Small Group Day Trip to Braga and Guimarães With Lunch Included

Exploring the historic cities of Braga and Guimarães in northern Portugal is a captivating experience that can’t be missed. This small group day trip offers travelers a chance to explore the rich cultural heritage of these enchanting destinations, guided by a knowledgeable local who’ll share insightful stories and hidden gems along the way. From the impressive Braga Cathedral to the well-preserved Guimarães Castle, each stop on the itinerary promises to leave a lasting impression. And with a traditional Portuguese lunch and renowned Vinho Verde wine included, this tour promises to be a truly immersive and unforgettable adventure.

Key Points

• This small group day trip provides an immersive exploration of the historic centers and iconic sites of Braga and Guimarães.
• The tour includes visits to the Braga Cathedral and Guimarães Castle, as well as a traditional Portuguese lunch with Vinho Verde wine.
• Experienced local guides share insights into the history and culture of each town, ensuring a comprehensive and seamless experience.
• The tour is suitable for a minimum of 2 people and a maximum of 8 travelers, with hotel pickup and drop-off included.
• Travelers can receive a full refund if they cancel their booking up to 24 hours before the tour’s start time.

Tour Overview

This full-day tour whisks visitors to the captivating heritage cities of Braga and Guimarães, providing an immersive exploration of their historic centers and iconic sites.

Guests will discover the Braga Cathedral, one of the most significant Romanesque cathedrals in Portugal, and Guimarães Castle, a well-preserved medieval fortress.

Along the way, a local guide shares insights into the history and culture of each town. Visitors can look forward to a traditional Portuguese lunch, complete with the region’s renowned Vinho Verde wine.

With hotel pickup and drop-off, exclusive access to select sites, and a maximum group size of 8, this tour offers a comfortable and enriching day of discovery.

Included in the Tour

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, providing travelers with a convenient start and end to their day.

Admission tickets to Guimarães Castle and Dukes Palace are provided, granting exclusive access to these iconic historical sites.

Plus, the tour grants exclusive access to specific areas of the Braga Cathedral, affording guests an in-depth look at this renowned Romanesque structure.

Lunch and bottled water are also included, allowing visitors to savor a traditional Portuguese meal complete with the region’s acclaimed Vinho Verde wine.

These inclusions ensure a seamless and comprehensive experience, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the cultural and historical richness of Braga and Guimarães.

Tour Details

Minimum 2 people per booking are required for this small group tour, with a maximum of 8 travelers per excursion.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s stroller accessible and located near public transportation, with infant seats available.

Cancellations up to 24 hours before the start time are eligible for a full refund, though changes less than 24 hours prior aren’t accepted, and the tour may be canceled due to poor weather or insufficient participants, with a full refund offered in such cases.

Travelers should keep these details in mind when booking and planning their day trip to the historic cities of Braga and Guimarães, which includes a traditional Portuguese lunch with Vinho Verde wine.

Cancellation Policy

Travelers can receive a full refund if they cancel their booking up to 24 hours before the tour’s start time.

However, changes to reservations made less than 24 hours in advance aren’t accepted.

Plus, the tour operator reserves the right to cancel the excursion due to poor weather conditions or insufficient participant numbers, in which case a full refund will be provided.

This flexible cancellation policy ensures that customers can plan their trip with confidence, knowing they won’t be penalized for unforeseen circumstances.

The tour company prioritizes customer satisfaction and give you a seamless booking experience from start to finish.

Reviews

With a Badge of Excellence, the tour has amassed 262 reviews, earning it an outstanding overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars.

Customers consistently praise the knowledgeable local guides, the delightful traditional Portuguese lunch, and the opportunity to explore the historic cities of Braga and Guimarães in depth.

Reviewers highlight the seamless organization of the day trip, from the convenient hotel pickups to the smooth transitions between sites, allowing them to make the most of their time.

The small group size is also noted as a key benefit, providing a more personalized and intimate experience.

Visiting Braga

The tour begins with a visit to Braga, Portugal’s religious capital and one of the oldest cities in the country.

Guests explore the historic center, including the impressive Braga Cathedral, which dates back to the 11th century and features a mix of architectural styles from Romanesque to Baroque. Visitors get exclusive access to parts of the cathedral, offering a rare glimpse into this sacred site. The guide shares the cathedral’s rich history and significance in Braga’s development.

Nearby, guests can stroll through the charming streets, stopping at lively plazas and admiring the city’s well-preserved architecture. The tour provides a comprehensive introduction to Braga’s captivating blend of history, religion, and local culture.

Exploring Guimarães

After exploring the historic heart of Braga, the tour then ventures to the charming town of Guimarães, often referred to as the ‘birthplace of Portugal.’ Guests will discover the well-preserved medieval center, anchored by the iconic Guimarães Castle, a 10th-century fortress that played a pivotal role in the country’s founding. Plus, they’ll visit the Dukes of Braganza’s Palace, a magnificent Renaissance structure that offers a glimpse into Portugal’s royal past.

Highlights of Guimarães
Guimarães Castle	Dukes of Braganza’s Palace	Historic Old Town
10th-century fortress	Renaissance-era palace	Cobblestone streets
Birthplace of Portugal	Royal residences	Charming atmosphere
Panoramic city views	Ornate architecture	Authentic experiences
Well-preserved medieval site	Insight into Portugal’s history	Immersive cultural exploration

Enjoying the Lunch

Midway through the tour, travelers enjoy a hearty lunch featuring traditional Portuguese cuisine and locally-sourced Vinho Verde wine. The meal is served at a charming restaurant in the heart of the region, offering a chance to savor the flavors of the local culture.

The spread includes:

1. Hearty caldo verde, a classic Portuguese soup made with kale, potatoes, and chouriço sausage.
2. Grilled bacalhau, or salted cod, a staple protein in Portuguese cuisine, served with roasted vegetables.
3. An assortment of regional cheeses and olives, perfectly paired with the crisp, refreshing Vinho Verde.
4. For dessert, a traditional pastry, such as the iconic pastel de nata, a creamy custard tart.

The lunch provides a delightful respite and a chance to refuel before continuing the exploration of Braga and Guimarães.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Time Does the Tour Depart From the Hotel?

The tour departs from the hotel at a specific time, usually in the morning. The exact departure time is not provided in the overview, so guests should check with the tour operator for the scheduled start time of the day trip.

Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Unfortunately, this tour does not offer the ability to customize the itinerary. It’s a set full-day tour to the historic cities of Braga and Guimarães with a fixed schedule. The inclusions and timings cannot be changed for individual bookings.

Is the Tour Guide Fluent in English?

The tour guide is fluent in English, allowing participants to easily communicate and learn about the history and culture of Braga and Guimarães. They’ll provide engaging commentary throughout the day-long excursion.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

No, guests can’t bring their own food and drinks on this tour. The tour includes a traditional Portuguese lunch with Vinho Verde wine, as well as bottled water, so outside food and beverages aren’t allowed.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

Discounts for seniors and students are generally not offered on this tour. However, the tour provider may consider special requests on a case-by-case basis. It’s best to inquire about any available discounts when booking the tour.

Recap

This small group day trip provides an immersive exploration of Braga and Guimarães, two of Portugal’s most significant historic cities.

Travelers can visit impressive landmarks, learn about the rich culture, and enjoy a traditional Portuguese lunch with regional wine, showcasing the best of these enchanting destinations in a seamless and comprehensive experience.