The population of the municipality in 2011 was approximately 7,874 inhabitants,[1] in an area that extends 266.11 square kilometres (102.75 sq mi).

São João da Pesqueira is the oldest recognized municipality in the country, created in 1055, thus taking precedence over such major cities as Coimbra, Guimarães or Lamego.

The municipality is situated at 850 metres (2,790 ft) above sea level and is bordered on the north by the River Douro and the municipality of Alijó, on the northeast by Carrazeda de Ansiães, on the east by Vila Nova de Foz Côa (district of Guarda), on the south-east by Penedono, on the south by Sernancelhe, on the west by Tabuaço and on the north-west by Sabrosa.

The municipality includes an attractive countryside with viewpoints over the Douro valley and the Valeira dam from the chapel of São Salvador do Mundo (Ermo).

Tourist attractions include a wine museum in Pesqueira and a network of waymarked hiking trails, including a section of the GR 14 Porto to Strasbourg Rota dos Vinhos da Europa (European Wine Route trail).