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Chaves

Chaves, Vila Real, Portugal

Step Back in Time in Chaves, Portugal: Where History Flows Like Hot Springs Nestled amidst the verdant hills of northern Portugal, Chaves, in the Vila Real district, is a charming town where Roman history blends seamless…

#Chaves#Vila Real#Portugal#Historic town#Thermal springs

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Chaves.

Top Hotels in Chaves

Top Flights to Chaves

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Chaves.

Tours

Explore Chaves Castle

Visit the historic Chaves Castle, a significant landmark offering panoramic views of the city. Discover its rich history and enjoy a leisurely walk around.

Stroll along the Roman Bridge

Walk across the historic Roman Bridge of Chaves, a remarkable piece of ancient engineering that spans the Tâmega River.

Shopping

Shopping at Centro Comercial Forum

Discover a variety of shops and dining options at Centro Comercial Forum Chaves, the city's premier shopping destination.

Outdoor

Relax at Termas de Chaves

Indulge in a relaxing spa experience at the Termas de Chaves. Enjoy the thermal baths and rejuvenating treatments in a serene environment.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Chaves.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

41243.0

Languages

Portuguese, Portuguese

Average weather

Chaves

Jan

10°1°

Feb

12°2°

Mar

15°4°

Apr

17°6°

May

21°9°

Jun

26°12°

Jul

30°14°

Aug

30°14°

Sep

25°12°

Oct

19°8°

Nov

14°5°

Dec

10°2°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Chaves.

What people love

Chaves, located in the Vila Real district of Portugal, offers several advantages for travelers:

Thermal Springs: Chaves is well-known for its thermal springs, which are believed to have healing properties. Visitors can relax and unwind in the hot springs while enjoying the beautiful natural surroundings.
Historical Attractions: The city of Chaves has a rich history dating back to Roman times. Travelers can explore historical sites such as the medieval castle, Roman bridge, and city walls, providing a glimpse into the region's past.
Natural Beauty: Chaves is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including the Tamega River and the Serra do Brunheiro mountain range. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as hiking, biking, and birdwatching in the area.
Local Cuisine: Chaves is known for its delicious traditional cuisine, featuring dishes such as alheira (smoked sausage), posta barrosã (beef steak), and pastéis de Chaves (meat pastries). Foodies will enjoy sampling the local gastronomy in the city's restaurants and markets.
Tranquility and Relaxation: Chaves offers a peaceful and tranquil setting, making it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Travelers can unwind and rejuvenate in the city's serene atmosphere.

Overall, Chaves in Vila Real, Portugal, provides a unique blend of history, natural beauty, relaxation, and gastronomy, making it a great destination for travelers seeking a memorable and enriching experience.

What to know

Chaves is a beautiful city located in northern Portugal, known for its thermal springs and historic sites. However, like any travel destination, there are some potential cons to consider:

Limited public transportation: Chaves is a relatively small city, and public transportation options may be limited compared to larger cities. This could make getting around town or exploring the surrounding areas more challenging.
Limited English spoken: While many locals in Chaves may speak some English, it is not as commonly spoken as in more touristy areas. This could potentially pose a challenge for travelers who do not speak Portuguese.
Seasonal crowds: Chaves is a popular destination for tourists, especially during the summer months when visitors come to enjoy the thermal springs and outdoor activities. This could lead to crowded attractions and accommodations, making it harder to fully enjoy the city.
Limited nightlife: Chaves is more of a relaxed and laid-back destination, so if you are looking for a vibrant nightlife scene with clubs and bars, you may be disappointed.
Limited dining options: While Chaves offers some great traditional Portuguese cuisine, the dining scene may be limited compared to larger cities. Vegetarian and international food options could also be limited.

Overall, while Chaves is a charming and picturesque destination with plenty to offer, it may not be the ideal choice for travelers looking for a bustling city with a wide range of amenities and entertainment options.

Chaves is a historically rich city located in the district of Vila Real, in the northern part of Portugal. Its history dates back to Roman times and is deeply intertwined with the region's strategic importance and natural resources.

Roman Era

Chaves, known as "Aquae Flaviae" in Roman times, was established by the Romans in the 1st century AD. It was named after the Roman Emperor Flavius Vespasianus and was renowned for its thermal baths, which are still a significant attraction today. The Romans built several infrastructures, including bridges and roads, to support their settlement.

One of the most notable Roman landmarks is the Ponte de Trajano (Trajan’s Bridge), a Roman bridge that has survived through the centuries. This bridge, crossing the Tâmega River, is an excellent example of Roman engineering and is still in use today.

Medieval Period

During the Middle Ages, Chaves became an important military and trading center due to its proximity to the Spanish border. The city was often a site of conflict and negotiation during various Iberian Peninsula conflicts.

The Castle of Chaves is a remnant of this era. Although much of the original castle has not survived, the keep (Torre de Menagem) remains and offers visitors insights into the medieval fortifications that once protected the city.

Modern History

In the 19th century, Chaves played a significant role during the Liberal Wars (also known as the Portuguese Civil War), which were fought between liberal constitutionalists and conservative absolutists. The city was a stronghold for the liberal forces, and its strategic location made it a site of several important battles.

Significant Figures

Bernardo de Sá Nogueira de Figueiredo, the 1st Marquis of Sá da Bandeira, was a prominent political figure associated with the liberal cause. He was a key leader during the Liberal Wars and served multiple times as Prime Minister of Portugal.

Contemporary Chaves

Today, Chaves is known for its historical architecture, thermal spas, and cultural heritage. The city's thermal waters are believed to have healing properties, and the region is a popular destination for wellness tourism.

Important Landmarks

Trajan's Bridge: A symbol of Chaves' Roman past.
Castle of Chaves: Offers historical insights and panoramic views of the city.
São João de Deus Military Hospital: A historic building that has served various functions over the centuries.

Chaves' combination of historical depth, architectural landmarks, and natural beauty makes it a fascinating destination for those interested in Portugal's rich history.