Meet your private guide at your Porto hotel, then hop inside an air-conditioned minivan and relax on the 45-minute journey to Guimares. As you travel, discover how Guimares has a charming medieval center, as well as an active contemporary culture scene, which has continued to thrive since its stint as European Capital of Culture in 2012.
On arrival, take a journey into the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Guimares Old Town and explore the labyrinth of tiny squares and narrow streets. See the 10th-century Guimares Castle, the birthplace of the first king of Portugal, Afonso Henriques. Then ascend the hill to the majestic Palace of the Dukes of Braganza. Pay an entrance fee to head inside and look at the rare armor and tapestries on display in the old ducal residence.
Let your guide recommend a good spot for a relaxing lunch (own expense), then hit the road for the journey to Braga. Like Guimares, Braga has a hefty history and is the oldest Christian city in Portugal. It’s home to numerous religious buildings and symbols of faith, but it also has an exciting youthful spirit.
Venture into the heart of its historical district to admire the most imposing of all its religious structures: the 12th-century Cathedral of Braga, which features a mix of architectural styles including Romanesque, Manueline and Gothic. After, take a pilgrimage out to the hilltop Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary, which can be reached via an intricate Baroque stairway.
In late afternoon, travel back down to Porto, where your tour concludes with a hotel drop-off.