Lonely PlanetAug 6, 2026
3 places to go when Porto gets too busy
These cities near Porto offer a dose of Portuguese charm, without the crowds.
22 things in this story
- River Axe estuarySightadmire rowers and paddle sports
- Capela de Nossa Senhora da GuiaPlace of worshipwhite chapel with steps leading to sea view
- Praia da Senhora da GuiaSightsandy town-center beach with rocks and rock pools
- Santa Clara monasterySighthistorical highlight with aqueduct, converted to hotel
- OcultoRestaurantMichelin-starred restaurant in monastery cellars
- Lince Santa ClaraHotelhistoric hotel, spa, mini museum and restaurant
- Elsewhere
- Museu Arte NovaMuseumAveiro, Portugalart nouveau architecture museum
- moliceiro boatsPlaceAveiro, Portugaldecorated boats for canal tours
- ovo molePublic artworkAveiro, Portugalsweet treat that originated in the town's convent
- PeixinhoMarketAveiro, Portugalshop for local treats
- Costa NovaNeighborhoodAveiro, Portugalarea with beautiful white-sand beach and candy-striped palheiros
- Palacete de ValdemouroHotelAveiro, Portugalhistoric townhouse hotel, former home of novelist
- Largo República do BrasilNeighborhoodGuimaraes, Portugalboulevard with central gardens
- 10th-century castleSightGuimaraes, Portugalbuilt to defend the region from Viking and Moorish attacks
- Paço dos Duques de BragançaSightGuimaraes, Portugal15th-century palace with panoramic view
- Penha ParkParkGuimaraes, Portugalpark with pine forest and shady trails
- International Arts CenterSightGuimaraes, Portugalmodern building with gold blocks
- Centro Cultural Vila FlorSightGuimaraes, Portugalold/new mashup cultural center
- Casa António RochaSightGuimaraes, PortugalLe Corbusier–inspired housing complex
- torta de GuimarãesRestaurantGuimaraes, Portugalcrescent-shaped tart filled with almond and squash paste
- Largo da OliveiraNeighborhoodGuimaraes, Portugal
- Praça de São TiagoNeighborhoodGuimaraes, Portugal