From Porto: Braga & Guimarães Full Day Experience With Lunch

Set out on a captivating journey through northern Portugal’s rich history and culture with the ‘From Porto: Braga & Guimarães Full Day Experience With Lunch.’ For just €43 per person, this guided tour immerses travelers in the iconic sites of Braga and Guimarães, from the Braga Cathedral to the stunning Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte. Indulge in a traditional Portuguese lunch and benefit from seamless transportation, expert insights, and an opportunity to explore these historic cities in depth. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an authentic cultural experience, this full-day tour promises an unforgettable adventure.

This experience made our list of the 2 Best Full-Day Tours In Guimaraes.

Key Points

• This full-day tour from Porto takes visitors to the historic cities of Braga and Guimarães, providing a comprehensive exploration of northern Portugal’s cultural and religious heritage.
• The tour includes guided visits to key sites like Braga Cathedral, Guimarães Castle, and the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, offering exclusive access to chapels and historical insights.
• Travelers can enjoy a traditional Portuguese lunch at a local restaurant, allowing them to savor the regional cuisine and renowned Vinho Verde wine.
• The tour’s itinerary is designed to provide a balance between guided visits and free time, ensuring a flexible and personalized experience for participants.
• Seamless transportation, hotel pick-up and drop-off services, and a knowledgeable guide contribute to the overall convenience and immersive nature of the Braga and Guimarães tour.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This full-day tour from Porto to the historic cities of Braga and Guimarães provides an immersive cultural experience, with a price tag starting at €43 per person.

The tour lasts 9 hours and is available in Portuguese, English, French, and Spanish.

Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy, which allows them to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour also offers a reserve now, pay later option, so travelers can secure their spot without an upfront payment.

With a focus on convenience and flexibility, this tour is an excellent choice for those seeking to explore the rich history and stunning sights of northern Portugal.

Itinerary Highlights

Visiting key sites in Braga and Guimarães forms the core of this full-day tour, with highlights including guided tours of the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza and Braga Cathedral, as well as stops at Guimarães Castle, the Sameiro Sanctuary, and the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte.

After exploring the Palace of the Dukes, guests will spend 30 minutes at the Guimarães Castle, followed by a 75-minute lunch at a local restaurant.

The tour then moves on to the Sameiro Sanctuary for a 45-minute visit and shopping, before ending with a 1-hour visit and free time at the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte.

Throughout the day, guests will enjoy transportation between locations in a comfortable van.

Key Sites in Braga

Braga, the oldest cathedral city in Portugal, boasts an array of captivating historical and religious sites that showcase the country’s rich heritage.

On this tour, visitors will explore the Braga Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in Portugal, with exclusive access to its chapels and high choir.

The city’s renowned Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte is also a highlight, renowned for its iconic staircase and panoramic vistas over the city.

Plus, the Sanctuary of Sameiro, a peaceful and spiritual site, offers visitors the chance to explore and shop.

These diverse sites provide a comprehensive understanding of Braga’s deep-rooted cultural and religious significance within the context of Portuguese history.

Key Sites in Guimarães

Guimarães, the birthplace of Portugal, boasts a rich medieval heritage that visitors can explore through its UNESCO-recognized historic center and renowned castle.

The Guimarães Castle, dating back to the 10th century, stands as a testament to the region’s storied past. Nearby, the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza offers a glimpse into Portuguese royal history with its guided tour.

Wandering the charming streets of the historic center, visitors can admire the well-preserved architecture, quaint plazas, and lively local shops.

The town’s spiritual heart, the Nossa Senhora da Oliveira Basilica, exudes an air of tranquility and devotion.

With its captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, Guimarães promises an immersive experience for all who visit.

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Culinary Experience

The full-day tour includes a traditional Portuguese lunch at a local restaurant, allowing visitors to savor regional specialties and the renowned Vinho Verde wine.

This culinary experience is an integral part of the Braga and Guimarães excursion, offering a chance to take in the local food culture.

Visitors can expect to enjoy a variety of authentic Portuguese dishes, each crafted with care and showcasing the flavors of the Minho region.

The meal is served in a comfortable setting, providing a welcome respite and an opportunity to recharge before continuing the exploration of the historic sites.

This culinary aspect enhances the overall cultural experience, blending the rich heritage of the cities with the traditional gastronomic delights.

Cultural and Historical Significance

The tour’s Braga and Guimarães destinations showcase the region’s rich cultural and historical significance, with each city offering a unique perspective on Portugal’s heritage.

Braga’s Sé Cathedral, the oldest in the country, grants exclusive access to its chapels and high choir, providing visitors with a glimpse into the nation’s religious past. Likewise, the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, renowned for its iconic staircase and panoramic views, embodies the spiritual traditions that have long been integral to the city’s identity.

Guimarães, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known as the ‘cradle of Portugal,’ with a medieval historic center and:

• A castle showcasing Portugal’s royal heritage

• The Palace of the Dukes, a testament to the nation’s aristocratic past

• Winding cobblestone streets that evoke the city’s timeless charm

• A rich history that has shaped Portugal’s national identity

• Stunning architectural landmarks that capture the essence of the country’s cultural legacy

Tour Inclusions

This full-day experience includes an array of inclusions to enhance the tour’s value and convenience for participants.

Specifically, it provides hotel pick-up and drop-off services, enabling seamless transportation to and from the tour’s starting point.

Plus, the tour includes guided services throughout the day, ensuring visitors receive expert insights into the cultural and historical significance of the sites visited.

Entry tickets for the Braga Cathedral are also covered, granting exclusive access to its chapels and high choir.

Refreshments, in the form of bottled water, are provided, while a traditional Portuguese lunch at a local restaurant offers the opportunity to savor regional specialties.

Traveler Reviews

Travelers consistently rave about the personalized and immersive experience provided by this full-day tour, with many highlighting the stunning scenery and in-depth historical insights shared by the knowledgeable guides.

The tour consistently earns a 5/5 rating, with satisfied customers noting:

• The ability to skip lines and gain exclusive access to key sites like the Braga Cathedral.

• The seamless transportation between locations, allowing for a stress-free day.

• The delicious and authentic Portuguese lunch that offered a true taste of local cuisine.

• The flexibility to explore at their own pace, especially at the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte.

• The genuine passion and expertise of the guide, who brought the region’s rich history to life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

This tour does not have any age restrictions. It welcomes participants of all ages, making it suitable for both families and solo travelers. Children are welcome to join the tour.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Participants are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on this tour. However, a traditional Portuguese lunch is included in the tour price, so guests may prefer to enjoy the included culinary experience.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is wheelchair accessible, with accommodations made for mobility-impaired travelers. Van transportation and site visits are designed to cater to the needs of all participants. Guests should inquire about specific accessibility requirements when booking.

What Happens if the Weather Is Bad on the Day?

The tour operates rain or shine, so even if the weather is bad, the experience continues as planned. The tour includes transportation, so participants are protected from inclement conditions during travel between sights.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?

Yes, the tour operator generally allows customers to customize the itinerary to their preferences. Travelers can discuss their interests with the guide and adjust the schedule accordingly, within the overall duration of the tour.

Recap

The ‘From Porto: Braga & Guimarães Full Day Experience With Lunch’ offers an immersive journey through northern Portugal’s rich heritage.

Visitors can explore iconic sites, savor local cuisine, and benefit from seamless transportation and expert guidance, making for a memorable cultural exploration of these historic cities.

With its affordable price and comprehensive itinerary, this tour provides an excellent opportunity to discover the captivating essence of Braga and Guimarães.

You can check if your dates are available here: