Having long wished to explore Portugal, I wondered…where should I go beyond Porto? While scouring the internet for ideas, one recommendation immediately caught my eye: “Best of Braga and Guimarães Day Trip from Porto.”
Road trips have always held a special place in my heart. My childhood was filled with countless drives through the breathtaking landscapes of the Himalayas. Even now, as an adult, the thrill of discovering a country from the open road never fails to excite me. So, without a second thought, I booked the tour to Braga and Guimarães, which promised to be one of the best day trips from Porto.
As a solo traveler with a locomotor disability, accessibility and logistical convenience are always at the top of my priority list. Guided tours often provide the ease I need while also offering the chance to connect with fellow travelers from around the world—something I deeply cherish. My first experience with Viator was on a guided tour in Vietnam, and it exceeded every expectation. Since then, I’ve relied on them for multiple unforgettable day trips, and this one promised to be just as special.
With my itinerary set and excitement building, I was all set to embark on a journey through two of Portugal’s most underrated yet historically rich cities, Braga and Guimarães. What awaited me was a day filled with history, stunning architecture, and the joy of discovering new places with like-minded travelers.
Exploring the Minho Region by bus
On a sunny morning, (the Porto weather was kind to me on this day unlike my previous tour to Douro), I arrived at the iconic Sao Bento Railway station and proceeded to meet my tour guide Chris who greeted me with a warm smile.
My nine-hour adventure began with a group of 15 enthusiastic travelers from around the world, each eager to uncover the charm of Guimarães and Braga. Our itinerary appeared like this:
- Enter the Minho region from Porto via a scenic journey through the highways of Portugal
- Explore the historic city of Guimaraes, the birthplace of Portugal because the first king Afonso Henriques was born here.
- Drive from Guimaraes to Braga, a city that seamlessly blends history, spirituality, and stunning landmarks like the Cathedral of Braga.
- Indulge in a traditional Portuguese lunch at local restaurants, as no trip is complete without the local flavors.
Let me tell you a bit about Portugal’s Minho region
Situated in the north, the picturesque Minho region of Portugal forms a part of the international border between the two nations of Spain and Portugal. Famous for its rustic setting, delectable cuisine and the verdant countryside, it is home to the two underrated but enchanting cities of Braga and Guimaraes. The cities are famous for its castles, cathedrals, the traditional Portuguese lunches and shopping centres.
Braga & Guimarães Full Day Trip from GETYOURGUIDE
Guimarães Castle: A medieval marvel steeped in history
After a relaxing ride through the verdant countryside of Portugal adorned by eucalyptus trees, but surprisingly no Koalas (Chris explained the reason, the Koalas do not eat these varieties of Eucalyptus leaves) we arrived in the town of Guimaraes, which is considered as the birthplace of Portugal.
The golden Porto sunshine had vanished, replaced by a moody, overcast sky. I was amazed at how swiftly the weather could change in this region—one moment bright and warm, the next cool and cloudy. A word of advice to future travelers: always pack for all seasons when exploring Portugal!
We arrived at Castelo D Guimaraes, our first stop of the day. Ever since watching the famous Game of Thrones series I developed a keen interest to explore medieval castles in Europe and was excited when I arrived here. While the photographer in me started shooting photos of the castle, Chris explained the significance of the monument.
The Guimaraes castle is the principal medieval castle in the town, encircled by a small forest park, which provides a verdant backdrop to this architectural masterpiece. The initial construction dates back to the time of Countess Mumadona Dias, who had it built to defend the Guimaraes monastery of Saint Mary from attacks by Moors and Norsemen in the 10th century.
It has been a national Monument since 1881.
The first king of Portugal, Afonso Henriques was born here in Guimaraes and it is for the same reason the town is the birthplace of the country!
After exploring the castle, we made our way to Guimarães’ renowned historical center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in history and charm.
The centre is dotted with cafes and restaurants and is ideal for a snack break. Chris pointed out a famous monument, the Two-faced statue of Guimaraes. Located on the façade of the Antigos Paços do Concelho building, this interesting monument represents a warrior with two faces, and refers to the Portuguese victory over Spain and the country’s independence.
With some free time to explore Guimarães at our own pace, I couldn’t resist capturing the town’s charm through my lens. Its picturesque arches, winding alleyways, and historic façades made for endless photo opportunities.
For those who love a bit of retail therapy, the town square’s shopping district is a must-visit. It’s the perfect place to pick up souvenirs. I highly recommend getting a traditional Barcelos rooster, a beautifully hand-painted symbol of faith, good luck, and justice in Portuguese culture. The intricate details in red, blue, and yellow make it a vibrant keepsake from the trip.
As I leisurely made my way back to the bus, I was joined by Chris’ colleague, Bernie. We struck up a fascinating conversation about the meaning behind our names. He shared that his name is linked to a family of saints in his culture, while my nickname, Rishi, also means “saint” in my native language, Bengali. It was a profound reminder of how connected we all are, no matter where we come from—proof that the world is often smaller than we think.
Journey from Guimarães to Braga: A Day Steeped in History and Heritage
After a scenic 30-minute bus ride from Guimarães, we arrived in Braga, a city steeped in history and renowned for its stunning landmarks like the Braga Cathedral, Bom Jesus do Monte, lush gardens, and, of course, its rich Portuguese gastronomy.
As we entered the city, Braga’s Easter decorations welcomed us, instantly reminding me of the Christmas decorations in my hometown, Calcutta. Strolling through the charming cobbled alleyways that define so many European towns, I found myself preoccupied with a different thought, lunch. After an active morning of exploration, my energy was beginning to wane, and a hearty meal was definitely in order.
As we passed through the town square, I couldn’t help but pause and admire the vibrant floral displays lining the boulevard. The colors transported me back to my childhood, when gardening was my favorite hobby. Those flowers felt like a little piece of home, blooming right in the heart of Braga.
As I walked across the alleyway in the Braga town centre, the foodie in me actively scouted for some of the best restaurants of Braga. Both my guides recommended that I try the famous Portuguese codfish, which is a local delicacy.
I chose a seafood restaurant specializing in Portuguese cuisine. My pick? A plate of fried cod with fries and a side of vegetables, a classic dish that seemed like the perfect comfort food. Opting for an outdoor seat, I soaked in the town’s lively atmosphere, accompanied by the soft hum of ambient music from the restaurant.
After about 20 minutes, my meal arrived, and it did not disappoint. As someone from India’s Bengal region, where fish has always been a staple in my diet, the crispy, flavorful cod felt like a familiar taste of home in a land thousands of miles away. With each bite, I appreciated the subtle yet satisfying flavors that Portuguese cuisine had to offer.
As I leisurely enjoyed my meal, the chilly, overcast afternoon began to settle in. A light shiver ran through me, reminding me that despite the warmth of my lunch, the Braga winds were unforgiving. Then I made my way back to the meeting point, where my fellow travelers were waiting for us to enter the Cathedral of Braga, also known as Sé de Braga.
Cathedrals have always fascinated me. My first encounters with these grand structures were in Calcutta and Goa, where the breathtaking architecture, intricate glass paintings, and ornate decorations left a lasting impression. I couldn’t wait to step inside this one and experience its history firsthand.
The Cathedral of Braga is the oldest religious temple of Portugal. Its construction commenced in the year 1070, and took nearly a century. The cathedral has a beautiful mix of architectural styles, comprising the Romanesque structures, the Manueline in its coverings and the Baroque in the stunning ornaments.
The moment I stepped inside Sé de Braga, I was completely captivated by its intricate details and architectural grandeur. My camera barely had a moment’s rest as I eagerly clicked away, trying to capture the essence of this historic masterpiece.
One of Braga’s most-visited landmarks, this cathedral has stood as a national monument since 1910. It holds immense historical significance, as it houses the tombs of Henry of Burgundy, Count of Portugal, and his wife, Teresa de León—the parents of D. Afonso Henriques, the founder and first king of Portugal.
Originally built in Romanesque style, the cathedral has undergone centuries of modifications, evolving into a fascinating blend of architectural styles. On the southern façade, we admired the Romanesque Door of the Sun, a beautifully crafted perfect round arch. To the north, the Chapel of Glory stood in quiet elegance, while the cathedral’s interior retained a strong Romanesque atmosphere, with its towering stone columns and solemn ambiance.
As we explored the hidden corners of this historic site, Chris pointed out the Gothic-style altar. Though still magnificent, it was merely a remnant of the original altarpiece, a testament to the many changes the cathedral had witnessed over time.
After exploring the historic Braga Cathedral, we arrived at our final destination of the day, the magnificent Bom Jesus Church. Nestled atop a hill, this sacred site is accessible in multiple ways, but the most fascinating of them all is the 19th-century funicular. An engineering marvel, this water-powered tramway seamlessly connects the upper town of Braga with the church, offering a unique and scenic ride for just 2 euros one way.
While I highly recommend experiencing the funicular, our journey took a different route. Our bus conveniently dropped us off at the top parking area, sparing us the climb up the grand Baroque staircase—an ascent that, while breathtaking, can be quite the challenge. Whether you take the funicular, brave the stairs, or drive up, reaching Bom Jesus do Monte is an experience in itself, leading to one of Portugal’s most iconic and serene sanctuaries.
Designed by Carlos Amarante in 1784, the Bom Jesus do Monte church stands as a masterpiece of Italian-inspired Neoclassical architecture. As we approached its grand façade, a powerful gust of wind greeted us. The relentless rain showed no signs of easing, but I couldn’t resist capturing a few shots of the breathtaking staircase from the church’s main landing.
This magnificent stairway, with 17 landings, is more than just a path. Adorned with symbolic fountains, allegorical statues, and intricate Baroque decorations, it tells stories through themes like the Stations of the Cross, the Five Senses, and the Virtues. On any other day, I would have been tempted to climb down and back up, experiencing this masterpiece step by step. But with over 15,000 steps already behind me and the unrelenting rain, I decided to give my legs a break and seek shelter inside the cathedral instead.
Stepping inside the church, I felt an instant wave of relief from the biting cold winds outside. The grand yet serene interior, designed in a Latin cross plan, welcomed us with its elegantly vaulted naves bathed in soft, natural light. Despite my exhaustion, I couldn’t help but admire the architectural beauty surrounding me.
One of the most intriguing spots inside was the Chapel of the Relics, home to the preserved body of Saint Clement—a Roman soldier martyred in the 3rd century AD. As our guide shared fascinating details about the church’s history, it became clear that the day’s adventures were catching up with us. Most of us chose to take things slow, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. For the next thirty minutes, we wandered through the sacred space, marveling at its intricate paintings and striking architecture. Of course, no visit would be complete without capturing a few more photos, memories of a place that left a lasting impression.
After a well-earned rest, it was time to make our way back to Porto, with our day trip coming to an end. The hour-long journey unfolded in peaceful silence, with most of us gradually drifting into slumber as soothing music played in the background. By the time we arrived, the city was slipping into twilight, with its golden street lights flickering to life. As we exchanged farewells, I felt the quiet pull of Porto’s enchanting nightscape. Drawn by the promise of its evening charm, I wandered toward the city center, eager to soak in the ambiance and find the perfect spot to indulge in a comforting cup of coffee after a long day.
Day Trip Logistics: How to Travel between Porto, Guimarães and Braga
There are plenty of ways to travel from Porto to Braga and Guimaraes, with buses and trains departing from the city every hour. But if you truly want to experience the best of both towns without the hassle, a guided tour is the way to go. While I could have opted for public transport, choosing a guided day trip spared me the worry of arranging my return journey, especially with the unpredictable weather conditions. The journey was enriched by the fascinating stories shared by our guides and the memorable connections made with fellow travelers that remain long after the trip ends.
Braga and Guimarães Deserve a Spot in Your Portugal Itinerary
If you’re visiting Portugal, stepping into Guimarães is like walking through the corridors of history. Known as the birthplace of the nation, this charming town is where Afonso Henriques, Portugal’s first king, was born. Beyond its historical significance, Guimarães captivates visitors with its well-preserved medieval streets, the iconic castle, and a city center brimming with old-world charm.
Just a short journey away, Braga stands as Portugal’s religious heart. The Sanctuary of Bom Jesus, with its grand Baroque staircase, is a sight that lingers in memory long after you leave. The town also boasts the country’s oldest cathedral, a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts. And when you’re ready for a break, the quaint old town offers the perfect spot to indulge in an authentic Portuguese lunch.If you have a day or two to spare while in Porto, try to accommodate these hidden gems in your Northern Portugal itinerary. A day trip to Guimarães and Braga is a journey through history, culture, and timeless beauty; one that promises memories to cherish forever.
Add a Comment