Amares
,Amares is a charming town located in the north of Portugal, known for its picturesque countryside and rich cultural heritage. The town is surrounded by lush green landscapes, offering plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring nature. Amares is also famous for its historic landmarks, including the 18th-century Church of Amares and the beautiful gardens of the Largo do Souto.
Visitors can enjoy traditional Portuguese cuisine in the town's cozy restaurants and cafes, making it a delightful destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
- "olá" - hello
- "obrigado" - thank you
- "por favor" - please
- "desculpe" - excuse me/sorry
- "até logo" - see you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $40 - $120
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Amares
morning
:Start your day with a visit to the peaceful and picturesque Bom Jesus do Monte. Enjoy the beautiful gardens and stunning views over Braga before indulging in a local breakfast.
afternoon
:After lunch, explore the historic center of Amares, where you can visit local shops and admire traditional architecture. Don't miss the charming Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição.
evening
:Wind down your day with a relaxing stroll along the riverbanks. Enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant, sampling local Portuguese dishes.
Cultural Encounter
morning
:Visit the Museu Medieval de Amares to learn about the region's rich history and culture. Take your time to admire the historical artifacts on display.
afternoon
:Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a café nearby, followed by a visit to the local artisan shops. Discover unique handcrafted souvenirs to take home.
evening
:Attend a local cultural event or performance if available. Experience traditional music and dance, immersing yourself in Portuguese culture.
Highlights
Good
- Beautiful natural scenery and coastal views.
- Rich cultural heritage with historic sites.
- Mild climate suitable for outdoor activities year-round.
- Vibrant local community with festivals and events.
- Access to fresh seafood and traditional Portuguese cuisine.
Bad
- Limited public transportation options.
- Smaller town might lack some urban amenities.
- Tourism can overcrowd popular attractions during peak seasons.
- Higher cost of living compared to some other regions in Portugal.
- Potential language barrier for non-Portuguese speakers.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking at Peneda-Gerês National Park
Explore the stunning landscapes and rich wildlife of Peneda-Gerês National Park, which offers a variety of trails suitable for all experience levels.
Visiting the Roman Bridge of Amares
Take a leisurely walk across this historic Roman bridge, enjoying the picturesque views of the river and surrounding nature.
Cycling along the river
Cycle along the scenic paths beside the river, perfect for both leisurely rides and more challenging routes.
Birdwatching in the local wetlands
Discover the diverse bird species in the wetlands around Amares, a great spot for nature lovers and photographers.
Kayaking on the River Cávado
Rent a kayak to paddle down the clear waters of the River Cávado, enjoying the tranquility and natural beauty of the region.
Wine tasting tours in local vineyards
Join a vineyard tour to sample the local wines and learn about the winemaking process in the beautiful surroundings of Amares.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Amares with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
São Bento da Porta Aberta Sanctuary
One of the most beautiful places in Amares, offering stunning views and photo opportunities.
Albufeira da Caniçada
A breathtaking reservoir with panoramic views, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Terras de Bouro Viewpoint
Offers a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding hills and valleys, ideal for capturing scenic landscapes.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Roasted Suckling Pig (Leitão Assado)
A local specialty, the leitão assado is a succulent and tender suckling pig, seasoned with savory herbs and slow-roasted to perfection. It is often served with crispy, golden-brown skin and tender, flavorful meat.
Must-Try!
Caldo Verde
Caldo Verde, a traditional soup, is made with finely shredded kale, potatoes, and a hint of chorizo, creating a heartwarming and comforting dish. It's usually served with a drizzle of olive oil and paired with crusty bread.
Bacalhau à Brás
Bacalhau à Brás features tender flakes of salted cod, sautéed with onions, thinly sliced potatoes, and bound together with scrambled eggs, resulting in a flavorful and satisfying dish that is a must-try for seafood enthusiasts.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Amares better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Mercado Municipal de Amares
The Mercado Municipal offers a vibrant display of local produce, fresh seafood, artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and an array of regional specialties. Visitors can savor the flavors of Amares by exploring the stalls and sampling street food, including bifanas (pork sandwiches) and pastéis de nata (custard tarts).
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greeting Etiquette
In Amares, it is common to greet with a handshake or a light kiss on both cheeks, especially among friends and family. Make sure to address people with their titles and use formal greetings, such as 'Bom dia' for good morning.
Dining Customs
When dining in Portugal, it is respectful to wait for the host to start the meal. It is also customary to keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows) and to say 'Bom apetite' before eating, which means 'enjoy your meal.'
Dress Code
Dress modestly and neatly when out in public, especially in more formal settings. In rural areas like Amares, casual and comfortable clothing is accepted but avoid overly revealing outfits.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Amares with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Amares, Portugal, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is common to leave a small amount of change or round up the bill in cafes and restaurants as a gesture of appreciation for good service. In more formal dining settings, a tip of 5-10% is considerate, though service charges are often included in the bill.
Payment
Payment methods in Amares typically include cash and credit/debit cards. Most establishments accept major credit cards, but it’s advisable to carry some cash, especially in small shops or local markets. Contactless payments and mobile payment apps are also becoming more popular.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Amares.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May)
Best time to visit Amares, Portugal. Pleasant weather, blooming flowers, and lush landscapes.
Summer (June to August)
Warm and sunny weather, perfect for outdoor activities and festivals. Peak tourist season.
Autumn (September to November)
Mild temperatures, beautiful foliage, and fewer crowds. Ideal for hiking and exploring the countryside.
Winter (December to February)
Cool and sometimes rainy weather. A quieter time to visit, with the opportunity to experience local traditions and cuisine.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Parque Natural da Peneda-Gerês
A stunning natural park with diverse landscapes, including mountains, valleys, lakes, and waterfalls, offering numerous hiking trails suitable for all levels.
Caminho de Santiago
Part of the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, this trail offers scenic views and a mix of natural and cultural experiences through the Galician countryside.
Trilho dos Picos
A challenging yet rewarding hiking trail that takes you through beautiful mountainous terrain with breathtaking views and unique rock formations.
Cárcere de Valdoeiró
A lesser-known hiking area featuring a mix of rural paths and woodlands, perfect for a quiet day outdoors surrounded by nature.
Serra do Gerês
A mountain range offering various trails, from easy walks to strenuous hikes, all featuring stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Amares through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Amares by plane.
Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO)
Located in Porto, approximately 65 km north of Amares, this is the nearest major international airport, serving numerous destinations throughout Europe and beyond.
Vigo Airport (VGO)
Located in Vigo, Spain, about 100 km northeast of Amares, this airport provides international flights primarily to destinations in Europe.
Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS)
Situated in Lisbon, approximately 350 km south of Amares, this is the largest airport in Portugal, offering a wide variety of international flights.
A Coruña Airport (LCG)
Located near A Coruña, Spain, about 150 km northwest of Amares, this airport serves both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Portuguese Nationals
The majority population consists of Portuguese nationals, primarily of Iberian descent.
Immigrant Communities
Includes residents from various countries, primarily from Brazil, Angola, and other Lusophone nations.
Elderly Population
A significant portion of the population is elderly, reflecting the aging demographic trends common in rural areas.
Youth Population
Youth individuals, including children and teenagers, make up a smaller but important demographic group in the region.
The Soul of Amares
Discover the essence of Amares through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
Football, or soccer, is the most popular sport in Amares, played by various local clubs and supported passionately by the community.
Basketball
Basketball has a growing following in Amares, with local teams participating in regional tournaments and leagues.
Athletics
Athletics, including running, jumping, and throwing events, is a popular sport in schools and local clubs, promoting fitness and competition.
Cycling
Cycling is enjoyed both recreationally and competitively, with many scenic routes in the region attracting cyclists of all levels.
Handball
Handball is a popular team sport in Amares, with local clubs nurturing young talent and competing in regional leagues.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While traditional Portuguese cuisine prominently features seafood and meat, many restaurants and cafes in Amares offer vegetarian and vegan options, including flavorful salads, grilled vegetables, and plant-based interpretations of classic dishes.
Gluten-Free Choices
For those with gluten restrictions, several establishments in Amares cater to gluten-free diets by providing gluten-free bread, pasta, and dedicated menu items to accommodate dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Amares with these cultural adventures.
