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Guimarães: Half Day Private Tour From Porto – The Birth place of Portuguese Nation, with its Historical center classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO since 2001. Also Capital European of Culture in 2012.
Guimarães is a city full of History and Heritage, walking along the narrow streets is like returning to the middle age, thanks to the heritage so well preserved nowadays.
Know everything about Guimarães on this half day private tour from Porto.
Visit the most important places, walk through the historical cantre and visit the well-known Guimarães Castle!
Nestled in northern Portugal, Guimarães is a captivating city that exudes history, culture, and charm. As the birthplace of the nation, it holds immense historical significance and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Stroll through its well-preserved medieval streets, where every corner reveals architectural marvels. Transitioning seamlessly from the past to the present, Guimarães offers a vibrant atmosphere with a bustling city center.
Explore the iconic Guimarães Castle, a formidable fortress that witnessed the country’s early battles. Adjacent to it, discover the charming Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, a grand residence that showcases intricate details of Portuguese nobility.
Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the Alberto Sampaio Museum, housing an impressive collection of religious art. Take a leisurely walk in the picturesque Largo da Oliveira square, surrounded by historic buildings and quaint cafes.
Guimarães is also renowned for its traditional festivals and lively events that celebrate its rich heritage. Indulge in delicious local cuisine and savor traditional dishes like the famous “Papas de Sarrabulho” or “Bacalhau à Narcisa.”
With its historical significance, architectural wonders, and vibrant ambiance, Guimarães is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Portuguese experience. Come and discover the heart and soul of this enchanting city.
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Guimarães is considered the birthplace of Portugal because Afonso Henriques, who would become the first king of Portugal, was born here. The city was also an important political center during the Kingdom of Portugal. Guimarães is located about 30 kilometers northwest of Porto, in Braga District. Come and discover this charming city.
Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.
Your expert guide will collect you from your hotel/accommodation or meeting point and will drive you to Guimarães. On your way to Guimarães, the guide will give you insights regarding the Portuguese history, development and cultural facts of portuguese heritage.
Guimarães is considered the birthplace of Portugal because Afonso Henriques, who went on to be the first king of Portugal, was born here. The historical centre in the area that was within the Guimarães city walls, is associated with the formation and identity of Portugal, and was classified a World Heritage site based on the originality and authenticity applied in its restoration.
The castle´s presence evokes the exciting mixture of legend, poetry and heroism that surrounds the beginning of Portuguese history. On this Monte Largo (Broad Hill) - referred to as alpis latitus in the Latin documents of the time - the nucleus of the future nation of Portugal was first developed. Enjoy a guided visit of the Castle with incredible views of the city from its walls.
The small church of S. Miguel do Castelo was built in the 13th century. However, according to tradition, this church would have been built in the 12th century by Count Dom Henrique (Henry of Burgundy), where he would have baptised his son, the 1st King of Portugal Dom Afonso Henriques.
The construction of the palace of the Dukes of Bragança, its design inspired by that of the typical French manor houses, was begun in the early 15th century. It was commissioned by D. Afonso de Barcelos, the first duke of Bragança and the bastard son of D. João, Master of Avis, the future king D. João I. Because the residence of the Dukes of Bragança was later moved to the Palace of Vila Viçosa, in the Alentejo, the building gradually fell into disrepair over the centuries until it was transformed into a military barracks in 1807. Admire from the outside this magnificent masterpiece. Admission is not included.
The city still has a harmonious, well-preserved heritage that is evident in the graceful iron verandas, granite balconies and porticos, mansions, arches connecting the narrow streets, paving slabs smoothed by time, towers and cloisters. For a moment you might imagine yourself to be in a mediaeval setting, where the nobility built their houses over time, such as the Mota Prego house, the Vila Flor and Toural palaces, and the many others that give Guimarães its unique atmosphere. We will visit the heart of the city, Largo da Oliveira, where you find the Padrão do Salado and the Collegiate Church of Nossa Senhora da Oliveira, which houses the valuable Alberto Sampaio Museum. Passing the Paços Municipais (City Hall), crowned with battlements, enter the Praça de Santiago which in the Middle Ages welcomed pilgrims bound for Compostela, just as today it welcomes residents and tourists in its restaurants and terraces. The Convent of Santa Clara, the Casa do Arco and other stately houses are in Rua da Santa Maria, which links with the upper city.
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