It's "impossible" to go to Viana do Castelo without a visit to Santa Luzia.
I've been there only once, and... went up, of course! It's not very representative (as a matter of fact it's a copy of Sacré Coeur, from Paris), it's almost empty,but it's interesting, and the climbing provides the best views of town.
Updated Aug 18, 2010
Praça da República is the main square in Viana Do Castelo.
It´s a pretty square surrounded by historical buildings and two fountains and you have a few cafes with outdoor serving there so it´s the natural meeting point if you are in Viana Do Castelo.
Written May 7, 2010
The santa luzia church is nesting above town and there is a fantastic view from up there that some would say is more interesting than the church itself, but it is a fairly interesting church build in the past century by portugese architect Miguel Ventura Terra.
the road up to the church is long and winding, but you have nice facilities up there with toilets and a couple of cafes so i would suggest that you go there by foot if you have the stamina.
Written May 7, 2010
Viana Do Castelo has a 17th century castle that was originally build to keep pirates at bay.
Today the exterior is still quite well preserved while the interior is being partly used by the local council for more practical matters.
It´s certainly worth taking a walk around it and there is no entrance fee to the place.
Written May 7, 2010
The harbour in Viana Do Castelo is still lively even if it is not as busy as it once was.
There is still a bit of fishing going on and there are also some freighter ships coming in aswell as many private yachts.
Strolling along the quayside is something i always do whenever i am in town.
Written May 7, 2010
The fabulous Basilica is dated from 1926; it is in honour to Saint Luzia. It ia a remarkable granite temple gradually constructed by local stone masons.
Around the Basilica you will find beautiful and pleasant gardens.
You can go up to the top of the Basilica and appreciate the amazing view over the town, the river Lima mouth and the sea, it is just extraordinary.
Updated May 1, 2007
This well-kept square is the heart of the city’s historic centre and it is a good starting point to explore Viana do Castelo. Some say that it is one of the most beautiful squares of Portugal.
Dominating the square, you may admire the 16th century fountain – Chafariz (not depicted on my photo, since it was under refurbishment and I choose not to shoot it).
The houses surrounding the spacious and traffic-less square are charming, being that most of them house commerce and cafes; these later provide nice esplanades to enjoy the sunny days. Two buildings outstand from the remaining: The Hospital and the City Hall.
Updated Aug 2, 2005
The costume museum (Museu do Traje) is located in Praça da Republica. There you will admire the colourful Vianese costume. In feasts, fairs and festivals in the region of Minho men and women dress this traditional costume. Take a look to my costume tip to see them.
Written Mar 13, 2005
Address: Praça da Republica
The historic centre of Viana do Castelo is quite beautiful, narrow streets and amazing monuments to admire.
Praça da Républica is the main square where you can find nice cafes, shops and beautiful buildings.
Written Mar 13, 2005
The Castle or Fort of Saint Tiago da Barra is a must see. It is located near the mouth of the river Lima, so you will have beautiful views from there.
This fort is a sixteenth century construction. It was built on the orders of Manuel I to help resolve the problems of pirates.
After exploring the fort, don't miss a visit to the headquarters of the Alto Minho Regional Tourist Board, which is installed in a building inside the fort.
Written Nov 20, 2004
Address: Viana do Castelo
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Reviews and photos of Viana do Castelo attractions posted by real travelers and locals. The best tips for Viana do Castelo sightseeing.

The Castle or Fort of Saint Tiago da Barra is a must see. It is located near the mouth of the river Lima, so you will have beautiful views from there.This fort...
17 members live in Viana do Castelo
Q: We are coming to Viana for 3 days in October prior to a couple of days in Oporto. We are coming from Vigo/Pontevedra. There...

A: I don't know if this is of some help, but if you can take a faster connection to Oporto then take a bus from Oporto to Viana ? Have a look at times :...
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The mountain, the river and the sea all meet in the district of Viana do Castelo!
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*** UPDATE *** I have visited Viana do Castelo recently, so the next few days this page will be updated, both photos and texts.
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Viana Do Castelo used to be one of the most important towns of Portugal back in the old days when Brazil was a portugese colony. The trade to and from Brazil very much went through Viana Do Castelo......
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Viana do Castelo is a nice city just at some 75 kms. away from Porto, so that, it's a perfect destination for a day trip. I'd say that all the important sights, except Templo de Santa Luzia, are in...
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Viana do Castelo is one of the most beautiful cities in North of Portugal. If you appreciate genuine, typical places then visit this city. I spent one full year there right after returning from...
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