Minho is considered by many to be the country's most beautiful province, known for its colorful festivals, baroque churches, well-preserved towns, and lush vegetation. It offers splendid opportunities for cultural sightseeing, with some of the country's most historic cities, including the country's first capital, Guimarães.

It is also home to one of the country's most beautiful cities, Braga, and the pretty town of Viana do Castelo. Other smaller picturesque towns such as Ponte de Lima and Ponte da Barca are filled with centuries-old traditions worth experiencing, as is the famous market of Barcelos.

Also of note is one of the country's most fascinating archeological sites, Citânia de Briteiros, the last Celtic stronghold in Portugal.

On the whole, much of Minho is stunningly picturesque, ending with more captivating scenery at the Peneda-Gerês National Park to the east.

The best way to tour the region is by car, although public transportation connects all the major towns and villages.

Top 5 Minho EXPERIENCES

1. Climbing the steps of Bom Jesus Sanctuary in Braga and admiring the city's baroque architecture.
2. Experiencing traditional Portugal in the pretty streets and colorful festivals of Viana do Castelo and Ponte de Lima.
3. Watching the world go by in the beautifully preserved squares of historic Guimarães.
4. Exploring the beauty and remoteness of Peneda-Gerês National Park.
5. Browsing through Barcelos' famous market and buying a ceramic cockerel hoping for good luck.

Places to Visit in Minho

Braga - The city of Baroque; the Portuguese Episcopal capital; a monumental staircase Guimarães - A medieval World Heritage center; a fascinating Celtic archeological site Viana Do Castelo - Elegant architecture; folklore Barcelos - One of Europe's largest markets; birthplace of a national symbol Ponte de Lima - Manor houses; a mythical festival Ponte da Barca - A lovely setting; a Roman bridge Gerês National Park - Early human vestiges within a magnificent national park