Janeiro 186) is an absolute must! The shop and café is open between 8:30AM–8PM every day of the week.
Producing traditional regional sweets since the 1930s, local delights include the São Gonçalos and the Papos de Anjo. The café even has outdoor seating where you can enjoy your sweets together with a cup of coffee and admire the 18th-century Ponte de São Gonçalo bridge.
Sample Vinho Verde
If you’ve never heard of Vinho Verde before, then you’re not alone. I hadn’t heard of this type of wine prior to my travels to Northern Portugal as this young green lightly sparkling wine is actually unique to Portugal.
Head to one of the many bars and bistros across town and you’ll soon discover that most of them serve up the opportunity to sample this local tipple in the form of tastings.
Please note that Vinho Verde can only be called as such if it is produced in Northern Portugal. If you’re looking for a small souvenir from Portugal to pack in your suitcase, then a bottle of vinho verde is always a great option!
Visit Aboboreira
Dolmens, tumuli, and ancient cairns litter the otherwise barren landscape atop Mount Aboboreira, a towering peak that dominates the landscape surrounding the pretty town of Amarante and that is covered in granite remnants, gorse bush, and scrubland.
Aboboreira makes for a great escape into nature, if only for a few hours. Easy to reach by car (or you can book a jeep tour like this one if you so prefer), these highlands are home to granite ‘tors’ (i.e. rocky outcrops) deposited due to the intense ice shifts during the last ice age.
Where to stay in Amarante
Thanks to its popularity, there are a number of different places to stay in Amarante to suit almost any budget and taste. Here are some of the best places to stay in Amarante based on web-reviews and location:
Budget: One of the most affordable and yet cosy places to stay is the well-reviewed Hostel and Suites des Arts. There are both dorm and private room options and the chance to upgrade to a room with a balcony. Check prices and availability here.
Mid-range: Those in search of an affordable luxury option when it comes to staying in Amarante will be quite spoiled for choice. This family-run guest house boasts features such as a pool and rooms decorated in a traditional Portuguese style. Check prices and availability here.
Luxury: For the ultimate luxury experience during your time in Tours, consider booking yourself a stay at this five-star hotel. Highlights include a pool, spa, and restaurant onsite. Check prices and availability here.
What to wear when exploring Europe
In the summer, you can’t go wrong by pairing a cute midi dress with classic white tennis shoes for a laid-back smart casual look that’s just as chic for walking around a city’s cobbled lanes as it is for wandering coastal paths. I love this dress and have it in several colour ways. In terms of tennis shoes, this is my go-to shoe.
When it comes to winter in Europe, most places (with the exception of a few islands) can get pretty cold and so warm layers is a must. I find that cute ankle boots like these ones are the perfect mix of practical meets cute.
Shoulder seasons (spring and summer) in Europe tend to come with a mix of rainy and sunny days and so, again, layers are a must. Trench coats and sneakers are the best uniform to explore the continent in.
Finally, a cross-body bag like these ones is a must. I personally use a crossbody bag by this brand and love its shape, size, and versatility. As well as being convenient and compact, it’s one of the safest ways to transport your valuables, all the while looking chic. I also recommend bringing along a travel adapter like this one so you can charge all of your electronics during your stay!
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Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.