Braga & Guimaraes Tour from Porto
Braga & Guimaraes Tour from Porto
Trip Itinerary
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Check in at A Meeting Point
Please meet your expert guide at the designated meeting point in central Porto. Board a comfortable air-conditioned minibus and begin your scenic journey north into the lush landscapes of the Minho region, passing rolling hills, rivers, and traditional villages while learning fascinating stories about Portugal’s history and culture.
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Braga: Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte
Arrive in Braga and head to the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, one of Portugal’s most iconic religious sites and a UNESCO World Heritage landmark. Climb—or admire from below—the famous baroque staircase adorned with fountains, statues, and terraces. The sanctuary’s hilltop location offers sweeping panoramic views of Braga and the surrounding verdant hills. Take time to explore the church, gardens, and the tranquil surroundings where nature and spirituality intertwine.
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Braga Historic Centre & Sé Cathedral
Descend into Braga’s historic centre, a lively mix of streets lined with pastel-colored buildings, ornate churches, and charming squares. Visit the Sé Cathedral of Braga, Portugal’s oldest cathedral, which combines Romanesque, Manueline, and Baroque architectural styles. Learn about its centuries of religious significance and admire its cloisters, chapels, and detailed façades. Stroll through Braga’s historic streets, stopping at highlights like Santa Bárbara Garden, known for its beautiful terraces and vibrant flowers. Enjoy some free time to explore on your own or have a quick lunch in one of Braga’s cafés.
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Guimarães: Castle & Historic Centre
Travel to Guimarães, widely regarded as the birthplace of Portugal. Begin your exploration at the Guimarães Castle, a 10th-century fortress symbolising the nation’s origins, with its towers and battlements offering remarkable views of the city. Walk through the Palace of the Dukes of Bragança, a striking 15th-century residence of Portuguese nobility. Continue into the UNESCO-listed historic centre, where cobbled streets, iron balconies, granite façades, and charming squares such as Martins Sarmento Square and Santiago Square evoke centuries of history. Pause at landmarks like the Church of Nossa Senhora da Oliveira and the statue of D. Afonso Henriques as your guide shares stories about Portugal’s foundation and the city’s medieval past. Enjoy some free time to wander, shop, or take photos.
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Return to Porto
Relax on the scenic drive back to Porto, reflecting on a day immersed in Portugal’s rich history, sacred sites, and medieval streets. Arrive at the designated drop-off location around 17:00, concluding your full-day journey through the gems of the Minho region.
Please note that all times are approximate and depend on traffic conditions and guides availability.
From Sacred Stairways to Medieval Streets: A Full-Day Journey Through Braga & Guimarães
Step into the heart of Portugal’s history on a full-day journey through the stunning Minho region. From the sacred heights of Braga to the medieval streets of Guimarães, this tour immerses you in the cities that shaped Portugal’s identity. Rolling green hills, baroque stairways, and centuries-old streets await—each corner telling a story of faith, power, and tradition.
Begin in Braga, one of the oldest Christian cities in the world, where over 2,000 years of history unfold through magnificent landmarks and serene gardens. Wander up the ornate staircases of the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and admire panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside. Marvel at Braga Cathedral, Portugal’s oldest cathedral, which blends Romanesque, Manueline, and Baroque styles, before strolling Braga’s historic streets and charming squares.
Just a short journey away, Guimarães—the birthplace of Portugal—welcomes you into its medieval streets, granite façades, and historic squares. Known as “The Cradle of Portugal”, it was here that the first king, D. Afonso Henriques, was born, and its carefully preserved UNESCO World Heritage historic centre offers a vivid glimpse into the origins of the nation. Explore the Guimarães Castle, the Palace of the Dukes of Bragança, and the charming cobbled streets that tell stories of royalty, battles, and the birth of a country.
Tour Highlights
- Visit Braga and Guimarães, two historic gems of the Minho region
- Explore the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte and Braga Cathedral
- Learn the story of Portugal’s origins in Guimarães, the “Cradle of Portugal”
- Walk through Guimarães’ UNESCO-listed historic centre, including the castle, Palace of the Dukes, and main squares
Why Choose This Tour
This full-day Braga & Guimarães tour from Porto is ideal for travellers who want to experience the rich history of Portugal in one seamless journey. Combining guided visits with comfortable minibus travel, the tour allows you to enjoy each landmark at a relaxed pace. From the sacred baroque stairways of Braga to the medieval streets of Guimarães, you’ll gain insights into Portugal’s cultural, religious, and political heritage, all while travelling with a manageable group size that ensures comfort and easy sightseeing.
Discover the soul of northern Portugal on a day filled with history, culture, and breathtaking scenery. From Braga’s religious grandeur to the medieval charm of Guimarães, this tour reveals the stories, streets, and sights that made Portugal what it is today.
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out — we’re always happy to help! Ready for even more Portugal discoveries? Discover our full range of Porto tours and make the most of your stay in this city of rivers, bridges, and timeless charm!
Braga & Guimaraes Tour from Porto - Travellers recommend this tour:
Check opinions about this trip
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A perfect day trip from Porto—Braga and Guimarães are stunning!
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Comfortable minibus, great pace, and so much to see in one day.
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Our guide was fantastic, full of stories and local tips.
More details about this tour
Here is a break down of all the activities in the tour:- Professional local guide
- Transportation in an air-conditioned minibus
- Entrance to Bom Jesus Sanctuary
- Entrance to Sé Cathedral of Braga
- Entrance to Guimarães Castle
- Guided walking tour of Guimarães’ UNESCO historic centre
- Personal expenses
- Gratuities (optional)
- Meals or drinks unless specified
- Hotel pick-up or drop-off
Please meet your guide at Living Tours Agency, located at Rua Mouzinho da Silveira 352, 4050-418 Porto. The agency is easy to spot—it’s the red building directly across from São Bento Station. Be sure to arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled tour time so you can check in and start your Porto adventure on time.
- Maximum Group Size: 27 people, ensuring a comfortable and personalised experience
- Tour End Location: Rua de Alexandre Herculano, Porto (near Batalha Square)
- Blackout Dates: 1st January and 25th December
- Travel Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobbled streets and stairways, bring a light jacket as northern Portugal’s weather can be changeable, and keep your camera handy—both Braga and Guimarães offer stunning photo opportunities. Don’t miss taking a moment to enjoy the panoramic views from Bom Jesus do Monte.
More reasons why you should use our services:
We have invented this tour on the market and we are the best in it.Frequency
This tour operates daily, starting at 7:50 AM.
Meeting point
Please meet your guide at Living Tours Agency at Rua Mouzinho da Silveira 352, 4050-418 Porto.
Cancellation policy
We will charge a cancellation fee of 100% if booking is cancelled 1 day or less before the event
Professional guide
All our tours from Porto are led by passionate local guides who bring northern Portugal’s history, culture, and hidden gems to life, making every experience memorable.





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