Vila Real - Discovering Portugal

Travelling to Vila Real

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Vila Real, a pretty good destination in Portugal (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Vila Real and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Vila Real, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Portugal, here's everything to know about Vila Real for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Vila Real

Vila Real is a city located in the northern region of Portugal. It is the capital of the Vila Real District and has a population of around 50,000 people. The city is known for its historic architecture, scenic landscapes, and unique gastronomy. Vila Real is surrounded by beautiful mountains, including Peneda-Gerês National Park and the Douro Valley. It is also home to several historic landmarks, such as the Mateus Palace and the Cathedral of Vila Real. The city is well-connected by road and rail, making it easy to access from other parts of Portugal. Additionally, Vila Real is a great base to explore the surrounding region and its many attractions.

What to visit in Vila Real

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Vila Real, Portugal and some information about them: 1. Mateus Palace - A magnificent baroque-style palace that is often called the most beautiful palace in Portugal. It features beautiful gardens and surroundings, and also includes a winery.
2. Cathedral of Vila Real - This cathedral is one of the most important buildings in Vila Real and features beautiful architecture. It is known for its impressive Baroque altarpiece.
3. Solar de Mateus - A beautiful manor house that is located near Mateus Palace. It is known for its stunning garden that is landscaped in the Baroque style.
4. Casa de Mateus Vineyard - A famous vineyard that produces high-quality wines. Visitors can take a tour of the vineyard and sample some of the wines.
5. Panoias - An archaeological site that dates back to the Roman era. It features the remains of a Roman villa and other ancient structures.
6. Corgo River - This river flows through Vila Real and is a great place for hiking, picnics, and other outdoor activities.
Overall, Vila Real is a beautiful city with a rich history and plenty of opportunities for sightseeing and exploration.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Portugal, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Vila Real.

When to go on holiday to Vila Real

The best time to visit Vila Real is during the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) when temperatures are mild and the crowds are generally smaller. During these seasons, the weather is generally pleasant for sightseeing or outdoor activities like hiking in the nearby mountains. Summer (June to August) can be quite hot, but it's a popular time to visit because of the fantastic weather. The winter months in Vila Real can be quite chilly with some snowfall, so it may be a good time to visit if you enjoy winter sports. However, many outdoor activities are limited during this time due to the weather.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Vila Real

There are several ways to get to Vila Real, Portugal: 1. By air - The nearest airport is Porto Airport (Aeroporto Francisco Sá Carneiro), which is approximately one hour's drive from Vila Real. From there, you can take a taxi, bus, or rent a car.
2. By train - Vila Real has a train station that connects to major cities in Portugal. You can take a train from Porto or Lisbon to Vila Real.
3. By bus - Vila Real is well-connected by bus to major cities in Portugal. You can take a bus from Porto, Lisbon, or other nearby cities to Vila Real.
4. By car - If you're driving from Porto, take the A4 motorway towards Vila Real. The drive takes about an hour. From Lisbon, take the A1 motorway towards Porto and then take the A4 towards Vila Real.
I hope this information is helpful. Let me know if you have any additional questions.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Vila Real, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Vila Real

Here are some typical foods of Vila Real, Portugal, along with a short description for each of them: 1. Posta à Mirandesa: This is a traditional beef dish that is popular in the region of Trás-os-Montes. The beef is traditionally cooked over an open flame until it is tender and juicy, and served with roasted or boiled potatoes.
2. Bola de Carne: This is a savory meat pastry that is similar to a meat pie. It is made with a bread dough and filled with a mixture of ground pork, diced ham, and spices, and then baked until golden brown.
3. Cozido à Portuguesa: This is a hearty stew that is made with a variety of meats and vegetables, including beef, pork, chicken, potatoes, carrots, and cabbage. It is traditionally served with bread and red wine.
4. Papas de Sarrabulho: This is a type of porridge that is made with blood sausage, pork, onions, garlic, and cornmeal. It is often served with fresh bread or rice.
5. Broa de Milho: This is a traditional cornbread that is often served with meals. It is made with cornmeal, flour, water, salt, and yeast, and can be either sweet or savory depending on the recipe.
6. Presunto de Porco Preto: This is a type of cured ham that is made from black Iberian pigs. It is aged for several years to develop a deep, rich flavor and is often served sliced thinly as an appetizer or used in cooking.
7. Arroz de Forno: This is a baked rice dish that is made with rice, chicken, chorizo, and vegetables. It is typically baked in a clay pot to develop a crispy, golden crust on top.
You can find general info about typical foods in Portugal here.

Is Vila Real an expensive destination for tourists?

Vila Real is not considered an expensive destination for tourists compared to some other European cities. However, prices can vary depending on your budget and travel style. Generally, accommodation and food are affordable in Vila Real, but some activities and attractions could be pricey. It's always recommended to check prices and plan your budget ahead of time to avoid any surprises.

Where to find accomodation in Vila Real

The best areas to find accommodation in Vila Real, Portugal are typically in the city center, especially around the Praça do Município and the historic district of the city. Additionally, there are several hotels and guesthouses near the university campus and the Parque Industrial da Cidade. If you are looking to stay more on the outskirts of the city, there are also a few options available in nearby towns such as Peso da Régua and Alijó, which are within driving distance of Vila Real.
You can check hotel prices at Vila Real here:
Booking.com

Is Vila Real a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Vila Real is generally considered a safe place for tourists. Like any other city, petty crime can occur so it is important to take normal travel precautions such as keeping an eye on your belongings, avoiding dark or isolated areas at night, and being aware of your surroundings. However, the crime rate in Vila Real is relatively low compared to other cities in Portugal. Overall, Vila Real is a peaceful and welcoming place to visit.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Portugal here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Vila Real.

What type of travelers will enjoy Vila Real the most?

Vila Real is a destination that will appeal to a wide variety of travelers. It is a great place for families with children as there are several outdoor activities and beautiful sights to see, such as the Mateus Palace, the Alvão Natural Park, and the Corgo Park. It is also a fantastic destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway, as it offers a calm and peaceful atmosphere, historic charm, and delicious local cuisine.
For young travelers looking for fun, Vila Real is not the most vibrant town, but it does have some nightlife options such as bars and cafés. Overall, Vila Real is a great choice for travelers who enjoy natural scenery, history, and relaxation.

How to get around Vila Real

In Vila Real, Portugal, you can use a variety of transportation options to move around. The most common modes of transportation are buses and taxis. There are also rental cars available for anyone who prefers to have a car to move around the area. Additionally, walking is often a good option within the city center, as well as cycling routes are also available for those who prefer to travel by bike.

What to see around Vila Real

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Vila Real: 1. Mateus Palace - a beautiful palace with a stunning garden and some antique pieces which hold historical significance.
2. Alvão Natural Park - an ideal place for hiking, exploring nature, and enjoying breathtaking views.
3. Guimarães - a charming town known for its medieval castle, historic center, and charming streets.
4. Fisgas de Ermelo - a scenic natural park with stunning waterfalls, hiking trails, and breathtaking views.
5. Amarante - an enchanting town with a rich history and beautiful architecture, including the 16th-century São Gonçalo Church.
6. Peneda-Gerês National Park - a natural wonder filled with diverse landscapes, natural rock formations, and vast wildlife.
7. Douro Valley - known for its scenic vineyards and wine tastings, this region is perfect for an enjoyable day trip.
8. Braga - a religious and cultural hub with numerous ancient churches and cathedrals, museums, and architecture.
Hope this helps!
For every travel information about Portugal you can click here.

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