Braga and Guimaraes Private Tour From Porto

Discover the captivating history and architectural marvels of Braga and Guimarães on a private tour from Porto. Explore the "Rome of Portugal" with its iconic religious sites, then learn about the medieval charm of Guimarães, the birthplace of Portugal. Enjoy a customizable itinerary and amenities like comfortable transportation, allowing you to make the most of your journey. Uncover the stories that have shaped these enchanting destinations, leaving you eager to dive deeper into their rich cultural heritage.

Good To Know

• Explore the historical and architectural wonders of Braga, known as the "Rome of Portugal," including the Sé Cathedral, Bom Jesus Sanctuary, and Sameiro Sanctuary.
• Discover the medieval heritage of Guimarães, the birthplace of Portugal, with a visit to the Guimarães Castle and the Palace of the Dukes.
• Enjoy a private tour with the flexibility to customize the experience based on your interests and preferences.
• Benefit from comfortable transportation with an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and Wi-Fi.
• Tour includes pickup and drop-off service, while optional monument tickets are excluded.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Braga, the "Rome of Portugal"

One of the highlights of this private tour is exploring Braga, known as the "Rome of Portugal."

Visitors will have the opportunity to take a photo stop and soak in the city’s rich history and religious significance during a 30-minute visit.

Braga boasts significant sites like the Sé Cathedral, Bom Jesus Sanctuary, and Sameiro Sanctuary.

Guests can opt to pay an additional fee to explore these landmarks in more depth.

This portion of the tour allows travelers to enjoy Braga’s architectural beauty and centuries-old religious traditions that have earned it the nickname "the Rome of Portugal."

Discovering Braga’s Iconic Religious Sites

What makes Braga’s iconic religious sites so captivating? Braga, known as the "Rome of Portugal," is home to some of the country’s most significant religious landmarks. Visitors can marvel at the magnificent Sé Cathedral, a Romanesque masterpiece dating back to the 11th century. The Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary, with its iconic Baroque staircase, offers panoramic views of the city. Plus, the Sameiro Sanctuary, a popular pilgrimage site, features a grand Neoclassical basilica and serene gardens. These well-preserved sites provide a glimpse into Portugal’s rich religious heritage and devotion.

| Site | Architectural Style | Notable Features |

|——|———————|——————-|

| Sé Cathedral | Romanesque | 11th century construction, Gothic and Baroque additions |

| Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary | Baroque | Iconic staircase, panoramic views |

| Sameiro Sanctuary | Neoclassical | Grand basilica, serene gardens |

Uncovering the Medieval History of Guimarães

After exploring Braga’s iconic religious sites, the private tour transports visitors to the medieval town of Guimarães, widely regarded as the birthplace of Portugal.

The first stop is a photo opportunity at the imposing Guimarães Castle, a well-preserved 10th-century fortress that played a pivotal role in the country’s history.

Next, guests can wander through the charming city center, admiring the traditional architecture and cobblestone streets.

Guests can wander through Guimarães’ charming city center, admiring the traditional architecture and cobblestone streets.

An optional visit to the Palace of the Dukes offers a glimpse into the life of Portugal’s early rulers.

With ample free time, travelers can enjoy Guimarães’ rich medieval heritage.

Visiting Guimarães Castle and Palace of the Dukes

The private tour next brings visitors to the imposing Guimarães Castle, a 10th-century fortress that stands as a testament to Portugal’s medieval history.

Visitors can explore the castle’s towers, walls, and courtyard, imagining what life was like centuries ago.

Next, the tour takes them to the Palace of the Dukes, a grand 15th-century residence that was the birthplace of Portugal’s first king.

Guests can marvel at the palace’s intricate architecture and ornate interiors, gaining insights into the lives of Portugal’s royal elite.

Both sites provide a fascinating glimpse into Guimarães’ rich cultural heritage.

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Customizing the Tour to Fit Your Preferences

Although the standard itinerary provides a rundown of Braga and Guimarães, the private tour offers travelers the flexibility to customize their experience to suit their unique interests and preferences.

Guests can allocate more time in either city, visit additional historical sites like the Braga Cathedral and Sameiro Sanctuary, or explore Guimarães Castle and the Palace of the Dukes.

The tour can also be tailored to accommodate specific requests, such as a leisurely lunch in a local restaurant or browsing the charming streets and shops.

This personalized approach ensures a truly memorable experience for each visitor.

Inclusions and Exclusions of the Tour

The tour includes several key amenities to enhance the overall experience. Bottled water is provided, and pick-up and drop-off service is included.

Bottled water and pick-up/drop-off service are included to enhance the overall tour experience.

Guests will travel in an air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi. Lunch is also part of the package.

However, the tour excludes personal expenses, gratuities, and tickets for any optional monuments or sanctuaries. Visitors can choose to pay extra fees to visit sites like the Braga Cathedral, Sameiro Sanctuary, Guimarães Castle, and Palace of the Dukes.

The tour is available in English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese, with a host on hand to assist throughout the day.

Languages Offered and Tour Assistance

Along With the extensive itinerary, the tour offers language options to accommodate a diverse range of guests. The tour is available in four languages: English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese. A host/greeter is also provided to assist guests throughout the tour.

| Languages Offered | Assistance |

| — | — |

| English | Host/Greeter Available |

| Spanish | Provides Guidance |

| French | Answers Questions |

| Portuguese | Ensures Smooth Experience |

This multilingual approach ensures all travelers can fully engage with and enjoy the historical and cultural highlights of Braga and Guimarães.

Tour Overview and Itinerary Details

This private tour provides an immersive experience, whisking guests from Porto to explore the oldest city in Portugal, Braga, and the historic town of Guimarães.

The 9-hour tour includes transportation via air-conditioned van, with pickup and drop-off in Porto.

In Braga, guests will have a photo stop, visit, and free time, with optional extra fees for the Braga Cathedral and Sameiro Sanctuary.

In Guimarães, the itinerary includes a photo stop, visit, and free time, with optional fees for Guimarães Castle and the Palace of the Dukes.

The tour can be customized to fit personal preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Changes to the Itinerary on the Day of the Tour?

Guests can typically make changes to the itinerary on the day of the tour, subject to availability and the tour provider’s discretion. However, it’s best to communicate any requests or preferences in advance to ensure a smooth and personalized experience.

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?

The tour may not be suitable for those with significant mobility issues. Visitors should be able to walk up steps and uneven terrain at the historic sites. The tour provider can accommodate minor mobility challenges with advance notice.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t mention any discounts for children or seniors. However, the price can be reduced by up to 10% if booked in advance. It’s best to inquire about any available discounts when making the reservation.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Beverages on the Tour?

Travelers can bring their own food and beverages on the tour. However, a light lunch is included in the tour price. Bringing additional snacks or drinks is permitted, but not required, to enhance the experience.

What Happens if the Weather Is Unfavorable During the Tour?

If the weather is unfavorable, the tour operator will adjust the itinerary to accommodate indoor activities. They’ll provide options to visit covered attractions and may extend tour time to ensure guests have a positive experience despite the weather.

The Sum Up

This private tour from Porto offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and architectural wonders of Braga and Guimarães. Visitors can enjoy the religious sites of Braga, the "Rome of Portugal," and uncover the medieval past of Guimarães, the birthplace of the nation. With a customizable itinerary and comfortable transportation, this tour provides a comprehensive and memorable experience for those interested in Portugal’s cultural heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: