What to Do in Póvoa de Varzim

Why Póvoa de Varzim

If you’re living in Porto and looking for a charming coastal escape, Póvoa de Varzim is the perfect destination for a day trip. Just a short metro ride or drive from Porto, this seaside town offers golden beaches, fascinating history, and plenty of options for food, drinks, and activities. Here’s your guide to making the most out of a day in Póvoa.

When to Go

Póvoa de Varzim can be enjoyed all year round, but timing your visit can make a difference:

• End of June: You can experience the town’s lively traditional festivities during Festas de São Pedro, a celebration full of music, dancing, and local traditions.
• Summer months: Perfect for soaking up the sun and enjoying the town’s many beaches.

How to Get There

Getting to Póvoa is super easy:

• Metro: A convenient and affordable option for a stress-free trip from Porto. I recommend taking the “express” train to save time.
• Car: If you prefer more flexibility, driving gives you freedom to explore the surrounding beaches and countryside.

Beaches

Whether you’re looking to relax, swim, or enjoy some water sports, Póvoa de Varzim has plenty of sandy spots:

• Praia Redonda – Ideal for families.
• Praia da Salgueira & Praia do Quãio – Popular spots for sunbathing.
• Praia da Aguçadoura, Praia da Fragosa, Praia da Estela – More secluded options for a quiet beach day.

Historic Spots

Póvoa de Varzim is rich in history and architecture. Don’t miss:

• Farol da Lapa – A former lighthouse rebuilt into church.
• Painéis de Azulejos – Beautiful tiled panels throughout the city.
• Fortress of Póvoa – Offering a glimpse into the town’s defensive past.
• Rua da Junqueira – Charming streets with traditional shops.
• Praça do Almada – The town’s central square.
• Museu Municipal – Learn about local history and culture.
• Igreja Matriz & Igreja da Nossa Senhora das Dores – Stunning churches with rich histories.
• Póvoa Arena – This place served historically as a bullfighting arena with a strong importance of bullfighting in Póvoa de Varzim. Upon prohibiting the bullfighting in 2019, the place was demolished and new arena was built serving as an event venue.
• Cividade de Terroso – Located circa 12 minutes drive from Póvoa, this archaeological site offers insight into early settlements.

Where to Eat

Francesinha poveira

Did you know that Póvoa de Varzim has its own francesinha alternative called “francesinha poveira”? You can try it for example in Praia do Mestre, Guarda-Sol (where it was actually invented), ZÉ D’AMURA, or a bit more distant but popular União.

Other places

• Coffee & brunch places – Café Ritz, Bicho, Café Schmits
• Ice-cream, pancakes & pastries – Gelataria Mona Lisa, Cakes Folheta
• Tapas & snacks – Tapas do Varela, Lota Ibérica
• Traditional Portuguese dishes – Bodegão, Casa dos Frangos, Theatro, Casa Cecília
• International restaurants – Pasta La Vista (Italian), Momoda Table BBQ (Korean), Sakura (Japanese)
• Seafood – Lota Bar
• Sunset spots – Tertúlia, Sud Pizza & Drinks, éLeBê Póvoa
• Bar – Mary Janes

Other Activities

If still not enough, you can try one of the following activities in Póvoa:

• Casino – Test your luck at the local casino for some evening entertainment.
• Golf – Keen on golf playing? Then visit Estela Golf Club.
• Padel – Try Mais Padel for some sporty fun.
• Surfing – I Surf Portugal and 4490 Escola de Surf in Azurara offer lessons for all levels.
• Skate – Try skating in Parque Skate da Póvoa de Varzim that combines classic ramps and rails with a laid-back vibe near the beach.
• nina coop store – Visit this lovely store selling handmade products where you can also get a meal.

Where to Stay Overnight

If you decide to extend your stay, Póvoa de Varzim offers comfortable accommodations:

• São Félix Hotel – Located on São Félix Hill, this hotel offers an exclusive experience and unforgettable views.
• Floating Experience – Ever dreamt of staying in the boat? Then Floating Experience might be the right place for you.
• The One Grand Hotel da Póvoa – A modern and complete 4-star hotel in Póvoa de Varzim where you can enjoy a stay with personalized attention.
• Axis Vermar Conference and Beach Hotel – Handy beachfront hotel with everything you need.
• Tivoli Estela Golf & Lodges – If you search for a calm and peaceful retreat in the nature, then you found a right place.

Póvoa de Varzim is the perfect mix of sun, sand, and culture, making it an ideal day trip from Porto. Whether you’re into beaches, history, or local gastronomy, this coastal town has something for everyone.