Small Group Day Trip to Braga and Guimarães With Lunch Included

Exploring the charming cities of Braga and Guimarães on a small group day trip offers travelers an intimate adventure. Led by knowledgeable local guides, this tour provides exclusive access to historical sites, a traditional Portuguese lunch with Vinho Verde wine, and stunning views. With a maximum of 8 travelers, this immersive experience allows participants to explore the rich history and culture of northern Portugal. What surprises await as you uncover the hidden gems of these remarkable destinations?

Key Points

• This small group day trip from Porto offers a personalized experience to explore the historic cities of Braga and Guimarães, with a traditional Portuguese lunch included.
• Knowledgeable local guides provide insights and commentary during the tour, which includes admission to key sights like Guimarães Castle and Braga Cathedral.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as gratuities for the guide and driver, are provided as part of the tour package.
• Comfortable footwear is recommended due to the need to navigate historic sites with stairs and uneven terrain.
• Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides, delightful lunch, and stunning views, though some note the importance of clear communication on pickup and drop-off locations.

Tour Overview and Details

This small group day trip to Braga and Guimarães provides travelers with the opportunity to explore two of Portugal’s most historically significant cities.

Departing from Porto, the full-day tour takes visitors to the religious center of Braga and the medieval town of Guimarães.

With a maximum of 8 travelers per group, the tour offers a personalized experience led by knowledgeable local guides.

Highlights include exclusive access to parts of Braga Cathedral, a traditional Portuguese lunch with wine, and admission to Guimarães Castle and the Dukes’ Palace.

Comfortable footwear is recommended for navigating the historic sites.

What’s Included

The small group day trip includes a traditional Portuguese lunch with local Vinho Verde wine, a knowledgeable local guide, and admission tickets to the must-see sights of Guimarães Castle and the Dukes’ Palace.

Travelers will also enjoy exclusive access to certain parts of Braga Cathedral, including the Chapels and High Choir. Bottled water is provided throughout the tour.

The package covers hotel pick-up and drop-off, ensuring a seamless experience. Gratuities for the guide and driver are included, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the cultural excursion without additional costs.

Meeting and Pickup Information

Pickup points for the tour are assigned based on the location of each traveler’s hotel. The tour starts at 8:45 AM, so travelers should be ready for pickup at their designated meeting point.

This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s stroller accessible, and infant seats are available. The nearest public transportation options make it easy for travelers to reach the pickup locations.

A minimum of two people is required per booking, ensuring a small group experience throughout the day.

Traveler Experiences and Feedback

Travelers have left overwhelmingly positive reviews for this tour, highlighting the knowledgeable and personable nature of the guides. Reviewers praised guides like Sérgio, Pedro, and António for their informative commentary and historical insights.

Common accolades include:

• The beautiful churches in Braga
• Stunning views from climbs
• Delightful traditional Portuguese lunch

Some noted the importance of wearing comfortable footwear due to steps in Braga.

A few reviews mentioned issues with hotel pickups, emphasizing the need for clear communication with the tour company.

Recommendations and Tips

What’re some recommendations and tips for this tour?

Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and climbing stairs, especially in the medieval town of Braga.

Confirm pickup and drop-off locations directly with the tour company to avoid any confusion.

Be sure to learn about the local cuisine during the included lunch at a charming restaurant in Braga.

Take the time to explore the historical sites of Guimarães, known as the birthplace of Portugal.

Engage with the knowledgeable guides to gain insider tips and recommendations about the area’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Exploring Braga

As the tour venture begins in Braga, visitors are captivated by the city’s rich religious heritage.

The group explores the impressive Braga Cathedral, known for its distinctive architecture and exclusive access to the Chapels and High Choir.

The tour also visits the Bom Jesus do Monte, a magnificent sanctuary perched atop a hill, accessible by a famous zigzag funicular railway.

Travelers delight in:

• Marveling at the elaborate Baroque staircase and fountains of the Bom Jesus do Monte
• Witnessing the intricate details and stunning stained glass inside the Braga Cathedral
• Appreciating the exclusive access to restricted areas of the cathedral
• Admiring the panoramic vistas from the hilltop sanctuary
• Immersing themselves in Braga’s rich religious and architectural history.

Discovering Guimarães

After exploring the religious wonders of Braga, the tour group ventures to the historic town of Guimarães.

Often referred to as the "birthplace of Portugal," Guimarães boasts a well-preserved medieval center, a towering castle, and the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza.

Travelers will have the opportunity to visit the castle and palace, learning about the town’s pivotal role in the country’s founding.

The walking tour also includes stops at charming plazas and quaint cobblestone streets, offering a glimpse into Portugal’s past.

With the knowledgeable local guide, the group delves into Guimarães’ rich history and cultural significance.

Savoring the Local Cuisine

During the tour, travelers savor the local cuisine with a traditional Portuguese lunch in Braga.

The meal includes:

• Authentic Minho dishes showcasing the region’s fresh ingredients and time-honored recipes
• A selection of local wines, including the renowned Vinho Verde, to complement the flavors
• Hearty and comforting dishes that nourish both body and soul
• An opportunity to take in the local culinary culture
• A leisurely and convivial dining experience that allows for cultural exchange and deeper appreciation of the region.

Since You Asked

Can I Bring My Children on the Tour?

Yes, the tour allows infant seats and is stroller accessible, so children can join the small group trip. However, the tour may not be suitable for young children due to the historical sites and amount of walking involved.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour does not currently offer any discounts for seniors or students. However, travelers are encouraged to inquire directly with the tour operator about any potential promotional offers or special pricing options that may be available.

What Should I Pack for the Day Trip?

For the day trip, travelers should pack comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket or sweater, sun protection, a small backpack or bag, and any necessary medications. Bringing a camera is also recommended to capture the scenic landscapes and historical sites along the way.

How Long Is the Travel Time Between Braga and Guimarães?

The travel time between Braga and Guimarães is approximately 30-45 minutes by road. This allows ample time for travelers to explore both historic cities during the full-day tour from Porto.

Is It Possible to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour itinerary can’t be customized, as it’s a pre-designed small group tour. However, travelers can discuss their interests with the guide to ensure they get the most out of the experience within the existing itinerary.

The Sum Up

This small group day trip from Portugal offers an immersive experience in the historic cities of Braga and Guimarães. Travelers will enjoy guided tours, exclusive access to notable sights, and a traditional Portuguese lunch with local wine. With a maximum of 8 participants, the tour provides an intimate and personalized adventure, showcasing the charm and rich heritage of these remarkable destinations.