Amarante is a charming town in northern Portugal, picturesquely situated on the Tâmega River. It is known for its beautiful medieval bridge and its baroque churches, including the famous Church of São Gonçalo, which is a place of pilgrimage. Amarante is also famous for its delicious local sweets, such as “papos de anjo” and “toucinho do céu,” which are popular throughout the region. It is also worth mentioning that the town is associated with the life and work of the painter and poet Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso, one of the most famous Portuguese avant-garde artists. Every year, in June, Amarante hosts the São Gonçalo Festival, during which you can see traditional dances and parades, as well as taste regional specialties.
What to see in Amarante?
After arriving in Amarante, the first thing I did was to go up the Ponte Nova Bridge to admire the view of the old part of town, the medieval bridge and the Church of São Gonçalo. A great place for a souvenir photo. A huge attraction was a walk through the streets of the city and the medieval bridge of São Gonçalo. There are several interesting monuments worth visiting in Amarante, here are the most important ones:
1. Church and Monastery of São Gonçalo – A baroque complex dedicated to Saint Gonçalo, the patron saint of Amarante, which is a place of pilgrimage and an important symbol of the city.
2. São Gonçalo Bridge – A 16th-century stone bridge that played a key role during the French invasion of 1809, becoming the site of important battles.
3. São Domingos Church – A former Dominican monastery, built in a Gothic-Manueline style, with an impressive interior.
4. Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso Museum – A museum dedicated to the famous Portuguese avant-garde artist born in Amarante.
5. Solar dos Magalhães – A ruined palace, burned during the Napoleonic invasion, which reminds us of the city’s difficult history.
6. Igreja de São Pedro – An 18th-century church, distinguished by its Baroque façade and beautiful interior with rich decoration.
What to do in Amarante?
1. Walk along the Tâmega River – The picturesque riverfront is perfect for a leisurely stroll, with views of the São Gonçalo Bridge and the city’s historic buildings.
2. Tâmega River Cruise – Experience the city and its surroundings from the river on a leisurely cruise. Check out the available cruises.
3. Caldelas de Aregos – Thermal springs near Amarante, known for their healing properties, perfect for relaxation.
4. Alvão Natural Park – Located near Amarante, this park offers hiking trails among waterfalls, gorges and scenic mountain landscapes.
5. São Gonçalo Festival – An annual celebration in June in honor of the city’s patron saint. The festival is full of parades, music and traditional dances.
Where to eat in Amarante?
Here are three restaurants in Amarante that serve Portuguese cuisine and are worth a visit. Restaurante Pena Amarante and Pobre Tolo offer traditional Portuguese cuisine and have good reviews from visitors. Adega Kilowatt is a cozy restaurant serving Portuguese dishes and wines at affordable prices, perfect for those looking for a cheaper meal.
Where to book accommodation in Amarante?
There is no shortage of accommodation in the town of Amarante and its surroundings, you can choose from low-budget options such as hostels, look for private accommodation or hotels. An interesting accommodation option is agritourism farms or even vineyards. I’ll throw you a few ideas.
Casa do Fontanário Stay
At Casa do Fontanário Stay, each accommodation has a fully equipped kitchen with a dining table, as well as a private bathroom with a shower, free toiletries and a hairdryer. Bike rental is also available, and the area is popular for trekking, fishing and cycling.
Mimo House
Mimo House is located in Amarante and offers air conditioning, a patio and free Wi-Fi. The area around the holiday home is ideal for trekking and fishing. Guests can enjoy a balcony. The holiday home features a terrace, a bedroom, a living room, a kitchen with standard equipment and several bathrooms with a shower and a bathtub. Guests can enjoy city views. A flat-screen TV with satellite channels is also provided. Towels and bed linen are provided.
Mimo House
Oliveiras Village — Agroturismo
Oliveiras Village — Agroturismo is located in Amarante and offers various accommodation units with air conditioning. Free WiFi is provided throughout the property. Private parking is available on site. Each unit has a fully equipped kitchenette with a dining table, as well as a private bathroom with a shower, free toiletries and a hairdryer. A TV is also provided. Some units feature a terrace or balcony with mountain or pool views. Guests can swim in the outdoor pool.
Monverde – Wine Experience Hotel – by Unlock Hotels
Monverde – Wine Experience Hotel – by Unlock Hotels offers accommodation in Telões. Free WiFi is available and a seasonal outdoor pool is available on site. Other facilities include a games room, a restaurant and a bar. Free private parking is available on site. All rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV. Some units feature a terrace or a balcony. Each room is equipped with a private bathroom with a bath or shower and a bidet. Bathrobes, slippers, free toiletries and a hairdryer are also provided. There is a 24-hour front desk and a gift shop on site. The spa at Monverde – Wine Experience offers relaxing treatments and massages. Guests have free access to the indoor pool, sauna and Turkish bath.
