Guimaraes

Architecture

Embark on a full-day guided tour of Guimarães and Braga from Porto, traveling through the scenic Minho region, known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich history. Meet you guide at our Meeting Point near S. Bento Train Station and then head to Guimarães, the birthplace of Portugal and its first king, explore the medieval castle and the well-preserved historical city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Braga, one of the oldest Christian cities in the world, enjoy some free time to lunch, then visit the cathedral, the historical center, and the Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary before returning to Porto.

We offer you the gems of the National Park, the hidden secrets that the locals are kindly sharing with us! Surrounded by gorgeous mountain landscapes you will make short and accessible walks to reach a crystal clear lagoon and waterfall taken straight from fantasy books. Once there you will be able to ground yourself! Appreciate the magic scenery, wild swimming and the purest nature. Throughout our day, we might feel like travelling back to ancient times. We step in one of the last communitary villages in the Portuguese northeast. Where you will get to know a real interesting way of living, based on traditions and focus on heritage and cultural preservation. Food is a great way to preserve culture. Traditional meal in a local and welcoming restaurant with fair, flavoured, deliciou food and wine included! "Changing the world at an arm's distance!" Giving back to nature and the community by an environmental care project , it's our way to promote active and participative tourism. Being on the tour means being part of the process of reforestation in the National Park. Allow yourself to absorb all the sounds, smells, senses that this experience has to offer all year round.

Explore Guimarães and Braga: A Full-Day Tour from Porto Begin your journey by visiting Guimarães, the birthplace of the Portuguese nation and the first city chosen by Portugal’s first king, Afonso Henriques. Known as the cradle of Portugal, Guimarães boasts a well-preserved medieval atmosphere and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tour starts with a visit to the impressive 10th-century Guimarães Castle, a key landmark in Portugal’s early history. From there, you’ll stroll along Santa Maria Road, leading to the picturesque Largo da Oliveira, a charming square in the heart of Guimarães’ historic old town. After a relaxing lunch break in Guimarães, where you’ll savor traditional northern Portuguese cuisine, the tour continues to Braga, known as the oldest religious capital of Portugal. Braga, once called Bracara Augusta by the Romans, has been a significant religious center and pilgrimage destination for centuries. Your visit begins at the 12th-century Sé Cathedral, built by Henri de Bourgogne and Dona Teresa. Then, head to the stunning Bom Jesus Sanctuary, perched on a hilltop. The iconic 581-step stairway leading to the top is one of the most famous in Portugal, offering breathtaking views and a sense of spiritual devotion. Why Choose This Braga & Guimarães Tour? 1) Visit UNESCO World Heritage sites and historical landmarks in Guimarães and Braga. 2) Explore Guimarães Castle and Bom Jesus Sanctuary—two of Portugal’s most iconic sites. 3) Enjoy traditional northern Portuguese cuisine during your lunch break. 4) Immerse yourself in the religious history of Braga, the oldest religious capital of Portugal. 5) Experience a comfortable, informative tour with an expert local guide. Book Your Braga and Guimarães Day Tour Today Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the rich history, culture, and stunning landmarks of Guimarães and Braga. Book your tour now for an unforgettable full-day experience that combines history, religion, and scenic beauty.

Travel in an air-conditioned van from Porto to the cities of Braga and Guimarães on this guided tour. Savor an authentic Portuguese lunch. Get exclusive access to part of Braga Cathedral and stay hydrated on your trip with the included bottled water.  Starts with pickup your hotel or accommodation and relax with your group on the drive in a climate controlled van. Arriving in Braga, we will start by visiting the Bom Jesus Sanctuary and contemplating its magnificent staircase to the top of the church. After a top view of the city, visit the oldest cathedral in the country where you will have exclusive access to the chapel's and high choir. Sit down to a delicious, traditional Portuguese lunch at a restaurant where you can taste the famed "Vinho Verde" that is produced in the region. During the afternoon visit Guimarães. Have time for a calm walk on foot through the medieval city before entering in the Guimarães Castle where the kingdom of Portugal was born.  Continue to the Palace of the Dukes to be dazzled by the luxuries of royalty from other times. A whole history of Portugal will be told by your local guides along the way. Return to your accommodation in Porto at the end of your tour. 

We will start in Guimarães, known as the cradle of the Portuguese nation. The first stop will be at the imposing Guimarães Castle, a medieval fortress dating back to the X century where you will delve into the rich history of the place. Next, we will visit the Paço dos Duques de Bragança, an XV-century palace that was the residence of the Portuguese royal family. With its stunning architecture and authentic furnishings, the Palace offers a fascinating insight into the aristocratic life of the time. After exploring Guimarães, we will leave for Braga, a city full of tradition and religiosity. There, we will visit the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, a pilgrimage site famous for its monumental staircase and the beautiful garden that surrounds it. Climbing the steps to the top is a unique and rewarding experience, with stunning views of the city. In the historic center of Braga, you will have the opportunity to explore its picturesque streets, admire the baroque architecture, and visit the majestic Braga Cathedral, one of the oldest in Portugal. Throughout the tour, our expert guide will be on hand to provide historical information and interesting facts about the places visited, ensuring you make the most of this cultural experience. Note: The excursion does not include lunch, but if you wish you can request it in the “Message” section at the time of booking.  

Start your day at the National Park with a Kayak activity in the Caniçada reservoir (apx. 1h30 min). The magnificent landscape will be your background for the morning, while you can be active by paddling and swimming around the lake. Take a pit stop on a small sandy beach, to swim, relax and try stand up paddle. Savour a traditional meal in a local and welcoming restaurant with fair, delicious food and wine included! After lunch take the opportunity to appreciate the stunning views while driving to the next adventure. This is the moment where you emerge into the wilderness and beauty of the National Park. Easy/moderate level walk through to a magical path will take you to a stunningshing waterfall, you'll be able to ground yourself, swim and enjoy the magic! Throughout the day, you will learn about the cultural and traditional aspects of the villages in the Park. By taking part on this tour, you will be supporting our active/participative environmental project at the National Park. Challenge yourself and absorb all the sounds, smells, senses that this experience has to offer!

During this tuk tuk tour, pass through the most important historical and architectural points of Braga's city center to understand the importance and extensive history of the city. Within the maze of narrow streets, Gothic churches back onto modern shopping streets and grand baroque buildings surround peaceful plazas. Braga is the perfect place for history and culture, being home to numerous monuments and attractions, including one of the finest monuments in Northern Portugal, the Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary, a must-do for any trip to Braga. You can also visit the Sanctuary of Sameiro. Some of the other sights covered by this tour are the Holy Cross Church, Pius XII Museum, Roman Thermae of Maximinus, Roman ruins of Carvalheiras, Biscainhos Museum, Carmo Church, Mercado Municipal de Braga, Braga City Hall, and the Public Library of Braga. The number of these places visited will depend on the duration booked.

Embark on a fascinating day tour that takes you through the rich history and stunning landscapes of northern Portugal. Your journey begins with a visit to the Sacred Heart Sanctuary in Viana do Castelo, a majestic hilltop church offering breathtaking views of the surrounding region. After taking in the serene atmosphere, you will head to the center of Viana do Castelo, a charming town filled with history and culture. Here, you’ll have free time to explore its cobblestone streets, admire the traditional architecture, and discover the local shops and cafés. From Viana do Castelo, the tour continues to Braga, one of Portugal’s oldest cities, known for its religious significance and beautiful historical sites. A guided tour will introduce you to the city’s stunning landmarks, including its impressive churches and picturesque squares, before giving you some leisure time to explore at your own pace. Next, you’ll visit the Bom Jesus Sanctuary, an iconic site nestled in the mountains, renowned for its Baroque staircase and incredible views. Take some time to relax and admire the peaceful surroundings before continuing to your final destination: Guimaraes. Often referred to as the birthplace of Portugal, Guimaraes boasts a medieval center with well-preserved architecture and a rich cultural heritage. Here, you’ll enjoy both a guided tour and free time to wander through the historic streets, visit local attractions, and take in the vibrant atmosphere. This full-day tour offers an unforgettable experience, combining the best of northern Portugal’s history, culture, and natural beauty. From hilltop sanctuaries and historic cities to charming streets and picturesque views, you’ll discover the essence of this remarkable region.

Step into the past with a visit to the Castle of Guimarães, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the birthplace of Portugal. This imposing medieval fortress, built in the 10th century, offers a fascinating glimpse into the country's early history. As you wander through its ancient walls and towers, you'll learn about the castle's role in the formation of the Portuguese nation and its significance in various historical events. Begin your journey at the main entrance, where you'll be greeted by the impressive keep, the tallest structure in the castle. From here, explore the various sections of the castle, including the battlements, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes. Visit the chapel of São Miguel do Castelo, a small Romanesque church located within the castle grounds, believed to be the site where the first King of Portugal, Afonso Henriques, was baptized. As you continue your tour, delve into the history of the castle through informative displays and exhibits. Learn about the lives of the people who once inhabited these walls, from royalty to soldiers. Discover the legends and myths associated with the castle, adding an element of intrigue to your visit. Conclude your visit by taking a stroll around the castle grounds, where you can reflect on the rich history and cultural heritage of this remarkable site. The Castle of Guimarães is not just a monument; it's a journey through time, offering a unique and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

Explore Portugal's rich heritage in Braga and Guimarães on this small-group tour from Porto. In Braga, discover the Bom Jesus Sanctuary (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and ancient Cathedral followed by a delicious lunch of northern Portuguese cuisine. Then, venture to Guimarães, a UNESCO World Heritage Site too to see the medieval castle, Church of Saint Michael, and stroll through its charming streets.