Day tripsCountriesPortugalCastelo de PaivaCastelo de Paiva to Arouca and Paiva Walkways: Guided tour

Castelo de Paiva to Arouca and Paiva Walkways: Guided tour

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Private tour with a local expert

6h 15m
Round trip
Private group
Trusted by 1+ million happy travelers across 120 countries
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Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice 2024
Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice 2024
4.9
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Reviews

About your trip

From Castelo de Paiva, this mountain escape loops through sacred heritage in Arouca and the sky-scraping adrenaline of the Paiva Walkways. Suspended bridges, cascading waterfalls, ancient monasteries, and geological marvels create a journey of extremes—equal parts tranquil and thrilling. Finish with fresh mountain fare and unforgettable views all the way back.
Exclusively yours: A premium experience for your group only
Insider insight: Local tips and stories you won’t find online
Perfect balance: Expert guidance with freedom to explore
Ideal for all travelers: Families, friends, or solo adventurers
From €127
Private group ride
per person
Select date and travelers
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before your pickup time.
For a group of 1-3 travelersTotal€381

What to expect

Your day trip begins wherever you are

Meet your guide right where you prefer in Castelo de Paiva whenever suits you best. No time wasted getting to the pickup point, grab your bag and start your trip right away.

Discover more with local expertise

Your guide is both your expert behind the wheel and knowledgeable host throughout the day. They’ll manage the day’s itinerary, share stories and local knowledge, and make each moment along the route feel richer. At every stop, they’re by your side.

Guided experience with space to explore

Spend 2 hours wandering Arouca, then drive 20 minutes to Paiva Walkways for three hours of high adventure. Your guide helps fit it all into about 6-7 hours, unveiling northern Portugal's beautiful nature.

Perfect for any private group

Whether you're traveling solo, as a family with kids, or as a large group, this service is tailored for your comfort and flexibility. It's the ideal option especially if you have limited time or a busy schedule.

Good to know

  • Two-way private car transfer in an air-conditioned vehicle
  • Personalized pickup and drop-off
  • Private professional English-speaking driver-guide
  • Complimentary bottled water
  • Free cancellation 24 hours before departure
  • Attraction admission details specified in the itinerary section below
  • Official guided tours inside attractions in Arouca and Paiva Walkways can be purchased separately - inform us in advance for itinerary planning
From €127
Private group ride
per person
Select date and travelers
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before your pickup time.
For a group of 1-3 travelersTotal€381

Your trip at a glance

Your trip at a glance

Start in Castelo de Paiva
You choose the pickup spot.
1
Arouca
Feel free to explore at your own pace and discover
Stop: 2 hours - admission not included
Arouca
Arouca
Arouca
Arouca
Arouca
Arouca
Arouca
Arouca is mountain soul and sky-high thrills, wrapped in stone cloisters and sweet, sacred bites. Cradled in Portugal’s misty mountains, Arouca blends raw nature with sacred history. Begin with the jaw-dropping 516 Arouca Bridge, a 516-meter suspension span floating high above a dramatic gorge — not for the faint-hearted, but worth every step. Back in town, explore the Arouca Monastery, with its serene Baroque cloisters and museum of religious art. If time allows, stop at the Geopark Interpretive Center for fossil wonders and ancient stones. Before leaving, treat yourself to convent pastries and local Arouquesa beef, paired with honey-drizzled cheese or a glass of crisp Vinho Verde.
2
Paiva Walkways
Feel free to explore at your own pace and discover
Stop: 3 hours - admission not included
Paiva Walkways
Paiva Walkways
Paiva Walkways
Paiva Walkways
Paiva Walkways
Paiva Walkways
A wooden trail above rushing rivers and lush cliffs, where geology, serenity, and adrenaline converge beautifully. A trek along the Paiva Walkways feels like walking the edge of a wild, green world. This 8km trail winds along the Paiva River, tracing granite cliffs, hanging staircases, and thick forest. Hear the river roar below and spot golden eagles soaring overhead. Don’t miss the Cascata das Aguieiras, viewed from a tucked-away wooden balcony, or the chance to stand on glass above the gorge at the 516 Arouca Bridge. Whether you hike the full route or a shorter section, the cinematic beauty of this UNESCO-protected trail stays with you long after.
Back to Castelo de Paiva
We’ll take you back to your starting point.
Duration of the stops can be changed upon request after booking
Have questions or need help?Contact our Customer Support. We are available 24/7

Daytrip is loved all around the world. Here's why.

5.0
5176 reviewson Tripadvisor
or
4.9
991 reviewson Trustpilot

Know more about your day trip

The Paiva Walkways are wooden boardwalks stretching 8 kilometers along the Paiva River, offering spectacular views of waterfalls, rapids, and untouched natural landscapes. This award-winning trail is considered one of Portugal's most beautiful hiking experiences.
The full walkway takes 2-3 hours to complete at a leisurely pace, allowing time for photography and enjoying the natural scenery. The 3-hour duration in your itinerary provides ample time to experience this unique trail and its stunning river views.
Comfortable walking shoes with good grip are essential for the wooden boardwalks. Bring water, sun protection, and a camera for the spectacular scenery. The walkways are well-maintained but require basic hiking preparation.
The walkways are generally accessible for most visitors, though the 8-kilometer length requires moderate fitness. The wooden boardwalks are well-constructed with handrails, but some sections involve stairs and slight elevation changes.
Arouca offers the famous Arouca Monastery, traditional Portuguese architecture, and local restaurants serving regional cuisine. The town serves as a gateway to the Arouca Geopark, showcasing unique geological formations and natural heritage.
Spring through fall offers ideal conditions with mild weather and lush vegetation. Summer provides longer daylight hours but can be warm, while spring and fall offer comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds for this popular attraction.
Although your Daytrip tour is just for the town, the Arouca region offers additional outdoor activities including the Arouca 516 suspension bridge (Europe's longest pedestrian bridge), river rafting, and hiking trails through the Arouca UNESCO Global Geopark's diverse landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions, here are the answers.
Day tripsCountriesPortugalCastelo de PaivaCastelo de Paiva to Arouca and Paiva Walkways: Guided tour