Porto , Portugal

Day Trip Braga and Guimarães from Porto

Active

(235 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant_then_manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Travel north on a day trip from Porto to two of northern Portugal's historic cities, which are currently basking in the European spotlight.
First visit the city of Braga, founded by the Romans more than 2,000 years ago. The oldest Christian city in Portugal, Braga is celebrated today as the 2012 European Capital of Youth.

First, discover the country's origins in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of Guimarães.
Visit the Guimarães Castle, a building full of history and the "birthplace of Portugal".
Home to a 10th-century castle and the Dukes of Braganza Palace, the town today is filled with pride for being named the European Capital of Culture for 2012.
Appreciate, on a walking tour, the medieval city of Guimarães. With small modern details, it is considered a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Get to know amazing landscapes, peaceful and beautiful places, king’s histories and Portuguese culture and devotion

Available options

Option without lunch

Low Season

November - March

High Season

April - October

What's included

Walking tour in Guimarães: UNESCO World Heritage since 2001

Professional guide

Entrance to Bom Jesus Sanctuary

Air-conditioned vehicle

Entrance to Guimarães Castle: medieval castle

Entrance to Sé/Cathedral of Braga: the oldest in Portugal

Detailed itinerary

Our first stop will be Braga, the capital of Minho, and then we will discover the historic city of Guimarães. Prepare your cameras and come with us to explore two of the most important cities in the history of Portugal!
Braga is a city in the far north of Portugal, northeast of Porto. It is known for heritage and religious events. To the east, the Bom Jesus do Monte complex has a neoclassical church perched on an elaborate 17-story staircase. In the city center, the medieval-style Sé de Braga houses a museum of sacred art and the Gothic-style Chapel of the Kings. Nearby, the imposing Archbishop's Palace overlooks the Santa Barbara Garden.

Stop 2

One of the biggest highlights of this tour. Famous for its endless stairs and baroque details, this place will definitely impress you! Not only a religious monument, it is also a truly romantic and relaxing place with amazing views of Braga. Here, nature is privileged and protected with the utmost care.

Stop 3

The magnificent Braga Cathedral (also known as Braga Cathedral), a monument that combines three different styles: Romanesque, Manueline and Baroque. It is the oldest cathedral in Portugal - it was even built several decades before the founding of the country! Undoubtedly, this imposing cathedral is Braga's biggest landmark.

Stop 4

After lunch in Braga, we will leave for Guimarães, the birthplace of Portugal and World Heritage, since 2001. Guimarães is a true example of the evolution of a medieval city throughout history!
This was the city where the first king of Portugal, D. Afonso Henriques was born. The history of Guimarães is related to the foundation of national identity and the Portuguese language.

Stop 5

National symbol of the tenth century. From the outside, its medieval structure is impressive; Inside you can have magnificent views across the city. Afterwards, we will continue to pass by the Palace of the Dukes of Bragança and visit the Church of São Miguel.

Observe the imposing statue of D. Afonso Henriques and walk through Martins Sarmento Square. To end this short walking tour, discover Santa Maria Street, the Town Hall, Santiago Square and Senhora da Oliveira Church.

What's not included

Gratuities

Lunch

Hotel Pick up and drop off

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.4

218 reviews

5★

144

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.4

17 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

May be operated by a multi-lingual guide

There is no bathroom on board the bus

Dress code is smart casual

The tours may be changed without prior notice

A moderate amount of walking is involved

Meeting point

Our Tourism office is located on the top of Rua Mouzinho da Silveira door number 352-354, near São Bento Train Station.

Important notes

-Please be at the meeting point 15 minutes prior to departure time

About Porto

Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal, is a vibrant coastal city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine. With its picturesque Ribeira district, historic bridges, and world-famous port wine cellars, Porto offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and modern charm.

Top Attractions

Ribeira District

The Ribeira district is the historic heart of Porto, known for its colorful buildings, narrow streets, and lively atmosphere. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit for anyone coming to Porto.

Historical 2-3 hours Free to explore

Livraria Lello

Livraria Lello is one of the most famous bookstores in the world, known for its stunning neo-Gothic interior and as an inspiration for J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series.

Cultural 1 hour €6 (includes a book voucher)

Clérigos Tower

The Clérigos Tower is a iconic Baroque bell tower that offers panoramic views of Porto. Climbing the 240 steps to the top is well worth the effort for the breathtaking views.

Architecture 1 hour €5

Dom Luís I Bridge

This double-deck iron bridge spans the Douro River, connecting Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia. The upper deck offers stunning views of the river and the city.

Architecture 30 minutes Free

Port Wine Cellars

Vila Nova de Gaia is home to many of Porto's famous port wine cellars, where you can learn about the history of port wine and enjoy tastings.

Cultural 2-3 hours €10-€30

Must-Try Local Dishes

Francesinha

A hearty sandwich made with layers of meat, covered in melted cheese and a special sauce, served with fries.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat and dairy

Bacalhau à Brás

A traditional Portuguese dish made with shredded cod, onions, potatoes, and eggs.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish and eggs

Tripas à Moda do Porto

A traditional Porto dish made with tripe, beans, and spices, slow-cooked to perfection.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat

Pastéis de Nata

Delicious custard tarts with a flaky pastry crust, often dusted with cinnamon or powdered sugar.

Dessert Contains dairy and eggs

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Serra do Pilar Kayaking on the Douro River Sunbathing at Praia do Castelo do Queijo Enjoying a port wine tasting Visiting the Livraria Lello Exploring the Ribeira district Swimming at Praia do Castelo do Queijo Boat tours on the Douro River

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the peak tourist season with warm weather and plenty of sunshine. It's ideal for exploring the city and enjoying outdoor activities.

18°C to 28°C 64°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Portuguese
Widely spoken: English, Spanish, French
English: Widely spoken in tourist areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Western European Time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Porto is generally a safe city for travelers, with low violent crime rates. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in tourist areas and on public transportation.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight, especially in tourist areas and on public transportation
• Be cautious when using taxis, and always ensure the meter is running or agree on a price before starting your journey
• Avoid walking alone at night in quiet or poorly lit areas

Getting there

By air

Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport • 11 km (7 miles) from city center

By train

Porto Campanhã, Porto São Bento

By bus

Porto Bus Terminal (Terminal de Camionagem de Porto)

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system is efficient and easy to use, with six lines connecting major points of interest.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bolt, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Ribeira Bolhão Foz do Douro Miguel Bombarda

Day trips

Braga

50 km (31 miles) • Full day

Braga is a historic city known for its beautiful churches, monasteries, and the Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary.

Guimarães

40 km (25 miles) • Full day

Guimarães is a historic city known as the birthplace of Portugal. It's home to a well-preserved medieval center and the stunning Guimarães Castle.

Douro Valley

80 km (50 miles) • Full day

The Douro Valley is a stunning wine region known for its terraced vineyards, port wine cellars, and scenic boat tours.

Festivals

São João Festival • June 23-24 Festa de São João • June 24 Porto Wine Festival • September

Pro tips

Visit the Livraria Lello bookstore early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and long queues
Take a port wine tasting tour to learn about the history of port wine and sample a variety of wines from different cellars
Explore the historic center of Porto on foot, as many of its narrow streets and charming squares are best discovered by walking
Try the local cuisine, such as Francesinha, Bacalhau à Brás, and Tripas à Moda do Porto, at traditional restaurants and cafes
Take a day trip to the Douro Valley to see the stunning vineyards, visit port wine cellars, and enjoy a scenic boat tour on the Douro River