Viana do Castelo is a charming coastal town located in the north of Portugal. Its historic center, with traditional narrow streets and houses adorned with ceramic tiles, is a delight to explore. The town is situated on the bank of the Lima River and bounded by the Atlantic Ocean, which provides stunning scenery. Viana do Castelo is also known for its beautiful beaches where visitors can enjoy crystal clear waters and soft sand. The town is surrounded by lush green hills that are perfect for hiking and biking. It is a perfect destination for those who want to experience the culture, history, and natural beauty of Portugal.

The closest international airport to Viana do Castelo is Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport in Porto. From the airport, visitors can take a train to Viana do Castelo. Buses are also available from Porto and other major cities in Portugal. Taxis and rental cars are other options for reaching the town.

The best time to visit Viana do Castelo is during the summer months from June to September. The weather is warm and sunny, and the sea is perfect for swimming. The town is also host to many festivals during this time, including the famous Romaria de Nossa Senhora d'Agonia festival in August.

Viana do Castelo has a moderate climate with mild winters and warm summers. In the summer months, temperatures average around 25°C (77°F) with low humidity. In the winter, temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). It rains throughout the year, but the heaviest rainfall occurs in the winter months.

Accommodation options in Viana do Castelo range from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. A dormitory bed in a hostel can cost around 15 EUR per night, while a room in a mid-range hotel can cost around 70 EUR per night. Luxury hotels can cost upwards of 150 EUR per night.

Food in Viana do Castelo is affordable and delicious. A meal in an inexpensive restaurant can cost around 10 EUR, while a three-course meal for two in a mid-range restaurant can cost around 50 EUR. Groceries are also affordable, with a loaf of bread costing around 1 EUR and a liter of milk costing around 0.60 EUR.

Viana do Castelo is considered a safe destination for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, visitors should take precautions, as pickpocketing and other petty crimes can occur in crowded tourist areas. The town is generally welcoming to all visitors, regardless of their race, religion, or sexual orientation.

Viana do Castelo has a population of around 36,000 people. The majority of the population is Catholic and Portuguese is the primary language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas of the town. The population is predominantly white, with a small minority of other ethnicities.

Visitors to Viana do Castelo can enjoy a variety of activities during their stay. Some popular activities include visiting the historic center and its landmarks such as the Santa Luzia Basilica and the Praça da República. The beaches offer a great place to relax and sunbathe. Hiking the hills around the town provides stunning views of the coast and countryside. Visitors can also explore the region's rich history and culture by visiting museums and local festivals.