Discover the historic heart of Portugal on this captivating full-day excursion from Porto. Explore the birthplace of the nation in Guimarães, marvel at the regal Palace of the Dukes, and explore the rich heritage of Guimarães Castle. Then, savor a traditional Minho lunch in Braga before uncovering the secrets of the city’s iconic cathedral. With guided explorations and flexible language options, this immersive experience offers a seamless way to uncover the cultural gems that lie beyond Porto’s borders.

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Key Points

A full-day excursion from Porto to explore the historic cities of Braga and Guimarães, including guided tours of the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza and Guimarães Castle.
Opportunity to discover the birthplace of Portugal and wander through the UNESCO-protected historic center of Guimarães.
Savor a delightful lunch featuring local Minho region cuisine and wine during the visit to Braga.
Small-group tour with optional hotel pickup, available in multiple languages, and wheelchair accessible.
Priced at $97.70 per person for an 8-hour tour, providing a comprehensive cultural and historical experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Details

This full-day trip from Porto takes visitors to the historic cities of Braga and Guimarães, offering a comprehensive exploration of northern Portugal’s cultural and architectural gems.

Priced from $97.70 per person, the 8-hour tour is available in Portuguese, English, and Spanish. Pickup is optional from hotels, with a 5-minute grace period. The small-group tour is wheelchair accessible.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance. The itinerary includes guided tours of the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza and Guimarães Castle, a traditional lunch, and a Vinho Verde wine tasting, among other highlights.

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Exploring Guimarães

Why does Guimarães hold such cultural significance? As the birthplace of Portugal, Guimarães is steeped in history.

The impressive Palace of the Dukes of Braganza offers a glimpse into the city’s royal past, with a guided tour revealing its architectural delights.

A guided tour of the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza offers a glimpse into Guimarães’ royal history and architectural wonders.

Equally captivating is Guimarães Castle, where a knowledgeable guide unravels the fortress’ storied origins.

Visitors can wander the charming historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site adorned with medieval buildings.

This full-day experience allows ample time to take in Guimarães’ rich cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination on any tour of northern Portugal.

Visiting the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza

As part of the Guimarães portion of the tour, visitors explore the impressive Palace of the Dukes of Braganza.

This 15th-century medieval palace offers a glimpse into Portugal’s royal history:

Guided tour lasting approximately 45 minutes
Ornate architecture and furnishings showcasing the grandeur of the Dukes’ residence
Beautifully preserved Manueline-style façade and Gothic-influenced interiors
Insights into the lives and legacies of the Dukes of Braganza, a prominent noble family
Opportunity to wander the palace’s halls and imagine the opulent past of Guimarães

Discovering Guimarães Castle

After exploring the majestic Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, the tour then takes visitors to Guimarães Castle, another iconic landmark that showcases the city’s rich history.

Dating back to the 10th century, the castle is a well-preserved example of Romanesque architecture.

During the guided tour, travelers will learn about its strategic military role in the formation of Portugal.

Guided tours explore Guimarães Castle’s strategic military role in the formation of Portugal.

Visitors can climb the castle walls and towers, offering panoramic views of the charming medieval town below.

With its imposing stone façade and historical significance, Guimarães Castle provides a glimpse into Portugal’s captivating past.

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Lunch and Culinary Experiences in Braga

What comes next on the tour’s itinerary is a delightful lunch featuring the renowned cuisine of the Minho region in Braga.

The 1-hour lunch break provides an opportunity to savor the flavors of this northern Portuguese province:

Traditional dishes showcase the local ingredients and cooking techniques
Vegetarian and dietary-friendly options are available for those with specific needs
Vinho Verde, the region’s light and fruity wine, is the perfect pairing for the meal
Guests can enjoy the leisurely dining experience in a local restaurant

After lunch, the tour continues to the Braga Cathedral and the optional Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary.

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Exploring Braga Cathedral

Following the satisfying lunch, the tour now turns its attention to Braga Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in Portugal.

Participants will spend 45 minutes exploring this architectural marvel, admiring its Baroque facade and Gothic interior. The cathedral dates back to the 11th century and is known for its ornate chapels, intricate carvings, and stunning stained glass windows.

Guests will have the opportunity to wander the aisles, appreciate the detailed religious artwork, and learn about the cathedral’s rich history from the knowledgeable guide.

This visit provides an immersive glimpse into Braga’s deep-rooted religious heritage.

Optional Visit to Sanctuary of Bom Jesus Do Monte

If time permits, the tour also offers an optional visit to the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte.

This iconic UNESCO World Heritage site features:

Baroque-style staircase with 116 steps and 17 chapels
Panoramic views overlooking the city of Braga
Impressive Baroque-style basilica dating back to the 18th century
Tranquil gardens and walking trails
Funicular railway for effortless access to the sanctuary

The visit provides an opportunity to experience the unique religious and architectural wonders of this revered pilgrimage site, showcasing Portugal’s rich cultural heritage.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the full-day trip to Braga and Guimarães, with an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 20 reviews.

Customers were particularly impressed with the knowledgeable guides, who adapted well to challenges like weather and site closures.

The transportation also received top marks, with the air-conditioned van between locations meeting expectations.

Reviewers highlighted the excellent value for money, praising the traditional Minho cuisine lunch and the Vinho Verde wine tasting.

Since You Asked

What Is the Group Size Limit for This Tour?

This tour is available in a small group format. The group size is limited, providing a more personalized experience for travelers.

Is There a Discounted Price for Children?

The tour offers a small group option, but doesn’t specify a group size limit. As for discounts, the provided information doesn’t mention any child or youth pricing. The price listed is per person, regardless of age.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Suit Specific Dietary Requirements?

The tour can accommodate specific dietary requirements. Customers should inform the tour provider of any needs during booking, and the provider will work to customize the experience accordingly.

Are There Any Restroom Breaks Scheduled During the Tour?

The tour includes scheduled restroom breaks throughout the day. Participants can use restrooms at the various sites visited, as well as during the lunch stop in Braga. The tour operator ensures there are sufficient breaks to accommodate all guests’ needs.

Can the Pickup Location Be Changed From the Listed Hotel Options?

Yes, the pickup location can be changed from the listed hotel options. Customers can arrange an alternative pickup location with the tour provider, such as a different hotel or a convenient meeting spot, prior to the tour.

The Sum Up

This captivating full-day trip from Porto showcases the rich cultural heritage of Braga and Guimarães. Travelers will explore the birthplace of Portugal, including the stunning Palace of the Dukes of Braganza and the historic Guimarães Castle. The experience is complemented by a delightful lunch featuring traditional Minho cuisine and Vinho Verde wine, making for a truly memorable adventure.