From Porto: Braga & Guimarães Full-Day Tour

Embark on an unforgettable day exploring Braga and Guimarães, two historic gems near Porto. This tour whisks you away to uncover Portugal’s medieval roots, from the iconic Guimarães Castle to the magnificent Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte. Along the way, learn about the rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes that make this region so captivating. With expert guidance and seamless logistics, you’re in for an experience that’ll leave you eager to discover more.

Key Points

• This full-day tour departs from Porto and explores the historic cities of Braga and Guimarães, showcasing Portugal’s medieval heritage and cultural attractions.
• The tour includes visits to Guimarães Castle, the Paço dos Duques de Bragança, the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, and Braga Cathedral.
• Guests have the opportunity to learn about Portugal’s history, from its medieval roots to the lifestyles of the aristocracy.
• The tour offers a mix of historical and cultural exploration, with an optional lunch break in Braga.
• The tour is available in English, French, and Portuguese, with a cancellation policy that allows for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This full-day tour takes visitors on an exploration of the historic cities of Braga and Guimarães, departing from Porto.

Priced from €58.50 to €65.00 per person, the 8-hour tour is available in English, French, and Portuguese. Travelers can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.

Priced between €58.50 to €65.00 per person, the 8-hour tour is available in English, French, and Portuguese with a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.

The itinerary includes visits to Guimarães Castle, Paço dos Duques de Bragança, the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, and Braga Cathedral, with an optional lunch break in Braga.

Transportation, onboard WiFi, and entrance to the Paço dos Duques are included.

The tour has an overall 4.4/5 rating based on 75 reviews.

Itinerary Highlights

The full-day tour begins at the Igreja da Lapa in Porto, where participants embark on a journey to explore the historical and cultural gems of Braga and Guimarães.

The itinerary includes:

1. Guimarães Castle, a 10th-century medieval fortress and the symbolic birthplace of Portugal.

2. Paço dos Duques de Bragança, a 15th-century palace showcasing the lavish lifestyle of the aristocracy.

3. Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, a renowned pilgrimage site and architectural marvel, followed by a visit to the Braga Cathedral, one of the oldest in Portugal.

After these stops, the tour includes a lunch break in Braga before returning to the starting point.

Exploring Guimarães

Why does Guimarães hold such significance in the history of Portugal?

Guimarães is known as the "cradle of the Portuguese nation" due to its role in the birth of the Portuguese monarchy. The 10th-century Guimarães Castle, a key stop on the tour, was once the seat of Portugal’s first king, D. Afonso Henriques.

Visitors explore the castle’s well-preserved walls and towers, gaining insight into the country’s medieval roots. The Paço dos Duques de Bragança, a 15th-century palace, also offers a glimpse into the lavish lifestyles of Portugal’s aristocracy.

These historic sites make Guimarães a must-see destination for understanding Portugal’s formative years.

The Paço Dos Duques De Bragança

As a key stop on the tour, the Paço dos Duques de Bragança offers visitors a glimpse into the lavish lifestyles of Portugal’s aristocracy.

This 15th-century palace, once the residence of the Dukes of Braganza, showcases:

1. Ornate architectural details, including Gothic and Manueline influences.

2. Beautifully decorated interiors with period furnishings and tapestries.

3. Insights into the daily routines and leisure activities of the noble class.

Visitors can enjoy the grandeur of the past, gaining a deeper appreciation for Portugal’s rich cultural heritage.

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Sanctuary of Bom Jesus Do Monte

After exploring the grandeur of the Paço dos Duques de Bragança, the tour then takes visitors to the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte.

This 18th-century religious complex sits atop a hill overlooking Braga. Visitors can climb the renowned Bom Jesus staircase, featuring six ornate baroque staircases representing the five senses and the Seven Deadly Sins.

The sanctuary’s architecture and landscaped grounds offer stunning views over the city below. Guests have an hour to wander the site and appreciate its spiritual and architectural significance before continuing on to the Braga Cathedral.

Discovering Braga

Leaving the spiritual grandeur of the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte behind, the tour now turns its focus to the historic city of Braga.

The group will explore:

1. The Braga Cathedral, one of the oldest cathedrals in Portugal, dating back to the 11th century and showcasing a blend of architectural styles.

2. The lively city center, bustling with traditional shops, cafes, and the vibrant energy of daily life.

3. The optional lunch break, allowing participants to savor local cuisine and enjoy the cultural heart of Braga.

Lunch Break in Braga

The tour now includes a 75-minute lunch break in Braga, allowing participants to savor the local cuisine and enjoy the city’s cultural heart.

Braga is renowned for its rich culinary traditions, with dishes like bacalhau (salted cod) and Caldo Verde (kale soup) being local favorites. Participants can explore the charming streets, visit traditional markets, or dine at one of the city’s many restaurants.

The lunch break provides a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Braga and recharge before continuing the exploration of the region’s cultural and historical highlights.

Customer Feedback and Inclusions

Customers have praised the Braga & Guimarães Full-Day Tour, with an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on 75 reviews.

The Braga & Guimarães Full-Day Tour has earned an impressive 4.4 out of 5 rating based on 75 customer reviews.

Highlights include:

1. Knowledgeable guides who provide rich historical insights about the visited sites.

2. Enjoyable experiences exploring the medieval castle, palace, sanctuary, and cathedral.

3. Helpful and accommodating staff, ensuring a smooth and memorable tour.

The tour includes a tour guide, transportation, onboard WiFi, and a ticket to the Paço dos Duques.

Customers have the option to add a lunch break in Braga for an additional fee.

Pets aren’t allowed on the tour.

The Sum Up

This captivating full-day tour from Porto showcases the historical gems of Braga and Guimarães. Visitors will explore iconic sites like Guimarães Castle, the Paço dos Duques de Bragança, and the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, seeing Portugal’s rich cultural heritage. With transportation, Wi-Fi, and entrance fees included, this 8-hour journey offers stunning views and engaging insights into the nation’s medieval roots at a price range of €58.50 to €65.00 per person.

You can check availability for your dates here: