Things To Do
in Guimarães
Guimarães, Portugal is a charming and historic city known as the birthplace of the nation. Its well-preserved medieval architecture and winding cobblestone streets transport visitors back in time. The impressive Guimarães Castle and the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza are must-see landmarks in the city.
The lively squares, cozy cafes, and warm local hospitality make Guimarães a delightful destination for travelers seeking a glimpse into Portugal's rich heritage.
- "olá" - hello
- "obrigado" - thank you
- "por favor" - please
- "desculpe" - excuse me/sorry
- "até logo" - see you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $40 - $120
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the iconic Guimarães Castle, where you can admire medieval architecture. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful gardens nearby.
Visit the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, showcasing rich history and art. Enjoy lunch at a nearby café, savoring local dishes.
Spend your evening exploring the vibrant Praça de Santiago. Grab dinner at a traditional Portuguese restaurant while enjoying the local atmosphere.
Begin with a visit to the Church of São Miguel do Castelo, steeped in history. The serene surroundings make for a peaceful start to the day.
Head to the beautiful Largo da Oliveira, where you can admire the architecture and take photos. Stop by a bakery for a taste of local pastries.
Take a guided tour through the historical center to learn more about Guimarães' rich past. End the day with dessert at a charming café.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage, including well-preserved medieval architecture.
- Vibrant cultural scene with festivals, events, and local traditions.
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including parks and hills.
- Friendly and welcoming locals.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger Portuguese cities.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Public transportation options may be less comprehensive than in larger cities.
- Tourism can lead to overcrowding in peak seasons.
- Some areas may lack modern amenities or conveniences.
- Language barrier for those not fluent in Portuguese.
Best Activities in Guimarães
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy scenic trails and panoramic views of Guimarães from the top of Penha Mountain.
Visit the historic center, including the Guimarães Castle and the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza.
Ride along the Ecovia do Ave, a cycling path that passes through beautiful landscapes and quaint villages.
Relax in the city's largest park, perfect for picnics and outdoor gatherings.
Tours
Uncover the best of Guimarães with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Guimarães
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic castle with panoramic views over the surrounding city and countryside, offering excellent photo opportunities.
A charming square in the historic center of Guimarães, surrounded by medieval buildings and perfect for capturing the essence of the city.
A scenic spot overlooking Guimarães, offering breathtaking views and great opportunities for capturing the city from above.
Food in Guimarães
Guimarães Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular dish made with salt cod, eggs, onions, and potatoes, expertly combined with olive oil and black olives. Try it at Restaurante Santo Amaro.
Must-Try!
A satisfying soup prepared with kale, potatoes, and a hint of smoky chouriço sausage. Enjoy an authentic bowl at Taberna do Valado.
This hearty sandwich features layers of bread, beef, ham, and linguiça, all smothered in melted cheese and a rich, spicy tomato and beer sauce. Indulge in this local favorite at Café Santiago.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Guimarães better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore a wide array of fresh produce, local cheeses, and traditional cured meats, providing a glimpse into the vibrant food culture of Guimarães. Don't miss the pastel de nata (custard tarts)!
This lively square is a hub for street food, featuring vendors offering scrumptious treats like bifanas (pork sandwiches), roasted chestnuts, and queijadas (cheese pastries).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Guimarães, it is important to show respect for elders by using polite language and maintaining a respectful attitude towards them.
When meeting someone in Guimarães, it's customary to greet with a handshake and maintain eye contact. Kissing on the cheek may also be common in social settings.
During meals, it is considered polite to keep your hands above the table at all times. Additionally, it's customary to wait for the host or eldest person to start eating before beginning your meal.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Guimarães with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Guimarães
Ensure a smooth experience
In Guimarães, Portugal, tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated for good service. It is common to leave a small tip of 5-10% at restaurants, especially if the service was excellent. Tipping in other service industries such as taxis and hotels is also appreciated but not mandatory.
In Guimarães, Portugal, cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used for payments. It is always good to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases and in case of any establishments that do not accept cards. Contactless payments are also becoming increasingly popular in the area.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Guimarães.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild weather, blooming flowers, and popular festivals such as the Holy Week and the Feast of São Gualter.
Warm and dry weather, perfect for outdoor activities, and the city comes alive with cultural events and music festivals.
Mild temperatures, beautiful foliage, and fewer crowds, making it a great time for sightseeing and exploring the city's historic sites.
Cool and damp weather, but the city is less crowded, and visitors can enjoy the festive Christmas markets and events.
Guimarães at Night
Hiking in Guimarães
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Offers various trails with stunning views of the city and surrounding areas, along with a historical sanctuary.
A city park with well-maintained paths and trails perfect for hiking, family walks, and enjoying nature.
A beautiful area with several hiking trails that lead to scenic viewpoints and lush landscapes.
Located nearby, these mountains provide a range of hiking options with diverse terrains and breathtaking natural beauty.
A less-known trail that offers a peaceful hiking experience through natural surroundings and historical sites.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Guimarães through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Guimarães by plane.
Located approximately 55 kilometers from Guimarães, this is the main airport serving Porto and the surrounding region.
A smaller airport located around 30 kilometers from Guimarães, primarily serving general aviation and light aircraft.
Situated about 120 kilometers from Guimarães in Spain, this airport serves international flights and is another option for travelers.
Approximately 170 kilometers from Guimarães, this airport serves international flights and is located in Spain.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group, comprising native citizens of Portugal.
Residents from other EU countries, contributing to the city's multicultural environment.
Individuals from non-EU countries, including students, workers, and expatriates.
Various ethnic groups including Romani and others, representing smaller portions of the population.
A significant demographic, especially due to the presence of educational institutions.
Elderly residents, which represent an important segment of the population.
The Soul of Guimarães
Discover the essence of Guimarães through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Guimarães, with the local team, Vitória de Guimarães, having a strong following and a rich history.
Basketball is a growing sport in Guimarães, with various clubs and initiatives promoting its practice among youth.
Volleyball enjoys popularity in Guimarães, with local clubs competing in regional leagues and fostering community engagement.
Handball is another sport that has a significant presence in Guimarães, with teams participating in local and national competitions.
Athletics, including running and other track and field events, is actively promoted through schools and local sports events in Guimarães.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Guimarães.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Portuguese cuisine often leans towards meat and fish, many restaurants in Guimarães offer vegetarian and vegan adaptations of local dishes. Look for establishments like Restaurante Nepales Sabor & Arte and Aranhas for diverse plant-based options.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find accommodating options at venues such as Café Milenário and Restaurante A Cozinha, which offer a range of gluten-free dishes and baked goods.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Guimarães with these cultural adventures.
