516 Arouca Bridge, Paiva Walkways and Aveiro Tour
Active
10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This unique experience combines adventure, culture, and gastronomy in a single day.
From crossing the impressive 516 Arouca Suspension Bridge and walking through the stunning Paiva Walkways, to tasting traditional conventual sweets and enjoying an authentic regional lunch with local Vinho Verde wine, every moment is carefully selected to showcase the best of northern Portugal.
The journey is completed with a visit to Aveiro, the charming “Venice of Portugal,” offering a delightful contrast between wild nature and coastal elegance — all with the comfort of seamless transportation from Porto.
Available options
AVE516
Pickup included
What's included
Tasting of local Arouca sweets
Local guide
Paiva Walkways tickets
516 Arouca Suspension Bridge tickets
Typical Regional Lunch
Hotel/port pickup and drop-off
Aveiro city visit
Detailed itinerary
1
Your day starts with a comfortable drive from Porto to the Arouca region. Before the outdoor adventure begins, enjoy a stop in Arouca for a delicious tasting of traditional conventual sweets (doces conventuais) — a unique local pastry heritage created centuries ago in Portuguese monasteries.
2
Get ready for a highlight of northern Portugal: the 516 Arouca Suspension Bridge, one of the world’s most impressive pedestrian bridges. Stretching 516 meters and hanging 175 meters above the Paiva River, it offers breathtaking views over dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and pristine landscapes — perfect for photos and nature lovers.
3
After the bridge crossing, continue with a guided walk along the Paiva Walkways, covering approximately 4 km of wooden pathways built along the river. This handpicked section delivers the best scenery of the Arouca UNESCO Global Geopark with an enjoyable, accessible route for most travelers.
4
In the afternoon, head to Aveiro, the “Venice of Portugal,” famous for its canals and Art Nouveau architecture. Enjoy some time in Aveiro admiring the local architecture or take the optional boat ride moliceiro (extra fee of 10 euros per person).
5
Midday, return to Arouca and recharge with a true regional meal: a traditional oven-roasted veal lunch (vitela assada no forno) paired with refreshing local Vinho Verde wine — a memorable taste of northern Portugal.
What's not included
Personal Expenses
Food and drinks, unless specified
Gratuities
Optional Moliceiro Boat experience in Aveiro
Available languages
Guide guide
PT
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
37 reviews
5★
36
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
252 reviews
5★
245
4★
7
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
A moderate amount of walking is involved (5Km)
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Climbing up and down many stairs is involved
Important notes
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Not recommended for participants with back problems
• Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions
• Please dress accordingly to the weather
• Please inform any specific dietary need
Hotel pickups commence prior to this time
About Porto
Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal, is a vibrant coastal city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine. With its picturesque Ribeira district, historic bridges, and world-famous port wine cellars, Porto offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and modern charm.
Top Attractions
Ribeira District
The Ribeira district is the historic heart of Porto, known for its colorful buildings, narrow streets, and lively atmosphere. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit for anyone coming to Porto.
Historical
2-3 hours
Free to explore
Livraria Lello
Livraria Lello is one of the most famous bookstores in the world, known for its stunning neo-Gothic interior and as an inspiration for J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series.
Cultural
1 hour
€6 (includes a book voucher)
Clérigos Tower
The Clérigos Tower is a iconic Baroque bell tower that offers panoramic views of Porto. Climbing the 240 steps to the top is well worth the effort for the breathtaking views.
Architecture
1 hour
€5
Dom Luís I Bridge
This double-deck iron bridge spans the Douro River, connecting Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia. The upper deck offers stunning views of the river and the city.
Architecture
30 minutes
Free
Port Wine Cellars
Vila Nova de Gaia is home to many of Porto's famous port wine cellars, where you can learn about the history of port wine and enjoy tastings.
Cultural
2-3 hours
€10-€30
Must-Try Local Dishes
Francesinha
A hearty sandwich made with layers of meat, covered in melted cheese and a special sauce, served with fries.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat and dairy
Bacalhau à Brás
A traditional Portuguese dish made with shredded cod, onions, potatoes, and eggs.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains fish and eggs
Tripas à Moda do Porto
A traditional Porto dish made with tripe, beans, and spices, slow-cooked to perfection.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat
Pastéis de Nata
Delicious custard tarts with a flaky pastry crust, often dusted with cinnamon or powdered sugar.
Dessert
Contains dairy and eggs
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Serra do Pilar
Kayaking on the Douro River
Sunbathing at Praia do Castelo do Queijo
Enjoying a port wine tasting
Visiting the Livraria Lello
Exploring the Ribeira district
Swimming at Praia do Castelo do Queijo
Boat tours on the Douro River
Best Time to Visit
May to September
This is the peak tourist season with warm weather and plenty of sunshine. It's ideal for exploring the city and enjoying outdoor activities.
18°C to 28°C
64°F to 82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Portuguese
- Widely spoken: English, Spanish, French
- English: Widely spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Western European Time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Porto is generally a safe city for travelers, with low violent crime rates. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in tourist areas and on public transportation.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight, especially in tourist areas and on public transportation
- • Be cautious when using taxis, and always ensure the meter is running or agree on a price before starting your journey
- • Avoid walking alone at night in quiet or poorly lit areas
Getting there
By air
- Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport • 11 km (7 miles) from city center
By train
Porto Campanhã, Porto São Bento
By bus
Porto Bus Terminal (Terminal de Camionagem de Porto)
Getting around
Public transport
The metro system is efficient and easy to use, with six lines connecting major points of interest.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Bolt, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Ribeira
Bolhão
Foz do Douro
Miguel Bombarda
Day trips
Braga
50 km (31 miles) • Full day
Braga is a historic city known for its beautiful churches, monasteries, and the Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary.
Guimarães
40 km (25 miles) • Full day
Guimarães is a historic city known as the birthplace of Portugal. It's home to a well-preserved medieval center and the stunning Guimarães Castle.
Douro Valley
80 km (50 miles) • Full day
The Douro Valley is a stunning wine region known for its terraced vineyards, port wine cellars, and scenic boat tours.
Festivals
São João Festival • June 23-24
Festa de São João • June 24
Porto Wine Festival • September
Pro tips
- Visit the Livraria Lello bookstore early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and long queues
- Take a port wine tasting tour to learn about the history of port wine and sample a variety of wines from different cellars
- Explore the historic center of Porto on foot, as many of its narrow streets and charming squares are best discovered by walking
- Try the local cuisine, such as Francesinha, Bacalhau à Brás, and Tripas à Moda do Porto, at traditional restaurants and cafes
- Take a day trip to the Douro Valley to see the stunning vineyards, visit port wine cellars, and enjoy a scenic boat tour on the Douro River
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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