In 2012 it was even the European Capital of Culture and the old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. / Guimaraes Travel Tips
Guimarães is the cradle of Portugal – this is where the country had its first capital after its formation in the 12th century. The reason for this is the assumption that the first king of Portugal, Alfonso I, was born there. All kinds of buildings bear witness to this time and the centuries that followed. But not only that makes Guimarães one of the most beautiful attractions in northern Portugal.
Guimaraes travel tips: This is the most important information
Car or public transport? Neither nor. All the important sights in the center are within walking distance and the city is better explored on foot.
Couple or family vacation? Guimarães is better suited for a couple’s holiday.
nature or culture? If you are interested in history and culture, Guimarães is the place for you. It was not for nothing that the city was voted European Capital of Culture in 2012.
Expensive or cheap? Unlike other cities, Guimarães offers cheap holidays.
Guimarães Castle is the highlight
The highlight of the city is the 10th-century Castle of Guimarães. Hardly any other building is as closely linked to the history of its origin and to the first king of Portugal, Afonso Henrique, as this fort. Also in close proximity to this postcard attraction is the 15th-century Palace of the Dukes of Bragança. There is also a museum, which is well suited as a short indoor program for a rainy day. Guimarães Castle and Palace are the perfect starting point for a stroll through the medieval center afterwards.
What not to miss in Guimarães
There is one thing you should not miss on your vacation in Guimarães. Stroll through the streets of Guimarães historic center on a Friday or Saturday night and enjoy a drink outside at Largo da Oliveira and Praça de São Tiago. Serve with some petiscos, the Portuguese form of Spanish tapas, and watch the students get ready for the night.
Insider tip: take the cable car to the vantage point
With the cable car up the almost 600 meter high Monte da Penha, the local mountain of Guimarães. At the top, visitors can expect not only a breathtaking view of the city and the surrounding area, but also wonderful nature with huge rocks that can be explored on small footpaths. There are drinking water fountains for those who are thirsty. If you are sporty, you can only use the cable car on the way back and climb the mountain on the eco-path that starts at the city park. The whole thing takes two exhausting hours, but it is definitely worth it. In addition, Monte da Penha is the perfect place to watch the sunrise.
Cost for a week
A week in Guimarães alone would be too much, but the city makes a good base for further trips in northern Portugal. Those who stay and eat in Guimarães should plan around 130 euros per day for two people in the high season.
Wine lovers will not be disappointed / Guimares Travel Tips
Portugal’s cuisine has many delicious dishes to offer. Guimarães is located in the Minho region, which is known for Vinho Verde and especially for Vinho Verde Tinto, which is traditionally drunk out of bowls. Another specialty goes well with this: bolos de carne or sardinha. This is flatbread with carne (meat) or sardinha (sardines).
Travel Tips Guimaraes: Dos and Don’ts
Dos: Drink espresso anywhere. Because almost every café offers the typical Portuguese coffee of the best quality for little money.
Don’ts: Stay away from the stadium on days when Vitória Guimarães’ team is playing. This is especially true when the opposition is called Benfica or Braga. Because then there can be riots and violence between the fans.
Directions to Guimaraes
Guimarães is easily accessible by car. It takes about 40 minutes by car from Porto. It is also possible to travel by train. Guimarães can be reached in approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes by suburban train.
Worst drought in 1200 years in Spain and Portugal
New rules on Mallorca beaches! Attention, high penalties!
The Best City Beaches Worldwide
