Braga and Guimarães Day Trip from Porto
Explore Portugal’s Minho region, see the country’s oldest cathedral, and visit a medieval castle!
Forget the stress of planning and enjoy a seamless day trip to two of Portugal's most historic gems. With roundtrip transportation and an expert guide, you’ll explore Braga, home to the oldest cathedral in Portugal and the stunning Bom Jesus do Monte. Then, head to Guimarães, the birthplace of Portugal, to discover its medieval charm and visit the iconic Guimarães Castle. Let us handle the details while you experience the best of the Minho region!
- Meeting point
- Minho region
- Cathedral of Braga
- Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte
- Historic center of Braga
- Sanctuary of our Lady of Sameiro
- Jardim de Santa Barbara
- Guimaraes
- Your tour will end in Rua de Alexandre Herculano, 4000, Porto
Your breathtaking adventure through Portugal’s Minho region begins at your designated meeting point in Porto, where your friendly guide will be waiting outside Sao Bento train station to greet you.
Once you and your group members have hopped into your comfortable minibus for the day, you’ll be driven to the enchanting city of Braga. Explore one of the world’s oldest Christian cities as your guide leads you to the impressive Cathedral of Braga, the Bom Jesus Sanctuary, and through the city’s historic center.
Afterwards, we will take a break in the historic center of Braga where you will have time to enjoy a tasty traditional lunch if you wish. Following your meal, you’ll be transported to the medieval city of Guimarães, known for being the birthplace of Portugal. Take in the view from the Guimarães Castle, and then follow your guide on an unforgettable walking tour through the ancient city.
Once your tour is complete, climb into your minibus for a scenic drive back to Porto, where you’ll be dropped off at your original meeting point.
Braga and Guimarães Day Trip from Porto Tour Description
Your 9-hour tour includes:
Knowledgeable, local guide
Roundtrip transportation in comfortable minibus to and from Porto Entrance tickets to Bom Jesus Sanctuary and Cathedral of Braga
Entrance tickets to Guimaraes Castle
Tour of Braga and Guimarães
Cruise Through the Beautiful Minho Region
Your magical journey through the captivating region of Minho begins bright and early at your convenient meeting point in Porto. From here, your friendly guide will be waiting to greet you, along with your enthusiastic group members.
Once everyone is ready, hop into your comfortable minibus and grab a window seat. The scenic ride out of the city will be filled with jaw-dropping views of mountains, valleys, and rivers along the way!
Visit the Religious Sites of Braga
Soon enough, you’ll arrive in Braga, the capital of Minho and one of the world’s oldest Christian cities. Your knowledgeable guide will lead you to the incredible Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, which is celebrated for its opulent staircase and Baroque architecture that climbs 116 meters (381 feet) and is a notable example of Christian pilgrimage site. Take in a spectacular view of the city from above, while your passionate guide shares details about this monument’s fascinating history and significance.
Next, visit the majestic Cathedral of Braga dating from the 3rd century AD, which is the oldest cathedral in all of Portugal! Marvel at the intricate details of this historic cathedral, which displays a mix of Romanesque, Baroque, and Manueline styles.
Wander Through Braga’s Historic Center
Continue learning about Braga’s rich past as you stroll through the historic city center. Wander along prominent streets and through Santa Barbára Garden, hailed as being the country’s most impressive garden.
After such an exciting morning, you’ve surely worked up an appetite. Now it’s time to take a break and refuel with a traditional Portuguese lunch if you wish!
Explore Guimarães Castle
After a well deserved break, climb back on your minibus as you’re driven down to the fascinating city of Guimarães. Considered to be the birthplace of Portugal and a World Heritage Site, this historic city holds incredible importance to the entire country of Portugal.
Begin your exploration with a visit to the medieval Castle of Guimarães built under the orders of Mumadona Dias in the 10th century to defend the monastery from attacks, and where you’ll find striking views of the city. Next, follow your expert guide to the Palace of the Bragança Dukes and the stunning São Miguel Church.
Admire the Landmarks of Guimarães
With your passionate guide by your side, stroll to more of Guimarães’ most prominent landmarks and monuments. Marvel at the statue of D. Afonso Henriques, wander past the lively Martins Sarmento Square, and visit Santa Maria Street. Your guide will end your immersive walking tour by leading you past City Hall, Santiago Square, and finally Senhora da Oliveira Church.
Return to Porto
After touring Portugal’s fascinating, ancient city, it will sadly be time for your tour to come to an end. Hop back in your minibus and enjoy the breathtaking ride back to Porto.
Once in the city, you’ll be conveniently dropped off at your original meeting point.
What you get with this tour
Frequently Asked Questions
What to bring?
We suggest wearing comfortable shoes, and dressing according to the season
What to bring?
We suggest wearing comfortable shoes, and dressing according to the season
Is this tour run by The Tour Guy?
This tour is operated by one of our trusted and vetted partners in Porto
What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?
In case you have doubts about your mobility, please let us know beforehand and we will do our best to accommodate you. Because this tour also involves an extensive amount of walking and our minibuses are unable to accommodate wheelchairs, this tour is unfortunately not suitable for guests with mobility concerns
What happens if it rains?
We run our our rain or shine. If rainfall is extremely heavy, the tour may be subject to cancellation or rescheduling for safety reasons
Is there any chance this tour will be canceled?
On the rare occasion the tour is canceled, we'll inform you as soon as possible. We will work with you to reschedule your tour when possible or provide a full refund
Is there a dress code to enter the religious sites on this tour?
We ask both men and women to cover knees and shoulders, otherwise the religious sites might refuse entry and you’ll miss out on a portion of your tour. We understand the summers in Porto can be hot, so a great alternative is to bring a shawl/scarf/sweater with you. That way you can cover your knees and shoulders when necessary
How comprehensive are the tours of each city on this tour?
In the spirit of seeing as much of the Minho region in one day as possible, the Braga and Guimarães sections of this tour are slightly abbreviated. You'll still get to experience all the most important elements of these impressive cities though
Do any of the sites on this itinerary ever experience sudden closures?
There are rare instances where local circumstances or events may be scheduled, in which case the itinerary may change slightly
Is lunch included in the price of the tour?
Lunch is not included in the price of this tour
What if I have food allergies, intolerances, or other dietary requirements?
Please contact us in advance so we can do our best to accommodate your needs. We will work with our tour partners to provide you with an alternative when possible
Can I bring my kids and do I have to pay for them?
Kids are welcome on this day trip and infants three and under may join for free. Children aged 4-12 pay a discounted fee
Why do I have to pay for my child who's under 12 years old?
Since this trip includes transportation, all passengers on the tour must be seated for safety and legal reasons. That means a young child takes up the same space as a youth or adult
Does this tour include hotel pickup?
Hotel pick up is not included with this tour. You will meet your guide at your convenient, designated meeting point in Porto
Where does this tour end?
This tour ends back at your original meeting point
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