Braga & Guimaraes Day Trip From Porto
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Luxury Vehicles
Tour Braga & Guimaraes With Your Own Guide
Step back in time on a full-day private guided tour of Braga and Guimarães, two of the oldest and most culturally-rich cities in Portugal.
Depart from Porto with a private driver, and dive headfirst into the storied past of these remarkable destinations. From Braga’s ancient city center and the ethereal sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte to the birthplace of Portugal in Guimarães and its foundational castle, this tour promises a unique immersion into the heart of Portuguese history.
Our expert guides, coupled with your curiosity, make the perfect recipe for a memorable day of exploration and learning.
Destinations On Our Braga & Guimaraes Day Trip
- Braga's Historic City Center
- Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary
- Braga Cathedral
- Guimarães Castle
- Palace of the Dukes of Braganza
- Guimarães UNESCO World Heritage Site
Departure from Porto
Meet your private driver at your hotel or a designated spot in the city center, and settle into a comfortable, climate-controlled vehicle as we set off towards the historical cities of Braga and Guimarães.
First Stop: Braga's Historic City Center
Stepping into Braga, known as the “Rome of Portugal,” we are instantly immersed in its vivid historical tapestry.
This city, one of the oldest in Portugal, pulsates with over 2000 years of history. Braga’s Historic City Center, a beautiful labyrinth of narrow lanes and traditional squares, serves as a living testament to this rich heritage.
As you meander along the cobbled pathways, you will encounter architectural treasures reflecting Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles, each telling a story of a different era.
The vibrant Braga Municipal Square, dominated by the imposing Town Hall, is a significant attraction. The Town Hall, an 18th-century masterpiece of Portuguese civil architecture, impresses with its elegance. The intricate Arco da Porta Nova, the city’s neoclassical gateway, further exemplifies Braga’s architectural wealth.
Bom Jesus do Monte: A Sanctuary with a View
Leaving the city’s bustling center, we ascend to Bom Jesus do Monte, a place of serenity and spiritual significance that offers stunning panoramic views.
This sanctuary, perched atop a hill, is renowned for its remarkable Baroque staircase. The climb, dotted with symbolic chapels representing the Stations of the Cross, is a journey of faith. The staircase culminates in the magnificent church, adorned with an intricately carved granite facade.
Inside, the Rococo altar and the rich decorations narrate stories from religious texts. The sanctuary, with its panoramic views of Braga and the surrounding landscape, offers moments of tranquillity and contemplation. Whether you choose to climb the stairs or take the traditional funicular, reaching the sanctuary is an enriching experience, immersing you in the country’s deep-rooted spirituality.
Braga Cathedral: Portugal's Oldest Cathedral
The journey through Braga’s historical and spiritual heart continues with a visit to Sé de Braga, or Braga Cathedral. This awe-inspiring monument, the oldest cathedral in Portugal, encapsulates diverse architectural styles, from the Romanesque beginnings to the later Gothic and Baroque influences. Its grandeur and the serene atmosphere make it a place of reverence and admiration.
As you walk through the cathedral, you will be struck by its architectural and artistic wealth. The Kings’ Chapel, adorned with stunning azulejos, and the intricate wooden choir stall in the choir area are just a few examples of the cathedral’s grandeur. The cathedral also hosts a museum, which showcases an impressive collection of sacred art and religious artifacts.
Journey to Guimarães: The Birthplace of Portugal
A short drive from Braga transports us to Guimarães, fondly known as the ‘Birthplace of Portugal.’ This medieval city, the first capital of Portugal, boasts a rich history that stretches back to the country’s inception.
As we approach Guimarães, its ancient city walls and well-preserved medieval architecture offer a glimpse of its historical significance.
Guimarães effortlessly weaves its history into the fabric of daily life, with the city’s charming old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, a testament to this harmonious blend. Here, cobbled streets lined with pastel-hued houses lead to picturesque plazas, each echoing tales of yesteryears. The charming old town is also home to several noteworthy monuments, including the Church of Nossa Senhora da Oliveira and the Gothic-style Palace of the Dukes of Braganza.
Guimarães Castle: Portugal's Foundational Fort
No visit to Guimarães would be complete without exploring the imposing Guimarães Castle. This castle, a national symbol, is deeply woven into Portugal’s historical narrative.
Legend has it that Afonso Henriques, the first King of Portugal, was born here, making the castle an emblem of Portugal’s independence.
As we explore the castle, its sturdy granite walls and towering keep narrate tales of medieval battles and royal intrigue. From the top of the keep, one can enjoy sweeping views of the city and the surrounding landscape, a reward for the climb up the ancient stone steps. Inside, the austere interiors and the narrow arrow-slit windows transport us back to a time of knights and kings.
Exploring Guimarães Castle is like stepping into a living history book. As you walk through the stone corridors, ascend the ancient keep, or simply admire the castle’s imposing silhouette against the sky, you feel connected to Portugal’s foundational narrative.
Palace of the Dukes of Braganza: Medieval Elegance
The Palace of the Dukes of Braganza stands as a splendid embodiment of medieval grandeur. Initially built in the 15th century by the house of Braganza, it was meant to showcase their powerful stature. Restored in the 20th century, the palace now seamlessly blends its historical significance with modern accessibility.
Step into the castle, and you’ll find yourself transported to the Middle Ages. Its interiors reflect the lifestyle of Portuguese nobility, filled with tapestries, period furniture, and an extensive collection of portraits. The Great Hall, with its imposing wooden ceiling and gigantic chimneys, epitomizes the palace’s medieval elegance.
Strolling Through Guimarães: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
The city of Guimarães recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers an enchanting journey into Portugal’s past. With narrow cobbled streets leading to serene plazas and gardens, a stroll through the city feels like an immersive historical exploration.
Marvel at the well-preserved medieval architecture that decorates the cityscape, like the beautiful Our Lady of Oliveira Church. Wander through the lively Largo da Oliveira and Praca de Santiago squares, bustling with local life and echoing with stories of the past.
As you explore the city’s charming alleys and vibrant public spaces, the blend of history, culture, and local life in Guimarães creates an unforgettable experience, a living testament to Portugal’s rich heritage.
Return to Porto
As your journey draws to a close, relax into the comfortable drive back to Porto with your private driver.
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