Porto: Guimarães & Braga Tour With Entry Tickets and Lunch

This guided day tour from Porto allows visitors to explore two UNESCO-protected jewels of northern Portugal. Travelers will uncover the medieval history of Guimarães, the birthplace of Portugal, before heading to Braga to marvel at its impressive cathedral and climb the iconic Bom Jesus Sanctuary. With included transportation, entry tickets, and a traditional Portuguese lunch, this comprehensive experience provides an immersive look at the region’s cultural and architectural heritage. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking to discover charming corners of Portugal, this tour packs a punch and leaves you eager to…

Key Points

• This full-day tour from Porto explores the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Guimarães and Braga, including their historic castles, cathedrals, and landmarks.
• The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, guided visits, entry tickets, and a traditional Portuguese lunch.
• Highlights of the tour include the medieval town of Guimarães, the ancient Braga Cathedral, and the iconic Bom Jesus Sanctuary and its Baroque staircase.
• Guimarães is known as the ‘cradle of Portugal’ and was the seat of the first Portuguese county in the 10th century.
• The tour offers a small group size for a personalized experience and the flexibility to navigate the narrow streets and medieval landmarks.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This full-day tour whisks visitors from Porto to the historic cities of Guimarães and Braga, offering a captivating glimpse into Portugal’s medieval heritage.

In Guimarães, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll explore the charming Largo da Oliveira square and the imposing Guimarães Castle.

Next, you’ll discover the ancient Braga Cathedral, a 12th-century UNESCO site, and the Bom Jesus Sanctuary, a hilltop pilgrimage site with 581 steps.

Along the way, you’ll enjoy a traditional Portuguese lunch, making this tour a well-rounded introduction to the region’s history, culture, and stunning architecture.

Included in the Tour

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off at Trindade station or Bolsa Palace, providing convenient transportation for participants.

Plus, visitors will enjoy transportation by bus or minivan throughout the day.

Guided visits to the Braga Cathedral and Guimarães Castle are included, giving travelers an in-depth look at these historical landmarks.

Entry tickets to both the Guimarães Castle and Braga Cathedral are covered, ensuring seamless access.

To round out the experience, a traditional Portuguese lunch is provided, allowing visitors to savor the local cuisine.

With these comprehensive inclusions, the Porto: Guimarães & Braga Tour offers a well-rounded exploration of the region’s heritage and cultural offerings.

Highlights of the Tour

Guimarães, the birthplace of the Portuguese nation, showcases its medieval atmosphere.

The ancient Braga Cathedral and the 581 steps of the Bom Jesus Sanctuary highlight the tour’s historical and cultural significance.

Key highlights of this captivating tour include:

• Exploring the UNESCO-listed Guimarães Castle, a well-preserved medieval fortress that offers panoramic views of the city
• Wandering through the charming Largo da Oliveira square, surrounded by historic buildings and bustling with local life
• Discovering the Braga Cathedral, a 12th-century Romanesque masterpiece that’s one of Portugal’s oldest cathedrals
• Climbing the iconic Bom Jesus Sanctuary, a hilltop pilgrimage site with a grand Baroque staircase leading to a stunning church.

Duration and Group Size

The tour is an 8-hour excursion from Porto, with a small group size limited to just 8 participants. This intimate setting ensures a personalized experience as you explore the historic towns of Guimarães and Braga.

The small group size allows for more flexibility and the ability to navigate the narrow streets and medieval landmarks with ease. You won’t get lost in a crowd, and you’ll have ample opportunities to ask questions and interact with your knowledgeable guide.

The compact group size also makes for a more enjoyable and efficient day, allowing you to make the most of your time in these captivating northern Portuguese cities.

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Booking Information

Given the tour’s popularity, it’s advisable to book your spot in advance, as it’s likely to sell out. Priced at $103.74 per person, you can reserve your place now and pay later, ensuring you don’t miss out on this captivating excursion to Guimarães and Braga.

To secure your spot, simply visit the tour’s booking page and make your reservation.

Once booked, you’ll receive a confirmation with all the necessary details, including hotel pickup and drop-off information.

Payment can be made at a later date, providing flexibility and peace of mind as you plan your Porto adventure.

Don’t hesitate, as this small-group tour is expected to fill up quickly, so act now to avoid disappointment.

Historical Significance of Guimarães

Considered the birthplace of the Portuguese nation, Guimarães boasts a rich history that dates back to the 10th century, when it served as the seat of the first Portuguese county.

This medieval town played a crucial role in the country’s formation, as it was here that Portugal’s first king, Afonso Henriques, was born and where he launched his campaign for independence.

Visitors can explore the well-preserved Guimarães Castle, a National Monument that stands as a testament to the town’s strategic importance.

The charming Largo da Oliveira square, with its historic buildings and lively atmosphere, further showcases Guimarães’ enduring cultural heritage and its status as the ‘cradle of Portugal.’

Exploring Braga Cathedral

Towering over Braga’s historic city center, the magnificent Braga Cathedral stands as a stunning example of Romanesque architecture, dating back to the 12th century.

Visitors can explore its intricate facade, adorned with intricate carvings and ornate details that showcase the skilled craftsmanship of its medieval builders.

The cathedral’s interior is equally impressive, featuring:

• Soaring stone arches and vaulted ceilings
• Elaborately carved altars and religious sculptures
• Intricate stained glass windows that bathe the space in a kaleidoscope of color
• A grand pipe organ that fills the cathedral with the rich, resonant tones of sacred music

Guided tours allow visitors to delve deeper into the cathedral’s history and significance, providing a fascinating glimpse into Braga’s spiritual and cultural heritage.

Pilgrimage to Bom Jesus Sanctuary

The Bom Jesus Sanctuary, a hilltop pilgrimage site, beckons visitors with its iconic staircase of 581 steps leading up to the church at the summit.

Visitors can climb this monumental staircase, which features ornate Baroque-style landings and chapels along the way, offering a profound spiritual journey and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

The sanctuary is a renowned destination for religious pilgrims, who come to admire the impressive architecture and reflect on the significance of the site.

Ascending the staircase is a challenge, but the panoramic vistas and the peaceful atmosphere at the top make it a truly rewarding experience for both spiritual and non-religious visitors alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour itinerary can’t be customized. It’s a pre-set full-day tour with fixed stops and inclusions. However, participants can inquire about any special requests or preferences when booking to see if the provider can accommodate them.

Are Child Discounts Available?

Yes, child discounts are available on this tour. Children under 12 years old receive a reduced rate. Check with the tour operator for the current pricing for child tickets when booking.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is not fully wheelchair accessible, as the Bom Jesus Sanctuary has 581 steps. However, the other sites like the Guimarães Castle and Braga Cathedral can be accessed by wheelchair users. It’s best to check with the tour provider for specific details.

What Should I Bring on the Tour?

Travelers should bring comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sun protection, and any necessary personal items. It’s also a good idea to bring a camera to capture the scenic sights along the tour.

Can I Add Extra Stops to the Tour?

Yes, participants can likely add extra stops to the tour, but this may incur additional fees and require advance notice. It’s best to discuss any desired changes with the tour operator before booking to ensure accommodations can be made.

Recap

This full-day tour from Porto offers a comprehensive exploration of northern Portugal’s UNESCO-listed sites.

Visitors will discover the medieval charm of Guimarães, the birthplace of Portugal, and the historic grandeur of Braga, home to the iconic Bom Jesus Sanctuary.

With included transportation, guided visits, entry tickets, and a traditional Portuguese lunch, this tour provides an immersive experience of the region’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: