Private Tour to Guimarães and Braga, Two Incredible Cities

Nestled in the heart of Northern Portugal, the historic cities of Guimarães and Braga offer a captivating blend of medieval charm and religious significance. Explore the birthplace of the Portuguese nation in Guimarães, where you’ll uncover the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza and the iconic Guimarães Castle. Then, venture to Braga, home to the magnificent 11th-century Braga Cathedral and the picturesque Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte. This private tour promises an immersive experience, allowing you to explore these remarkable destinations at your own pace. With comfortable transportation and personalized accommodations, the stage is set for an unforgettable journey through the rich history and cultural heritage of this captivating region.

Key Points

• Experience the birthplace of Portugal in Guimarães, with its well-preserved medieval center and iconic landmarks like the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza and Guimarães Castle.

• Explore the serene religious destination of Braga, home to the magnificent 11th-century Braga Cathedral and the captivating Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte.

• Enjoy a personalized and accessible tour with a certified driver, hotel pickup and drop-off, and amenities like bottled water and refreshments.

• Customize your tour by selecting optional attractions like the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza and Braga Cathedral, with additional entry fees.

• Relax during the approximately 1.5-hour journey from Gaia or Porto to Guimarães, and the 1-hour return trip from Braga, in luxury vehicles.

Tour Duration and Type

The tour lasts for 10 hours and is of a private nature, allowing for a personalized experience.

Guests will be picked up from their hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring accessibility for all travelers.

This private tour offers the flexibility to explore the destinations at one’s own pace and focus on the areas of greatest interest.

Whether it’s admiring the historic architecture or immersing oneself in the religious and peaceful atmosphere, this private tour provides a comprehensive and tailored experience to make the most of the day.

Pickup and Accessibility

Guests will be picked up from their hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time, ensuring a seamless start to the tour.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing travelers of all abilities to fully experience the destinations.

The driver will provide a personalized meet-and-greet service, making it easy for guests to board the luxury vehicle and begin their journey.

Bottled water and refreshments will be available throughout the day, keeping everyone hydrated and comfortable.

With the efficient pickup process and accessible accommodations, guests can focus on seeing the rich history and culture of Guimarães and Braga, without any logistical concerns.

Guimarães: Birthplace of Portugal

Guimarães, the cradle of Portugal’s nationhood, proudly stands as the birthplace of the country’s first king, Dom Afonso Henriques.

This historic city boasts a well-preserved medieval center, a testament to its pivotal role in shaping the nation’s identity.

Visitors can explore the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, an impressive Gothic-style residence that once housed the ruling dynasty.

The Guimarães Castle, a remarkably well-preserved 10th-century fortress, offers panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.

These historic landmarks provide a glimpse into Portugal’s rich past, allowing travelers to enjoy the birthplace of this proud European nation.

Braga: Religious Destination

Nestled in the heart of northern Portugal, Braga emerges as a serene religious destination, home to the magnificent Braga Cathedral and the captivating Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte.

This historic city boasts a rich spiritual heritage, drawing pilgrims and visitors alike. Explore the Braga Cathedral’s intricate architecture, dating back to the 11th century, and marvel at its impressive Baroque-style façade.

Climb the iconic Bom Jesus do Monte’s grand Baroque staircase, offering stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape. Wander through the tranquil gardens and encounter the iconic chapels that dot the sanctuary’s grounds.

With its blend of religious significance and natural beauty, Braga enchants all who venture to this spiritual haven.

Optional Attractions and Fees

Though the tour includes visits to notable sites, guests can opt to explore the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza and Guimarães Castle for an additional fee.

Similarly, an extra charge applies for entry to the Braga Cathedral. These optional attractions offer insights into the region’s rich history and architecture.

At the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, visitors can admire the impressive medieval structures and learn about the influential Braganza dynasty.

Meanwhile, Guimarães Castle, the birthplace of the first king of Portugal, provides a glimpse into the nation’s origins.

The Braga Cathedral, one of the oldest in the country, features a blend of Baroque and Romanesque styles.

Guests can choose to enjoy these optional experiences for a more comprehensive understanding of the tour destinations.

Transportation and Amenities

This private tour offers comfortable and convenient transportation. Guests will travel by car between the tour destinations, with the journey from Gaia or Porto to Guimarães taking approximately 1.5 hours, and the return trip from Braga to Gaia or Porto lasting around 1 hour.

The luxury vehicles are equipped with amenities like Wi-Fi, bottled water, and refreshments, ensuring a pleasant and seamless travel experience.

The tour includes:

• Certified tourist driver
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Personal accident and liability insurance
• Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles with ample leg room

Included and Excluded Services

The tour includes several services, such as a certified tourist driver, hotel pickup and drop-off, and personal accident and liability insurance.

However, some amenities are excluded, like admissions to venues and attractions, food and drinks, and gratuities. Guests will need to cover the costs of entering the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, Guimarães Castle, and Braga Cathedral, as well as any meals or tips during the trip.

The focus of the tour is on providing comfortable and safe transportation to the historic cities of Guimarães and Braga, with the ability to explore the key sites at one’s own pace and discretion.

Important Information for Travelers

Travelers should ensure they arrive at their hotel lobby at least 10 minutes before the scheduled tour departure time to avoid any delays.

The tour provider offers a wheelchair-accessible service, allowing guests with mobility challenges to participate comfortably.

While the tour includes transportation, entrance fees to the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, Guimarães Castle, and Braga Cathedral aren’t covered, so travelers should budget accordingly.

The tour includes:

• Certified tourist driver
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Personal accident and liability insurance
• Bottled water and refreshments during the journey

It’s important to note that gratuities for the driver aren’t included in the tour price and are at the discretion of the traveler.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Is the Total Travel Time for the Tour?

The total travel time for the tour is approximately 2.5 hours, with 1.5 hours from Gaia/Porto to Guimarães and 1 hour from Braga back to Gaia/Porto. This allows ample time to explore the destinations during the 10-hour tour.

What Type of Vehicle Is Used for the Tour?

The tour utilizes luxury vehicles with Wi-Fi, bottled water, and refreshments for the transportation. The vehicles provide a comfortable and convenient way for guests to travel between the destinations of Guimarães and Braga.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to the traveler’s preferences. The private tour format allows for flexibility in adjusting the destinations and activities based on the traveler’s interests and needs.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Child Policies?

There are no age restrictions for this tour, but children under 12 are offered a discounted rate. The tour is wheelchair accessible, accommodating travelers of all ages and abilities.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for the Tour?

The tour has a flexible cancellation policy. Customers can cancel their booking at any time and receive a full refund, subject to a small service fee, provided they give at least 72 hours’ notice before the tour date.

Recap

This private tour offers an immersive experience in the history and culture of Northern Portugal.

Explore the medieval center of Guimarães, the birthplace of Portugal, and the magnificent Braga Cathedral and Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte in Braga, a captivating religious destination.

With personalized accommodations, comfortable transportation, and the freedom to explore at your own pace, this tour provides a well-rounded insight into the region’s rich heritage.