Porto: Guimaraes & Braga Small Group Tour with Lunch and Tickets
At a glance
Porto: Guimaraes & Braga Small Group Tour with Lunch and Tickets is a 8h small-group experience in Porto, Portugal, operated by Cooltour Oporto. Travellers rate it 4.8 out of 5 across 471 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor. Prices start from $125.60 per person, and free cancellation is available. Included: Bottled water in sustainable packaging, Braga Cathedral and Guimarães castle entrance fee, Professional guide.
Highlights
- Rated 4.8/5 by 471 travellers
- Small group of up to 8 people for a more personal experience
- Free cancellation for flexible planning
- 10 stops in one well-planned itinerary
Quick facts
- Duration
- 8h
- Group
- Small group, up to 8 travellers
- Languages
- Portuguese, English, Spanish
- Pickup
- Hotel pickup or meet at the start point
- Confirmation
- Instant confirmation
- Ticket
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation (see policy)
Overview
Guimarães, the birthplace of the nation and a UNESCO World Heritage site, exudes a medieval atmosphere with its 10th-century castle and 15th-century Ducal Palace. A stroll through the heart of the city's streets and squares will immerse you in the palpable charm and rich history of Guimarães. During our visit, we'll explore the imposing castle, admire the majestic Dukes of Bragança Palace, and wander through the historic center.
After a relaxing lunch break included in the tour, we'll continue our journey to Braga, known as the oldest Portuguese city and the religious capital of Portugal. For centuries, Braga has been a prominent archiepiscopal seat and pilgrimage site. Our exploration of Braga will include a visit to its 11th-century Cathedral, followed by a tour of the Bom Jesus Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled in the scenic hills surrounding the city.
Join us on our small-group tour to discover the most iconic monuments and exclusive spots in these historic cities.
What's included
What's included
- Bottled water in sustainable packaging
- Braga Cathedral and Guimarães castle entrance fee
- Professional guide
- Drop Off at two locations: Trindade Station & Bolsa Palace
- Comfortable and modern minivan
- Hotel pickup (Most centrally located Porto hotels)
- Traditional Lunch with Vinho Verde wine and drinks included
Not included
- Gratuities
- Food and drinks, unless specified
Itinerary
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Stop 1 · 15m
Pickup & Start Point: Your Braga & Guimaraes Tour begins with a convenient pickup in Porto city center, where your local guide will greet you warmly. From here, enjoy a comfortable scenic drive northwards to the first stop of this unforgettable day.
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Stop 2 · 1h
Arrive at the iconic Bom Jesus do Monte, a breathtaking sanctuary perched on the hills above Braga. Experience the famous Baroque stairway known as the Via Crucis — a path lined with chapels and statues telling the story of Christ’s Passion. Admire the historic funicular, the oldest water-powered funicular in the world. Soak in the panoramic views and lush gardens surrounding the sanctuary.
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Stop 3 · 1h
Next, head to the heart of Braga city to visit the majestic Braga Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in Portugal. Explore its stunning Romanesque and Gothic architecture, wander the cloisters and chapels, and absorb the medieval atmosphere that makes this a must-see spiritual landmark.
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Stop 4 · 1h 15m
Charming local restaurant: savor a traditional meal featuring regional specialties from Braga, accompanied by refreshing Vinho Verde local wine — a crisp, lightly sparkling white wine native to Northern Portugal. Vegetarian options are also available upon request to ensure everyone enjoys an authentic and delicious dining experience.
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Stop 5 · 1h
Travel onward to Guimarães, the birthplace of Portugal. Visit the medieval Guimarães Castle, where legends say the first Portuguese king, D. Afonso Henriques, was born. Walk the ancient walls and imagine the battles fought to defend this fortress, crucial to Portuguese identity.
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Stop 6 · 15m
Just a short walk from the castle is the impressive Ducal Palace, once the residence of the Dukes of Braganza. Admire the stately architecture, period furnishings, and lush gardens, reflecting the wealth and history of one of Portugal’s noble families.
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Stop 7 · 45m
Visit Guimaraes medieval town with your guide and pause at Largo da Oliveira, the vibrant square at the heart of Guimarães’ historic center. Admire the Padrão do Salado monument and enjoy the lively atmosphere with your guide sharing stories of the town’s rich heritage.
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Stop 8 · 30m
Finish your tour wandering the UNESCO-listed historic center of Guimarães. It's time to enjoy some free time at this beautifully preserved medieval town which is considered the "Cradle of Portugal," brimming with cultural landmarks and traditional architecture.
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Stop 9 · 15m
After some free time to explore, your guide will meet you here to gather the group and escort you back to Porto, sharing final insights about the street’s history and its beautiful buildings along the way.
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Stop 10 · 15m
After a full day immersed in history, culture, and breathtaking sights, relax on the drive back to Porto where your tour concludes with drop-off at two central locations or a nearby central spot for your convenience.
Meeting point
At the Cooltour Oporto office/store, entrance of Shopping Italia, behind Guilty Restaurant
Meet us by the bronze Vimara Peres Statue (a medieval warrior on horseback), on the right side of Porto Cathedral
Meet us at the Trindade Metro Station entrance
Meet us in front of the Clerics Tower
Meet us in front of Bolsa Palace, near the Ribeira district
Good to know
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
- Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
- Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Porto: Guimaraes & Braga Small Group Tour with Lunch and Tickets take?
The experience lasts about 8h.
How much does it cost?
Prices start from $125.60 per person. The final price depends on the date, time and number of travellers, and is confirmed on Viator before you pay.
What's included?
Bottled water in sustainable packaging; Braga Cathedral and Guimarães castle entrance fee; Professional guide; Drop Off at two locations: Trindade Station & Bolsa Palace; Comfortable and modern minivan; Hotel pickup (Most centrally located Porto hotels).
Where does it start?
At the Cooltour Oporto office/store, entrance of Shopping Italia, behind Guilty Restaurant Meet us by the bronze Vimara Peres Statue (a medieval warrior on horseback), on the right side of Porto Cathedral Meet us at the Trindade Metro Station entrance Meet us in front of the…
Can I cancel?
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is guided in Portuguese, English, Spanish.
Is it worth it?
Travellers rate it 4.8 out of 5 across 471 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor, which places it among the top-rated experiences in Porto.
