Embarking on a journey through Portugal’s captivating past, this full-day excursion from Porto promises an immersive experience in the historic cities of Braga and Guimarães. Unveiling the grandeur of the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, the commanding presence of Guimarães Castle, and the spiritual allure of the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, this tour offers an opportunity to uncover the deep-rooted cultural heritage that has shaped the nation. With transportation, a guided exploration, and a delectable lunch included, the stage is set for a delightful and enlightening adventure into the heart of Portugal’s storied past.
Key Points
- This full-day trip from Porto explores the historic cities of Braga and Guimarães, including visits to the Palace of the Dukes, Guimarães Castle, and Braga Cathedral.
- The tour lasts approximately 8 hours and is priced at $98.09 per person, including transportation, guided visits, and a 1-hour lunch break in Braga.
- Highlights of the tour include discovering the beautiful Guimarães city center, marveling at the Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary, and learning about Portugal’s captivating past and cultural heritage.
- The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Porto, a delectable lunch, and guided visits to the key landmarks in Guimarães and Braga.
- Important information includes small group sizes, availability of vegetarian and gluten-free meal options, and the possibility of schedule changes without prior notice.
Tour Details
This full-day trip from Porto provides travelers the opportunity to explore the historic cities of Braga and Guimarães.
Priced at $98.09 per person, the tour lasts approximately 8 hours and includes transportation, a guided visit to key landmarks, and a lunch stop in Braga.
Guests can expect a live tour guide available in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, as well as hotel pickup and drop-off at the Vimara Peres Statue in Porto.
The itinerary covers the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, Guimarães Castle, Braga Cathedral, and the optional Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte.
Small group sizes ensure a personalized experience, and vegetarian or gluten-free meal options can be accommodated with advance notice.
Itinerary
From the tour’s starting point, guests will first venture to the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza in Guimarães, spending around 45 minutes exploring its historic halls and grounds.
This will be followed by a visit to the iconic Guimarães Castle, where they’ll enjoy the city’s medieval past for another 45 minutes.
Afterwards, the tour will head to Braga, where guests will enjoy a leisurely 1-hour lunch break.
The itinerary then continues with a visit to Braga Cathedral, providing an opportunity to admire its architectural splendor for 45 minutes.
Highlights
The tour offers a chance to discover the beautiful Guimarães city center and its iconic castle, showcasing Portugal’s rich and ancient history.
Visitors will marvel at the monumentality of Bom Jesus de Braga and its rare funicular, which provides a unique perspective of the sanctuary.
Throughout the excursion, travelers will have the opportunity to learn about Portugal’s captivating past, seeing the country’s cultural heritage.
From the grandeur of the Guimarães Castle to the architectural splendor of Braga Cathedral, this full-day trip provides a comprehensive exploration of two of Portugal’s most historically significant destinations, offering a deep appreciation for the nation’s enduring legacy.
Inclusions
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Porto, a delectable lunch, and visits to the iconic Castle and Palace of the Dukes in Guimarães as well as the magnificent Braga Cathedral. These inclusions allow travelers to fully enjoy the rich history and cultural heritage of Northern Portugal.
The tour provides:
- Seamless transportation, ensuring a stress-free journey from your hotel in Porto to the highlights of the day.
- A satisfying lunch, allowing you to refuel and recharge in the charming city of Braga.
- Guided visits to two of the region’s most significant historical landmarks, providing a deeper understanding of Portugal’s past.
With these thoughtful inclusions, the Braga and Guimarães Full-Day Trip from Porto offers an enriching and memorable experience.
Important Information
Travelers should inform the operator if the child is under 12 years old to ensure approved seats are provided. Tours are conducted in small groups, offering a more personalized experience. Vegetarian and gluten-free meal options are available if requested prior to booking.
| Important Information | |
|---|---|
| Group Size | Small groups |
| Meal Options | Vegetarian and gluten-free |
| Scheduling | Subject to change without prior notice |
Schedules are subject to change without prior notice, so it’s essential to stay informed. Plus, a minimum number of travelers is required for the tour to operate, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all participants.
Hotel Pickup and Drop-off
One of the key conveniences of this tour is the included hotel pickup and drop-off service from Porto’s Vimara Peres Statue, saving travelers the hassle of navigating to the starting point.
This seamless transportation makes the tour more accessible and enjoyable, allowing guests to relax and fully enjoy the cultural experiences ahead.
The pickup and drop-off service offers several benefits:
- Eliminates the need for complicated trip planning and commuting, freeing up more time to explore the destinations.
- Provides a stress-free start and end to the day, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free tour experience.
- Ensures that all participants arrive at the same time, enabling the tour to run efficiently and on schedule.
With this convenient service, travelers can focus on savoring the highlights of Braga and Guimarães without the logistical concerns.
Lunch
A hearty lunch in Braga is included in this tour, providing participants with a chance to savor local Portuguese cuisine and recharge during the day’s activities. The lunch break lasts approximately one hour, allowing ample time to enjoy a delicious meal and take in the vibrant atmosphere of the city. Dietary requirements, such as vegetarian or gluten-free options, can be accommodated if requested prior to booking. This meal is an integral part of the tour, complementing the cultural and historical experiences throughout the day.
| Meal Options | Description |
|---|---|
| Traditional Portuguese | Local dishes and specialties |
| Vegetarian | Plant-based options available |
| Gluten-free | Cater to dietary restrictions |
Guimarães and Braga Attractions
Guests begin their exploration of the rich history and architecture of Guimarães, the birthplace of Portugal, with a visit to the impressive Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, which offers a glimpse into the country’s royal past.
Next, they’ll wander through the well-preserved Guimarães Castle, a medieval fortress that stands as a symbol of the nation’s independence.
The journey then continues to the historic city of Braga, where visitors admire the magnificent Braga Cathedral, one of the oldest cathedrals in Portugal.
For those seeking an optional experience, the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte and its rare funicular provide a peaceful escape and panoramic views.
Recap
This full-day trip from Porto offers an immersive experience into Portugal’s captivating past and cultural heritage.
Visitors will discover the historic cities of Braga and Guimarães, exploring iconic landmarks like the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, Guimarães Castle, and the renowned Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte.
With transportation, a guided visit, and a delightful lunch included, this small-group tour provides an excellent way to explore the scenic beauty and significant history of these two destinations.
