Known as the birthplace of the nation, Guimarães is a fascinating place to visit, with its proud castle and well-preserved medieval quarter.
About this activity
- Free cancellation
- Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
- COVID-19 precautions
- Special health and safety measures apply. Learn more
- Mobile ticketing
- Use your phone or print your voucher
- Duration 4 hours
- Check availability to see starting times.
- Instant confirmation
- Live tour guide
- Spanish, English, Portuguese
- Pickup included
- Hotels in the historical centers of Porto and Gaia
- Private or small groups available
Experience
Highlights
- Visit Guimarães, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Explore the 10th century Guimarães Castle
- Learn all about the foundation of Portugal
Full description
Your friendly guide will pick you up from your hotel and transport you to historic Guimarães, a 50-minute ride away. Guimarães became known as the nation’s birthplace after Portugal’s first king named it the capital in 1128. Learn about this and more ancient Portuguese history while exploring the renowned city center.
During your exploration, stop in at the 10th-century Guimarães Castle (admission included) before continuing to the Romanesque church of St Miguel. While here, visit the baptismal site of Portugal’s first king, Afonso Henriques. Stroll over to the stately Palace of the Dukes of Bragança (optional), built in the fifteenth century to house the royal family.
Make your way toward the charming lower city to discover what earned this area of Guimarães its UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Meander through a sinuous maze of narrow streets, flanked by old houses decorated with statues. Arrive at the towering Nossa Senhora da Oliveira Church, where you can glimpse the ancient Padrão do Salado monument. Then journey to the outskirts of the city to explore Toural Square’s weekly fair. Pick up some goodies before driving back to your hotel.
Includes
- Professional tour guide
- Pick-up & drop-off at hotel
- Transport in air-conditioned minivan
- Walking tour in the historical center of Guimarães
- Entrance to Guimarães Castle
- Food and drinks
COVID-19 precautions
Safety measures in place
- All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
- Customers must keep distance in vehicles
- The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds
Traveler requirements
- Customers are required to bring and wear masks
- Customers will get a mandatory temperature check
Select participants and date
Participants
Date
Prepare for the activity
Important information
What to bring
- Comfortable shoes
- Comfortable clothes
Not allowed
- Luggage or large bags
Know before you go
- This tour operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
- Pickups and drop-offs are only available within the limits of the historical centers of Porto and Gaia; for Airbnbs not located in a central street, the local partner set the pickup in a nearby central street or in Trindade Metro Station
- Parents should bring a baby car seat adjusted to the infant's age (1 to 3 years old). The local partner only has seats available for children aged 4 years and over
- The tour can sometimes be done in two languages
