Valença is a charming fortified town in northern Portugal that sits directly on the border with Spain. It sits on the northern bank of the Minho River, directly across from the Spanish town of Tui, and the two are connected by an international bridge. Due to its strategic location, it has historically served as a key defensive position and is dominated by a vast, star-shaped defensive complex, the Fortaleza de Valença. The fortress was built primarily in the 17th-18th centuries, though some of its fortifications are thought to date back to the 13th century.
The historic is located entirely within the fortress walls and is characterised by narrow cobblestone streets and well-preserved historic buildings, including the Romanesque and Gothic-style Igreja de Santo Estêvão. Visitors can admire the emblematic granite architecture typical of Northern Portugal and browse a wealth of traditional shops selling textiles, linens, local crafts, and delicacies like chouriço and vinho verde.
Directly above Portugal, just over an hour’s drive from Porto, you can find the gorgeous region of Galicia, an intriguing corner of Northern Spain known for its lush green landscapes, rugged coastline and the sacred city of Santiago de Compostela. The final destination of the legendary ‘Way of St. James’, a major Christian pilgrimage route since the 9th Century, Santiago’s well-preserved historic centre and stunning cathedral create a truly unique atmosphere, transporting visitors to a bygone era. Our private full-day driving tour from Porto is perfect for visitors looking to see more of the Iberian Peninsula, stepping into one of Spain’s most historic cities and showing off the intriguing town of Valença at the crossroads between 2 countries.
On this private full-day trip, you will:
Embark on a captivating private full-day trip from Porto that takes you across borders, both geographic and cultural, into the heart of Iberian heritage. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local driver-guide well-versed in Portuguese and Spanish history, you'll travel north into Galicia, retracing the steps of countless pilgrims who for centuries have made their way along the legendary Camino de Santiago (Way of St. James). As the road winds toward Santiago de Compostela, your guide will bring to life the epic story of Saint James, the apostle whose remains are said to rest at the city’s awe-inspiring cathedral. Along the way, you’ll gain insights into the spiritual and historical significance of the Way of St. James, one of Europe’s most important pilgrimage routes, and its lasting influence on both Spanish and Portuguese identity.
Upon arrival in Santiago, you'll explore the city’s atmospheric old town, an enchanting maze of stone lanes, ancient churches, and bustling squares that have earned UNESCO World Heritage status. At the heart of it all lies the magnificent Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, where your guide can point out hidden details in its intricate facade, which is a remarkable fusion of Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, and Neoclassical styles, a testament to the cathedral's long and eventful history. You’ll then have some free time to discover the city at your own pace, perhaps browsing local artisan shops, soaking in the vibrant café culture, or stepping inside the cathedral to experience the pilgrims’ mass, a moving ritual that continues to draw the faithful and curious from around the globe.
No visit to Santiago is complete without a delicious Galician tapas lunch, so you’ll enjoy the region’s rich culinary traditions at a charming local restaurant before continuing your adventure back down into Portugal. In the afternoon, you'll stop in the captivating border town of Valença do Minho, the final Portuguese outpost before Spain. Dominated by its striking star-shaped fortress, Valença has played a vital role in centuries of cross-border conflict and cooperation. Within the fortress walls, you’ll stroll through narrow medieval streets lined with traditional shops and take in sweeping views across the Minho River to the Spanish town of Tui. As your guide shares tales of resilience and alliance, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the shared yet distinct histories of Portugal and Galicia.
By day’s end, you’ll return to Porto not only having explored two countries in one day but with a richer understanding of the Camino, its cultural legacy, and the strong ties that bind Portugal and Spain.
Venture beyond the familiar and discover Vinho Verde, an elegant wine region where crisp, youthful wines are born from granite-rich soils, a cool Atlantic breeze, and generations of artisanal expertise. For wine lovers visiting Portugal, tasting these vibrant, light-bodied and often slightly effervescent wines is an absolute must, and our private full-day excursion from Porto takes you on a delectable journey of discovery, visiting 2 exceptional wine estates and introducing you to the region’s lush landscapes and historic towns.
On this full-day excursion from Porto, you will:
Set off from Porto for an adventure through the lush and enchanting landscapes of Portugal’s Vinho Verde wine region, where centuries-old traditions meet vibrant flavours and stunning scenery. After a comfortable hotel pickup, your expert local guide will lead you on a pleasant drive north, weaving through rolling green hills and vine-covered valleys on the way towards Portugal’s northern frontier. Your first stop is the beautiful town of Arcos de Valdevez, nestled on the banks of the River Vez. Here, you'll enjoy a relaxed stroll through its charming streets, taking in the traditional granite architecture and tranquil riverside views that reflect the slow pace and authenticity of life in the Minho province, home of the Vinho Verde DOC.
You’ll then make your way to Melgaço, one of the most celebrated subregions for Alvarinho wines. At a renowned estate, you’ll tour the vineyard and cellar while learning about the unique terroir and winemaking methods that make Vinho Verde so distinctive. You will then enjoy a guided tasting of crisp, aromatic wines that set the tone for the day’s delicious discoveries. After the tasting, you’ll go for a leisurely traditional lunch at a local restaurant where the rustic cuisine of northern Portugal takes centre stage. You can expect hearty flavours, fresh ingredients, and perfect pairings with regional wines.
After lunch, you’ll be immersed in local history with a visit to Valença do Minho, a striking fortified town perched on the Spanish border. Your guide will lead you through the imposing star-shaped fortress, regaling you with stories of centuries of battles to defend the territory from Spanish invaders. You’ll also have the opportunity to browse artisanal shops and enjoy panoramic views across the River Minho into Spain. Later, your guide will take you into the heart of the Lima Valley at a second esteemed winery near Ponte de Lima, known for its elegant wines made from autochthonous Loureiro grapes. You will enjoy another guided tasting and vineyard visit that will deepen your appreciation for the region’s diversity of grape varieties and winemaking styles.
As your tour comes to a close, you can relax on the return drive to Porto, captivated by new flavours, landscapes and intriguing stories from one of Portugal’s most extraordinary wine regions.
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