Town Centre
The heart of Caminha is the town square, the Praça Conselheiro Silva Torres. Here you will find the clock tower which you can visit to be rewarded with views over the town and towards Spain and also the old Town Hall. In the centre of the square is an interesting fountain which used to supply drinking water in the town. The square is lively and filled with cafes, a perfect place for a coffee and pastry while enjoying the atmosphere.
There are several noteworthy churches and chapels in the old town, The Igreja da Misericórdia, built in the 16th century, was once both a hospital and hostel for pilgrims travelling to Santiago de Compostela. It is worth popping into for a glimpse of its decorations. The grandest church is the Igreja Matriz at the end of Rua Direita, a narrow, straight street which is worth walking down to note the windows and doors. The street is also where Caminha’s night life takes place.
The Beaches
There is a great choice of beaches around this part of the Minho. The nearest to the town is Foz do Minho where a strip of sand faces the river Minho on one side and the Atlantic on the other. There are trips to the Fort of Insua, an island which holds a former monastery.
Slightly further on heading south, Moledo beach is busier and popular with surfers. Then there is the beach in Praia do Ancora, which has calm areas making it good for families.
Eating Out
The restaurants in Caminha are varied and there are plenty to choose from. They range from the great value, popular eateries with generous portions and traditional food such as cod and pork, to those offering sea views or outdoor seating. All tastes are catered for so if you prefer to try seafood, Italian food, pizzas or grills you will not be disappointed.
In addition, there is also the possibility of visiting A Guarda on the other side of the River Minho in Spain to sample an even greater choice of seafood.
Nearby
From Caminha rail station there are trains to Vila Nova de Cerveira and Valença. Valença is another fortress town like Caminha with an enclosed historic centre within the old walls. Vila Nova de Cerveira is a charming town with an old castle, now converted into a Pousada but still containing the old Town Hall, pillories, the court and old barracks and warehouses. Down by the river there are display galleries of modern art and there are several sculptures dotted around the town.
