Valença
Venture into Northern Spain on this private excursion to Santiago de Compostela from Porto, including a tasty tapas lunch and a visit to historic Valença.
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.
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