Charming Guimaraes

Guimarães is the city where the independence of Portugal was proclaimed in 1143 and is known as the cradle of the Nation. Together with Maribor, Slovenia, it was the European Capital of Culture in 2012, and following this success it was then awarded the title of European Capital of Sport for 2013.

Discover the green hills of the Minho Province on a scenic ride north along the highway to Guimarães. Enjoy a brief photograph stop in the grounds of the ruins of the medieval Castle, the little Romanesque style church of our first kings and the Palace of the Dukes of Bragança.

This is a town to be appreciated up close, join your guide on a walking tour through the old city, with its very narrow old streets, picturesque medieval houses and elegant 18th century façades. One of the most charming squares is the “Nossa Senhora da Oliveira” with its cafés and terraces surrounding the 10th century church dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

Your walking tour ends at the old tower of “Torre da Alfandega” in a lovely avenue lined with gardens, shops of arts and crafts and local cafés.

There will be some free time to enjoy the area before the return drive to Oporto.