Guimarães, the birthplace of Portugal, beckons visitors to uncover its rich medieval history. On this half-day private tour from Porto, guests will explore the city’s UNESCO-protected landmarks at their own pace. From the imposing Guimarães Castle to the grand Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, each site tells a captivating story. With personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide, travelers can explore the origins of this fascinating destination. The tour’s seamless logistics, including hotel pickup and drop-off, make it an effortless way to experience the best of Guimarães.
Key Points

- This half-day private tour from Porto explores the UNESCO-listed medieval city of Guimarães, considered the birthplace of the Portuguese nation.
- Tour includes visits to key historical sites like Guimarães Castle and the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, with a knowledgeable guide providing insights.
- Tour is conducted in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, offering a personalized experience with the flexibility to ask questions and take photos.
- Complimentary Porto city walking tour is offered the following day as an optional addition to the Guimarães tour experience.
- Pricing starts at $139.16 per person, with a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.
Exploring Guimarães: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
As a 12th-century UNESCO World Heritage Site, Guimarães offers visitors a captivating glimpse into Portugal’s storied past.
This former capital city boasts a well-preserved medieval core, with cobblestone streets and historic landmarks. Travelers can explore the grand Guimarães Castle, a fortress dating back to the 10th century.
The Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, a 15th-century Gothic-style residence, showcases the region’s architectural heritage.
Wandering through the charming town square, visitors can imagine life in medieval Portugal.
With a knowledgeable private guide, travelers can explore Guimarães’ rich history and uncover its significance as the birthplace of the nation.
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Journey to the First Capital of Portugal

Departing from Porto, travelers embark on a captivating half-day journey to Guimarães, the first capital of Portugal. In a private, air-conditioned vehicle, they’ll explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site at their own pace with a knowledgeable guide.
Key historical sites like Guimarães Castle await, allowing ample time for questions and photography. After the tour, visitors can opt for a complimentary Porto city walking tour the following day.
Though meals aren’t included, the tour provides a seamless, hassle-free experience – from hotel pickup to castle admission and drop-off – ensuring travelers make the most of their time in this iconic Portuguese destination.
Discovering Historical Gems at Your Own Pace

Travelers embark on a personalized exploration of Guimarães, discovering its historical gems at their own pace.
With a private guide, they navigate the city’s charming cobbled streets and medieval architecture at a leisurely tempo.
The tour offers several advantages:
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Flexibility to customize the itinerary and focus on areas of personal interest.
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Ample time to capture stunning photographs of the iconic Guimarães Castle and other picturesque landmarks.
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Opportunities to engage the knowledgeable guide and learn about the city’s rich 12th-century history as the first capital of Portugal.
Guimarães Castle: a Glimpse Into the Past

The crown jewel of Guimarães’ historic treasures, the Guimarães Castle stands as a testament to the city’s pivotal role in Portugal’s origins.
The crown jewel of Guimarães’ historic treasures, the Guimarães Castle stands as a testament to the city’s pivotal role in Portugal’s origins.
This impressive 10th-century fortification offers visitors an unparalleled glimpse into the country’s past. As you wander the castle’s well-preserved halls and towers, you’ll feel transported back in time, imagining the kings and nobles who once walked these grounds.
The tour includes admission to the castle, allowing you to explore it at your own pace with your knowledgeable guide on hand to provide insights.
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about Portugal’s rich history.
Private Tour Inclusions and Pickup Details

This private tour includes a professional guide who’ll accompany you throughout the experience.
The tour also provides hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as transportation by air-conditioned vehicle.
Plus, the tour includes:
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Entrance fee to Guimarães Castle.
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A free Porto City Walking Tour the day after.
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Infant seats available, making it stroller accessible.
The tour pickup can be arranged from your accommodation, or alternative pickup points can be provided if your accommodation lacks road access.
With confirmation received at booking and a low price guarantee, this tour offers a convenient and enjoyable way to explore the historical sites of Guimarães.
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Pricing and Cancellation Policy

The price for this private tour starts at $139.16 per person, with the final cost varying based on the group size. The company offers a Lowest Price Guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. The tour has received a 5.0 rating based on 3 reviews, with positive feedback highlighting the knowledgeable guides and enjoyable experiences.
| Cancellation Policy | Refund |
| — | — |
| 24+ hours before | 100% |
| 23-12 hours before | 50% |
| 11-0 hours before | No refund |
| Children (under 12) | 10% discount |
Traveler Reviews and Feedback

According to the reviews, travelers have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback for this private tour of Guimarães.
Reviewers highlighted several key aspects of the experience:
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Knowledgeable and engaging guide: Travelers praised the expertise and enthusiasm of the guide, Valdemar, who brought the history and culture of Guimarães to life.
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Personalized, flexible experience: The private nature of the tour allowed travelers to explore at their own pace and focus on the sites that interested them most.
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Enjoyable, well-organized tour: Reviewers described the tour as a "must-do" and an "excellent way" to discover the charming medieval town of Guimarães.
Complementary Porto City Walking Tour

Along With the private tour of Guimarães, travelers booking this experience also receive a complimentary Porto City Walking Tour the following day.
This 2-hour walking tour explores the highlights of Porto’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guests will stroll through the charming streets, admire the Baroque architecture, and learn about the city’s rich history from a local guide.
The walking tour is a great way to further take in the culture and attractions of northern Portugal. This complementary activity provides added value and a well-rounded sightseeing experience for travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?
The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but it is stroller accessible. Travelers using wheelchairs may need assistance navigating the cobblestone streets and uneven terrain of the historical sites. Alternative pickup points are available if the accommodation lacks road access.
Are There Any COVID-19 Precautions in Place?
The tour provider follows COVID-19 safety protocols, including sanitized vehicles, socially distanced group sizes, and guides wearing masks. Travelers are encouraged to bring and wear their own masks throughout the tour.
Can We Make Changes to the Tour Itinerary?
Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized. Travelers can discuss any changes they’d like to make with the private guide, who’ll work to accommodate their preferences within the tour’s duration and scope.
Is Gratuity Expected for the Guide?
Though gratuity isn’t included, it’s customary to tip the guide if you’re satisfied with the service. The amount is typically 10-15% of the tour price, but it’s up to the traveler’s discretion.
Can I Reschedule the Tour if Needed?
Yes, you can reschedule the tour if needed. The tour provider offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled tour, allowing you to change the date or time if necessary.
The Sum Up
The Guimarães half-day private tour from Porto offers a captivating glimpse into Portugal’s origins and heritage. Travelers can explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site‘s medieval charm, visit iconic landmarks like Guimarães Castle, and enjoy personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide. With hotel pickup and drop-off, plus a complimentary Porto city walking tour the next day, this immersive journey provides a well-rounded experience for discovering the rich history and cultural significance of Guimarães.
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