This full-day tour from Porto takes visitors on an enriching journey through the historic cities of Braga and Guimarães. With fast-track entry, guided visits, and a traditional Portuguese lunch included, the tour offers an opportunity to maximize one’s budget while exploring the cultural and architectural highlights of northern Portugal. From the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte to the impressive Braga Cathedral and Guimarães Castle, the tour promises an immersive experience that delves into the region’s rich heritage. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking to discover the unique charm of these captivating destinations, this tour may pique your interest and leave you eager to uncover more.
Key Points
- This 8-hour guided tour from Porto visits the historic cities of Braga and Guimarães, including the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte and Braga Cathedral.
- The tour includes a typical Portuguese lunch and fast-track entry to featured monuments with guided tours of Braga Cathedral, Guimarães Castle, and the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza.
- The tour is limited to 8 participants and offers up to 15% discount, allowing customers to maximize their budget.
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Porto are provided, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
- Highlights of the tour include exclusive access to the Chapels and High Choir of Braga Cathedral and 30 minutes of free time to explore Guimarães on your own.
Tour Details
This 8-hour guided tour departs from Porto and takes visitors to the historic cities of Braga and Guimarães.
Pickup from your accommodation in Porto is between 8:15-8:45 AM, and the small group tour is limited to 8 participants.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve now and pay later.
The tour includes highlights like the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte in Braga, the historic center of Braga and Braga Cathedral, a typical Portuguese lunch, and visits to Guimarães Castle and the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza.
Fast-track entry to monuments, guided tours, and exclusive access to certain areas are also included.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Porto.
Highlights
The tour highlights a visit to the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte in Braga, allowing visitors to explore the historic center of Braga and its cathedral.
Guests will also enjoy a typical Portuguese lunch and visit Guimarães Castle and the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza.
The tour provides fast-track entry to these monuments, and guided tours of the Braga Cathedral, Guimarães Castle, and Ducal Palace.
Exclusive access to the Chapels and High Choir of Braga Cathedral is included.
This comprehensive tour offers an in-depth look at the rich history and cultural heritage of these two significant northern Portuguese cities.
Inclusions
The tour includes group transportation, with hotel pickup and drop-off provided. Participants also receive fast-track entry to the featured monuments, as well as guided tours of Braga Cathedral, Guimarães Castle, and the Ducal Palace. Plus, the tour offers exclusive access to the Chapels and High Choir of Braga Cathedral. A typical Portuguese lunch and bottled water are also included.
Inclusions | Details |
---|---|
Group Tour | Small group limited to 8 participants |
Hotel Pickup & Drop-off | Pickup between 8:15-8:45 AM |
Fast-track Entry | Access to monuments and attractions |
Guided Tours | Of Braga Cathedral, Guimarães Castle, and Ducal Palace |
Discounts
Customers can take advantage of up to a 15% discount when booking this tour, bringing the price down from SEK 1,630 to SEK 1,385 per person.
This is an excellent opportunity for travelers looking to save money while enjoying a full-day excursion from Porto to the historic cities of Braga and Guimarães.
The discounted rate includes a range of inclusions, such as hotel pickup and drop-off, fast-track entry to monuments, guided tours, a typical Portuguese lunch, and bottled water.
With the savings, customers can make the most of their budget while exploring these two UNESCO-listed destinations and experiencing the rich cultural heritage of northern Portugal.
More Great Tours NearbyItinerary Breakdown
This tour begins with pickup from your accommodation in Porto between 8:15-8:45 AM, kicking off the 8-hour guided journey to the historic cities of Braga and Guimarães.
After a 45-minute stop at the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte in Braga, the group will explore the city’s cathedral. Following a 1.5-hour typical Portuguese lunch, the tour continues to Guimarães, where visitors will spend 30 minutes at the town’s castle and another 30 minutes at the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza.
The final 30 minutes are reserved for free time to explore Guimarães on your own before the return trip to Porto.
- Explore the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte in Braga
- Visit Braga Cathedral and enjoy a traditional Portuguese lunch
- Tour Guimarães Castle and the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza
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Pickup in Porto
Your tour typically begins with pickup from your accommodation in Porto between 8:15-8:45 AM, kicking off the 8-hour guided journey to the historic cities of Braga and Guimarães.
As part of a small group limited to 8 participants, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience with your knowledgeable guide. The pickup service ensures a seamless start to your day, allowing you to sit back, relax, and prepare for the adventures that await.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, you can book this tour with confidence, knowing you have the flexibility to adjust your plans if needed.
Soon, you’ll be on your way to discover the rich cultural heritage of northern Portugal.
Sanctuary of Bom Jesus Do Monte
The tour’s first stop is the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte in Braga, a stunning religious complex perched atop a hill and accessible via a Baroque-style staircase.
Travelers will be awestruck by the sanctuary’s magnificent architecture, which includes:
- A grandiose staircase with 17 distinctive terraces, each representing a different stage in the Passion of Christ
- The striking Church of Bom Jesus, a magnificent Baroque-style structure with an ornate interior
This peaceful and serene location offers a glimpse into Portugal’s rich religious heritage and provides a peaceful respite from the bustling city below.
Breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside can be enjoyed from the top of the sanctuary’s grounds.
Braga Cathedral and Guimarães Exploration
After exploring the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, the tour moves on to the historic center of Braga, where travelers will discover the city’s iconic Braga Cathedral. This Romanesque-style cathedral dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest in Portugal, boasting a striking granite facade and intricate interiors. Visitors will have the chance to tour the cathedral’s exclusive Chapels and High Choir, gaining a deeper understanding of its rich religious history.
From Braga, the tour then proceeds to the medieval town of Guimarães, often referred to as the ‘birthplace of Portugal.’ Here, travelers will visit the imposing Guimarães Castle, a well-preserved 10th-century fortress that stands as a testament to the country’s storied past.
The tour also includes a stop at the magnificent Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, an impressive Gothic-style residence that once housed Portugal’s ducal dynasty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Request a Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Lunch?
Yes, the tour offers a vegetarian or gluten-free lunch option. Participants can request their dietary preference when booking the tour, and the tour provider will accommodate the request.
Is There Wheelchair/Disabled Access Throughout the Tour?
The tour has wheelchair and disabled access throughout, with fast-track entry and guided tours of the key sites. Travelers are advised to let the tour operator know of any accessibility needs in advance.
Can I Purchase Additional Souvenirs During the Free Time?
Yes, travelers can purchase additional souvenirs during the 30 minutes of free time in Guimarães. The historic city center offers a variety of local shops and artisan stalls where visitors can find unique Portuguese keepsakes.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour does not offer an option to extend the duration. The 8-hour tour itinerary is fixed, with limited free time in Guimarães. Guests would need to book an additional private tour if they want to spend more time at the sites.
Do I Need to Bring Any Specific Clothing or Equipment?
The tour doesn’t require any specialized clothing or equipment. However, comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves some walking. Participants should dress appropriately for the weather conditions on the day of the tour.
Recap
This full-day tour from Porto offers a chance to explore the historic cities of Braga and Guimarães.
Visitors can enjoy fast-track entry, guided visits, a traditional Portuguese lunch, and hotel pickup and drop-off, all within a small group setting.
With up to 15% discounts available, the tour provides an opportunity to experience the cultural and architectural highlights of northern Portugal while maximizing one’s budget.
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