Nestled in the heart of Portugal’s Minho region, Barcelos is a charming town renowned for its deep-rooted traditions, vibrant handicrafts and rich cultural heritage.

This picturesque destination captivates visitors with its medieval architecture, bustling open-air markets, and the legendary Barcelos Rooster, a national symbol of good fortune and faith.

On this enriching four-hour tour, your expert guide will take you through the highlights of Barcelos, offering a deeper understanding of its history and culture.

Included:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Private tour
• Transport by air-conditioned minivan
• Porto City Walking Tour (available from the day after your experience)

Itinerary:

• Your expert guide will pick you up from your hotel, accommodation, or meeting point and drive you to Barcelos. During the journey, the guide will share insights into Portuguese history, development, and cultural heritage, with a special focus on the North of Portugal.
• After crossing the historic bridge over the River Cávado, you’ll arrive in Barcelos, one of the most emblematic cities of popular Minho art. This ancient city sits in an area with archaeological remains dating back to prehistoric times, but its recorded history truly began in the 12th century. Discover how this beautiful town was settled and developed over the centuries.
• By the end of the 14th century, Barcelos belonged to the famous nobleman Nuno Álvares Pereira, who later gave Barcelos as a dowry in the marriage of his daughter, D. Beatriz, to D. Afonso, the illegitimate son of King D. João I. This marked a period of great growth and development for Barcelos, evident in the construction of the bridge, city walls (including the Torre da Porta Nova), the Paço dos Duques, and the Igreja Matriz.
• A stroll around Barcelos must include a visit to the old fairground, now called the Campo da República, where you can explore the 18th-century churches of Bom Jesus da Cruz and Nossa Senhora do Terço. Here, Portugal's largest handicraft fair takes place every Thursday.
• If you miss the weekly market, be sure to visit the Ceramics Museum and the Barcelos Handicraft Centre, where you can gain a comprehensive overview of Minho's arts and crafts. The brightly-colored Barcelos Cockerel is the most iconic piece produced here, but don’t overlook the brass bands and figures that depict the region's customs and traditions.