Car Rental Vila Real

The Portuguese town of Vila Real lies at the convergence of two rivers and was founded in 1289 by royal warrant and was the birthplace of famous Portuguese explorer, Diego Cao, discoverer in 1482 of the entrance to the mouth of the mighty River Congo. The town is a busy commercial and agricultural hub for the region and great to drive around using cheap car rental in Vila Real downtown.

Vila Real's main exports are the locality's wine and port, and the most famous of its historic building is its cathedral, built in the 15th century in the Gothic style by the Dominicans. The huge monastery in the town was later destroyed in the 19th century during an unsuccessful movement for liberation of Portugal from the old nobility and the church.

Many other historic buildings can be found here as wells an interesting archaeological museum, and boat trips along the rivers give a glimpse into the lush green countryside of the region. Car rental in Vila Real downtown is another option for getting out and seeing the many charming towns and quaint villages the area has to offer.

The famous Casa Mateus, an early 18th century aristocratic mansion owned by a local family, is a short three kilometre drive from the town and is open to the public. Poetry and music recitals take place here as well, and are popular with both locals and visitors alike. One of the famous features in the mansion's grounds is the Tunnel of Cedars', 35, of shaded walkway lined with the ancient trees.

To the northwest of town lies a protected national park, with varied topography through beautiful valleys to stark mountains, home to a diverse selection of flora and fauna. As it's set close to the urban area, illegal hunters take advantage of the situation to shoot game and birds, but there's still much to admire here, especially using car rental in Vila Real downtown.