It is one of the hidden “gems” of northern Portugal and a city we would recommend you explore if you have traveled to Porto. The natural landscapes, wonderful parks, impressive mountains, trails to explore and the tranquility that Aruka offers will make you fall in love with it at first sight. The history of the city dates back to pre-roman times and you will definitely have the opportunity to explore beauties that you will not find elsewhere.
Currency: Euro
Calling Code: +351
Nearest airports from city center: Porto Airport (75km), Vigo Airport (199km), Lisbon Airport (300km), Coruna Airport (350km).
TOP – 10 SIGHTSEEING
*** ARTE SACRA DE AROUCA MUSEUM (Largo Santa Mafalda, 4540-101 Arouca)
The wonderful museum contains many exhibits from the disappeared monastery of Arouca, collections of paintings, sculptures, furniture, textiles, etc. Its monastic housing will give you a special feeling during your visit.
*** AROUCA GEOPARK (R. Alfredo Vaz Pinto, 4540-118 Arouca)
Recognized as a UNESCO Global Network of Geoparks, you can see the Castanheira Nodular Granite (Pedras Parideiras), the Giant Trilobites Canelas and the Vale do Paiva Ichnofossils, among others.
*** PASSADICOS DO PAIVA
If you like hiking then you should visit this particular area of 8 km for a walk that will impress you because of the natural beauty. Walk next to quartz crystals, see the nature reserve and beauties related to biology, geology and archaeology.
*** AROUCA MUNICIPAL MUSEUM
See a unique exhibition space showcasing the city’s archaeological, agricultural and geological heritage.
*** TRILOBITE MUSEUM (4540-252 Canelas)
Enjoy the unique and special collection of fossils collected from shale mining hundreds of millions of years ago! In the space it includes the gigantism of trilobite species that are among the largest in the world.
*** 516 AROUCA BRIDGE
It is the longest suspension pedestrian bridge in the world, having a length of 516 meters and an altitude of 175 meters above the river Paiva.
*** AROUCA MUNICIPAL PARK
It is in the historic center and offers you peace and incredible beauty. See the statue of Queen Santa Mafalda and many other beauties of the park.
*** CASA DAS PEDRAS PARIDEIRAS
Visit the site to see the “Nodular Castaneira Granite” and take a walk around the granite to see the geological phenomenon “Pedras Parideiras”.
*** CHAPEL OF MERCY (Pç Brandão de Vasconcelos, 4540-101 Arouca)
It dates from the 17th century and inside you can see the beautiful ceiling with biblical scenes from the Passion of Christ.
*** FRECHA DA MIZARELA (Mizarela, 4540 Arouca)
Enjoy the 75 meter high waterfall and sit in the cafe and restaurant to see a unique viewpoint.
ΤΗINGS TO DO
*** Detrelo da Malhada is an amazing spot to take pictures and enjoy the view.
*** Garganta do Paiva is a must visit attraction to admire the natural scenery.
*** Aguieiras Waterfalls is also a spectacular scenery for nature lovers.
FOOD AND DRINK
Arouca has excellent cuisine. Codfish is the traditional food of Portugal and of course this city could not be an exception. It is also worth trying the Alheira which is a delicious Portuguese sausage, Caldo verde soup, sopa seca (soup), Steak covered with Queijo Serra da Estrela, the tripas à moda do Porto and the francesinha which is the typical sandwich of the city. Finally, try the Bolinhos de Bacalhau which are like cod cakes and the tarte de amêndoa or almond tart. For dessert, definitely try the Brigadeiro or Custard. Accompany your food with great traditional wine.
WHERE TO STAY
Τhere are few hotels in the city center for all budgets. You can find hotels or apartments in nearby places from Arouca at good prices.
FUN AND SHOPPING
*** In the historic center you can find many shops for your purchases.
*** Rua Frederico has several shops to buy and sit down to eat.
HOW TO GET AROUND
The most beautiful way to get around the city is on foot.
CITIES NEAR AROUCA
Major cities close to Arouca are Porto (64km), Aveiro (70km), Guimaraes (112km), Coimbra (113km), Braga (121km), Vigo (203km), Lisbon (308km), Coruna (357km).
