Porto Trip Overview
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, discover the country’s origins in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of Guimarães. 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. Then 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.
Additional Info
* Duration: 9 hours
* Starts: Porto, Portugal
* Trip Category: Cultural & Theme Tours >> Cultural Tours
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What to Expect When Visiting Porto, Porto, Portugal
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, discover the country’s origins in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of Guimarães. 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. Then 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.
Itinerary
This is a typical itinerary for this product
Stop At: Braga, Braga, Braga District, Northern Portugal
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.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Sameiro Sanctuary, Av. Nossa Sra. do Sameiro 44, 4715-616 Braga, Portugal
It is today the second largest center of Marian devotion in Portugal, so it is a must visit place in the Minho capital.
It is a stunning building that attracts a large number of devotees and tourists. Did you know that Mount Sameiro is the highest point in the city? From there you will have fantastic views that cover hundreds and hundreds of kilometers. Not only for the Catholic faith, but for its architecture, you will understand why this monument is so amazing to everyone.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Elevador do Bom Jesus do Monte, Largo do Santuario do Bom Jesus Tenões, Braga 4715-056 Portugal
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.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Se de Braga, R. Dom Paio Mende, Braga 4700-424 Portugal
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.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Centro Historico de Guimaraes, Guimaraes Portugal
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.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Guimaraes Castle, Rua Conde D. Henrique Paço dos Duques, Guimaraes 4810-245 Portugal
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.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Guimaraes, Guimaraes, Braga District, Northern Portugal
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.
Duration: 1 hour
