Porto: Guimarães & Braga Day Trip with Lunch & Tickets

Summary

Medieval castles, cathedral bells, and vinho verde shared at lunch

You’ll walk castle walls in Guimarães, taste vinho verde over lunch in Braga, climb Bom Jesus’ famous steps with your guide, and wander medieval squares at your own pace. Expect laughter over lunch, echoes in ancient cathedrals, and small surprises around every corner.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect Guimarães to smell like old stone and fresh pastry at the same time — but that’s what hit me first. Our guide, Marta, was already joking with us before we even left Porto (she called our van “the time machine,” which made everyone relax). The drive north was all rolling hills and tiny villages flashing by. When we reached Guimarães Castle, the air felt cooler inside those thick walls. Marta told us about King Afonso Henriques being born here, but honestly I was more distracted by the mossy stones under my hands — they’re rougher than they look in photos.

Lunch came just when I started to feel hungry from all the walking. We stopped at this local spot in Braga — not fancy, but full of laughter and clinking glasses. The vinho verde tasted lighter than any white wine I’ve had back home, almost fizzy. Someone tried to ask for seconds in Portuguese and our waiter just grinned and brought more bread instead. I still think about that soup; it was simple but perfect after the morning’s drizzle.

Braga itself surprised me — it’s quieter than Porto but somehow feels older. In the cathedral, you can hear your footsteps echo. Marta pointed out carvings I’d have missed on my own; she grew up nearby so she knows every little story. Climbing up to Bom Jesus do Monte was a bit of a workout (those baroque stairs are no joke), but the view over the city is worth it. There were families picnicking on the grass and a couple of kids racing leaves down the fountains — made me wish I’d brought my sketchbook along.

We had some free time in Guimarães’ old square before heading back. I wandered past tiled houses and watched an old man feed pigeons near Largo da Oliveira. It’s one of those places where you want to linger longer than you’re allowed — maybe next time.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Braga and Guimarães highlights

• Pickup in Porto city center
• Drive to Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary
• Visit Baroque stairway and funicular
• Admire panoramic views and gardens
• Tour Braga Cathedral
• Enjoy traditional lunch with local wine
• Travel to Guimarães
• Visit Guimarães Castle
• See Ducal Palace and gardens
• Walk Guimarães medieval town and Largo da Oliveira
• Free time in Guimarães historic center
• Group meets for return to Porto
• Drive back and tour concludes in Porto

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Porto to Guimarães & Braga?

The tour lasts a full day with pickup in Porto and returns by evening.

Is lunch included on this Braga & Guimarães tour?

Yes, a traditional lunch with drinks is included during the tour.

Are entrance tickets for Guimarães Castle and Braga Cathedral included?

Yes, entry fees for both sites are covered as part of your booking.

Do I need to arrange my own transportation from Porto?

No, hotel pickup (for most central hotels) and drop-off are provided.

Are vegetarian options available for lunch?

Yes, vegetarian meals can be arranged if requested at booking.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?

Yes, children are welcome if accompanied by an adult; infant seats are available.

Will there be free time to explore on my own?

You’ll have some free time in Guimarães’ historic center during the tour.

What languages does the guide speak?

The tour may be operated by a multilingual guide depending on group needs.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup from most central Porto hotels, comfortable minivan transport with bottled water provided sustainably, entry tickets for both Braga Cathedral and Guimarães Castle, a traditional lunch featuring regional specialties with Vinho Verde wine (vegetarian option available), guidance throughout from a local expert, plus drop-off at two central locations back in Porto when evening comes around.