Guimarães
Portugal · Norte · 175 m
Description
Guimarães is known as the “birthplace of Portugal” and is closely associated with the country’s emergence in the 12th century. The historic city in northern Portugal is renowned for its exceptionally well-preserved medieval center, with granite buildings, narrow streets, picturesque squares, and characteristic arcades surrounding Guimarães Castle. According to tradition, Afonso Henriques, regarded as Portugal’s first king, was born here, while the nearby Battle of São Mamede in 1128 marked a decisive moment on the path to Portuguese independence. The UNESCO World Heritage site combines a medieval urban layout with later architectural influences, making Guimarães one of Portugal’s most important historic centers.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 1 to 2 days (optimal 1 day)
Travel season
Best time to visit: May – June or September
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Historic Centre of Guimarães (UNESCO)
- Guimarães Castle
- Palace of the Dukes of Braganza
- Braga historic centre & Bom Jesus do Monte (UNESCO)(Day trip)
- Largo da Oliveira
- Praça de São Tiago
- Nossa Senhora da Oliveira Church
- Padrão do Salado
- Peneda-Gerês National Park(Day trip)
- Penha Sanctuary & cable car
- Penha Mountain
- Rua de Santa Maria
- Couros Zone
- Alberto Sampaio Museum
- Martins Sarmento Museum
- Platform of Arts and Creativity
- Guimarães Museum of Sacred Art
- Sameiro Sanctuary(Day trip)
- Muralhas de Guimarães
- São Francisco Church
- Nossa Senhora da Consolação e dos Santos Passos Church
- Jardim do Carmo
- Guimarães City Park
- Paço dos Duques gardens
- Guimarães old town squares
- Monte da Penha viewpoints
- Citânia de Briteiros(Day trip)
Getting there
- Train stations:
- Guimarães