Vila do Conde Nautical Station

The Vila do Conde Nautical Station aims to support the creation of a high-quality nautical tourism network, organized through the integrated enhancement of nautical resources present in our territory, including accommodation, tourist activities, education, health and wellness, culture, sports, and other nautical support activities and services, attracting tourists, visitors, and the local community, adding value and generating jobs throughout the year. Taking advantage of the magnificent natural and environmental resources that our municipality possesses, we intend to provide unforgettable experiences for those who visit us.

The city of Vila do Conde, in the Porto district, is the seat of a municipality composed of 25 parishes, including 3 unions of parishes – Arcos, Árvore, Aveleda, Azurara, Canidelo, Fajozes, Fornelo, Gião, Guilhabreu, Junqueira, Labruge, Macieira, Malta, Mindelo, Modivas, Retorta, Rio Mau, Tougues, Vairão, Vila Chã, Vila do Conde, Vilar do Pinheiro, Union of Parishes of Bagunte, Ferreiró, Outeiro Maior and Parada, Union of Parishes of Touguinha and Touguinhó, Union of Parishes of Vilar and Mosteiró – which together share a series of characteristics that make Vila do Conde a unique place. It has approximately 80,000 inhabitants.

The 18 km of beaches combine with the rural character of the more inland parishes, where visible legacies of prehistory are evident, such as the Castro de São Paio or the Cividade de Bagunte, examples of Romanesque architecture like the church of Rio Mau, the rural houses and manor houses with coats of arms, or the monastic tradition of Junqueira, Azurara, or Vairão.

As host to one of the most prestigious craft fairs, this is also a striking characteristic of Vila do Conde, with particular emphasis on bobbin lace, a centuries-old tradition. In gastronomy, highlights include fresh fish caught by the fishermen of Caxinas, the largest fishing community in the country, and convent sweets, a legacy of the nuns' wisdom in convent houses.

It is during the summer months that prestigious events take place here, such as the International Short Film Festival, the National Craft Fair, the Gastronomy Fair, and the festivities for Saint John, the patron saint of Vila do Conde. Every four years, the Corpus Christi festivities take on a special significance, as the streets are decorated with colorful and beautiful flower carpets.