There are a few things to do in Vila Mea Portugal that will impress travelers. These activities range from exploring the hiking trails to visiting historic landmarks. Moreover, there are also several parks and gardens in Vila Mea to visit.
For those who are looking to enhance their home, hiring a professional interior designer or decorator is recommended. These professionals can help you create a cohesive look that is representative of your style.
How to get from Lisbon to Vila Mea by train
There isn’t a direct rail connection between Lisbon and Vila Mea since Vila Mea is a small village in Portugal. However, you can still travel part of the way by rail and then use other transportation options to reach Vila Mea. Here’s a general guide on how to do it:
- Lisbon to Porto: Take a train from Lisbon (most likely departing from Lisbon’s Santa Apolónia or Lisbon Oriente station) to Porto. Trains run regularly between these two major cities, and the journey takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.
- Porto to Vila Mea: From Porto, you’ll need to use other means of transportation to get to Vila Mea since there isn’t a direct train connection. One option is to rent a car in Porto and drive to Vila Mea. The drive should take around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the exact location in Vila Mea you are heading to.
- Alternative transport: If you don’t wish to drive, you could consider taking a bus from Porto to Vila Mea. Check with local bus companies or public transportation services for schedules and availability.
Remember, transportation options and schedules may change over time, so I recommend checking for the most up-to-date information closer to your travel date. You can use online travel platforms, national railway websites, or consult local transportation providers for the latest details on train and bus options.
1. Hiking
Hiking in Vila Mea is a popular activity for locals and travelers alike. There are many trails that wind through the village, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
The town is also home to several historic landmarks, including the Church of Santa Marinha. It is a great place to visit for anyone interested in learning about Portuguese history and culture.
Aside from the beautiful hiking trails, Vila Mea is also home to several accommodations that offer a wide range of amenities and services. These include luxury hotels and affordable guesthouses. There are also many restaurants in the area that serve a variety of different cuisines. In addition, the town offers several activities for families, such as a sand beach and a playground.
2. Visit the Church of Santa Marinha
Visiting the Church of Santa Marinha is an ideal way to get a better understanding of Portugal’s history. The church is dedicated to Saint Mariane of Cortegaca and features an impressive Baroque facade. It is also home to intricate stain-glass windows and an elaborate altar.
The best time to visit Santa Marinha is during the spring and fall, as the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most beautiful. However, the village is a year-round destination and offers plenty of things to see and do.
Be sure to try the local cuisine, which includes dishes like cozido and bacalhau, as well as wines from the region’s vineyards. You can also check out the Mercado Beira Rio, a food market that has many delicious options to choose from.
3. Explore the Local Cuisine
A trip to Vila Mea is incomplete without tasting some of the local cuisine. The village is home to several restaurants and cafes that serve authentic Portuguese dishes.
One of the best places to try the local cuisine is the Adega Vila Mea restaurant. The restaurant is located close to the Sao Bento train station and offers a variety of Portuguese dishes including codfish, roasted veal, oven-baked octopus, and more. The restaurant is run by the Santos family, and eating here feels like being invited into their home.
Get there by taking the bus or train. Moovit makes it easy to discover the quickest route, compare ticket prices, and find out the schedules. The app provides live arrival and departure information for all routes.
4. Visit the Local Landmarks
It’s best to visit Vila Mea during the spring and summer, when it is warm enough for hiking without a coat. This is also when the flowers are blooming, making it a beautiful place to stroll around and admire the scenery.
A few of the most noteworthy landmarks in the area include Quinta da Regaleira, a 20th-century luxurious estate that seems to have been pulled straight out of a storybook. This unique property was commissioned by a Brazilian-Portuguese millionaire and is filled with intriguing elements such as secret passageways, wells with bewitched-looking spiral staircases, and quirky statues.
Another must-visit is the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts impressive views and a strong connection to Jerusalem. This site is a great place to enjoy a hike or even ride the oldest hydraulic funicular in Europe!
5. Enjoy the Local Atmosphere
There are several things to do in Vila Mea Portugal, including visiting the local landmarks and enjoying the food. Whether you’re looking for a traditional Portuguese restaurant or want to try something new, there are plenty of options to choose from.
The restaurant is located a short walk from the Sao Bento train station and is known for its hearty dishes such as cocido a portuguesa (meat stew), monkfish rice, and tripas a moda do Porto (tripe with bean stew, beef stomach, and rice). It’s the perfect place to enjoy authentic Portuguese cuisine.
Hiring a professional home interior designer or decorator can help you create a space that’s functional and aesthetically pleasing. These professionals can provide visualizations, manage the project, and work with contractors.
