Destination Weddings in Póvoa de Varzim

Located 30 km north of Oporto, Póvoa de Varzim is both a conventional fishing town and trendy summer resort in northern Portugal. The city is located between the Cávado and Ave rivers, midway between the Minho and Douro rivers, in the northern coast of Portugal, known as Costa Verde (or Green Coast).

The white sand beaches of Póvoa de Varzim are each unique and popular for different features. Redonda Beach and Quião Beach are very well-liked, but for calmer waters, the Santo André Beach is a better choice. There are interesting ruins to see between the Salgueira Beach and Lagoa Beach. The Aguçadoura beach and Rio Alto Beach are dune beaches, which offer the privacy often sought by the ‘naturalists.’

The fish industry has had a positive impact on the economy of Póvoa de Varzim. The agriculture in the area is dominated by many small, and one large farms. Other means of trade and commerce include textile, winemaking, cattle, handcrafts, and rope making.

Rua da Junqueira, is the commercial hub of Póvoa de Varzim. It has been open to pedestrians since 1955 and consists of structures that were developed during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The northern end of Póvoa is comprised of beach-side cafés, resort hotels, bars and discos.

World class gambling is available at the Casino da Póvoa. Newly renovated, it offers traditional games, 650 slot machines, and a hot and cold buffet, featuring American as well as European specialties. Concerts and special events are ongoing, and reservations are recommended.

There are numerous historical churches in Póvoa de Varzim. The Matriz is a 17th century baroque church, while the Lapa, also from the 17th has an old lighthouse that was once utilized to communicate with the fishermen at sea. The thousand year-old Romanic Church is recognized as a national monument and is located in the small historic town of São Pedro de Rates.

Póvoa de Varzim is a brilliant location for a destination wedding, given its flexibility and diversity; there’s something for everyone in this town!