Things to Do in Guimarães, the Birthplace of Portugal

Often referred to as the birthplace of Portugal, this UNESCO World Heritage city is steeped in history and culture. Located just an hour away from Porto and less crowded than neighboring Braga, Guimarães offers a wide variety of things to do, including well-preserved medieval architecture, traditional cuisine, and a vibrant cultural scene.

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Getting from Porto to Guimarães

There are many transport options from Porto to Guimarães in under an hour, making this a convenient day trip option.

Taking a Tour to Guimarães

You have a selection of tours to choose from to get from Porto to Guimarães. Some just go to Guimarães, while others combine this with a visit to Braga, to Peneda-Gerês National Park, or to Ponte de Lima and Viana do Castelo.

Top Things to Do in Guimarães

Visit the Guimarães Castle

Start your trip with a visit to the iconic Guimarães Castle, the legendary birthplace of Afonso Henriques, the first king of Portugal. This imposing medieval fortress, built in the 10th century, offers fantastic views of the city and a deep dive into Portuguese history. The Guimarães Castle is reminiscent of another off-the-beaten path castle that is worth a visit, the Marvão Castle in the Alentejo.

Stroll through the Historic Center

The heart of Guimarães is its UNESCO historic center, a labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets, quaint plazas, and ancient buildings. This area is so well preserved that you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time. If you enjoy exploring Portugal’s history, don’t miss visiting Évora, which was reclaimed and built by the Portuguese in 1165.

Explore the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza

This impressive palace combines architectural elements of a manor house and a military fortress. Inside, you’ll find a museum showcasing tapestries, furniture, and portraits from the period, giving insight into the life of Portuguese nobility.

Guimarães Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira

Dating back to the 10th century, the Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira is a national monument. Carve out some time to sit and admire the varied architectural styles. It was named after the olive tree that stood in front. Controversially, it was uprooted in the 18th century.

Relax in Largo da Oliveira

Named after a historic olive tree that still stands in the square, Largo da Oliveira is the perfect place to enjoy a coffee and people-watch. The area is surrounded by historical buildings and frequently hosts cultural events.

Climb to Penha Sanctuary

For a little adventure, take the funicular up to the top of Penha Mountain to visit the Sanctuary. The views from the top are breathtaking, and there are several walking trails and picnic spots where you can enjoy the beautiful surroundings. You can also drive, bike, or hike to the top of Penha mountain. About a 10 minute walk above the sanctuary is a viewing platform, with wonderful views over Guimarães and the surrounding area.

If you are looking for a more active way to get to the top, the 5.0 mile roundtrip (just over 8 km) moderate PR3 GMR – Rota da Penha hike runs through beautiful forests and has spectacular views over Guimarães. The first stretch is on the road, but you quickly have the option of heading onto trails, with some stairs mixed in.

Once you reach the sanctuary, you’ll find a restaurant and café, a smaller chapel, and the Penha Sanctuary. This hike seemed more popular with locals getting their workouts than with visitors.

Dining in Guimarães

Guimarães’ culinary scene emphasizes traditional Portuguese cuisine. Be sure to try local specialties like Bacalhau à Minhota (codfish prepared in Minho style) or the Francesinha, a hearty sandwich that’s a local favorite. The town is also known for its pastries, so a stop at a local bakery is a must. For a Michelin star dining experience, try Restaurant A Cozinha. For a more casual meal, we’d recommend Résvés.

A visit from Porto to Guimarães is a deep dive into Portuguese history. Whether you are visiting Porto in winter or any other time of year, you’ll enjoy exploring a mix of ancient fortresses and royal palaces, charming historic streets, and mountaintop sanctuaries.

Where to Stay in Guimarães

Though you can easily visit Guimarães for one day, it is a wonderful place to spend one or even a few nights. It is easy to base yourself in Guimarães to visit nearby Braga or even Peneda-Gerês National Park.

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