How to Plan Your Porto Private Braga and Guimaraes Tour

Are you planning a trip to Guimaraes and looking for the perfect way to explore the area? Look no further than the Porto Private Braga and Guimaraes Tour. This full-day tour is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the history and culture of the region. In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to plan your perfect tour.

Experience

The Porto Private Braga and Guimaraes Tour is a full-day experience that takes you to some of the most iconic and historical locations in the region. Here are just some of the highlights you can expect to see on the tour: – See the “Bom Jesus” sanctuary with its majestic stairs and views – Learn about the only still-operational water-powered elevator in the whole world – Tour the castle of Guimaraes where Portugal “was born” – Experience the personality of the Guimaraes historical center – Witness the Cathedral of Braga with its unique organs

Full Description

The tour begins with an exploration of Guimaraes, the first capital of Portugal. You’ll discover the hill where a statue of D. Afonso Henriques (the first king of Portugal) and Guimaraes Castle are located. Then visit the São Miguel Church and Paço dos Duques de Bragança (Bragança’s House Palace) and last but not least, you will take a little time to taste a delicious Santa Clara’s Pastry. Next up, it will be time to visit Braga, a modern city that is full of rich Roman and Medieval history. Starting in the Cathedral (a monument from the 11th century), one of the main attractions is the cross which was used in the first mass service in Brazil. After visiting the Cathedral, you will see the oldest part of the city, and you will have the opportunity to taste the famous Fidalgo Pastry or one (1) Port wine glass (for the customers of legal age in CE). Finally, you will head to the “Bom Jesus” sanctuary, where you can experience the majesty of the stairs and the exceptional views of Braga city. Here, you can take a break and have lunch or snack, where you can taste the traditional Francesinha.

Booking Your Tour

To book the Porto Private Braga and Guimaraes Tour, you can visit the GetYourGuide website and select the tour of your choice. The tour is offered by a third-party company, and as such, you can rest assured that you will receive professional and knowledgeable guidance throughout your tour. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to see some of the most iconic and historical locations in the Guimaraes region. Book your tour today and experience the beauty and charm of Portugal. Book the tour here.

Frequently Asked Questions about Guimaraes

Guimaraes is a city in the north of Portugal that is rich in history and culture. It is a popular tourist destination for those who want to learn more about Portugal’s past and experience its unique blend of traditional and modern lifestyles. This FAQ aims to provide you with all the information you need to know about this fascinating city.

1. What is the history of Guimaraes?

Guimaraes is one of the most historic cities in Portugal. It was founded in the 10th century and played an important role in the country’s formation. In 1128, the famous Battle of Sao Mamede took place here, which is considered to be the birth of the Portuguese nation. In the 15th and 16th centuries, Guimaraes was a center of trade and industry. Today, it is a thriving city that is proud of its rich history.

2. What are the must-see attractions in Guimaraes?

There are many must-see attractions in Guimaraes. The most famous of these is the Guimaraes Castle, which dates back to the 10th century. Other notable attractions include the Palace of the Dukes of Braganca, the Alberto Sampaio Museum, and the Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira. Additionally, visitors should take a stroll around the historic city center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

3. When is the best time to visit Guimaraes?

The best time to visit Guimaraes is during the spring or fall when the temperatures are mild and the crowds are smaller. The summer months can be quite hot and crowded, while the winter months can be rainy and chilly. However, no matter when you visit, there is always something interesting to see and do in this historic city.

4. What is the food like in Guimaraes?

The food in Guimaraes is traditional Portuguese cuisine, which is known for its fresh seafood, meat dishes, and pastries. Visitors should try the local specialties, such as bacalhau (salt cod), cozido (a meat and vegetable stew), and pastel de nata (custard tart). Additionally, the city has many excellent restaurants and cafes where visitors can enjoy a meal or a snack.

5. What are the transportation options in Guimaraes?

Guimaraes is a small city, and most of its attractions are within walking distance of one another. However, there is also a bus system that connects different parts of the city. Visitors can also take a taxi or rent a car to explore the surrounding areas.

6. Are there any festivals or events in Guimaraes?

Guimaraes is a city that celebrates its cultural heritage, and there are many festivals and events that take place throughout the year. The most famous of these is the Guimaraes Medieval Festival, which takes place in August and recreates the ambiance of the Middle Ages. Other notable events include the Carnival celebrations, the Sao Joao Festival, and the European Youth Capital events.

7. What are some popular day trips from Guimaraes?

Guimaraes is located in the heart of the Minho region, which has many interesting towns and cities to explore. Some popular day trips include a visit to Braga, which is known for its religious history and beautiful cathedrals, or a trip to the Douro Valley, which is famous for its vineyards and wine production.

8. What is the nightlife like in Guimaraes?

Guimaraes has a lively nightlife scene, with many bars and clubs located in the city center. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, and visitors can enjoy a wide range of different types of music and entertainment. Additionally, there are many cafes and restaurants that stay open late into the night, making it easy to enjoy a meal or a drink at any time.

9. What are some useful Portuguese phrases to know when visiting Guimaraes?

Visitors to Guimaraes will find that many people speak English, and communication should not be a problem. However, it is always useful to know some basic Portuguese phrases, such as “Bom dia” (good morning), “Obrigado/obrigada” (thank you), and “A conta, por favor” (the bill, please).

10. What is the weather like in Guimaraes?

Guimaraes has a temperate climate, with mild temperatures in the spring and fall and hot temperatures in the summer. The best time to visit is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild and pleasant. Winters in Guimaraes can be chilly and rainy, so visitors should pack warm clothing and waterproof gear if they plan to visit during this time.

How to Spend your Time as a Tourist in Guimaraes

Guimaraes is a charming and historic city located in northern Portugal. It is known for its rich history, which dates back to the Middle Ages, and its beautiful architecture. If you’re planning on visiting Guimaraes soon, you’re in for a treat! There are so many things to do and see in this city, and it can be hard to know where to start. Here are some tips on how to make the most of your time in Guimaraes.

1. Visit the Castle of Guimaraes

The Castle of Guimaraes is an iconic landmark in the city. It was built in the 10th century and has been well-preserved over the years. You can explore the castle and take in the beautiful views of the city from the top. There are also guided tours available that will give you more information about the history of the castle and the city.

2. Explore the Historic Center

The historic center of Guimaraes is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its medieval streets and buildings. Take a walk around the city and explore the winding streets and alleys. You’ll find lots of charming shops, cafes, and restaurants along the way. Don’t miss out on the Praça de Santiago, where you can see the statue of Afonso Henriques, the first king of Portugal, and the beautiful Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira.

3. Visit the Dukes of Braganza Palace

The Dukes of Braganza Palace is a must-visit attraction in Guimaraes. It was built in the 15th century and is considered one of the most important monuments in Portugal. The palace has been well-preserved over the years and contains a vast collection of furniture, paintings, and tapestries. Guided tours are available, which will give you more information about the history of the palace and the city.

4. Try the Local Cuisine

Portugal is known for its delicious food, and Guimaraes is no exception. There are many local dishes that you should try while you’re in the city. Some of the must-try dishes include bacalhau à gomes de sá (a cod-based dish), cozido à portuguesa (a meat and vegetable stew), and arroz de cabidela (chicken rice). You should also try the local Vinho Verde wine, which is famous in the region.

5. Visit the Alberto Sampaio Museum

The Alberto Sampaio Museum is a museum of religious art located in the historic center of the city. It contains a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and other works of art from the 14th to the 18th century. If you’re interested in art and history, this museum is a must-visit attraction in Guimaraes.

6. Take a Day Trip to Braga

Braga is a nearby city that is worth a day trip from Guimaraes. It is known for its beautiful churches and historical buildings. Some of the must-visit attractions in Braga include the Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary and the Sé Cathedral. You can easily take a bus or train from Guimaraes to Braga, and the journey takes less than an hour.

Book Your Tour Now

Guimaraes is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. There are so many things to do and see in the city, and it’s easy to spend a few days exploring all that it has to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or food, there’s something for everyone in Guimaraes. Follow these tips to make the most of your time in the city, and you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.