From Porto Braga and Guimaraes Full Day History and Local Flavors

Porto , Portugal

From Porto Braga and Guimaraes Full Day History and Local Flavors

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About this experience

What sets this tour apart is the way history and food are woven into one day. Beginning with pickup in Porto, your local guide brings Minho’s past to life at Bom Jesus and Braga’s cathedral quarter, then you meet portuguese people — a baker for Torta de Guimarães, and a small producer tasting. In Guimarães you explore the castle and view the Ducal Palace exterior while hearing the story of Portugal’s origins. The day ends with a small vinho verde tasting and local food pairing/tapas, leaving you with memories, flavours and stories you won’t find on a standard Tour.

Available options

Standard rate

What's included

Bottled water

Entrance fee

Lunch

Air-conditioned vehicle

Coffee and/or Tea

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Visit the iconic Bom Jesus do Monte: ascend the baroque stairway (or ride the historic funicular), explore the ornate chapels and peaceful gardens, and enjoy sweeping views over Braga and the Minho — a memorable blend of history, architecture and panorama.

Stop 2

Visit the Sé de Braga — one of Portugal’s oldest cathedrals. Wander its Romanesque core and Gothic additions, admire the ornate chapels and peaceful cloister, and feel the medieval heart of Braga amid centuries of art, history and sacred atmosphere.

Stroll Braga’s historic centre — a compact, walkable heart where medieval lanes open onto lively squares. Discover arcaded streets, handsome townhouses, peaceful chapels and the elegant Episcopal Palace; pause for coffee in a sunlit plaza, browse artisan shops and taste local pastries. The centre blends history, everyday life and the warm hospitality of Minho.

Stop 4

Visit Guimarães Castle — a compact medieval fortress where Portugal’s story began. Walk its battlements, imagine the knights and early kings, and enjoy dramatic views over the old town — a powerful, atmospheric stop that brings history to life.

Exterior visit to the Paço dos Duques de Bragança — admire the 15th-century façade, fortified towers, and elegant courtyards and gardens. A perfect photo stop where your guide will explain the palace’s role in Portugal’s noble history and point out the key architectural details from outside.

Stroll Guimarães’ UNESCO-listed historic centre — a compact maze of cobbled streets, timbered houses and lively squares. Discover Largo da Oliveira and Praça de Santiago, pop into craftsmen’s shops and cafés, and soak up a genuine medieval atmosphere where history blends with everyday local life.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The driver/guide will be waiting at Trindade Domus, directly in front of the entrance on the street to the Froiz supermarket (right on R. dos Heróis e dos Mártires de Angola). The guide will be holding a sign with the Logo of the operator so they are easy to spot.

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