Guimarães, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in northern Portugal, is celebrated as the birthplace of the nation and its first king, Afonso Henriques. The city's medieval castle and the Paço dos Duques are among the well-preserved historical monuments that grace its charming streets, leading to the central square, Largo da Oliveira.
Visitors can explore museums set in ancient convents, enjoy the greenery of nearby parks, and visit the Citânia de Briteiros archaeological site. For more on what to do in Guimarães, read on.
1. Castelo de Guimarães
Guimarães Castle, dating back to the 10th century, is a well-preserved medieval fortress and a national symbol. It is believed to be the birthplace of Portugal's first king, with the baptismal font in the Romanesque chapel of São Miguel. Visitors can explore the keep and enjoy panoramic views from the tower.
Address: Rua Conde Dom Henrique, Guimarães
2. Paço dos Duques de Bragança
The Palace of the Dukes of Bragança, at the castle's base, is a grand residence built in 1401 with French architectural influences. It houses a museum with 16th-century furnishings, Persian rugs, Flemish tapestries, and medieval weaponry.
Address: Rua Conde Dom Henrique, Guimarães
3. Museu de Alberto Sampaio
The Alberto Sampaio Museum, located in the cloister of Nossa Senhora da Oliveira, displays religious art from the 14th to the 18th centuries, including sculptures, paintings, and jewelry.
Address: Rua Alfredo Guimarães, Guimarães
4. Largo da Oliveira
Largo da Oliveira is a medieval square surrounded by historic buildings, including the Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira and the Padrão do Salado, a Gothic shrine.
5. Museu Martins Sarmento
The Martins Sarmento Museum, set in the São Domingos convent, showcases Celtiberian artifacts from the Citânia de Briteiros and other Iron Age sites.
Address: Rua Paio Galvão, Guimarães
6. Convento e Igreja de São Francisco
The Convent and Church of São Francisco are known for their 18th-century azulejos and trompe l'oeil paintings.
Address: Largo de São Francisco, Guimarães
7. Penha de Santa Catarina
Penha de Santa Catarina Park offers a natural retreat with lush woodlands and panoramic views from the Santuário Nossa Senhora do Carmo da Penha.
8. Parque Aquático Scorpio
Scorpio Water Park is a family-friendly attraction with pools, waterslides, and play areas for children.
Address: Centro Comunitário de Desporto e Tempos Livres, Multiusos de Guimarães, Guimarães
Tips and Tours: How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Guimãraes
Joining an escorted tour is a convenient way to see the Minho region's sights, including Guimarães and Braga. Consider a day trip from Porto to explore medieval streets and historic attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which airport is closest to Guimarães?
Porto's Sá Carneiro International Airport is the nearest to Guimarães, about 53 kilometers away.
What is the best time of year to visit Guimarães?
Spring is ideal for visiting Guimarães, but the first week of August is also great for experiencing the Festas Gualterianas.
How do you get to Guimarães from Porto?
Guimarães is accessible from Porto by car, shuttle bus, or train.
What are the must-visit destinations near Guimarães?
Explore the Citânia de Briteiros archaeological site and the historic towns of Cabeceiras de Basto and Braga for their cultural and architectural heritage.
Address: EN 309, Monte São Romão, Briteiros Salvador, Guimarães
