Porto: Guimarães & Braga Small Group Tour with Lunch & Tickets
From€110
8 hours
Porto, Portugal
About this activity
Discover the historic cities of Guimarães and Braga on this guided day tour from Porto, including a traditional lunch and entrance to key landmarks.
Highlights
- Explore Guimarães Castle's rich history
- Visit Braga's stunning Bom Jesus do Monte
- Enjoy a traditional Portuguese lunch
- Discover UNESCO World Heritage sites
- Experience local culture and architecture
Full description
Join us for an unforgettable journey through Portugal's rich history and culture. This small-group tour from Porto takes you to Guimarães, the birthplace of Portugal, where you'll explore the impressive Guimarães Castle. Then, visit Braga's iconic Bom Jesus do Monte, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning architecture and panoramic views. Savor a traditional Portuguese lunch accompanied by Vinho Verde wine, immersing yourself in local flavors. With expert guides and comfortable transportation, this tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and gastronomy, ensuring a memorable experience in Northern Portugal.
Included / Excluded
- Guided tour of Guimarães Castle and Braga's Bom Jesus do Monte
- Traditional Portuguese lunch with Vinho Verde wine
- Entrance tickets to Guimarães Castle and Bom Jesus do Monte
- Personal expenses and gratuities
Itinerary
1
Pickup & Start Point: Your Braga & Guimaraes Tour begins with a convenient pickup in Porto city center, where your local guide will greet you warmly. From here, enjoy a comfortable scenic drive northwards to the first stop of this unforgettable day.
Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
2
Arrive at the iconic Bom Jesus do Monte, a breathtaking sanctuary perched on the hills above Braga. Experience the famous Baroque stairway known as the Via Crucis — a path lined with chapels and statues telling the story of Christ’s Passion. Admire the historic funicular, the oldest water-powered funicular in the world. Soak in the panoramic views and lush gardens surrounding the sanctuary.
Duration: 1 hourAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
3
Next, head to the heart of Braga city to visit the majestic Braga Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in Portugal. Explore its stunning Romanesque and Gothic architecture, wander the cloisters and chapels, and absorb the medieval atmosphere that makes this a must-see spiritual landmark.
Duration: 1 hourAdmission: YES
4
Charming local restaurant: savor a traditional meal featuring regional specialties from Braga, accompanied by refreshing Vinho Verde local wine — a crisp, lightly sparkling white wine native to Northern Portugal. Vegetarian options are also available upon request to ensure everyone enjoys an authentic and delicious dining experience.
Duration: 1h 15mAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
5
Travel onward to Guimarães, the birthplace of Portugal. Visit the medieval Guimarães Castle, where legends say the first Portuguese king, D. Afonso Henriques, was born. Walk the ancient walls and imagine the battles fought to defend this fortress, crucial to Portuguese identity.
Duration: 1 hourAdmission: YES
6
Just a short walk from the castle is the impressive Ducal Palace, once the residence of the Dukes of Braganza. Admire the stately architecture, period furnishings, and lush gardens, reflecting the wealth and history of one of Portugal’s noble families.
Duration: 15 minAdmission: NO
7
Visit Guimaraes medieval town with your guide and pause at Largo da Oliveira, the vibrant square at the heart of Guimarães’ historic center. Admire the Padrão do Salado monument and enjoy the lively atmosphere with your guide sharing stories of the town’s rich heritage.
Duration: 45 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
8
Finish your tour wandering the UNESCO-listed historic center of Guimarães. It's time to enjoy some free time at this beautifully preserved medieval town which is considered the "Cradle of Portugal," brimming with cultural landmarks and traditional architecture.
Duration: 30 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
9
After some free time to explore, your guide will meet you here to gather the group and escort you back to Porto, sharing final insights about the street’s history and its beautiful buildings along the way.
Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
10
After a full day immersed in history, culture, and breathtaking sights, relax on the drive back to Porto where your tour concludes with drop-off at two central locations or a nearby central spot for your convenience.
Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
Important information
Know before you book
- Tour operates in English; ensure you understand the language.
- Confirm the meeting point and time upon booking to avoid delays.
- Be aware of the tour's cancellation policy in case of changes to your plans.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring historic sites.
- Bring a camera to capture the picturesque landscapes and architecture.
- Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly for the day's conditions.
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Infant Seats Available
- Easy Public Transport
Good to know
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
- Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
- Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
Traveler reviews
4.8435 reviews
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Great day out from Porto
Can highly recommend this tour with maximum group size of 8 (in one van). Can't fault Rodrigo's knowledge, demeanour, patience or helpfulness. Booked direct with Cooltour Oporto due to cheaper rates. Excellent, varied lunch was served family style but more than enough to go round. Sufficient free time at each stop for shopping and further sightseeing.
FSLFMay 18, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Braga and Guimaraes
Excellent driver/guide. Good locations to visit.
Resort63709406149May 18, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Excellent tour!
The guide was excellent. Very knowledgeable and personable. One of the best tours we have ever had.
V5960RBdanielvMay 17, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Fantastic trip and amazing guide.
Fantastic trip and amazing guide. Really knew the area and history. Braga and Guimarães have amazing history going back much further than Lisbon and Porto. The guide was very personable and knowledgeable. Great tour!
Daniel_VMay 17, 2026VIATOR
Good Trip to Braga
Very goid guide with comfortable van. Our Guide Jose was punctual, pleasant, accommodating and very knowledgable. Interesting and leisure trip. Thank You!
TimeforUsNowMay 15, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Additional information
Children must be accompanied by an adult
May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required