Guimarães: Guided Day Tour With Lunch and Drinks

Guimarães, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers visitors a chance to enjoy its well-preserved medieval heritage. This guided day tour showcases the iconic Guimarães Castle, the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Penha, and a typical Portuguese lunch in historic Braga. From there, travelers can explore Braga’s charming streets on a tuk-tuk ride before visiting the majestic Sanctuaries of Sameiro and Bom Jesus, the latter featuring the oldest funicular in the Iberian Peninsula. With its blend of architectural marvels and spiritual wonders, this excursion promises to leave a lasting impression on those seeking to delve deeper into Portugal’s rich history and culture.

This experience made our list of the 3 Best Lunch Experiences In Guimaraes.

Key Points

• The guided day tour of Guimarães includes a visit to the historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the iconic Guimarães Castle.
• The tour also features a visit to the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Penha, a renowned pilgrimage site with beautiful Baroque architecture and panoramic views.
• Lunch in the historic city of Braga is included, providing an opportunity to savor traditional Portuguese cuisine and local wines.
• A tuk-tuk tour of Braga’s charming streets and architectural gems offers a unique perspective of the vibrant city.
• The tour includes a visit to the Sanctuaries of Sameiro and Bom Jesus, showcasing the region’s rich spiritual heritage and the oldest funicular in the Iberian Peninsula.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Details

This guided day tour of Guimarães offers a private and comprehensive experience, with a duration of 8 hours and an English, Portuguese, French, or Spanish-speaking live tour guide.

Pickup and drop-off are included, ensuring a seamless experience. The tour focuses on exploring the historical city center of Guimarães, a UNESCO World Heritage site, as well as visiting the Guimarães Castle and Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Penha.

Lunch at a typical Portuguese restaurant in Braga and a tuk-tuk tour of Braga’s city center are also included, subject to availability.

The tour covers the oldest funicular in the Iberian Peninsula at Bom Jesus Sanctuary, dating back to 1882.

Explore Guimarães

Visitors can explore the historical city center of Guimarães, a UNESCO World Heritage site, on this guided tour.

The tour showcases the city’s well-preserved medieval architecture, including the iconic Guimarães Castle and the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Penha, both of which offer insight into the region’s rich history.

The castle, dating back to the 10th century, is a prime example of Romanesque military architecture, while the sanctuary, perched atop a hill, provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Together, these sites offer a glimpse into Guimarães’ storied past, allowing visitors to enjoy the city’s cultural heritage.

Visit Guimarães Castle

Why not begin the tour at the imposing Guimarães Castle, a well-preserved 10th-century Romanesque stronghold that looms over the city’s historic center?

This iconic landmark offers a glimpse into the region’s rich military heritage, with its sturdy granite walls and striking tower standing as a testament to the strategic importance of this site throughout the centuries.

As you wander the castle’s grounds, you’ll discover the chapel, cistern, and defensive walls that once protected the city’s inhabitants.

Don’t miss the chance to climb to the top of the keep for panoramic views of Guimarães and the surrounding countryside.

This captivating castle is a must-see during your guided tour.

Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora Da Penha

After exploring the majestic Guimarães Castle, the tour moves on to the captivating Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Penha, a renowned pilgrimage site perched atop a hill overlooking the city.

Visitors can admire the sanctuary’s beautiful Baroque architecture, adorned with intricate carvings and statues. The highlight is the impressive 116-step monumental staircase that leads up to the main entrance, offering stunning panoramic views of Guimarães.

Along the way, travellers will encounter chapels, fountains, and small gardens, creating a serene and spiritual atmosphere. The sanctuary’s tranquil setting and religious significance make it a must-visit on this Guimarães tour, providing a deeper understanding of the region’s rich history and culture.

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Lunch in Braga

Following the tour of the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Penha, the group enjoys a typical Portuguese lunch in the historic city of Braga.

The meal, which is included in the tour package, provides an opportunity for travelers to savor local cuisine and immerse themselves in Braga’s culinary traditions.

The lunch features a selection of traditional Portuguese dishes, such as hearty stews, fresh seafood, and savory pastries. Diners can also sample a variety of local wines or other beverages to complement their meal.

The relaxed and convivial atmosphere of the restaurant allows the group to recharge and reflect on the morning’s sightseeing before continuing their exploration of Braga’s attractions.

Tuk-Tuk Tour of Braga

After the leisurely lunch in Braga’s historic city center, the group boards a fleet of colorful tuk-tuks for a delightful exploration of the city’s sights.

These three-wheeled electric vehicles provide a thrilling and eco-friendly mode of transportation, allowing travelers to navigate Braga’s charming streets and take in the city’s architectural gems up close.

The tuk-tuk tour offers a unique perspective, as the open-air design provides unobstructed views of Braga’s stunning cathedrals, plazas, and historic buildings.

The tour is subject to availability, but when included, it’s a fantastic way to experience the heart of this vibrant Portuguese city in a fun and memorable manner.

Sanctuaries of Sameiro and Bom Jesus

The tour continues on to the majestic Sanctuaries of Sameiro and Bom Jesus in Braga, two of the city’s most significant religious sites.

Perched atop scenic hilltops, these grand structures offer visitors a chance to enjoy the region’s rich spiritual heritage.

The Sanctuary of Sameiro is celebrated for its impressive neo-Baroque architecture and stunning views over Braga.

Nearby, the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus boasts the oldest funicular in the Iberian Peninsula, transporting visitors up the steep incline to the top. Here, travelers can explore the intricate Baroque staircase and admire the majestic church.

Both sanctuaries provide a glimpse into Portugal’s deep-rooted Catholic traditions and the country’s architectural wonders.

Bom Jesus Funicular

At the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus, visitors can experience the oldest funicular in the Iberian Peninsula, dating back to 1882.

This historic mode of transportation carries passengers up the steep incline to the top of the sanctuary, offering a unique and convenient way to explore the impressive Baroque staircase and grand church.

The funicular ride provides:

• Panoramic views of the surrounding scenery
• Easy access to the upper levels of the sanctuary
• A chance to appreciate the engineering feat of this 19th-century marvel

The funicular’s smooth and efficient operation makes it an integral part of the Bom Jesus experience, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the sanctuary’s architectural wonders and religious significance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Activities?

Yes, the tour can likely be customized to include additional activities. Customers should contact the tour provider to discuss any special requests or modifications to the standard itinerary.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available for the Tour?

There are no special discounts or offers mentioned for this tour. However, the company may provide promotional deals or holiday packages from time to time, so it’s best to check their website or inquire directly for the latest information.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Mobility Challenges?

The tour can accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. It includes transportation and a guide who can provide assistance. Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, and large bags or luggage are not allowed on the tour.

What Is the Cancellation Policy and Are There Any Fees Associated With It?

The tour operator allows cancellations up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur fees, typically a percentage of the total cost. Check the policy for specific details.

Can the Tour Be Booked for a Smaller or Larger Group Size?

The group size for the tour can be customized. Guests can book a private tour for a smaller group size or arrange a larger group tour. Tour providers offer flexibility to accommodate the desired group size and preferences.

Recap

This guided day tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Guimarães’ well-preserved medieval architecture, including the iconic Guimarães Castle and Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Penha.

The tour also includes a traditional Portuguese lunch in Braga, a tuk-tuk ride through the city’s charming streets, and visits to the majestic Sanctuaries of Sameiro and Bom Jesus, the latter featuring the oldest funicular in the Iberian Peninsula.

You can check availability for your dates here: