Costa Verde

The Costa Verde, or Green Coast is Portugal’s oldest and most historic region, which embodies the northern coastline from the mouth of the Douro River in Porto to the mouth of the Minho River in Valença do Minho. As this region’s name suggests, here you will encounter verdant rolling hills, lush mountains, fertile valleys, and beautiful national parks.

Beginning at the south of this region, we have Porto (also known as Oporto). It is situated on the picturesque Douro River and is the capital of this region, not to mention the country's second largest city and it was also the European capital of culture in 2001. Porto offers visitor plenty to see; a large selection of museums, monuments and gorgeous parks and gardens. Its historic center is an UNESCO World Heritage site where one can marvel at some of the most varied architecture you will find anywhere, including the Cathedral and the Clergy Tower. Don’t forget to stop at one of Porto’s many romantic cafes and enjoy a cup of cimbalino, its special coffee or a glass of its famous Porto wine. If you enjoy wine tasting, Porto is the city for you. In fact there are numerous lodges and even wine tasting boat cruises on the Douro River. On the other side of this River is Vila Nova de Gaia, where you can find yet more lodges where Port wine is blended and aged.

Also near Porto are the seaside resorts of Espinho, Matosinhos and Póvoa de Varzim, which has a superb casino. A little further inland is the quaint town of Amarante, dotted with XVIIth century manors overlooking the river.

To the north of Porto is the city of Guimarães, known as the "cradle of the nation," because it was the first capital of the newly established kingdom of Portugal. It was also the birthplace of Portugal’s first king, Afonso Henriques, whose proud castle and well-preserved medieval quarter can be visited.

Slightly north lies the city of Braga, one of Portugal's main religious centers, most famous for its baroque Cathedrals, some dating as far back as the VIIth century. Braga is also known for its splendid XVIIIth century homes, exquisite gardens and parks, and the extraordinary flight of stairs at Bom Jesus in Braga.

To the west is the city of Barcelos, known for its ceramics, especially the "Cock of Barcelos" which has a unique legend. Besides the lively weekly market, you can visit the "Citânia de Briteiros" which is a remarkable archaeological site from the Iron Age.

Further north, between the sea and the mouth of the River Lima, is Viana do Castelo. Its beautiful historic town square with its narrow winding cobblestone streets and ancient monuments is a must-see. The Gothic XVth century Cathedral is one of the most beautiful places to hold a traditional Catholic Wedding Ceremony.

To the northeast, near the border with Spain, is Parque da Penada Geres, perhaps Portugal’s most beautiful nature preserve. This is nature at its best with approximately 270 sq. mi. (700 sq. km) of untouched and picturesque scenery, from dramatically high peaks to low wooded valleys. Amongst the rich variety of flora and flora, remote villages and calm rivers, you can practice a large variety of water sports or take long hikes in the verdant unspoiled mountains.

To the extreme north of the country lies the small town of Valença do Minho. The scenic Minho River runs through this town, which is enclosed by massive walls, from where you can witness the spectacular views of the Minho valley and the Galician mountains. Valença do Minho is also famous for its sparkling "green wine", numerous textile shops and its many historical sites.

For its charm, endless verdant scenery and genuinely friendly and hospitable people, the Green Coast is a lovely region for your Destination Wedding.

Regional Gastronomy:

Codfish dishes, stewed tripe with beans, pork cooked in wine, cumin and garlic, sweet egg pastries called "papos de anjo" (angel bellies), "Arroz doce" (sweet rice), sparkling green wine, Porto/Douro wines.

Regional Handicrafts:

Ceramics and pottery, copper and tin, embroideries, fabrics and terrycloth goods, jewelry, leather items, wicker and wood works, wrought iron works.