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The North of Portugal is located in northern Portugal, extending along the Douro River and into the lush, green Minho area. Renowned for its stunning vineyards, historic towns, and majestic landscapes, the region is bordered by Spain to the east and the Atlantic Ocean to the west. Some of the best hotels in the North of Portugal are located in Peso da Régua, Pinhão, Lamego, and Ponte de Lima, offering a perfect base for exploring the area’s natural and cultural beauty.
The North of Portugal region is famous for its breathtaking vineyards, rolling hills, and the iconic terraced landscapes of the Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The region is also known for its rich wine heritage, historic villages, and vibrant gastronomy. From majestic palaces like Vidago Palace to charming quintas such as Quinta da Côrte, the best hotels in the North of Portugal allow visitors to immerse themselves in its beauty and culture.
The best time to visit the North of Portugal is during spring and early autumn (April to June, September to October), when the weather is pleasant, and the vineyards are at their most scenic. Summer (July and August) offers warm weather for outdoor activities but can get busy in popular areas like the Douro Valley. Many of the best hotels in the North of Portugal are well-equipped for year-round comfort, making it a great destination in any season.
The best way to get around and reach the best hotels in the North of Portugal is by car, giving you the flexibility to explore the region’s vineyards, charming villages, and stunning landscapes at your own pace. Public transportation, including trains and buses, is also available for travelling between major towns like Peso da Régua, Pinhão, and Porto.
The North of Portugal region is celebrated for its rich, traditional cuisine. Typical dishes include Tripas à Moda do Porto (tripe stew), a historic specialty tied to Porto’s heritage, Bacalhau à Braga (salt cod with onions and potatoes), and Arroz de Cabidela (rice cooked with chicken and blood). Desserts include Pudim Abade de Priscos, a rich caramel pudding with a touch of bacon, and Toucinho do Céu, an almond-based treat. The North of Portugal is home to several Michelin-starred restaurants, such as Antiqvvm in Porto and DOC by Rui Paula in Folgosa. The best hotels in the North of Portugal can guide you to these exceptional dining experiences or recommend local restaurants where you can enjoy authentic flavours.
The main airport serving the North of Portugal is Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) in Porto, located approximately 1 to 2 hours by car from most destinations in the region. Additionally, Vila Real Airport offers regional flights operated by Sevenair, connecting Vila Real to Cascais (Lisbon Region) and Bragança, providing a convenient option for accessing the best hotels in the North of Portugal.
The North of Portugal region has a varied climate. Summers are warm and dry, with temperatures reaching 30°C (86°F) or higher, especially in the Douro Valley. Winters are mild and rainy, particularly in the Minho region. Spring and autumn bring pleasant temperatures and are ideal for exploring the vineyards and countryside. The best hotels in the North of Portugal are designed to provide year-round comfort, whether it’s relaxing by the pool in summer or enjoying cosy interiors in winter.
In our opinion, the best hotels in the North of Portugal are about more than just stars. We love finding special places, whether it’s a luxury quinta in the heart of the Douro Valley or a sports retreat in Viana do Castelo. On JO&SO, you can use our filter to explore the best hotels in the North of Portugal by type and perk, such as wine hotels, spa retreats, or hotels with breathtaking views of the river and hills.
“Sisters Joana and Sofia de Lacerda are the duo behind JO&SO, the most insider online guide to Portugal's coolest hotels.”