Discover a Roman City Built Around Water and Time

This private experience in Chaves explores one of Northern Portugal’s most unique destinations — a city shaped by Roman heritage and thermal traditions.


Known in Roman times as Aquae Flaviae, Chaves developed around its natural hot springs, which continue to flow today as some of the hottest thermal waters in Europe.


More than a visit — this is a journey through history, water and wellbeing.

From Aquae Flaviae to Modern Thermal Wellness

The Romans established Chaves as an important settlement due to its strategic location and its exceptional thermal waters.


Throughout this experience, you will explore:


  • The Roman bridge over the Tâmega River, built during the 1st–2nd century  
  • Archaeological remains of one of the largest Roman thermal complexes in the Iberian Peninsula  
  • The historic centre shaped by centuries of continuity  
  • The evolution of Chaves from a Roman city into a modern wellness destination  


The city was named Aquae Flaviae by Emperor Vespasian in recognition of its thermal waters, valued since the 1st century AD.

Northern Pathways curated travel experiences in Northern Portugal

Thermal Waters of Chaves – A Living Tradition of Wellbeing

Chaves is renowned for its hyperthermal waters, emerging naturally at temperatures of around 73ºC to 76ºC — among the hottest in Europe. 


Rich in minerals and used since Roman times, these waters have long been associated with therapeutic and relaxation benefits.


Today, this tradition continues through modern thermal facilities, where visitors can experience:


  • Thermal pools and hydrodynamic circuits  
  • Relaxation and wellness treatments  
  • A unique connection between ancient practices and contemporary wellbeing  


This is where history meets the body.

A Borderland City Shaped by History and Geography

Located in the Alto Tâmega region, near the Spanish border, Chaves has long been a strategic and cultural crossroads.


Its development was influenced by Roman infrastructure, medieval fortifications and cross-border exchanges that shaped its identity over centuries.


The presence of thermal waters, geological formations and historical routes makes Chaves a unique intersection of nature, history and human settlement.

Private Cultural and Thermal Experience in Chaves (Northern Portugal)

Technical Details


  • Location: Chaves, Northern Portugal
  • Duration: 4–5 hours
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Format: Fully private experience
  • Best Season:Year-round
  • Pickup: Included


Where Water, History and Time Come Together

In Chaves, water is not just a natural element — it is the foundation of the city’s identity.


This experience invites you to explore a place where Roman heritage and thermal traditions continue to shape everyday life.


A journey through time, guided by water.

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