Guimarães - Discovering Portugal

Travelling to Guimarães

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Guimarães, a pretty good destination in Portugal (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Guimarães and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Guimarães, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Portugal, here's everything to know about Guimarães for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Guimarães

Guimarães is located in the north of Portugal and it's known as the "Birthplace of Portugal" because it was where the country's first king, Afonso Henriques, was born. The historic center of Guimarães is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it's full of medieval buildings, narrow streets, and cozy squares. The city is also a hub for textile and clothing industries, and it's home to the University of Minho. Additionally, Guimarães is surrounded by beautiful green landscapes and it's a great starting point to explore other nearby destinations such as the Peneda-Gerês National Park.

What to visit in Guimarães

Here are some top tourist attractions in Guimarães, Portugal and some information about them: 1. Guimarães Castle: This medieval castle dates back to the 10th century and is located in the city center. It was the birthplace of the first Portuguese king, Afonso Henriques.
2. Palace of the Dukes of Braganza: This 15th-century palace was the residence of the Dukes of Braganza and serves as a museum now. It features beautiful artifacts and furnishings from that era.
3. Guimarães Historical Center: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this charming medieval town is a maze of intertwining cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings and cafes and restaurants.
4. Sao Miguel do Castelo Church: Built in the 13th century, it is an example of Romanesque architecture and offers beautiful views of the city from its tower.
5. Alberto Sampaio Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history of Guimarães and has a collection of artifacts, paintings, and sculptures that give visitors a glimpse into Guimarães' past.
6. Citânia de Briteiros: These are well-preserved Roman and Celtic ruins located about 15 km from Guimarães, offering visitors insights into the ancient history of the region.
Overall, Guimarães is a city full of history, culture, and natural charm, offering many attractions and experiences for visitors.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Portugal, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Guimarães.

When to go on holiday to Guimarães

The best time to visit Guimarães is during spring and fall when the temperatures are mild and pleasant. The months of April to June and September to November offer pleasant weather for exploring the city's historical and cultural attractions, as well as outdoor activities. In summer (July to August) the temperatures can be hot and humid, with moderate rainfall, which may not be ideal for some travelers. The winter months (December to February) can be cold and rainy, but it is still possible to enjoy the city's indoor attractions and cozy cafes.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Guimarães

Guimarães is located in the north of Portugal, and there are several ways to reach it. Here are some options: 1. By plane: The nearest airport to Guimarães is Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport, located in Porto. From there, you can take a shuttle bus or a train to Guimarães.
2. By train: Guimarães has a train station that connects to major cities in Portugal, such as Porto, Lisbon, and Braga.
3. By bus: Guimarães has a bus station that connects to several cities in Portugal and some international destinations as well.
4. By car: Guimarães is easily accessible by car and there are good road connections from major cities in Portugal.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Guimarães!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Guimarães, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Guimarães

Sure, here are some typical foods of Guimarães in Portugal: 1. Bacalhau à Minhota: This is a codfish dish that is cooked with onions, peppers, tomatoes, and potatoes. It's a popular dish throughout Portugal, but each region adds its unique touch.
2. Vitela Assada: This is a roasted veal dish that is usually served with potatoes and local vegetables. The meat is slow-cooked with herbs and spices, which makes it tender and flavorful.
3. Arroz de Pato: This is a duck rice dish that is cooked with vegetables, herbs, and spices. The duck meat is layered with rice and baked in the oven until it becomes crispy and delicious.
4. Caldo Verde: This is a traditional soup made with kale, potatoes, and chorizo sausage. It's a hearty dish that is perfect for cold winter nights.
5. Pudim Abade de Priscos: This is a rich, creamy dessert made with eggs, sugar, and pork fat. It's a unique dessert that originated in Guimarães and is a must-try for anyone visiting the region.
6. Bola de Carne: This is a meat pastry that is popular throughout the region. It's made with bread dough, pork meat, and spices and is perfect for a quick snack on the go.
7. Toucinho do Céu: This is an almond tart that is sweetened with sugar and eggs. It's a popular dessert that is often served in local bakeries and cafes. These are just a few examples of the typical foods you can find in Guimarães. I hope this helps you plan your trip and try some of the delicious local cuisine!
You can find general info about typical foods in Portugal here.

Is Guimarães an expensive destination for tourists?

Guimarães is generally considered to be a fairly affordable destination compared to other cities in Portugal. However, the prices of accommodation, food, and activities can vary depending on the time of year you visit and the type of experience you're looking for. In general, visiting during the low season can lead to lower prices on accommodations and tours. It's always a good idea to do some research and plan ahead to get the best deals and make the most of your budget.

Where to find accomodation in Guimarães

The best areas to find accommodation in Guimarães are the historic center, which is where most of the city's attractions and landmarks are located, and the outskirts of the city, where you can find more modern and comfortable accommodations with better access to transportation and parking. Some popular neighborhoods to stay in include Largo da Oliveira, Praça de Santiago, and Rua de Santa Maria in the historic center, and São Gonçalo, Creixomil, and Mesão Frio on the outskirts of the city.
You can check hotel prices at Guimarães here:
Booking.com

Is Guimarães a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Guimarães is considered a safe place for tourists. The crime rate is relatively low and it is generally safe to walk around the city. However, as with any other tourist destination, it is always a good idea to exercise caution, be aware of your surroundings and take basic safety precautions such as not leaving your belongings unattended and avoiding dark and isolated areas at night. It is also advisable to ask locals or staff members at your accommodation for any safety tips or recommendations.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Portugal here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Guimarães.

What type of travelers will enjoy Guimarães the most?

Guimarães in Portugal is a great destination for all types of travelers, as it offers a mix of historic and cultural attractions, as well as outdoor activities and natural beauty. Couples and young people looking for fun will enjoy the city's lively atmosphere and vibrant nightlife with numerous bars and restaurants, while families with kids will appreciate the many parks and playgrounds in the area. For history and culture enthusiasts, Guimarães is a UNESCO-listed medieval city filled with unique architecture, ancient monuments, and museums such as the Castle of Guimarães and the Ducal Palace of Bragança. Lastly, nature lovers will appreciate the nearby Peneda-Gerês National Park, which offers hiking trails, natural pools, and breathtaking landscapes.

How to get around Guimarães

Guimarães is a compact city and it is easy to move around on foot. However, if you prefer not to walk, there are other transportation options available such as city buses, taxis, and rental bicycles.

What to see around Guimarães

Certainly! Here are some nice places to visit on a day trip from Guimarães: 1. Braga: Known as the "Rome of Portugal", Braga is a historic and culturally rich city, with many beautiful churches, palaces and museums to explore.
2. Porto: One of Portugal's most popular destinations, Porto is a charming city known for its exquisite wine, beautiful riverfront area, and UNESCO-listed historic center.
3. Douro Valley: This stunning wine region stretches along the Douro River, and is famous for its terraced vineyards, picturesque landscapes, and beautiful wine estates.
4. Gerês National Park: This beautiful park is Portugal's only national park, and boasts exquisite natural beauty, including lakes, rivers, waterfalls, and mountainous terrain.
5. Viana do Castelo: Located on the coast, Viana do Castelo is a charming town with colorful buildings, cobbled streets, and historic landmarks, making it a great place to explore for a day.
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