Chaves
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Get a Great Hotel Deal in Chaves
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CHAVES

Welcome to Chaves, a charming border town where culture, history, and nature beautifully intertwine! Located on the banks of the Tâmega River, Chaves is becoming a favourite for travellers seeking a mix of historical exploration and natural beauty. This picturesque town, with its rich Roman heritage, offers a perfect base for exploring the nearby Montesinho Natural Park.

Chaves is steeped in history, boasting hot springs that have been a drawing visitors to Chaves since Roman times. These thermal baths, once known as Aquae Fluviae, are the hottest in Europe, reaching around 70ºC, and are famed for their therapeutic qualities. Don’t miss the Roman bridge, a marvel of ancient engineering with its 16 arches, a reminder of Chaves' importance as a Roman staging post.

Today, Chaves is a quiet town known for its delicious cuisine, including savoury sausages, Presunto hams, and meat-filled pastries, best enjoyed with a glass of local red wine. Whether you’re interested in the town's rich history, culinary delights, or exploring the surrounding natural beauty, MADABOUTPORTO.COM is your go-to guide. Discover the best places to eat, sleep, and explore in and around Chaves, and check out the variety of tour packages available.

TOP TOURS OF CHAVES

Tour Boticas - Can-am

Tour Boticas – Can-Am

Explore the scenic village of Minas de Beça on an exhilarating off-road Buggy tour from Boticas, west of Chaves. Choose between a two-seater or four-seater vehicle, perfect for beginners, families, and adventure seekers. After a safety briefing, embark on a guided journey through the mountains of Chaves and Boticas, experiencing diverse terrains, river crossings, and panoramic views. This tour is ideal for those searching for a thrilling and unique adventure in the Alto Tâmega and Barroso region. Safe, fun, and unforgettable!.

(7) | 1-2 Hr | ✔ Free Cancellation

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The Chaves Experience: History, Culture and Food Tour

Chaves Experience: History, Culture & Food

Uncover a hidden gem where history and mystery blend seamlessly. This ancient town, with its rich folklore and pre-Roman origins, invites you to explore its storied past. Begin at the iconic Torre de Menagem for breathtaking views, then visit City Hall and the Regional Museum to trace the town's evolution. Savour local delicacies at a charming pastry shop, stroll across the ancient Roman Bridge and end your journey at the majestic Saint Francis Fortress. Every step reveals the town's captivating history.

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Private Transfer from Oporto Airport to Chaves

Private Transfer from Porto Airport

Experience a seamless transfer from Porto Airport with our exclusive service. Upon arrival, our courteous drivers will greet you with a personalised sign, ready to escort you to our luxurious Mercedes Benz fleet. Relax in plush interiors as you enjoy scenic views of the Portuguese countryside. Our commitment to comfort and passenger satisfaction ensures an exceptional ride. Whether travelling solo or with others, our private transfer service offers convenience, eliminating the stress of public transport or taxis. Sit back and unwind.

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THE OLD TOWN

Chaves, Old Town

Rua Direita


Chaves, Praça de Camões

Praça de Camões

Narrow streets lined with authentic old houses elegantly adorned with wooden balconies await the visitor to the old town. This part of Chaves would have been the original city crammed within the defensive walls, the limited space resulted in taller buildings and narrower streets. As more floors were added to these buildings the more they overhang the previous levels leaving houses opposite in shade. The main artery through the old town leading your away from the river is the Rua Direita which passes the pretty square of Praça de Camões.


Praça de Camões

This square retains much of its original charm with no modern intrusions to spoil its appeal. At one end a statue of Dom Afonso, the first Duke of Bragança stands sentinel in front of the town hall. On the opposite side of the square stands the Igreja de Santa Maria Maior (church of Saint Mary) whose origins date back to the Visigoth era sometime in the 12th century. It sustained major damage during the Arab occupation but it's believed the bell tower and medieval portal are original features. The church was restored during the reigns of Dom Jõao III utilising the romanesque style, its gabled entrance is typically Italian in influence. Inside can be found preserved the medieval structure composed of three naves and robust stone columns. The wooden ceiling however is the 19th century.

Located on one side of the square is the seventeenth century Igreja da Misericórdia, which is typically Baroque in style. The granite facade, preceded by a stone staircase, is detailed and lavishly decorated with pilasters and windows. The interior of a single nave, the walls are decorated entirely with tiles from the eighteenth century, illustrating various biblical scenes. The wooden ceiling is lavishly painted and dates from the mid-eighteenth century (l743). Finally, the altar of gilded wood is richly decorated.

Next to the Igreja da Misericórdia and house within a lovely 17C building is the Museu da Região Flaviense which houses a chaotic assortment of archaeological and ethnographic pieces from Chaves' chequered history. The collection includes a room of prehistoric lapidary objects containing Roman items (sculptures, military posts) and the star attraction - a megalithic human-looking figure (2000 BC). There are ample remains from the old Roman spa settlement including coins, statuettes and fragmented mosaics. Upstairs you will find coins, an ancient minting plate, a magic lantern, radio receivers. On this floor too there are also temporary art exhibitions. The entry ticket to the Museu da Região Flaviense also included admission to the Museu Militar in the Torre de Menagem.
Daily: 09h00 – 12h30/14h00 - 17h30 | Praça de Camões, 5400-517 Chaves, Portugal.
41° 44' 23.§" N | 07° 28' 17.6" W | +351 276 340 500 | municipio@chaves.pt

WHERE TO STAY IN CHAVES

Castelo Hotel ★ ★ ★ ★

9.1/10 Superb (2,258 verified customer reviews)

Situated in Chaves, 300 metres from Chaves Thermal Spa, Castelo Hotel features accommodation with a fitness centre, private parking, a shared lounge and a bar. With free WiFi, this 4-star hotel offers room service and a 24-hour front desk. Some rooms at the property have a balcony with a city view.
At the hotel, all rooms are equipped with a desk. Complete with a private bathroom fitted with free toiletries, all rooms at Castelo Hotel have a flat-screen TV and air conditioning, and some rooms include a terrace. At the accommodation rooms are equipped with bed linen and towels. The area is popular for cycling, and bike hire is available at Castelo Hotel.

Rua da Muralha 2 a 4, 5400-414 Chaves, Portugal.
41° 44' 25.3" N | 07° 28' 22.6" W

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Castelo Hotel

Hotel Casino Chaves ★ ★ ★ ★

8.9/10 Fabulous (1,347 verified customer reviews)

Situated near the exit of the A24 to Chaves, and only 8km from Spain, the Hotel Casino Chaves rises majestically over the city in a green area, which invites one to days of rest and leisure. Overlooking the city and the mountains, in a unique environment of tranquillity, the four-star unit is the ideal setting for those travelling for leisure or on business, looking for comfort, refinement and quality. The Casino, situated next to the Hotel, complements the offer by opening its doors to fun with a wide variety of games and slot machines, the best cuisine and cultural events and shows filled with national and international artists.

Lugar do Extremo - Valdanta, 5400-001 Chaves, Portugal.
41° 45' 43.6" N | 07° 29' 07.1" W

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Hotel Casino Chaves

ibis Styles Chaves ★ ★ ★

9.1/10 Superb (2,415 verified customer reviews)

Featuring a terrace and views of the city, Ibis (pronounced ee-bish in Portuguese) Styles is located less than 550 yards from Chaves Thermal Spa. Featuring a bar, the three-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, each with a private bathroom. Private parking can be arranged at an extra charge. At the hotel, each room includes a flat-screen TV with cable channels. A continental breakfast is available daily at ibis Styles Chaves.

Rua 25 Abril, 5400-001 Chaves, Portugal.
41º 44' 17.3" N | 07º 28' 21.9" W"

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ibis Styles Chaves
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WHERE TO EAT IN CHAVES

Restaurante Pensão Flavia

Restaurante Pensão Flavia

A great dinning experience that should not be rushed but savoured. Traditional local cuisine served by attentive and smiling (and sometimes singing) staff . The atmosphere is jovial and portions very generous, food is presented at your table you decide the dishes you wish to try and at the end you pay what you consider is a fair price.


Wednesday - Monday: 12h30 - 14h00/19h30 - 21h00
Travessa Candido dos Reis 12, 5400-154 Chaves, Portugal.
41° 44' 24.6" N | 07° 28' 07.6" W
+351 961 693 890

Adega do Faustino

Adega do Faustino

The décor recreates an ancient wine cellar with the use of wine barrels, Adega do Faustino is more than a novelty restaurant. It is ideally located in the old town of Chaves. Serving traditional local cuisine to a high standard. The Adega Faustino is not only a traditional restaurant, it also has a small museum describing its history, an art gallery and sometimes the restaurant hosts wonderful Fado nights.

Monday - Saturday: 12h00 - 15h00/19h00 - 22h30, Sunday: CLOSED
Travessa Cândido Reis , 5400-164 Chaves, Portugal.
41º 44' 26.6" N | 07º 28' 07.1" W
+351 276 322 142 | adegafaustino@gmail.com | Website

Taberna Tipica Benito

Taberna Tipica Benito

Good ol' hearty meals crafted from locally sourced ingredients cooked to perfection. A warm friendly welcome awaits you and portions designed to share between two. Considering its prime location just off the Roman bridge the prices are reasonable.

Tuesday - Sunday: 09h00 - 02h00, Monday: CLOSED

Rua Ponte 34, Chaves 5400-455, Portugal.
41º 44' 18.2" N | 07º 28' 04.1" W
+351 276 907 018 | geral@tabernabenito.pt | Website

TORRE DE MENAGEM

The road running along the town hall leads you to the site of Chaves' old castle where the only remaining feature is the 14th-century keep. Constructed from local granite it was was built for Nuno Álvares Pereira. A national monument since 1938, the castle was built during the Christian Reconquista and helped strengthen Dom Jõao's claim as king. Within the four floored building can be found a small military museum exhibiting uniforms, arms and regalia. More modern exhibits include displays focusing on Portugal’s involvement in WW1 and its 20th-century colonial entanglements. From the top, there are fine vistas over the River Tâmega, the historic centre of Chaves and the pretty gardens which surround the keep. The entry ticket to the Torre de Menagem also included admission to the Museu da Região Flaviense.

Weekdays: 09h00 – 12h30/14h00 - 17h30, Weekends: 14h00 - 17h30
Praça de Camões, 5400-150 Chaves, Portugal. | 41° 44' 22.§" N | 07° 28' 18.1" W
+351 276 348 180.

Torre de Menagem

Torre de Menagem

TIVOLI PALÁÇIO DE SETEAIS HOTEL

FORTE SÃO FRANÇISCO ★ ★ ★ ★

Built during the middle ages during the period of the Restoration War to defend Portuguese territory against Spain in the north. Built on top of a 16th Century Franciscan Convent, the Convent of Our Lady of the Rosary, which gave the fort its name. The structure has a four-pointed star shape based on the Vauban system. The fort was captured by Marshall Soult during the Napoleonic invasions but was soon retaken. Later in 1910, the fort was embroiled in the pro-royalist revolts in the early 18th century. Forte São Françisco was classified as a National Monument in 1938.

In 2012 Forte de São Françiso was totally renovated and tastefully transformed into a beautiful hotel. Located in the historic centre of Chaves, the Forte Sao Francisco hotel is situated inside imposing walls and is surrounded by almost 15,000 sq. metres of beautiful, landscaped gardens and terraces. The estate also houses a private Church and Chapel. This hotel is the perfect location for those who wish to get away from it all and relax and unwind in a beautiful location. The swimming pool with sun loungers and Pool Bar is set in the garden, festooned with palm trees, and wonderful, panoramic views over the town and surrounding mountains.


Contact Details
Rua Terreiro da Cavalaria, Chaves 5400-435, PortugaL. | 41° 44' 34.8" N | 07° 28' 09.6" W

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HOW TO ARRIVE IN CHAVES

Francisco de Sá Carneiro Airport Porto is 149km (93 miles) South of Chaves. Website

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93 miles north east of Porto, take the A7 to Vila Pouca de Aguiar then take the A24 Northbound to Chaves. Latitude - 41°44'34.1"N Longitude - 07°28'14.8"W

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There are no direct trains to Chaves

Rede Expressos run services to Chaves from various locations within Portugal. Website
Rodonorte run services in North & Central Portugal. Website

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