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Visit the historic Guimaraes Castle, explore the medieval streets of the city center, and take a walk through the beautiful Parque da Cidade (City Park). Don't miss the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, and consider visiting the Guimaraes Museum for an in-depth look at the city's history.
Guimarães, located at the foot of Santa Catarina Hill in the southern Braga region of Portugal, is a renowned historical city known as the "Cradle of Portugal." Guimarães boasts numerous historical sites, including the Church of Our Lady of the Olive Tree, the castle, and the Guimarães Castle complex. Founded in the fourth century AD, Guimarães is a prime location for experiencing Portugal's traditional culture. In 2006, UNESCO designated the Old Town of Guimarães a World Heritage Site.
Climate: Portugal enjoys a pleasant climate, with warm, humid winters and relatively dry summers. The northern part of the country has a temperate maritime broadleaf forest climate, while the southern part has a subtropical Mediterranean climate. Average temperatures range from 8-14°C in January and 17-28°C in August, with annual rainfall of 500-1000 mm.
Best time to travel: All seasons
Recommended attractions: Church of Our Lady of the Olive Tree, Guimarães Castle Complex
Recommended play time: 1 day
Guimaraes is often referred to as the birthplace of Portugal, as it played a key role in the country's formation during the 12th century. The city is home to several historical landmarks, including the Guimaraes Castle and the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, which reflect the city’s medieval past.
Guimaraes is located in northern Portugal, around 55 km from Porto. You can get there by train from Porto (about 1 hour), by bus, or by taxi. The city center is easily walkable, and public transportation is available within the city.
The best time to visit Guimaraes is during spring or autumn when the weather is pleasant and the city is less crowded. Most attractions open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but it's a good idea to check specific sites for their exact hours.
Entrance fees vary by attraction. For example, entry to the Guimaraes Castle costs around €3. You can buy tickets at the entrance or online for certain sites. Many places offer combo tickets for multiple attractions at a discounted price.
Booking tickets in advance is not generally necessary for most attractions, except for special events or during peak tourist seasons. However, if you're visiting popular sites like the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, it may be wise to buy tickets ahead during busy months.
To fully explore Guimaraes, you will need at least 2 to 3 days. This allows time to visit the main attractions, walk around the historic center, and take day trips to nearby places like Bom Jesus do Monte.
Key highlights include the Guimaraes Castle, the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, and the medieval streets of the city center. The Guimaraes Cathedral and the Church of St. Francis are also essential stops for history enthusiasts.
Guided tours are available in English, Portuguese, and other languages. Audio guides are also available at major attractions such as the Guimaraes Castle and the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza.
The best viewpoints are from the Guimaraes Castle, where you can capture panoramic views of the city. The old town itself, with its narrow streets and historical buildings, provides excellent opportunities for photography.
Start by visiting the Guimaraes Castle, then head to the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza. From there, explore the medieval streets of the city center, and end your day with a visit to the Church of St. Francis and the Guimaraes Cathedral.
Guimaraes does not have special light shows, but the city is beautiful to explore at night, with many historical sites illuminated. Some attractions offer evening visits or special events during certain times of the year, so check local listings before your visit.
Guimaraes can get crowded during the summer months and weekends. To avoid crowds, visit in the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) or during weekdays early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
There are several cafes, restaurants, and shops in the city center, along with public toilets available near major attractions. The city also has water fountains and rest areas for visitors to relax.
Guimaraes' historic center has cobblestone streets, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues. However, many attractions, including the Guimaraes Castle, have accessible paths for visitors with disabilities.
Both cash and cards are accepted at most places in Guimaraes. It’s always good to have some cash on hand, especially for smaller shops or markets, but cards and mobile payments are widely accepted in larger businesses.
There are numerous restaurants and cafes in Guimaraes, including Café Goma, Restaurante Cozinha da Sé, and Tasquinha da Praça, all offering traditional Portuguese cuisine in a cozy setting.
Several restaurants in Guimaraes offer vegetarian and vegan options, including plant-based meals and dishes with local produce. Halal food options may be limited but can be found at some international eateries.
Recommended hotels in the city center include Hotel de Guimaraes, Pousada Mosteiro de Guimaraes, and Hotel da Oliveira, all offering comfortable accommodations close to the main attractions.
Nearby attractions include Bom Jesus do Monte, a hilltop sanctuary with stunning views, and the city of Braga, which is just a short drive away. The Peneda-Gerês National Park is also easily accessible for nature lovers.
Souvenir shops in Guimaraes offer traditional Portuguese items such as azulejos (decorative tiles), cork products, local wines, and artisanal crafts. These make great keepsakes or gifts from the city.
After visiting Guimaraes, you can take a train to Porto, Braga, or other nearby cities. Buses and taxis are also readily available for onward travel. For those heading to nature destinations, consider renting a car to explore the surrounding regions.
