Full-Day Portuguese Historical Villages Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore Linhares da Beira's medieval streets
- Discover the ancient Celorico da Beira Castle
- Enjoy scenic views of Beira Alta region
- Learn about Portugal's rich history
- Experience traditional Portuguese architecture
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Guided tour of Linhares da Beira
- Visit to Celorico da Beira Castle
- Transportation from Porto
- Meals and beverages
Itinerary
Your expert guide will collect you from your hotel/accommodation or meeting point and will drive you to the renowns historical villages of Portugal.
Situated on the western slopes of the Serra da Estrela, Linhares da Beira was originally a Lusitanian hill fort. In fact, the Montes Hermínios (this was the Lusitanian name for the Serra da Estrela), with its pastureland and abundant water supply and enjoying the protective shelter of the mountains, was one of the regions inhabited by this Iberian tribe, from whom many Portuguese people believe themselves to be descended. Flax (linho in Portuguese), which in the old days was one of the most important crops in the region, lay at the root of the name Linhares, which literally means flax fields.
In Celorico you will visit one of the oldest churches in the country: Church of Santa Maria The date of its foundation is unknown. Some authors believe that it was a mosque, at the time of the Islamic occupation of the Iberian peninsula. In the context of the Christian reconquest of the peninsula, in the 13th century, it was donated to the bishop of Guarda by Afonso III of Portugal.
Celorico da Beira is located 550 m above sea level, at the foot of Serra da Estrela and is crossed by the Mondego River. A visit to this area is a continuous discovery of centuries of history, in a mountain environment cut by streams and washed by crystal clear water, where granite predominates. The Castle, ex-libris of Celorico da Beira, of military architecture, romantic-Gothic style, (10th century), with an irregular layout, corresponding to the Citadel. Also visit the Igreja da Misericórdia, whose façade is a beautiful example of Joanine art, and which inside displays a rich high altar, as well as paintings by Isidro Faria. Also noteworthy is the baroque haughtiness of the Igreja Matriz de Santa Maria, built over the low houses of the old quarter of the Castle. In its narrow streets, a rare collection of Gothic portals and Manueline windows is worth mentioning.
Important information
Know before you book
- Tour operates in English; other languages may be available
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Not wheelchair accessible
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets
- Bring a camera to capture scenic views
- Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Stroller Accessible
- Easy Public Transport
- Infant Seats Available
Good to know
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- We pick up from any hotel in Porto or Gaia city center. In alternative, we can collect you from the Tourist Service/Living Tours located at Rua Mouzinho da Silveira, 350, Porto - next to Porto - São Bento train station.Reservation is mandatory and requires na emai request/confirmation. Bookings must be confirmed at least 48 hours befor the date of the servisse. Cancellations within 48 hours or less will be fully charged.
- Duration: the hours of duration are approximate 9 hours, The Tour is subject to local traffic, visit schedules, etc
- Reservation is mandatory and requires an email request/confirmation. Bookings must be confirmed at least 48 hours before the date of the service. Cancellations within 48 hours or less will be fully charged.
- The services included in the tours/wine estate visits, restaurants, etc) are subject to 3rd party availability and may change without prior notice.
- Please kindly be aware that the overall duration of the activity could be influenced by traffic conditions. We highly advise against scheduling any additional activities or making other plans within the hour following the anticipated completion time.
- Discover Porto in a unique way with a Free Walking Tour with Living Tours, available to all customers who book this activity. Our Free Walking Tour is available on a daily basis, in English and Spanish, at 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. departing from Living Tours Agency located in Rua Mouzinho da Silveira 352, 4050-418 Porto
Traveler reviews
A fun day
Bernardo our tour guide was wonderful, knowledgeable and funny. We went to two towns, Braga and Guimares full day trip. Enough time on our own and with others. Great day.
Excellent-Highly Recommend
Helios was an outstanding guide. His knowledge and passion was impressive.
Great choice for medieval times fanatics!
A beautiful day trip away from the hustle and bustle of Porto! You are transported back to another time with each of these villages! Wear GOOD nonslip shoes suitable for climbing and walking!
Best guide ever!!!
We had the best guide ever. Tjago guided us in English and drove bonuses. Both very professional and entertaining at the same time. It was an unexpectedly beautiful and well organized trip. Thank you so much!
Had a great day!
Had a nice day with a nice lunch, boat trip and port-tasting. And nice to have you on the road with a small group. Louis is a good driver and Luciano is a nice Guide who speaks good English and gives good explanations along the way.
