From Porto: Minho Guimarães/Braga Full Day All-Inclusive Tour

Exploring the Minho region from Porto offers a unique chance to uncover Portugal’s rich cultural heritage. This full-day tour takes travelers on a journey through the historic cities of Guimarães and Braga, immersing them in medieval fortresses, baroque sanctuaries, and the impressive Braga Cathedral. With an expert guide, a delicious lunch, and a small group size, the experience promises an in-depth discovery of Northern Portugal’s most captivating destinations. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking to delve deeper into the country’s traditions, this tour provides an ideal opportunity to expand your understanding of Portugal’s enduring charm.

Key Points

• This full-day tour from Porto takes visitors to the historic cities of Guimarães and Braga in the Minho region, covering key landmarks and attractions.
• The tour includes guided visits to Guimarães Castle, Sameiro Sanctuary, Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, and Braga Cathedral.
• Participants can enjoy a 1.5-hour lunch break in the historic city of Braga during the tour.
• The tour is limited to 7 participants, ensuring a personalized experience with a live guide available in English, French, and Portuguese.
• The tour cost of £101.15 per person includes all entrance fees, transportation, and multilingual guides, with the option to reserve and pay later.

Tour Details

The tour lasts 9 hours and is limited to 7 participants, with a live guide available in English, French, and Portuguese.

Customers will start the day at the Porto City Hall and make their way to the Guimarães Castle for a 105-minute guided tour.

Next, they’ll visit the Sameiro Sanctuary for a 30-minute guided tour.

After that, they’ll head to Braga for a 1.5-hour lunch, followed by a 75-minute guided tour of the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte and a 105-minute guided tour of the Braga Cathedral.

The tour ends at the Porto City Hall, providing an immersive experience in the Minho region‘s rich history and culture.

Itinerary Highlights

After exploring the key tour details, the itinerary’s highlights await. Visitors can look forward to a guided tour of the Guimarães Castle, seeing the historic significance of this grand structure.

Next, they’ll visit the serene Sameiro Sanctuary, taking in the tranquil atmosphere and architectural beauty.

In Braga, the tour includes a guided visit to the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, known for its distinctive Baroque staircase.

The final highlight is a guided tour of the Braga Cathedral, one of the oldest and most impressive cathedrals in Portugal.

Throughout the day, travelers will discover the rich cultural and historical treasures of the Minho region.

Guimarães Castle

Guimarães Castle, a well-preserved medieval fortress, stands as a testament to Portugal’s rich history, captivating visitors with its grand architecture and fascinating historical significance.

During the guided tour, you will explore the castle’s storied past, exploring its impressive stone walls, towers, and courtyards. The tour guides will share insights into the castle’s role in shaping the country’s early development, highlighting its significance as the birthplace of Portugal’s first king, D. Afonso Henriques.

Visitors will have the opportunity to wander through the well-preserved interiors, imagining the lives of the nobility who once occupied this impressive structure. With its captivating blend of history and architecture, Guimarães Castle offers a truly immersive experience for those exploring Portugal’s cultural heritage.

Sameiro Sanctuary

Nestled atop a scenic hillside, the Sameiro Sanctuary captivates visitors with its serene ambiance and stunning panoramic views.

During the 30-minute guided tour, guests will explore the sanctuary’s impressive Baroque architecture, admiring the intricate details of the façade and the serene chapel within.

The tour guide will share the history and significance of this important religious site, which dates back to the 19th century and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

Visitors can take in the peaceful atmosphere, snap photos of the breathtaking vistas, and gain a deeper appreciation for Portugal’s rich religious and cultural heritage.

Braga Highlights

The tour then takes visitors to the historic city of Braga, where they’ll enjoy a 1.5-hour lunch break to refuel before continuing their exploration of the city’s top sights.

After lunch, the group embarks on guided tours of the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte (75 minutes) and the Braga Cathedral (105 minutes).

The Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte is a magnificent Baroque-style complex featuring a long stairway with chapels and shrines along the way, leading up to the church at the top.

The Braga Cathedral, on the other hand, is a stunning Romanesque cathedral that dates back to the 11th century and is considered one of the finest examples of Romanesque architecture in Portugal.

The key Braga highlights include:

1. Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte
2. Braga Cathedral
3. Historic city center
4. Picturesque views and architecture

Bom Jesus Sanctuary

One of the tour’s highlights is the visit to the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, a magnificent Baroque-style complex featuring a long stairway with chapels and shrines leading up to the church at the top.

Visitors will get to enjoy a guided tour of the sanctuary, which takes around 75 minutes.

The stairway is a renowned architectural masterpiece, with its curved staircases, ornamental fountains, and statues representing the five senses and the three theological virtues.

At the top, guests can admire the impressive church and take in the stunning views over the city of Braga.

This stop on the tour provides a unique glimpse into Portugal’s rich religious heritage.

Braga Cathedral

Braga Cathedral’s guided tour takes visitors through the city’s iconic religious landmark, showcasing its impressive Romanesque architecture and significant historical role.

Highlights include:

• The cathedral’s grandiose façade, with its intricate carvings and towering spires that dominate the city skyline.
• The interior’s ornate decoration, featuring gilded altars, detailed stained-glass windows, and the impressive Baroque organ.
• The cloister, a peaceful oasis within the cathedral complex, with its delicate arches and tranquil gardens.
• The opportunity to learn about the cathedral’s rich history, dating back to the 11th century and its role in the religious and cultural development of the region.

Booking Information

Booking the Minho Guimarães/Braga Full Day All-Inclusive Tour from Porto costs £101.15 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Visitors can reserve the tour now and pay later, ensuring a hassle-free booking experience.

This all-inclusive tour offers a wide range of inclusions, such as entrance fees, lunch, transportation, and guides in English, French, and Portuguese.

The tour is limited to 7 participants, providing a more personalized and intimate experience.

With its highlights, including visits to Guimarães Castle, Sameiro Sanctuary, Bom Jesus Sanctuary, and Braga Cathedral, this tour is an excellent way to explore the Minho region from Porto.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Number of Participants Allowed?

The tour limits the group size to 7 participants maximum. This small group size ensures a more personalized experience and allows the guide to provide more attentive service to each participant.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t offer any specific discounts for children or seniors. The price is a flat rate of £101.15 per person, regardless of age. Larger discounts may be available for group bookings.

Is Photography Allowed at All the Tour Sites?

Photography is generally allowed at all tour sites, though visitors should follow any posted rules or restrictions. It’s best to check with the guide before taking photos to ensure compliance with site policies.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Suit Individual Preferences?

The tour can be customized to suit individual preferences. Participants can request modifications to the itinerary or tour duration. The tour provider is flexible and willing to accommodate reasonable requests within the tour’s overall structure.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Included in the Listed Price?

The listed price covers all fees and taxes. There are no additional costs beyond the £101.15 per person. The tour is all-inclusive, with entrance fees, lunch, transport, guides, and equipment provided.

Recap

This Minho region tour offers an immersive journey through northern Portugal’s historic and cultural highlights.

Explore Guimarães Castle, the Sameiro Sanctuary, and the renowned sites of Braga, including the Bom Jesus Sanctuary and impressive Braga Cathedral.

With a knowledgeable guide, lunch, and a small group, this full-day excursion provides an in-depth discovery of the region’s captivating heritage and landmarks.