Enjoy a full-day tour from Porto that will take you to the birthplace of Portugal: Guimarães and Braga. Explore the medieval atmosphere of Guimarães and the Cathedral of Braga before discovering the flavours of Portuguese gastronomy.
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 9 hours
- Check availability to see starting times.
- Skip the ticket line
- Instant confirmation
- Live tour guide
- English, Spanish, French, Portuguese
- Pickup included
- At your accommodation in central Porto.
- Small group
- Limited to 15 participants
Experience
Highlights
- Explore the medieval atmosphere of Guimarães
- Visit the majestic Palace of the Dukes of Braganza
- Take in the beautiful views and history behind the beautiful cathedral of Braga, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Enjoy a traditional Portuguese lunch
- Visit Bom Jesus Sanctuary, a hilltop pilgrimage site
- Explore the Braga Cathedral on an exclusive guided visit
Full description
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 and the majestic Dukes of Bragança Palace. 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.
Includes
- Full-day tour with guide
- Transfers by bus/minivan
- Hotel pick-up and drop off
- Exclusive Guided visit to Braga Cathedral
- Entry ticket to Guimarães Castle
- Entry Ticket to the Ducal Palace
- Entry Ticket to Bom Jesus do Monte
- Traditional Portuguese lunch
Not suitable for
- People with mobility impairments
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
Select participants and date
Participants
Date
Prepare for the activity
Important information
Know before you go
- This tour is not recommended for people with limited mobility
