Guimarães City Tour

The Guimarães City Tour offers a captivating exploration of Portugal’s rich history. This one-hour private journey guides visitors through the charming streets, showcasing the city’s key landmarks and cultural heritage. With a local expert leading the way, guests can discover the compelling story behind sites like the statue of King Afonso Henriques, the impressive Castle of Guimarães, and the picturesque Praça de Santiago square. As they wander, they’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the allure of this Portuguese gem – but there’s much more to uncover.

This experience made our list of the 22 Best Tours In Guimaraes.

Key Points

• The Guimarães city tour is a one-hour walking exploration of the historic and cultural highlights of this charming Portuguese city.
• The tour includes visits to key landmarks like the statue of King Afonso Henriques, the Castle of Guimarães, and the former convent of Santa Clara.
• Visitors can learn about Portugal’s independence and the history behind the city’s significant sites during the guided tour.
• The tour offers an affordable option for exploring the medieval streets, admiring the historic architecture, and discovering the Praça de Santiago.
• The tour package includes a local expert guide, flexibility to reserve and pay later, and a cancellation policy for convenient and engaging exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Summary

The Guimaraes city tour takes visitors on a one-hour journey to discover the historical and cultural highlights of this charming Portuguese city.

Accompanied by a local guide, the tour explores important places in Guimaraes, including the statue of King Afonso Henriques, the Castle of Guimaraes, and the former convent of Santa Clara. Visitors will learn about Portugal’s independence and the history of the city’s landmarks.

The tour also includes a stroll through the medieval streets, where guests can admire the historic buildings and the Praca de Santiago, an 11th-century square with a fascinating legend.

Pricing and Booking

Typically, the Guimaraes city tour costs from $152.41 per group up to 1, and visitors can reserve the tour now and pay later. This pricing offers an affordable option for exploring the historic city with a private group.

The tour package includes:

1. A walking tour of the city’s medieval streets and landmarks.
2. Guidance from a local expert who’ll share insights about the city’s history and culture.
3. Flexibility to reserve the tour in advance and pay later.
4. Cancellation policy that allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

With these features, the Guimaraes city tour provides a convenient and engaging way to discover the charm of this Portuguese gem.

Tour Details

The Guimaraes city tour starts at the statue of King Afonso Henriques, where visitors learn about the first battle for Portugal’s independence.

Guests then visit the Castle of Guimaraes and the former convent of Santa Clara, exploring the city’s rich history and sampling local sweets.

Next, the tour explores the Praca de Santiago, an 11th century square with a legendary tale. Visitors wander the medieval streets, admiring the historic architecture before finishing at the Largo Republica do Brasil, where they can take in the stunning views of the Serra de Guimaraes.

Throughout the tour, the knowledgeable local guide provides insight into Guimaraes’ past and present.

Tour Inclusions

The Guimaraes city tour includes a guided walking exploration of the medieval streets and highlights of the historic city center. Visitors will discover the city’s rich heritage and impressive architecture as they explore on foot.

The tour inclusions are:

1. A stroll through the winding medieval streets of the old town.
2. Visits to key landmarks like the Castle of Guimaraes and the former convent of Santa Clara.
3. Exploration of the 11th century Praca de Santiago square and its legendary stories.
4. An opportunity to admire the Serra de Guimaraes mountains from the Largo Republica do Brasil.

Throughout the tour, the local guide will provide insightful commentary, bringing the history and culture of Guimaraes to life.

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Important Information

Along With the tour inclusions, there are a few important details travelers should be aware of. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible for participants.

It’s also wheelchair accessible, accommodating visitors with mobility needs. Guests are asked to refrain from video or audio recording during the tour, and they should remember to bring water to stay hydrated throughout the walking exploration.

This private group tour allows visitors to discover Guimarães at their own pace with a local guide. By following these guidelines, guests can ensure they’ve a smooth and enjoyable experience exploring the historic city.

Statue of King Afonso Henriques

Visitors begin the Guimarães city tour at the statue of King Afonso Henriques, the first king of Portugal, which stands as a symbol of the nation’s independence. The statue depicts the monarch in a heroic pose, capturing his determination and vision. The tour guide will provide historical context, sharing insights into Afonso Henriques’ pivotal role in the country’s formation.

Visitors can learn about:

1. Afonso Henriques’ early life and ascension to the throne
2. His decisive victory in the Battle of São Mamede, solidifying Portugal’s independence

The significance of the statue’s location in the heart of Guimarães.

Afonso Henriques’ legacy continues to shape the national identity of Portugal.

The statue sets the stage for an immersive exploration of Guimarães’ rich history and cultural heritage.

Castle of Guimaraes

From the statue of King Afonso Henriques, the tour proceeds to the Castle of Guimaraes, an imposing medieval fortress that played a pivotal role in Portugal’s independence.

The guide recounts how this majestic castle witnessed the first decisive battle for the nation’s sovereignty, as Afonso Henriques solidified his claim to the throne. Visitors can explore the well-preserved castle walls and towers, imagining the battles that once raged within these storied battlements.

The guide illuminates the castle’s history, explaining how its strategic location and formidable defenses made it a crucial stronghold in the struggle for Portuguese nationhood. Touring the Castle of Guimaraes offers a tangible connection to the country’s formative years, as guests explore the origins of Portugal’s independence.

Praca De Santiago

After exploring the Castle of Guimaraes, the tour then leads visitors to Praca de Santiago, an 11th century square steeped in legend and history.

The guide recounts the tale of Santiago, the patron saint of Guimaraes, whose presence is said to have been felt in this revered public space.

Guests can envision the square’s centuries-old significance as a gathering place for the local community, where the echoes of the past linger in the medieval architecture and cobblestone streets.

The tour highlights four key aspects of Praca de Santiago:

1. 11th century origins
2. Legend of patron saint Santiago
3. Importance as a community hub
4. Preserved medieval ambiance

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on this tour. The tour is designed for walking through the city’s medieval streets, and having pets could be disruptive and pose a safety risk. Only service animals are permitted.

Does the Tour Include Transportation to and From the Starting Point?

The tour does not include transportation to and from the starting point. Participants are responsible for making their own way to the meeting location, which is the statue of King Afonso Henriques, to begin the walking tour.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour information doesn’t mention any discounts for students or seniors. It’s possible the tour operator may offer discounts, but they’re not advertised. To inquire about any available discounts, travelers would need to contact the tour provider directly.

Can I Customize the Tour to Focus on Specific Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to focus on your specific interests. The tour operator is happy to tailor the experience to meet your needs and preferences within the overall tour duration.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The maximum group size for this tour is up to 1 person, as it’s a private group tour. The tour is priced per group, not per person, so it’s a flexible option for solo travelers or small groups.

Recap

The Guimarães city tour offers an engaging and affordable opportunity to discover the historic charm of this Portuguese gem.

With a local expert guide, visitors can explore the city’s key landmarks, including the statue of King Afonso Henriques, the Castle of Guimarães, and the picturesque Praça de Santiago square.

This one-hour private tour provides an immersive experience, showcasing the city’s rich cultural heritage and the stunning Serra de Guimarães mountains.

You can check availability for your dates here: