Porto: Braga and Guimarães Small-Group Day Trip With Lunch

Explore the rich history and stunning sites of northern Portugal on this captivating small-group day trip from Porto. Visit the historic Braga Cathedral, marvel at the Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary, and discover the medieval charm of Guimarães. With a regional lunch included, this 8-hour tour provides a well-rounded experience that showcases the best of this captivating region. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking to learn about Portugal’s cultural heritage, this day trip promises an unforgettable adventure.

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Key Points

A small-group day trip from Porto that visits the historic cities of Braga and Guimarães, both UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Includes a guided tour of Braga’s Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary and Braga Cathedral, as well as a regional cuisine lunch.
Provides a guided tour of Guimarães, exploring its medieval castle and historic old town streets.
Offers hotel pickup and an 8-hour duration, with a multilingual guide leading the tour.
Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This day trip from Porto provides an opportunity to explore the historic cities of Braga and Guimarães.

Priced at $103.13 per person, the 8-hour small-group tour is limited to 8 participants and offers hotel pickup.

The multilingual guide leads visitors through the UNESCO-listed Bom Jesus Sanctuary and Braga Cathedral in the morning, followed by lunch featuring regional cuisine.

The multilingual guide leads visitors through the UNESCO-listed Bom Jesus Sanctuary and Braga Cathedral, followed by a lunch featuring regional cuisine.

The afternoon is dedicated to Guimarães, where the group discovers the medieval castle, Church of Saint Michael, and charming streets.

The tour includes all entrance fees and transportation, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience.

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Braga Exploration

The morning begins with a guided tour of Braga, a city renowned for its religious heritage.

Participants explore the historic Braga Cathedral, one of the oldest in Portugal.

Next, they visit the Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring an iconic Baroque staircase that winds up the hillside.

After the tour, the group enjoys a regional lunch, sampling the flavors of the Minho region.

With bellies full, they’re ready to continue the journey to the medieval town of Guimarães, the birthplace of Portugal’s first king.

Bom Jesus Sanctuary

The Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary is a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Braga.

The Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary is a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Braga.

This magnificent religious complex features:

A grand baroque staircase with 600 steps, each representing a different religious theme
Architectural wonders like the Church of Bom Jesus and the Stations of the Cross statues
Stunning gardens and landscapes that offer panoramic views of the surrounding countryside

Visitors can explore the sanctuary’s rich history, impressive architecture, and serene natural setting, making it a must-see destination on the Braga and Guimarães day trip.

Braga Cathedral

Braga Cathedral, also known as Se de Braga, stands as a majestic symbol of the city’s rich religious heritage. This 11th-century cathedral boasts a striking Romanesque façade, with intricate carvings and arched entrances that welcome visitors.

Inside, the cathedral’s grand interiors feature a mix of architectural styles, from the Gothic altars to the Baroque-influenced chapels. Visitors can explore the cathedral’s vaulted ceilings, stained-glass windows, and impressive organ.

The cathedral’s history and role in Braga’s religious traditions make it a must-see destination for those exploring the region’s cultural and spiritual legacy.

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Lunch in Braga

After the guided tour of Braga’s historic sites, participants enjoy a regional lunch featuring traditional Portuguese cuisine.

The meal includes:

Caldo Verde – a hearty kale and potato soup
Bacalhau à Braga – a cod dish with roasted peppers and onions
Vinho Verde – a refreshing local white wine

Diners savor the flavors of the Minho region, learning about the culinary heritage.

The lunch provides a welcomed respite and opportunity to recharge before continuing the day’s exploration of Guimarães.

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Guimarães Visit

With lunch behind them, the group makes their way to the historic town of Guimarães.

On a guided tour, they explore the medieval castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Next, they visit the Church of Saint Michael, admiring its Romanesque and Gothic architecture.

The charming streets of the old town captivate the group as they wander, soaking in the authentic atmosphere. The guide shares the town’s rich history, from its role as the birthplace of Portugal to its well-preserved medieval heritage.

The charming streets of Guimarães’ old town captivate visitors, immersing them in the town’s rich history and well-preserved medieval heritage.

After the tour, the group heads back to Porto, reflecting on the day’s discoveries.

Highlights of Guimarães

The historic town of Guimarães offers visitors a captivating glimpse into Portugal’s past.

The 3-hour guided tour takes travelers to the town’s iconic landmarks:

Explore the 10th-century Guimarães Castle, a well-preserved medieval fortress that stands as a symbol of the country’s independence.
Marvel at the Church of Saint Michael, a Romanesque gem with intricate stone carvings and a commanding presence.
Wander the charming historic streets, lined with colorful buildings and bustling plazas, to soak up the authentic Portuguese ambiance.

This visit to Guimarães provides a fascinating counterpoint to the earlier stop in Braga, showcasing the diverse cultural riches of northern Portugal.

Itinerary and Inclusions

The tour’s itinerary offers a comprehensive exploration of two captivating northern Portuguese cities – Braga and Guimarães.

In Braga, guests embark on a 3-hour guided tour to discover the historic Bom Jesus Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the ancient Braga Cathedral. After, they enjoy a 1-hour lunch featuring regional cuisine.

The tour then continues to Guimarães, where a 3-hour guided tour showcases the medieval castle, Church of Saint Michael, and charming historic streets.

The package includes entrance tickets, hotel pickup, and a professional guide. Comfortable clothing is recommended, and large bags aren’t allowed.

Since You Asked

Is It Possible to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour itinerary can’t be customized as it’s a pre-arranged small-group day trip. However, travelers can opt for a private tour which allows more flexibility in tailoring the experience to their preferences.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Trip?

No, participants are not allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour package includes a lunch at a local restaurant, and bringing outside food is not permitted. Travelers should plan to enjoy the provided regional cuisine.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Senior or Student Travelers?

The tour doesn’t offer any discounts for seniors or students. The listed price of $103.13 per person is the standard rate for all participants, regardless of age or student status. There are no special discounts available.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?

There is no option to extend the duration of the tour. The tour is fixed at 8 hours and cannot be lengthened. Any requests to extend the tour would need to be made separately from the original booking.

How Accessible Is the Tour for People With Disabilities?

The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments, according to the details provided. It involves extensive walking and exploring historic sites that may not be fully accessible. Guests with disabilities should check with the tour operator about any special accommodations before booking.

The Sum Up

This small-group day trip from Porto offers an immersive experience exploring the historic cities of Braga and Guimarães. Highlights include the Braga Cathedral, the stunning Bom Jesus Sanctuary, and the medieval castle and charming streets of Guimarães. With a guided tour, regional lunch, and transportation included, it’s a convenient and enriching way to discover northern Portugal’s cultural and architectural gems.