Guimarães Historical Tour: The Cradle of the Nation

The Guimarães Historical Tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through Portugal’s rich medieval heritage. Departing from Porto’s São Bento station, the tour transports participants to the birthplace of the nation’s first king, where they’ll uncover the storied past of Guimarães Castle and the Dukes of Braganza Palace. With expert guides leading the way, this six-hour excursion promises an immersive and personal exploration of a UNESCO World Heritage site. What secrets and insights await those who embark on this enchanting adventure?

Key Points

• This 6-hour historical tour from Porto explores Guimarães, the birthplace of Portugal’s first king and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• The tour includes a 75-minute train journey, visits to Guimarães Castle, Dukes of Braganza Palace, and the Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira.
• Participants will learn about Guimarães’ medieval heritage and its significance as the "Cradle of the Nation" during the 10th century.
• The tour is available in Spanish, English, and Portuguese, and includes transportation, entrance fees, lunch, and a snack.
• The tour is suitable for adults, with a group size limited to 10 participants to ensure a personalized experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Guimarães Historical Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the "Cradle of the Nation," spanning 6 hours and catering to groups of up to 10 participants.

Priced from $109.81 per person, this immersive experience is available in Spanish, English, and Portuguese.

Cancellations can be made free of charge up to 24 hours in advance.

Travelers will embark on a 75-minute train journey from Porto’s São Bento station to discover the historic castle, ducal palace, and Colegiate Church in Guimarães, a town founded in the 10th century to defend against invasions.

Itinerary Details

Travelers embark on a 75-minute train journey from Porto’s São Bento station to the historic town of Guimarães, the starting point of this immersive tour. The itinerary highlights the Upper Town, home to the Guimarães Castle and the Dukes of Braganza Palace. The Lower Town is where a vibrant medieval city once thrived, including the Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira, a collegiate church. The tour culminates at the Toural square, where participants return to the São Bento station.

Main Stops	Duration
Guimarães Castle	1 hour
Dukes Palace	1 hour
Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira	1 hour

Historical Context

Founded in the 10th century by Countess Mumadona, Guimarães served as a defense against Norman and Muslim invasions. The tour highlights the historical significance of this city:

1. Guimarães was the birthplace of Portugal’s first king, Alfonso Henriques, and is known as the "Cradle of the Nation".

2. The Upper Town, including the castle and Paço dos Duques, showcases the city’s medieval heritage and its role in Portugal’s history.

3. The Lower Town was a thriving medieval city, where a vibrant community lived and worked.

4. Guimarães’ well-preserved architecture and historical landmarks make it a UNESCO World Heritage site, a testament to its enduring cultural and historical importance.

Tour Inclusions

Included in the Guimarães Historical Tour are the train ticket and a snack, as well as entrance fees to the Guimarães Castle and the Dukes of Braganza Palace. Lunch is also provided, which allows participants to refuel during the tour. The tour covers the highlights of the historical city, immersing visitors in its rich heritage.

Inclusion	Details
Transportation	Train ticket (75 minutes)
Entrance Fees	Guimarães Castle, Dukes of Braganza Palace
Meal	Lunch
Snack	Included

The tour’s comprehensive package ensures a seamless experience, allowing participants to focus on exploring the captivating history of Guimarães, the cradle of the Portuguese nation.

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Important Considerations

Certain important details should be considered when booking the Guimarães Historical Tour.

This tour isn’t suitable for individuals over 95 years of age.

Plus, the following items are prohibited:

1. Drinks
2. Fishing gear
3. Alcohol
4. Drugs, fireworks, or explosive substances

Participants are advised to arrive 10 minutes early at the meeting point, which is located under the clock in the entrance hall of São Bento station.

This is a crucial step to ensure a smooth start to the tour and to avoid any delays.

Starting Location and Travel

The tour begins at São Bento station in Porto, where you will take a 75-minute train ride to the historic city of Guimarães.

This convenient transportation method allows visitors to enjoy the journey, taking in the scenic countryside along the way.

Upon arrival in Guimarães, the tour will explore the Upper Town, including the iconic Guimarães Castle and the Dukes of Braganza Palace, as well as the vibrant medieval lower town.

With a group size limited to 10 participants, this tour offers a personalized experience to discover the cradle of the Portuguese nation.

Tour Duration and Group Size

Although the tour lasts a total of 6 hours, the group size is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience.

This small group size allows for more interaction with the guide and a more immersive exploration of the historical sites.

The tour is offered in three languages – Spanish, English, and Portuguese – catering to a diverse audience.

The key features of the tour duration and group size are:

1. 6-hour duration, offering ample time to explore the highlights of Guimarães.
2. Group size limited to 10 participants, fostering a personalized experience.
3. Language options include Spanish, English, and Portuguese.
4. Suitable for adults, with a restriction for individuals over 95 years old.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Photography and Videography Permitted During the Tour?

Photography and videography are generally permitted during the tour, unless explicitly prohibited at certain locations. Guests are advised to respect any site-specific restrictions and refrain from disrupting the experience of others.

Can Participants Bring Their Own Food and Drinks?

Participants are not permitted to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes a snack and lunch, so bringing additional items is prohibited. Drinks, alcohol, and drugs are specifically listed as prohibited items.

Is There Wheelchair Accessibility Throughout the Tour?

The tour offers wheelchair accessibility throughout, allowing individuals with mobility challenges to fully participate. However, it’s recommended to contact the tour operator in advance to ensure the necessary accommodations can be made.

Is There an Option to Extend or Shorten the Tour Duration?

The tour duration is fixed at 6 hours and can’t be extended or shortened. However, customers can request custom tour options by contacting the tour provider, who may be able to accommodate special requests.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Focus on Specific Interests?

The tour can be customized to focus on specific interests. Travelers can request to spend more time at particular sights or explore additional locations based on their interests. The tour operator is flexible in accommodating personalized requests.

Recap

The Guimarães Historical Tour: The Cradle of the Nation offers a unique opportunity to explore Portugal’s medieval past. Participants embark on a scenic train journey, explore iconic landmarks, and gain insights from knowledgeable guides, all within a small group setting. This comprehensive tour provides an immersive experience, showcasing the birthplace of Portugal’s first king and the country’s UNESCO World Heritage site.

You can check if your dates are available here: