Get to know Guimarães

Get to know Guimarães, where Portugal was born! It was in Guimaraes that the first king of Portugal, Dão Afonso Henriques, was born.

The city has a unique historical centre and its classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The city still possesses a harmonious and preserved patrimonial set spread by the streets, squares, gardens and manorial houses.Also, it was once the country’s capital during the struggle for Portugal’s independence.

Lose yourself in the narrow streets of the city rich in history and medieval infrasights. Throughout the cinquecentist center, explore the beautiful squares, gothic church and monuments, a fortified castle and ruins of the old wall, and an elegant 15th century palace.

Discover the city through our Private Braga and Guimarães tour. Join us!

Typical July:

28º C
82º F

Typical January:

8º C
46º F

What to see

Guimarães’s historic heritage is admirable! Get to know what you should visit:

Cinquecentist Guimarães’ centre

Lose yourself in the streets, the colors and the stories of the city.

Guimarães Castle

Considered ‘The First of Portugal’, in which rests the very foundation of the Portuguese nationality.

Ducal Palace

Majestic 15th century manor house, built by D. Afonso - future Duke of Bragança, bastard son of King D. João I. Classified as National Monument.

What to do

There are plenty activities to do in Guimarães. See how you can enjoy your visit:

Walk in the historic center

The longs of Oliveira e Santiago are the ex libris of the city and a obligatory place. Surrounded by centenary buildings, walking on these granite sidewalks is like strolling through the History of Portugal.

Take part in the Nicolinas Festivities

The Nicolinas Festivities are the most important festivals of the city of Guimarães. They consist of a set of activities that begin at the end of November, with the drums filling the city's late afternoon sounds.

Churches, convents and museums

There are almost a dozen Churches, Convents and Museums to be visited in the Historic Center and beyond.

What to taste

Guimarães’s gastronomy will amaze you with its great dishes. Find out what to taste:

'Rojões'

The "rojões" are pieces of pork boneless, but with some fat.

Cod with Broa

Cod baked and chipped browned in the oven, wrapped in an onion, olive oil and garlic, spinach, broa and cream and topped with a mixture of broas, garlic and butter.

'Tortas de Guimarães'

They are made with puff pastry and have a filling of sweet chila, eggs and almonds.

Places to visit near Guimarães

Guimarães is a region located in the north of Portugal. This region is close to other destinations that you should include on your trip.
Get to know them:

Oporto

City of a unique character, full of history and culture combined with the hospitality of its people and magnificent landscapes!

Braga

In Braga history and beauty come together in a unique and unforgettable city.

Gerês

A National Park with an admirable nature and astonishing beauty, Gerês is a unique destination in Portugal.

Douro

A World Heritage site, with one of the most fantastic landscapes spectacularly transformed by Man.

Aveiro

Aveiro, the 'Venice of Portugal', it’s famous by its long sandy coastline, a pretty estuary and several parks and gardens.

Ponte de Lima

The most ancient Portuguese village, which received its charter in 1125. Ponte de Lima has characteristic medieval architecture and a surrounding area washed by the Lima River.

Visit Guimarães with us

8 hours

Private Braga and Guimarães Tour

Full day tour to discover Braga, a city of Archbishops and the city of Guimarães, a medieval city.

10 days

Private Portuguese food and wine Tour

Experience the Portuguese lifestyle in its best.

12 days

Private 12 Days Portugal Tour

Discover Portugal in-depth and have the most authentic experiences!

4 hours

Fado Walking Tour

Join the best guided Fado walking tour in Lisbon and have the experience of your life!

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Get to know Guimarães