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Looking for a day trip that’s a little different from the usual Braga or Aveiro recommendations? Just under an hour south of Porto, you’ll find a fascinating mix of colourful churches, charming streets, Atlantic beaches, and laid-back seaside cafés. This route takes you through some of northern Portugal’s most underrated spots and makes for a perfect day out by car.
Stop 1: Igreja Matriz de Válega
Start your morning at one of Portugal’s most extraordinary churches. The Igreja Matriz de Válega looks almost too beautiful to be real, with its facade covered in vibrant azulejos, intricate details, and splashes of colour that make it feel more like a work of art than a place of worship.
While the church itself isn’t large, it’s well worth the visit and offers plenty of opportunities for stunning photos. It’s one of those places that leaves visitors wondering why it’s still relatively unknown.
Stop 2: Explore Ovar
Just a few minutes away lies Ovar, a charming town often overlooked by visitors rushing between Porto and Aveiro. Take a stroll through the historic centre and you’ll quickly notice why it’s known as the “city of azulejos.” Colorful tiled buildings decorate many of the streets, giving the town a unique character.
Wander around Praça da República, admire the local architecture, and stop for lunch or a coffee break in one of the town’s traditional cafés. While you’re here, don’t miss the chance to try Pão de Ló de Ovar, the town’s famous sponge cake with a rich, creamy centre. It’s one of Portugal’s most beloved regional desserts and a must for anyone with a sweet tooth. My recommendation for a place to try is Pão de Ló de Ovar S. João.
Stop 3: Furadouro for a Seaside Break
After exploring Ovar, head to nearby Furadouro, a relaxed beach town where locals come to enjoy the Atlantic coast. If you didn’t stop for lunch in Ovar, this is the perfect place to settle into one of the seafront restaurants and enjoy fresh fish or seafood with ocean views. One of the most famous restaurants located on the way between Ovar and Furadouro is Oxalá.
After your meal, take a stroll along the promenade, grab a coffee, or simply soak up the sea breeze before continuing your journey. Even outside the summer season, Furadouro’s long beach and laid-back atmosphere make it well worth a stop.
Stop 4: Praia de São Pedro de Maceda
From Furadouro, head north to one of the most beautiful natural beaches in the region. Unlike many beach towns, Praia de São Pedro de Maceda remains largely untouched, surrounded by dunes and pine forests instead of apartment blocks and busy cafés.
Follow the wooden boardwalks through the dunes, listen to the waves crashing against the shore, and enjoy a peaceful walk along one of the wildest stretches of coastline near Porto.
Stop 5: Igreja de Cortegaça
Before heading back to Porto, make one final stop at another remarkable church. Igreja de Cortegaça couldn’t be more different from Válega, yet it’s equally impressive.
Where Válega dazzles with colour, Cortegaça captivates with its elegant blue-and-white azulejos covering almost the entire exterior. The result is one of Portugal’s most striking church façades and the perfect finale to a day dedicated to discovering the country’s rich tile tradition.
More day trips from Porto: Best Day Trips from Porto · What to Do in Póvoa de Varzim · What to Do in Vila do Conde
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