Palace of the Dukes of Braganza

The tour starts with a visit to the birthplace of the Portuguese nation – the city of Guimarães. This was the first city of Portugal chosen by the first king, Afonso Henriques. Known as the cradle of Portugal, Guimarães has preserved a medieval atmosphere at its core and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your first stop takes place in the northern part of the city with a visit to the imposing 10th century castle. Afterward the historical Santa Maria Road leads you to the charming square in the heart of the old town, Largo da Oliveira. After a relaxing lunch break in Guimarães that will certainly allow you to enjoy the pleasures of the cuisine of the north of Portugal, it will be time to continue towards Braga, the oldest religious capital of Portugal. Known to the Romans as Bracara Augusta, for centuries Braga has been and archiepiscopal seat and pilgrimage site. Your first stop is Sé, the 12th century cathedral built by Henri de Bourgogne and Dona Teresa. Then you will head to Bom Jesus Sanctuary, a hilltop pilgrimage site. The 581 steps that the pilgrims climb up to the top of Bom Jesus are one of the most glorious stairways in Portugal. After a visit to these landmarks of faith in the country you head back to Porto.

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.  

From Porto, discover the beauty of one of the most beautiful regions of Portugal, on a trip in a comfortable vehicle and private driver. On this trip to Minho you will get to know the best of the cities of Braga and Guimarães, two of the oldest and historical in Portugal and recognized by UNESCO. Have a memorable lunch at a local restaurant and choose the places to enjoy: • Braga Downtown, Braga Cathedral, Bom Jesus or Sameiro • Igreja e Convento de Sao Francisco, • Paco dos Duques de Braganca and Guimarães Castle • Arco da Porta Nova e Largo da Nossa Senhora Oliveira Return in comfort to your hotel in Porto after a day that will surely be unforgettable. This is a private experience tour. You can adapt the program according to your preferences.

Explore the Charm of Northern Portugal: Touring Guimarães and Braga and Their Heritage Discovering Northern Portugal means diving into a treasure trove of history, culture, and breathtaking architecture. Guimarães and Braga, two historical gems, offer a memorable journey through their magnificent heritage. Guimarães: The Birthplace of Portugal Palace of the Dukes and Guimarães Castle: Begin your journey in Guimarães, known as the birthplace of Portugal. The imposing Palace of the Dukes of Braganza takes visitors on a journey through time with its majestic architecture and richly decorated interiors. Next, explore the iconic Guimarães Castle, an imposing fortress dating back to the 10th century, considered a symbol of Portuguese national identity. Braga: The City of Archbishops Braga Cathedral and Bom Jesus: Next, embark on a short trip to Braga, a city steeped in religiosity and history. The majestic Braga Cathedral, one of Portugal's oldest cathedrals, impresses with its Gothic and Baroque architecture. Not far away, the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte offers a unique experience, with its imposing staircase adorned with chapels and statues, culminating in breathtaking views of the city. Traditional Minho Lunch: A Delight for the Palate After exploring these architectural wonders, it's time to savor traditional Minho cuisine in a typical lunch. Conclusion A tour of Guimarães and Braga is a journey through Portugal's rich history and culture. From imposing castles to majestic cathedrals and delicious cuisine, this is an experience that captivates all the senses. Be sure to include these destinations on your next visit to Northern Portugal and allow yourself to be enveloped by the charm and beauty of this special region.

KEY INFORMATION - Explore over 40 points of interest on this self-guided, circular walking tour, available in English and Portuguese, through our highly-rated Walkbox app. - With a total distance of 3.5 km and no steep uphill sections, this easy route takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on your pace and stops. - Enjoy the flexibility to start the tour anytime within 5 days from your booking and go at your own pace, with no time limits. Along the way, experience captivating storytelling, detailed descriptions, and stunning photos. - You can read full descriptions in Places, view short descriptions on specially designed Maps or listen to computed-generated audio that plays automatically as you approach each location. For added convenience, maps can be downloaded for offline use. TOUR SUMMARY Your circular tour begins at the car park behind the iconic Castle of Guimarães. Explore the castle, the Church of São Miguel do Castelo, and the grand Duques de Bragança Palace. From the castle grounds, stroll down the medieval Santa Maria Street, leading to the historic Santiago Square. Pass through the Old Town Hall arcades to reach Oliveira Square, home to the Collegiate Church of Our Lady of Oliveira and the Salado Monument. The walk continue west to the lively Toural Square, a 17th-century marketplace turned vibrant city hub. Meander through the quaint streets of Dom João II, Doutor Bento Cardoso, and Camões, lined with historic churches and convents. Head south to discover the medieval leather tanks and the impressive São Francisco complex. The tour concludes with a serene walk through the Alameda Public Garden to the Campo da Feira Garden, where the magnificent Church of Our Lady of Consolation stands. The walk circles back to your starting point via the Pedestrian Route of the Walls of Guimarães. ABOUT WALKBOX Every month, thousands of travelers unlock the magic of Portugal’s vibrant cities and breathtaking landscapes, all at their own pace, with Walkbox as their personal guide. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems only locals know about, Walkbox immerses you in insider descriptions, breathtaking photos, and captivating stories that bring every spot to life. Created by a dedicated team of experts, including guides, historians, and photographers, Walkbox provides a seamless and engaging walking experience. With expertly curated routes, exclusive photos, unique descriptions of points of interest, and intuitive interactive maps, Walkbox makes every step of your journey unforgettable. Enjoy a fast, responsive, and user-friendly app that works offline and requires no login.

Discover Portugal: A Day of Charm and History Get ready for a unique experience that will take you to explore the historic gems of northern Portugal, revealing the rich history and vibrant culture of the country. Embark on your adventure from the heart of Porto, and as you travel through the picturesque Minho Region, savor the scenic views along the way. Your journey will lead you to the magnificent Braga Cathedral, one of Portugal's most notable religious landmarks. This is where spirituality intertwines with remarkable architecture, offering a truly unique and enchanting experience. Wander through its ornate corridors, where the wealth of architectural details will captivate your senses. Next, head to the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, a place of pilgrimage and contemplation. The centuries-old steps leading to the church offer breathtaking panoramic views, with each step telling a story that spans through time, connecting faith and history. Continue to the Sanctuary of Sameiro, a haven of tranquility where faith and devotion intertwine with the serenity of the surroundings. This sanctuary is a spiritual retreat, a place where peace and contemplation become an unforgettable experience. Upon arriving in Guimarães, a city that is a historical treasure, your next discovery is the Guimarães Castle. This is the birthplace of the Portuguese nation, and as you explore its imposing walls and towers, you will be transported to the medieval era, living history in every stone. Next, visit the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, a striking example of Renaissance architecture. As you step into the sumptuous rooms of the palace, the history of Portugal comes to life in every detail, and the grandeur of the past is palpable. This experience goes beyond a simple tour; it is a journey through Portugal's history, from the spirituality of Braga Cathedral to the grandeur of the sanctuaries and the magnificence of Guimarães' monuments. Book now and treat yourself to the experience of a lifetime, exploring Portugal's heritage in all its glory. Discover Portugal and, in doing so, discover yourself!

Enjoy the scenic landscapes of Minho, noted for its popular Vinho Verde, and visit two of the region’s historic cities, Guimarães and Braga, to discover their architectural heritage. The first stop on this full-day tour is Guimarães, the birthplace of Portugal. The city center has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001. Marvel the Guimarães Castle, dating from the 10th century, where you’ll learn about the early period of Portugal’s history. Admire the Dukes of Bragança Palace and the architecture of this medieval city, full of unique buildings, streets, and squares. Continue to Braga, a city once occupied by the Romans and one of the most important Christian centers of Portugal. Take a break to enjoy a traditional lunch with Vinho Verde. After that continue learning about the history of Braga and pay a visit to its most important landmarks such as the Cathedral from the 11th century, Bom Jesus do Monte, and the Sameiro Sanctuary. You will arrive back to Porto close to 5pm.

World Heritage town. Amazing Old historical Centre. Free time on historical centre.

Embark on an extraordinary journey with our exclusive Guimarães Tour, a mesmerizing odyssey through the annals of Portugal's storied history. Prepare to be swept away on a voyage of discovery as we unveil the secrets of this ancient city, where the echoes of bygone eras still reverberate through its cobblestone streets. Guimarães isn't merely a city – it's a living testament to the resilience and spirit of the Portuguese people. Revered as the "Birthplace of Portugal," Guimarães holds a sacred place in the hearts of its inhabitants, embodying the very essence of the nation's identity. Join us as we peel back the layers of time and delve into the captivating narrative of Guimarães. From the imposing Guimarães Castle, standing sentinel atop the hill, to the opulent Ducal Palace, each architectural marvel serves as a poignant reminder of the city's illustrious past. Yet, our tour transcends mere monuments and landmarks – it's an immersive journey into the soul of Guimarães. As you wander through its labyrinthine alleyways and bustling squares, you'll feel the palpable energy of a city steeped in history and tradition, where the indomitable spirit of its people has endured the test of time. Prepare to be enraptured by the beauty and majesty of Guimarães as we explore its rich cultural tapestry and vibrant heritage. From the vibrant markets teeming with local delights to the tranquil gardens steeped in serenity, every moment of our tour promises to be a revelation. Join us on this unparalleled excursion through the annals of Portuguese history, and discover why Guimarães is more than just a city – it's a living embodiment of the nation's spirit and resilience. Tour Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours Route: Campo de São Mamede Guimarães Castle (Guided Visit) Castle Church (Guided Visit) Ducal Palace (Guided Visit) Praça da Oliveira Guimarães Ancient City Hall Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira (Inside Visit) Guimarães City Walls Guimarães Pastry and Typical Drinks Tasting