Portugal Regions
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North East Portugal includes the following districts:
Alto Trás-os-Montes : Douro
- About North East Portugal
- Towns & Villages in North East Portugal
- Local Business Directory for North East Portugal
The Climate in North East Portugal
North East Portugal has a climate similar to that of the Spanish Meseta - with hot, dry summers and cool winters. The winter temperatures are mild compared to the rest of Europe and there is usually some snowfall but this is generally concentrated around the Serra da Estrela mountain range (the highest point on mainland Portugal).
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Average values
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Jan
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Feb
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Mar
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Apr
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May
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Jun
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Jul
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Aug
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Sep
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Oct
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Nov
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Dec
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max day temperature °C
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8
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11
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13
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16
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19
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24
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28
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28
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24
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18
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12
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8
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daily hours of sunshine
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4
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6
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6
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8
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9
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11
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12
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11
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8
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6
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5
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4
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About North East Portugal
This is a region of lovely, rural landscapes, historic towns and villages that remain unspoiled by tourism.
At the very north lies the remote, rural area of Trás-os-Montes (literally translates as “behind the mountains”). The landscape of wild countryside is full of mediaeval castles that were built as a line of defence against the invading Spanish and French armies. The lack of development and its remoteness has preserved the traditional customs and rich regional food which are prevalent in the mediaeval towns and small, isolated villages.
Travelling south into the Douro region, the beautiful mountainous scenery is dominated by the Serra do Marão - which is often snow-capped in winter. Here, the fertile valleys display a more “Mediterranean” character with olive groves, vineyards, soft fruit orchards and nut groves.
The mountainous landscapes here are popular with walkers. Historians will find plenty of historic castles and forts to explore - some stand alone in the countryside, others are located in mediaeval villages.
Towns and Villages in North East Portugal
- Bragança
- Chaves
- Freixo de Espada-à-Cinta
- Lamego
- Miranda do Douro
- Penedono
- Peso da Régua
- Sernancelhe
- Vila Real
Bragança is set on the edge of the Montesinho Natural Park, close to the Spanish border. Enclosed by a long fortified wall, its mediaeval town centre has been well preserved. The town square has one of the region’s Iron Age granite pigs – it is understood that there are some 200 of them scattered throughout region. The town’s 12th century castle has a military museum housed in its Keep, and close to the castle is a collection of whitewashed houses, an 18th century church and a 13th century town hall.
Approximate driving times to Portuguese Airports:
- Porto - 2 hours, 55 minutes
- Lisbon - 5 hours, 20 minutes
- Faro - 7 hours, 30 minutes
Since Roman times, Chaves has been a spa town and its warm waters are said to have healing properties. This pretty town has many buildings of architectural and historic interest, particularly surrounding the main square. There are numerous fine houses, several of which have carved balconies, lining the narrow streets of the old town. The town has plenty of bars and cafés serving local specialities and local wine. The River Tâmega is spanned by an impressive 16-arch bridge.
Approximate driving times to Portuguese Airports:
- Porto - 1 hour, 30 minutes
- Lisbon - 4 hours, 10 minutes
- Faro - 6 hours, 15 minutes
Approximate driving times to Portuguese Airports:
- Porto - 3 hours, 25 minutes
- Lisbon - 4 hours, 15 minutes
- Faro - 6 hours, 20 minutes
Approximate driving times to Portuguese Airports:
- Porto - 1 hour, 30 minutes
- Lisbon - 3 hours, 25 minutes
- Faro - 5 hours, 40 minutes
Approximate driving times to Portuguese Airports:
- Porto - 3 hours, 45 minutes
- Lisbon - 5 hours, 30 minutes
- Faro - 7 hours, 40 minutes
Approximate driving times to Portuguese Airports:
- Porto - 2 hours, 20 minutes
- Lisbon - 3 hours, 50 minutes
- Faro - 6 hours
Approximate driving times to Portuguese Airports:
- Porto - 1 hour, 20 minutes
- Lisbon - 3 hours, 30 minutes
- Faro - 5 hours, 40 minutes
Approximate driving times to Portuguese Airports:
- Porto - 2 hours, 20 minutes
- Lisbon - 3 hours, 50 minutes
- Faro - 6 hours
Vila Real is set close to the Douro valley where vineyards provide the grapes for the local wine and Port. This small, bustling town has some fine architectural buildings, including an Italian Renaissance building on the main street, a 19th century Town Hall building, the 15th century cathedral, a Baroque church and chapel. 4 kms east of the town is the beautiful Mateus Palace - famously featured on the label of Mateus Rosé wine – built in 1745 it is considered to be a perfect example of baroque architecture.
Approximate driving times to Portuguese Airports:
- Porto - 1 hour, 15 minutes
- Lisbon - 3 hours, 50 minutes
- Faro - 6 hours