Discover 2 major Portuguese tourist destinations, Guimarães, the cradle of Portugal, a city full of history and treasures to discover, and Braga, notorious for its emblematic sanctuaries, numerous churches, and religious devotion.
The experience will start with a pick-up service at your accommodation in Porto and join the group for a 1-hour ride until reaching Guimarães where you'll have the opportunity to explore from the Medieval Castle. before starting the guide an introduction to the history of Portugal and its first king, Afonso Henriques, whose birth is believed to have occurred in this fabulous city as well as his baptism. The tour will continue with a stop at S.Miguel do Castelo Chapel where you'll have the opportunity to admire the impressive Romanesque façade of the 12th century. It holds great architectural simplicity but at the same time a unique magnificence as well. A visit to Guimarães could not miss one of the most impressive burgundy style buildings, built in the 15th century. Despite its abandonment and ruin over many years, the palace has undergone massive restructuring, and nowadays due to all its preservation work, it is open to the public and is one of the most visited palaces in the country. The tour guide will accompany you along with one of the paths taken during Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage way, and during this walking tour, you will have the opportunity to see some important buildings such as the City Hall and Library, the old Town Hall, the Salado Battle Monument, the Church of Nossa Senhora da Oliveira and the Medieval Square.
After this first time of the tour, you'll have free time to explore by yourself and be able to spend time as you wish before having lunch, which will be at one of the city's traditional restaurants offering the best of northern Portuguese cuisine. You'll have the opportunity to taste the best dishes enjoyed locally as well as the delicious convent desserts. After lunch, the tour will continue in Braga which is just 30 minutes from Guimarães. Classified as the European Capital of Youth and European Capital of Sport, it is undoubtedly a destination to include in this itinerary. Once in Braga, you'll have the opportunity to admire Bom Jesus de Braga considered one of the most iconic sanctuaries of Portugal and the world for its impressive staircase and breathtaking views. Recently declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is currently preserved and protected worldwide. This architectural complex houses a host of attractions, from hotels, restaurants, nature parks, protected species and one of Europe's oldest funicular railways operating on hydropower. Almost ending the day, but still plenty to see. From the impressive Cathedral situated in the walled city, to the colorful flower-filled Santa Barbara Garden surrounded by the old aqueduct, to the lively shopping streets full of high-end and traditional shops. Braga's charm is unmatched, and the youthful atmosphere full of students and their customs and traditions make it a destination of choice for many international visitors.
Hotel pick-up in Porto
Personal expenses
