Things To Do
in Amarante

Amarante is a picturesque town located in the northern region of Portugal, known for its stunning landscapes along the Tâmega River. Rich in history and culture, the town boasts beautiful architecture, including the iconic São Gonçalo Church and the charming old bridge. Amarante is also famous for its traditional sweets and wine, adding to its culinary appeal.

Surrounded by lush hills and vineyards, it offers a serene escape for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Town
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the São Gonçalo Church, then wander the cobblestone streets to admire the local architecture.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a local café and visit the Amarante Municipal Museum to learn about the region's history.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant followed by a stroll along the Tâmega River, taking in the sunset views.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Hike the nearby Serra do Marão, experiencing breathtaking views and local flora.

afternoon
:

Return to town for lunch, and participate in a wine-tasting tour at a local vineyard.

evening
:

Visit a local bar for live Fado music, immersing yourself in Portuguese culture and cuisine.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15
Coffee$2
🚌Bus ticket$1.50
🏨Hotel night (mid-range)$60
🍷Bottle of local wine$8

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and historical architecture.
  • Rich culinary traditions and local wines.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • Some attractions may have reduced hours in winter.
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Portuguese speakers.
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you (male/female)
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Desculpe" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "Onde fica...?" - Where is...?

Places to Visit in Amarante

Visit one of these nice places.

São Gonçalo Bridge

A historic bridge that offers stunning views of the river and the town's skyline.

Amarante Riverfront

A picturesque spot to capture the tranquility of the river and surrounding landscapes.

Historic Center

The charming streets and traditional architecture provide countless opportunities for beautiful photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in Amarante

Amarante offers a delightful culinary scene that showcases the flavors of northern Portugal, with an emphasis on local ingredients and traditional recipes.

Amarante Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Torta de Amarante

A sweet pastry made with eggs and almonds, often enjoyed with coffee.

Must-Try!

Posta de Vitela

Grilled veal steak, a regional specialty served with local sides.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Amarante Market

A vibrant market held weekly, featuring fresh local produce, cheeses, and meats.

Street Food Stalls

Look out for stalls selling local chouriço and grilled sardines, especially during festivals.

Climate Guide

Weather

Amarante experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures generally hover around 5-10°C (41-50°F). Rainfall is more common in the autumn and winter months, making spring and summer the best times for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake is common, and it's polite to greet shopkeepers when entering.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you do, and try to keep your hands on the table.

Dress Code

Dress modestly when visiting churches and religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Amarante is considered a safe town for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night.

Tipping in Amarante

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is common.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but having cash is useful for small vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and various local festivals celebrating the season.

Summer

Warm weather is ideal for outdoor activities, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage make it a scenic time to explore.

Winter

Cold and occasionally snowy, winter is quiet, but the festive lights and local sweets create a cozy atmosphere.

Nightlife Guide

Amarante at Night

Amarante's nightlife is laid-back yet vibrant, with a mix of local bars, live music venues, and Fado performances. The bars tend to be cozy, offering a great selection of local wines and spirits. During weekends, especially in summer, the town comes alive with outdoor events and music festivals, attracting both locals and visitors.

Hiking in Amarante

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilho do Marão

A scenic trail in the Serra do Marão, offering varied terrain and panoramic views.

Rota da Água

A trail that follows the Tâmega River, perfect for a peaceful hike with beautiful scenery.

Airports

How to reach Amarante by plane.

Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO)

Located approximately 70 km from Amarante, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, making it the primary airport for travelers visiting the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Amarante is highly walkable, with most attractions located within a short distance of each other. The town's charming streets and riverfront paths encourage leisurely strolls. However, some hilly areas may require moderate physical exertion.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

Predominantly Portuguese, the local population is known for its hospitality and cultural pride.

Tourists

Visitors come from various regions, including Europe and beyond, drawn by the town's charm and natural beauty.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is incredibly popular in Amarante, with local teams fostering community spirit.

Basketball

The town has a strong basketball culture, with many youth programs promoting the sport.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Amarante is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include local buses, but services may be limited, especially on weekends.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Amarante.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's good to ask about meat stocks used in soups.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited, so it's advisable to inquire about specific dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Amarante is generally good, with access to hospitals and clinics. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and many pharmacies provide basic medical supplies and advice.

Discover Portugal

Read more in our Portugal 2025 Travel Guide.

Portugal Travel Guide