Embark on an unforgettable adventure with a guided day trip from Porto to Arouca. Witness the breathtaking Arouca 516 Suspension Bridge, one of the world’s longest pedestrian bridges, and learn about the picturesque Paiva Walkways. This excursion promises a captivating blend of natural beauty, culinary delights, and adrenaline-filled moments that will leave you longing for more. Discover why this highly-rated experience has captured the hearts of travelers seeking to unveil the hidden gems of Portugal.

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Good To Know

A guided day trip from Porto to Arouca, featuring a visit to the Arouca 516 Suspension Bridge, one of the world’s longest pedestrian suspension bridges.
A 2.5-hour hike along the Passadiços do Paiva, offering stunning views of the Paiva River and Aguieira Waterfall.
A 1-hour guided tour of the Arouca 516 Suspension Bridge, providing historical and engineering insights.
A 9-hour excursion priced from $131.35 per person, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.
Pickup service included, and the trip features a 20-minute break in Arouca for local snacks and a 1.5-hour lunch at a local restaurant.

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Trip Overview

This guided day trip from Porto to Arouca allows visitors to cross the famous Arouca 516, one of the world’s longest pedestrian suspension bridges.

The 9-hour excursion costs from $131.35 per person and features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The 9-hour excursion costs from $131.35 per person and features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Pickup service is included, with guests ready 10 minutes before the scheduled time.

The trip duration is approximately 9 hours, providing ample time to explore the region’s natural wonders.

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Itinerary Details

After pickup from Porto, which is a 75-minute drive, the tour begins with a break in Arouca for guests to sample local snacks for about 20 minutes.

Next, the group visits the Arouca 516 Suspension Bridge for a 1-hour guided tour.

Followed by a 2.5-hour hike along the Passadiços do Paiva, where they’ll experience stunning views of the Paiva River and Aguieira Waterfall.

Lunch at a local restaurant lasts 1.5 hours before the return trip to Porto, which takes 1.5 hours.

Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins with pickup from central Porto, which is located approximately 75 minutes away from the Arouca region.

The tour company provides complimentary transportation, so guests don’t have to worry about driving or finding their own way. Participants should be ready for pickup 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

The air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable journey to the Arouca Geopark, where the iconic 516 Arouca suspension bridge and Paiva Walkways await.

This seamless transportation service allows guests to sit back, relax, and fully enjoy the day’s activities.

Arouca 516 Suspension Bridge

Upon arriving at the Arouca Geopark, the tour takes participants to the Arouca 516 suspension bridge, one of the main highlights of the day. This engineering marvel spans 516 meters, making it one of the world’s longest pedestrian suspension bridges. Visitors can marvel at the bridge’s impressive design and the stunning views of the Paiva River and surrounding landscape.

| Bridge Specifications | |

| — | — |

| Length | 516 meters |

| Height | 175 meters |

| Width | 1.2 meters |

| Capacity | 100 people at a time |

| Construction Material | Steel cables and wood decking |

During the guided tour, guests learn about the bridge’s history and engineering feats while safely crossing this thrilling landmark.

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Paiva Walkways Hike

Having marveled at the Arouca 516 suspension bridge, the tour then takes visitors on a hike along the Paiva Walkways.

The 8-kilometer route covers moderate to high difficulty terrain, including around 600 stairs. Hikers will experience stunning views of the Paiva River and Aguieira Waterfall.

The scenic path allows travelers to connect with nature and spot wildlife. During the hike, there’s a relaxing stop at Vau beach.

The trail’s highlights include the breathtaking scenery and the chance to take in the beautiful Paiva river valley.

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Culinary Highlights

Along With the breathtaking scenery, the Arouca 516 and Paiva Walkways guided day trip offers a delightful culinary experience.

Travelers can savor traditional local sweets during a break in Arouca. The highlight is the lunch at a nearby restaurant, featuring starters, the renowned Arouquesa DPO beef, potatoes, salad, and dessert, accompanied by refreshing vinho verde.

Gluten-free options are available, ensuring a satisfying meal for all. The flavorful local cuisine complements the stunning natural landscapes, creating a well-rounded experience for participants.

Customer Feedback

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the Arouca 516 and Paiva Walkways guided day trip, with an impressive overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 403 reviews.

Guests highlighted the professionalism of the guides and the quality of the local cuisine. Many appreciated the friendly atmosphere and insightful commentary that enriched the experience.

Common highlights included the breathtaking suspension bridge and the stunning scenery along the Paiva Walkways, where travelers connected with nature.

The combination of a well-organized itinerary, exceptional service, and awe-inspiring landscapes has made this day trip a hit among visitors to the Porto region.

What to Bring and Prepare

As participants prepare for the Arouca 516 and Paiva Walkways guided day trip, it’s essential to pack appropriate attire and gear. The terrain is moderate to challenging, so comfortable, sturdy shoes are a must.

Layered clothing is recommended, as the weather can be unpredictable. Plus, don’t forget to bring:

Sunscreen and a hat to protect against the sun
Insect repellent for the outdoor hike
A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated

With the right preparation, travelers can fully enjoy the stunning natural beauty of this captivating excursion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos on the Arouca 516 Suspension Bridge?

Yes, visitors are allowed to take photos on the Arouca 516 suspension bridge. The guided tour includes time to take in the stunning views and capture the experience with your camera.

Is There an Age or Fitness Requirement for the Paiva Walkways Hike?

The hike along the Paiva Walkways has a moderate to high difficulty level and includes around 600 stairs. There’s no age requirement, but guests should be reasonably fit to complete the 8-kilometer route.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs at the End of the Tour?

Yes, there are opportunities to purchase souvenirs at the end of the tour. The tour includes a stop in Arouca where visitors can browse local shops and pick up traditional Portuguese sweets and handicrafts as mementos of their experience.

Is Water Provided During the Hike or Do I Need to Bring My Own?

The tour doesn’t provide water during the hike, so participants are advised to bring their own water. Staying hydrated is important, especially during the moderate-to-high difficulty hike along the Paiva Walkways.

Can I Leave Valuables on the Bus During the Hike?

It’s generally not recommended to leave valuables unattended on the bus during the hike. The tour company advises participants to keep any important items with them while exploring the trails to ensure their safety and security.

The Sum Up

This guided day trip from Porto to Arouca offers an unforgettable experience. Visitors can cross the impressive Arouca 516 Suspension Bridge and hike the picturesque Paiva Walkways, all while enjoying local cuisine. With its stunning scenery and high customer satisfaction, this excursion promises adventure and culinary delights in a beautiful setting.