It dates from the 10th century and is considered an architectural marvel. Its history is rich, as it is considered the city where Portugal was born. It is one of the most “smiling” cities in Europe that will fascinate you with its architecture and beauty at every step. It is one of the cities that you should visit at least once in your life and explore every corner to discover its hidden treasures.
Currency: Euro
Calling Code: +351
Nearest airports from city center: Porto Airport (55km), Vigo Airport (117km), Santiago de Compostela (216km), Coruna Airport (269km), Lisbon Airport (357km) and Faro Airport (492km).
TOP – 10 SIGHTSEEING
*** GUIMARAES CASTLE (R. Conde Dom Henrique, 4800-412 Guimarães)
It dates from the 10th century and is one of the most beautiful and most photographed castles in Portugal and Europe in general. It was originally used as a shelter and defense against the Viking and Muslim hordes.
*** PALACE OF THE DUKES OF BRAGANZA (R. Conde Dom Henrique 3, 4800-412 Guimarães)
It was built around 1420 and belonged to the Braganza family. Its design was based on French mansions of the period. Now it is one of the most important buildings-monuments of the city, being an art museum.
*** ALBERTO SAMPAIO MUSEUM (R. Alfredo Guimarães, 4800-407 Guimarães)
Founded in 1928, it is a museum that houses works of art and objects from the former collegiate church of Nossa Senhora da Oliveira and other churches and monasteries in the city. It is considered a World Heritage Site.
*** LARGO DE OLIVEIRA
It owes its name to a centuries-old olive tree that was planted in this location. Start your walk from here and you will be able to see many sights in the square, such as a Gothic sanctuary, built during the reign of D. Afonso IV to commemorate the Battle of Salado.
*** JOSE DE GUIMARAES INTERNATIONAL CENTER FOR THE ARTS (Av. Conde de Margaride 175, 4810-535 Guimarães)
The museum that houses works from the three collections collected by José Guimarães is worth a visit. Specifically works from African Tribal Art, Pre-Columbian Art and Ancient Chinese Art.
*** MARTINS SARMENTO ARCHEOLOGY MUSEUM ( R. Paio Galvão 2, Guimarães)
Founded in 1881, you can enjoy the collection of exhibits from the pre-Roman era in Portugal. The Gothic monastery of the 14th century in which the museum is housed is a building-monument in itself.
*** CHURCH OF SAO MIGUEL D CASTELO (R. Conde Dom Henrique 3, 4800-412 Guimarães)
Built in the 13th century, it is of Romanesque style and its simplicity of decoration makes it special. It is designated as a National Monument.
*** CITANIA DE BRITEIROS (Estrada Nacional 309, km 55, 4805-181)
About 15 minutes by car at the top of the São Romão hill above the Ave river valley you will find one of the most important prehistoric settlements of the Iberian Peninsula. See the ancient traces of the city and the walls that surround them.
*** MONUMENT CHURCH OF SAO FRANCISCO (R. Padre Gaspar Roriz 124, 4810-531 Guimarães)
It dates from the 14th-15th century and enjoy the interior of the church with its rich decoration in sculptures and tiles that give it a baroque character.
*** SANCTUARY OF PENHA (Varanda de Pilatos, Guimarães)
It is a monument of unique beauty with excellent architecture. It is the symbol of Guimaraes’ religious faith.
ΤΗINGS TO DO
*** Take a ride on the Penha Cable Car to see the magnificent view of the city.
*** Quinta Pedagógica Quinta das Manas Animal Park is an excellent choice to spend time and see our animal friends.
*** Praça de São Tiago is a place and a route that you should follow and walk.
*** Largo do Toural is also a historical place with sights to explore.
*** Aqui Nasceu Portugal is a place we would recommend you walk through.
FOOD AND DRINK
Guimaraes has excellent traditional wine, but also of good food. Cod is the traditional food of Portugal and of course this city could not be an exception. It is also worth trying the Alheira which is a delicious Portuguese sausage, Caldo verde soup, Steak covered with Queijo Serra da Estrela, the tripas à moda do Porto and the francesinha which is the typical sandwich of the city. Finally, try the Bolinhos de Bacalhau which are like cod cakes and the tarte de amêndoa or almond tart. For dessert, definitely try the Brigadeiro. As we mentioned earlier, accompany your food with great traditional wine.
WHERE TO STAY
Τhere are hotels in the city center and every neighborhood of the city for all budgets.
FUN AND SHOPPING
*** For your purchases go to GuimarãeShopping where you will find a variety of products.
*** Espaço Guimarães is also a very nice place for your shopping.
*** Centro Comercial S. Francisco is another nice place to get gifts for you and your loved ones.
*** You will also find many shops in the Praça de São Tiago, Aqui Nasceu, Largo do Toural and Largo de Oliveira areas.
HOW TO GET AROUND
The most beautiful way to get around the city is on foot or by bus.
CITIES NEAR GUIMARAES
Major cities close to Guimaraes are Braga (25km), Porto (57km), Vigo (121km), Aveiro (126km),Coimbra (169km), Coruna (274km) and Lisbon (364km).
