Proenca-a-Nova(Portugal) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Vila Nova de Poiares, the standout choice is Solar dos Mouros Hotel, a beautifully restored 16th-century manor blending Moorish architecture with modern comfort. Nestled in the heart of the Bragança District, it features an enclosed courtyard, vine-covered walls, and panoramic views of the Alto Douro landscape. The hotel serves authentic Portuguese farmhouse cuisine and offers guided tours to nearby Roman ruins and medieval churches.

The best area for lodging is the historic old town center, where cobbled streets lead past whitewashed houses, traditional tilework, and artisan shops. It’s within walking distance of the Cathedral of São Pedro and the Town Hall, and surrounded by family-run restaurants serving local specialties like grilled lamb and regional wines. Ideal for travelers seeking authenticity and tranquility.

Visitors should attend the annual Harvest Festival (Festa da Colheita) held in autumn, featuring folk dances from the Trás-os-Montes region, traditional costumes, and craft demonstrations. Additionally, explore the Museum of Rural Life, which showcases tools, textiles, and farming practices from centuries past, offering deep insight into the rural heritage of northern Portugal.

Yes, many boutique hotels such as Solar dos Mouros Hotel provide local heritage tours led by resident guides. These include visits to abandoned monasteries, ancient wells, and family-owned farms, with insights into the Moorish-Christian historical fusion. Some tours also include wine tastings of premium Douro Valley reds.

Absolutely. The town boasts spacious green parks and child-friendly trails like the Ribeira do Castelo path. Several hotels offer family suites and kids’ menus, while others host outdoor games and farm visits where children can feed goats and pick olives. Educational and fun activities make it ideal for intergenerational travel.

Though rural, access is manageable. Take a CP regional train from Lisbon (approx. 2 hours) to Bragança Station, then transfer to a local bus or taxi. The town has limited parking, so visitors are encouraged to use electric bike-sharing systems or walk. Scenic routes through the Douro Valley enhance the journey.

With a Mediterranean climate, summers can reach 35°C, so opt for hotels with shaded terraces or stone-walled interiors like Solar dos Mouros Hotel, which naturally regulate temperature. Spring and autumn (April–June, September–October) are ideal—mild weather supports hiking, sightseeing, and outdoor dining.

Must-see sites include the Cathedral of São Pedro, whose bell tower offers sweeping views; the Roman aqueduct ruins, still visible with original stone arches; and the Town Square, home to weekly artisan markets. All are located in the old town core, easily explored on foot.

Must-try dishes include Cozido à Portuguesa, a hearty stew of potatoes, beans, and pork; grilled lamb with olive paste from local herds; and Medronho, a potent fruit brandy distilled from wild berries. Many hotels feature on-site restaurants like Cantinho do Alentejo, using ingredients sourced directly from regional farms.

Evenings here are serene and magical. The old town glows softly under dim streetlights and candlelit windows, creating a cinematic atmosphere. Sit at a café in the Town Square and enjoy live guitar music and folk songs. Some hotels offer stargazing sessions, thanks to minimal light pollution—perfect for spotting constellations and shooting stars.