Minho: Private Braga and Guimarães Tour

Exploring the historic cities of Braga and Guimarães is a must-do for those seeking to uncover Portugal’s rich heritage. This private tour offers an immersive experience, guiding visitors through iconic landmarks and uncovering the stories that have shaped these remarkable destinations. From the stunning Cathedral of Faith Triangle to the imposing Guimarães Castle, the tour promises an engaging journey that whets the appetite for deeper exploration.

Key Points

• Explore the historical significance of Braga, one of the oldest Christian cities in the world, and Guimarães, the birthplace of the first king of Portugal.
• Discover Braga’s rich religious heritage, including the 11th-century Cathedral and the iconic Baroque staircase of the Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary.
• Visit the well-preserved Guimarães Castle and the statue of King Afonso Henriques to gain insight into Portugal’s origins and cultural importance.
• Enjoy a 9-hour private tour with round-trip transportation from Porto, a traditional lunch, and an expert guide to enhance your experience.
• Take advantage of the flexible cancellation policy and the option to add a Porto City Walking Tour the following day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The "Minho: Private Braga and Guimarães Tour" offers a comprehensive exploration of two historically significant cities in northern Portugal.

Priced from $71.15 per person, the 9-hour tour includes round-trip transportation from Porto, a private expert guide, and entrance fees to key landmarks.

Travelers can enjoy a traditional lunch and benefit from the tour’s flexible cancellation policy, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Whether interested in Braga’s ancient Christian heritage or Guimarães’ role in Portuguese national identity, this private tour provides an immersive experience tailored to individual preferences.

Historical Significance of Braga and Guimarães

As one of the oldest Christian cities in the world, Braga is renowned for its rich heritage and captivating religious events. Founded in the 3rd century, the city has a storied past, playing a pivotal role in the early spread of Christianity in Portugal.

Guimarães, on the other hand, holds immense significance for the nation’s identity and linguistic development. It’s the birthplace of D. Afonso Henriques, the first king of Portugal, whose reign marked the country’s independence.

Visitors can explore the city’s medieval castle and witness the statue honoring this pivotal figure in Portuguese history.

Highlights of the Braga Tour

Although the Cathedral of Faith Triangle stands as a testament to Braga’s rich history, visitors are captivated by the diverse architectural styles that adorn the city.

From the awe-inspiring Roman ruins to the intricate Manueline details and ornate Baroque flourishes, the city’s architectural tapestry is a delight to explore.

Key highlights include:

• Admiring the 11th-century Cathedral of Braga, a magnificent example of Romanesque architecture.

• Ascending the Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary, famous for its iconic Baroque staircase and stunning views.

• Discovering the hidden gems of Braga’s historic center, where modern life seamlessly blends with centuries-old structures.

• Immersing oneself in the city’s rich religious heritage and vibrant cultural events.

Exploring Guimarães

Guimarães, the birthplace of D. Afonso Henriques, the first king of Portugal, is a place of immense historical significance.

Visitors explore the iconic Guimarães Castle, a well-preserved medieval fortress that stands as a symbol of the country’s origins. They also encounter the statue of King Afonso Henriques, a testament to the city’s role in shaping Portugal’s national identity.

The tour provides an opportunity to explore the rich heritage and cultural traditions that have defined Guimarães throughout the centuries. Guests leave with a deeper understanding of the city’s pivotal place in the history and development of the Portuguese nation.

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Traditional Lunch in Braga’s Historic Center

After exploring the historical sites in Braga, the tour provides a traditional lunch in the city’s historic center. Guests will delight in an authentic Portuguese meal, with options to accommodate vegetarian and gluten-free dietary needs.

The lunch experience offers:

• Sampling of regional dishes highlighting fresh, local ingredients

• Opportunity to savor the flavors of Minho’s renowned cuisine

• Chance to relax and refuel amidst Braga’s charming old town ambiance

• Insight into the culinary traditions that have endured in this centuries-old city.

Inclusions and Exclusions of the Tour

The tour includes a range of convenient services and experiences. Travelers enjoy pick-up and drop-off at their hotel in Porto’s city center, private van/mini-bus transportation, and a private expert guide. A traditional lunch with vegetarian and gluten-free options is provided. Entrance fees to specified museums and monuments are also covered.

| Inclusions | Exclusions |

| — | — |

| Pick-up and drop-off at hotel in Porto city center | Meals and drinks (unless specified) |

| Private van/mini-bus transportation | Personal expenses |

| Private expert guide | Gratuities (optional) |

| Traditional lunch (dietary options available) | |

| Entrance fees to specified museums/monuments | |

Important Information for Participants

Pickup for the tour is available from the city centers of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia.

Pickup for the tour is available from the city centers of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia.

The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments. Participants should wear comfortable shoes and clothes, but large bags or luggage aren’t allowed.

After the tour, an optional Porto City Walking Tour is available the following day, conducted in English and Spanish.

• Pickup available from Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia center

• Not suitable for people with mobility impairments

• Wear comfortable shoes and clothes

• No large bags or luggage allowed

• Optional Porto City Walking Tour available the next day

Additional Experience: Porto City Walking Tour

For those interested in exploring more of Porto after the Minho tour, an optional Porto City Walking Tour is available the following day.

This 3-hour tour is conducted daily in English and Spanish, allowing visitors to discover the historic heart of Porto.

Guests will stroll through the charming Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and see iconic landmarks like the Ribeira District, São Bento Station, and the iconic Lello Bookstore.

The walking tour provides an in-depth look at Porto’s rich history, architecture, and culture, complementing the Minho region experience.

The Sum Up

The Minho: Private Braga and Guimarães Tour offers an immersive journey through Portugal’s rich heritage. With a private guide, travelers can explore the stunning Cathedral of Faith Triangle in Braga, the iconic Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary, Guimarães Castle, and more. The tour also includes round-trip transportation, entrance fees, and a traditional lunch, providing a comprehensive and memorable experience for those seeking to discover the historical significance of these two remarkable cities.

You can check availability for your dates here: