Povoa de Varzim is a popular beach destination much-loved by the Portuguese people. While the town may appear to be a modern resort, the history of this town goes way back.
A popular stopping point on the Portuguese Coastal Camino de Santiago, archaeological finds including stone tools suggest that the Póvoa de Varzim area may have been inhabited as far back as 2,000 years ago.
So let’s take a look at things to see and do in 24 hours in Povoa de Varzim.
Beach Life
Povoa de Varzim has all the amenities of a modern beach resort including a buzzing nightlife during the summer months.
The city of Porto is only a metro ride away which makes Povoa de Varzim a popular place for a day trip to the beach.
It is the perfect place to rest up in the sun after a long day on the Camino.
Historical Centre
Like most Portuguese towns, Povoa de Varzim has a historical centre with an abundance of restaurants, bars, and shops. The Câmara Municipal (town hall) is the much-photographed building that sits on the Praça do Almada, the main plaza of Póvoa de Varzim.
Along the walkway of the Praia do Liexao are beautiful azulejos tile paintings (Painéis de Azulejos) that line the beach wall depicting the fishing heritage of Póvoa de Varzim.
One of the best activities of Castelo da Póvoa is simply strolling along the beachfront promenade.
Cividade de Terroso
While Povoa de Varzim has developed into a modern beach resort, archaeological finds including stone tools suggest that the Póvoa de Varzim area may have been inhabited as far back as 2,000 years ago.
The fortified settlement of Cividade de Terroso, built on top of the Monte da Cividade just inland from the city, was built in the Bronze age by the early Celtic Castro tribes. Today, impressive granite walls of a large number of circular huts along with defensive structures such as a citadel remain at the site.
Historical Buildings
The Castelo do Povoa sits above the harbour and once played a role in guarding the town against pirate raids.
The Igreja Matriz is the main church in the town – built in the baroque style, the building contains a beautiful rococo style altar.
The Póvoa de Varzim museum is housed in a traditional manor house which includes exhibits detailing the region’s history and displays artefacts discovered within the castle.
If you plan to walk the Camino de Santiago and need a little helping hand preparing for your journey, why not let me take care of the mundane, leaving you to enjoy the magic? I offer Camino Itinerary Planning on all Camino de Santiago routes.
If you plan to walk the Camino de Santiago, check out my book, A Wild Woman’s Guide To The Camino de Santiago. I share everything you need to know before you begin your Camino. Read at A Wild Woman’s Guide To The Camino De Santiago or click the link below.
(c) Samantha Wilson 2019. All Rights Reserved.
