Medieval Charms of Braga & Guimarães: Private Day Trip from Porto
Just north of Porto, you can find the Minho region, a small but mighty corner of Portugal home to some of the most historically significant cities in the entire country. Braga and Guimarães in particular have long and rich histories going back over 1000 years and played a crucial role in the establishment of Portugal as an independent country. Our fascinating private day trip from Porto allows you to visit both cities with a knowledgeable driver-guide who will spend the day telling the story of Portugal through some of its most important monuments.
On this full-day driving tour, you will:
- Spend a full day tracing Portugal’s origins in the charming historic cities of Braga and Guimarães;
- Start your adventure directly from your hotel in Porto with convenient pick up and drop off;
- Enjoy the undivided attention of your experienced local guide, well versed in Portuguese history and culture;
- Take in incredible views from the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, a UNESCO World Heritage Site;
- Wander the charming streets of Braga on a guided visit and learn how it evolved across the centuries, from its Roman origins to its role as a religious centre;
- Visit Braga Cathedral, Portugal's oldest cathedral and one of the country's most important religious monuments;
- Savour a tasty traditional Portuguese lunch and enjoy some free time to explore Braga further and get a feel for the city’s current youthful energy;
- Make your way to Guimarães and learn why it is known as the "cradle of the nation";
- Get the lowdown on King Afonso Henriques, Guimarães’s most famous son, and how he led his men to victory in the battle that led to Portugal’s independence;
- Step back in time at the impressive Guimarães Castle, a well-preserved medieval fortress immortalised on Portugal’s coat of arms;
- Discover the Old Town of Guimarães, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire its winding lanes, emblematic granite buildings and picturesque squares like the Praça de São Tiago.
Spend a full day immersed in the captivating early history of Portugal as you travel through two of the country’s most storied cities: Braga and Guimarães. With hotel pick-up in Porto and the expert company of a knowledgeable driver-guide, the first stop on your journey through the centuries is the spectacular Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, a UNESCO World Heritage Site set atop a lush hillside with panoramic views and a monumental Baroque staircase that has drawn pilgrims for generations. From there, you will make your way into the heart of Braga, a city shaped by its Roman roots and longstanding religious influence. On a guided walk through the historic centre, you'll pass landmarks such as the elegant Santa Barbara Garden and visit Braga Cathedral, the oldest in Portugal and a masterpiece of architectural evolution.. After taking in the sights, you will have the chance to experience Minho's distinctive gastronomy as you enjoy a traditional Portuguese lunch at a local restaurant, followed by free time to further explore Braga’s lively streets and vibrant café culture.
In the afternoon, the journey continues to Guimarães, often called the “cradle of the nation.” As you approach the city, your guide will set the stage with the dramatic story of Afonso Henriques, Portugal’s first king, who led the charge for independence right here in the 12th century. You’ll step inside the imposing Guimarães Castle, a national symbol of resilience and identity, before heading downhill to the beautifully preserved Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in its own right. You will stroll through granite-paved lanes and elegant medieval squares like the colourful Praça São Tiago and Largo da Oliveira, where the historic Church of Nossa Senhora de Oliveira stands as a quiet witness to centuries of change. You’ll also have free time to soak in the atmosphere, browse artisan shops, or sip a coffee under the shade of stone arcades before returning comfortably to your hotel in Porto.
This full-day trip offers a comprehensive introduction to the roots of Portuguese nationhood, culture, and architectural heritage. It is an ideal option for travellers wanting a deep dive into the people and places that shaped Portugal’s past, whose impact can still be felt today.
