Top things to do near Bicas, Portugal
Must-see places around Vila do Conde
Vila do Conde is full of history, coastline and nature. Whether you love the beach, walking, cycling or good food, there is something for everyone – and many of the highlights are just a short walk from Villa 5.
In Vila do Conde
Santa Clara Monastery
Right in front of Villa 5, at the top of the hill, stands the Santa Clara Monastery – one of the most iconic monuments in the region. It was founded in 1318 by D. Afonso Sanches, son of King D. Dinis, and his wife D. Teresa Martins, to house noblewomen. The Gothic church is known for its rose window and the Manueline tombs of its founders, masterpieces of Portuguese funerary sculpture. After religious orders were abolished in 1834, the building had several uses. Since 2018, under the Revive programme, it has been a five-star hotel: The Lince Santa Clara Historic Hotel.
Bobbin Lace Museum
The Museu das Rendas de Bilros is dedicated to the traditional art of bobbin lace, deeply rooted in Vila do Conde's culture. Opened in 1991, it occupies Casa do Vinhal, an 18th-century townhouse on Rua de São Bento in the historic centre. Highlights include the world's largest bobbin lace (52 m²), recognised by Guinness World Records in 2015. Visitors can often watch local lacemakers at work.
Mindelo Ornithological Reserve
Created in 1957, the Mindelo Ornithological Reserve was Portugal's first protected area. Covering around 380 hectares, it is part of the Vila do Conde Coastal Protected Landscape, with dunes, wetlands, farmland and forest – a rich habitat for birds and a beautiful place to walk or cycle.
A little further
Douro Valley
The Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the oldest and most renowned wine regions in the world. Terraced hillsides, century-old vineyards and the river winding between the hills make it a unique place for wine lovers.
Wineries worth a visit: Quinta do Bomfim, Quinta do Vallado and Quinta do Seixo (Sandeman). Exploring the Douro by boat is an unforgettable experience.
Beaches of the North
Between Vila do Conde and Porto you will find beautiful beaches for every taste:
- Praia de Mindelo (Vila do Conde)
- Praia de Moreiró (Vila do Conde)
- Praia da Memória (Perafita, Matosinhos)
- Praia do Aterro (Leça da Palmeira, Matosinhos)
- Praia de Matosinhos (Matosinhos)
- Praia de Lavadores (Vila Nova de Gaia)
Vila do Conde
Strolling through the centre of Vila do Conde is a delight: cobbled streets, old façades, cosy cafés and small details that tell the town's story. Sit by the River Ave and watch the boats go by, or walk or cycle along the seafront to neighbouring Póvoa de Varzim.
On Fridays, don't miss the traditional market, with fresh fruit, local produce and colourful flowers. Vila do Conde is a charming town where every corner has something special to offer.