From Braga: Full-Day Tour in Guimarães & Fafe

Exploring the historic regions of Guimarães and Fafe from Braga promises a captivating full-day adventure. Travelers will enjoy Portugal’s rich cultural heritage, from the UNESCO-listed city of Guimarães to the unique Casa do Penedo. Along the way, they’ll enjoy breathtaking vistas, indulge in local cuisine and wine, and uncover the stories that have shaped these enchanting destinations. Whether seeking architectural marvels, natural wonders, or a deeper understanding of the country’s past, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

• This full-day tour from Braga explores the historic towns of Guimarães and Fafe, including visits to UNESCO sites, a castle, a unique rock house, and wine tasting.
• The tour is priced at €71.62 per person, with transportation, a multilingual guide, lunch, and insurance included in the price.
• Participants must be physically mobile, as the tour involves walking and activities that may not be suitable for those with limited mobility or certain medical conditions.
• Visitors can expect to see the well-preserved medieval architecture of Guimarães, take a cable car to the Penha Sanctuary for panoramic views, and explore the unique Casa do Penedo.
• The tour offers a comprehensive experience of the cultural and natural highlights of the region, providing a glimpse into Portugal’s history and traditions.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This full-day tour from Braga takes visitors to the historic towns of Guimarães and Fafe.

Priced at €71.62 per person, the tour lasts 8 hours and includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. A reserve now and pay later option is available.

The tour includes transport from Braga, a live multilingual guide, wine tasting, entrance to Casa do Penedo, insurance, a gift, and lunch.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, people with vertigo, individuals over 350 lbs (159 kg), or those over 95 years old.

Participants are advised to wear comfortable clothing and shoes and bring a charged smartphone.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a visit to the historic town of Guimarães, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001 and known as the cradle of Portugal.

Participants will explore the city’s historical center, including the impressive Guimarães Castle.

Next, they’ll take a cable car to the top of Monte da Penha for panoramic views and a visit to the Penha Sanctuary.

Lunch will be served at a local restaurant, followed by a wine tasting at a Quinta producing Vinho Verde.

The tour then heads to the peculiar Casa do Penedo, dubbed the "the world’s strangest house," where you will enjoy a picnic.

Inclusions

The tour’s inclusions encompass a comprehensive package that ensures participants have an enriching experience. Transportation from Braga, live tour guides in multiple languages, a wine tasting and sampling of local products, entry to the Casa do Penedo, and insurance are all included. Plus, a gift, lunch, and entrance fees to the monuments visited are provided. The tour’s inclusions are summarized in the table below:

Inclusion	Details
Transport	From Braga
Tour Guide	English, French, Spanish, Portuguese
Tastings	Wine, local products
Entry Fees	Casa do Penedo
Additional	Insurance, gift, lunch

Participant Restrictions

Although the tour is designed for a wide range of participants, there are some restrictions based on safety and accessibility considerations.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, individuals with vertigo, or those over 350 lbs (159 kg) or 95 years old. This is to ensure the safety and comfort of all guests.

Plus, certain areas visited during the tour may not be accessible to those with mobility challenges.

The tour operator wants to provide the best possible experience while prioritizing the well-being of all participants. Guests should consider these restrictions when booking to ensure the tour meets their needs and abilities.

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Preparation and Regulations

To prepare for the tour, guests should bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a charged smartphone.

The tour requires participants to be mobile, as they’ll be exploring historical sites and natural landscapes. Certain items are prohibited for safety reasons, such as weapons, sharp objects, and alcohol.

Smoking and vaping aren’t allowed inside the vehicle or indoor areas. Photography restrictions may apply in specific locations.

Following these guidelines will ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all participants. Guests should be aware of the physical limitations, as the tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues or certain medical conditions.

Visiting Guimarães

Guimarães, the historic heart of Portugal, beckons visitors with its well-preserved medieval architecture and rich cultural heritage.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001, the city is known as the cradle of Portugal, where the first king, Afonso Henriques, was born.

Visitors can explore the charming historical center, including the imposing Guimarães Castle, a symbol of the nation’s origins.

The cable car ride to Monte da Penha offers breathtaking panoramic views and a chance to visit the Penha Sanctuary.

Wine enthusiasts will enjoy a tasting at a local Quinta, sampling the renowned Vinho Verde.

The unique Casa do Penedo, dubbed the "strangest house in the world," is a must-see before a picnic in the surrounding area.

Exploring Monte Da Penha

After exploring the charming historical center of Guimarães, visitors often ascend the cable car to the top of Monte da Penha.

This panoramic viewpoint offers breathtaking vistas over the city and the surrounding lush landscapes.

At the summit, the Penha Sanctuary stands as a prominent landmark, a testament to Portugal’s rich religious heritage.

Visitors can wander the scenic trails, marvel at the impressive architecture, and perhaps even spot the iconic statue of the Virgin Mary gazing out over the valley.

The cable car ride and time spent atop Monte da Penha provide a delightful contrast to the medieval charms of Guimarães, offering a memorable high point to the day’s exploration.

Discovering Casa Do Penedo

One of the tour’s most intriguing stops is the Casa do Penedo, a unique and unconventional house built into the natural rock formations near Fafe. This peculiar dwelling, also known as the "Stone House," was constructed in the 1970s using four large boulders as its foundation. Visitors can explore its unconventional interior, which features furnishings and amenities creatively integrated into the rocky landscape. After exploring this one-of-a-kind residence, the tour continues with a relaxing picnic amidst the stunning natural scenery surrounding the Casa do Penedo.

Feature	Description
Location	Near Fafe
Construction	Built into natural rock formations
Year Built	1970s
Unique Characteristics	Furnishings and amenities integrated into rocky landscape

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour to Fit My Preferences?

The tour offers some flexibility to accommodate individual preferences. Travelers can discuss customization options with the tour operator, such as modifying the itinerary or adding extra stops, within reasonable limits and subject to availability.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available?

The tour operator doesn’t advertise any discounts or special offers currently. However, they may offer deals or promotions in the future, so it’s best to check their website or contact them directly for the latest updates.

How Do I Get to the Meeting Point on the Day of the Tour?

The tour provider will arrange transport from Braga to the meeting point on the day of the tour. Participants should check the tour itinerary for the exact meeting location and plan their travel accordingly.

What Happens if I Need to Modify or Cancel My Booking?

Travelers can modify or cancel their booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. There’s a "reserve now & pay later" option available as well, providing flexibility in case plans change.

Is There Any Flexibility in the Tour Schedule if I Have Specific Time Constraints?

There’s some flexibility with the tour schedule if you have specific time constraints. The tour operator can work with you to accommodate your needs, such as shortening or modifying the itinerary, within reason.

Recap

This captivating full-day tour from Braga offers a remarkable journey through Portugal’s rich history and stunning landscapes. Visitors will discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Guimarães, explore the iconic castle, and enjoy breathtaking views from the Monte da Penha cable car. The tour also includes a delightful lunch, a wine tasting experience, and a visit to the unique Casa do Penedo, creating an unforgettable cultural and scenic adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: