What to see and do in Chaves, Portugal: A complete 2-day itinerary

Introduction: A Timeless Escape in Northern Portugal

Not all travel memories come from famous cities. Sometimes, the quietest places leave the strongest impression. Chaves is one of those places.

Located near the Spanish border, this peaceful town in northern Portugal offers history, hot springs, and traditional food. It doesn’t try to impress with big crowds or fast pace. Instead, it invites you to walk slowly, eat well, and enjoy simple pleasures.

While many travelers stick to Lisbon or Porto, Chaves rewards those who explore inland. For example, you can walk across a Roman bridge, soak in natural thermal water, or try a pastry with centuries of history. In addition, the friendly locals make the experience even richer.

This two-day itinerary is perfect for travelers who enjoy culture, food, and relaxed rhythms. With each step, you’ll discover that Chaves is not only worth visiting — it’s worth remembering.

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Why Visit Chaves?

Chaves combines culture, calm, and charm. Its highlights include:

• A Roman bridge still used today
• Natural thermal water with healing properties
• Authentic local dishes
• Quiet parks and river walks
• Easy access to nearby villages

As a result, the town is perfect for slow travel lovers looking for deeper experiences.

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Day 1: History, Hot Springs, and River Views

Morning: Roman Roots and City Strolls

Start your morning at the Roman Bridge (Ponte de Trajano).
Built nearly 2,000 years ago, this bridge still connects both sides of the city. It features twelve stone arches and inscriptions in Latin. These details give you a clear sense of Chaves’ Roman heritage.

Next, explore the old town on foot.
Wander the cobbled streets around Praça Camões and Rua Direita. You’ll pass tiled houses, small churches, and traditional cafés. Make time to visit:

• The Church of Misericórdia, with its baroque altar
• The castle tower, offering panoramic views

Opening hours are usually 9:00 to 18:00. Most places are free or charge a small fee (around €2).

Lunch: Traditional Flavours

After sightseeing, enjoy a regional meal. Popular dishes include:

• Posta à Mirandesa (grilled beef steak)
• Papas de Sarrabulho (a pork and bread stew)

Places like Taberna Benito and Restaurante Carvalho offer a cozy setting. In addition, local red wine pairs well with these hearty dishes.

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Afternoon: Thermal Waters

Spend your afternoon relaxing in thermal baths.
Chaves has been known for its hot springs since Roman times. Today, you can choose between:

• The modern Termas de Chaves Spa
• The casual Piscinas de Água Quente

Water temperatures reach around 73°C. Prices start at €10 and go up depending on the treatment. To avoid waiting, it’s best to book in advance.

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Evening: A Riverside Walk and a Classic Pastry

End the day with a peaceful walk along the river.
The Tâmega River path is flat, quiet, and perfect for sunset photos. Locals often walk here after dinner.

Don’t leave without trying the famous Pastel de Chaves.
This flaky pastry filled with meat is sold all over town. Pastelaria Maria is one of the best places to try the original version. It’s light, warm, and made fresh each day.

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Day 2: Market Life, Nature, and Local Colour

Morning: Markets and Culture

Start your morning at the Municipal Market.
This indoor market is full of local produce, cheeses, and cured meats. You’ll also find olives, bread, and honey made nearby. For slow travelers, it’s the perfect place to observe local life.

Open: Early morning to 13:00
Location: Avenida Dom João I

If it’s Saturday, visit the Feira Semanal.
This outdoor fair stretches along the river and offers everything from clothes to vegetables. In fact, it’s one of the most vibrant weekly events in town.

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Lunch: Park Picnic or Restaurant Rest

For a picnic, head to Parque do Tabolado.
This riverside park offers plenty of space, trees for shade, and a relaxing vibe. Bring your market finds and enjoy lunch like a local.

Alternatively, try a cozy restaurant nearby.
Adega Faustino is known for honest food, friendly service, and generous portions. It’s a good option if the weather doesn’t invite outdoor meals.

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Afternoon: Nature or Nearby Exploration

Option 1: Enjoy Chaves’ green spaces.
Walk through Parque das Termas or Jardim do Bacalhau. Both parks are peaceful and filled with old trees. As a result, they’re ideal for reading, relaxing, or quiet reflection.

Option 2: Take a short trip to Vidago.
Just 15 minutes away, Vidago Palace Hotel is a historic spa resort with gardens and fountains. You don’t need to be a guest to visit the grounds or enjoy a drink on the terrace.

For flexibility, rent a car through DiscoverCars. This makes exploring the countryside much easier.

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Evening: One Last Look

End your stay at the São Roque viewpoint.
Located on a hill just outside town, Miradouro da Capela de São Roque offers one of the best views of Chaves. It’s a quiet spot to reflect, take photos, or simply enjoy the scenery.

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Where to Stay in Chaves

Budget: Guesthouse Chaves – Clean, central, and affordable
Mid-range: Hotel Premium Chaves – Comfortable with great value
Luxury: Castelo Hotel – Stylish and full of character inside the historic centre

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When to Visit Chaves

• Spring (April–June): Blooming flowers and good temperatures
• Autumn (September–October): Cool weather and grape harvests
• Summer: Hot during the day, but great for festivals
• Winter: Calm and ideal for spa visits

Local event tip: Visit during the Festa dos Sabores de Chaves, usually in May. It celebrates local food, wine, and tradition.

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Travel Tips

• Currency: Euro (€)
• Language: Portuguese (basic Spanish or French is helpful)
• Plugs: Type F (230V)
• Tipping: Optional, but 5–10% is kind
• Transport: Rent a car for exploring nearby villages
• Useful apps: Google Maps, Rome2Rio, and CP trains

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Travel Insurance Reminder

For peace of mind, don’t forget travel insurance. Whether your bags go missing or you need help abroad, it makes a big difference.
We recommend Heymondo – it’s affordable, reliable, and offers 24/7 support in English.

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Conclusion: Let Chaves Stay With You

Chaves may not be in the spotlight, but that’s exactly what makes it special. In this small town, everything happens more slowly — and more meaningfully.

Here, you walk where Romans once stood, soak in healing waters, and taste food that tells stories. Even short moments — like buying fruit at the market or watching the sun set behind the hills — become memories that last.

So if you’re searching for quiet beauty, authentic flavours, and a deeper connection with Portugal, Chaves is waiting. Let yourself slow down. Let yourself stay a little longer.