- 1
Porto
Meet your guide at our designated Meeting Point near S. Bento Train Station. From there, you'll be driven to Braga, our first destination.
As you travel towards the Minho Region, your guide will share fascinating insights into Portuguese history, its development, and cultural aspects of the nation's heritage.
· Non-stop passage
- 2
Bom Jesus Funicular
Renowned for its religious significance and unique architecture, the Bom Jesus Funicular is famous for its historic staircase and the vertical tram. This pioneering funicular, the first of its kind in Portugal, was established in 1882 and still utilizes its original water-powered system to ascend the 300-meter ramp in just 3 minutes.
The church, designed by Carlos Amarante, features a neo-classical style inspired by Italian architecture, blending harmoniously with the northern Portuguese landscape.
The staircase leading to the summit includes 17 landings adorned with symbolic fountains, allegorical statues, and Baroque decorations. These represent themes such as the Stations of the Cross, the Five Senses, the Virtues, Moses receiving the Commandments, and at the very top, eight biblical figures associated with Jesus' condemnation. The view from the bottom of the staircase, with its ornate granite fountains and the distinctive white chalice-like structure supporting the church, is a must-see.
· 30 min
- 3
Se de Braga
Visit Braga Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in Portugal, predating the nation's founding.
Construction of the Cathedral of Braga began in the late 11th century, and it was consecrated to the Virgin Mary by Bishop Pedro on August 28, 1089. It was once a rival to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela and remains a jewel of the city. The Chapel of Kings houses the tombs of D. Henrique and D. Teresa, parents of Portugal's first king.
· 30 min· Admission included
- 4
Braga
Enjoy a break to explore Braga at your own pace or find a place for a meal.
Discover the city's charming streets, browse the shops, and visit local points of interest.
· 1 h
- 5
Guimaraes
Following our time in Braga, we will take a short drive to Guimarães.
This city is widely recognized as the birthplace of Portugal, as Afonso Henriques, who became the first king of Portugal, was born here.
· 2 h
- 6
Guimaraes Castle
The castle stands as a testament to the heroic and poetic history surrounding the origins of Portugal. It was on this hill, Monte Largo, that the foundations of the Portuguese nation were first laid.
Around 968, Countess Mumadona of Galicia commissioned the construction of a castle on this site to provide refuge for the population against raids by Vikings from the north and Muslims from the south.
Count Henry, upon assuming governorship of the Portucalense province, ordered a larger and more robust fortress to be built. This marked the beginning of the significant defensive structure visible today, characterized by its central keep flanked by four corner towers.
While not definitively documented, it is highly probable that the building against the inner north wall served as the residence of Count Henry and the birthplace of his son, Afonso Henriques, Portugal's first king.
· 30 min· Admission included
- 7
Igreja de Sao Miguel do Castelo
The small Igreja de São Miguel do Castelo, built in the 13th century, is traditionally believed to have been constructed in the 12th century by Count Dom Henrique as the site for the baptism of his son, Dom Afonso Henriques, the first King of Portugal.
This Romanesque church, modest in size, features simple decoration. Beneath its floor lie the remains of notable warriors from the nation's formative period.
· 10 min
- 8
Centro Historico de Guimaraes
The historic center within the ancient city walls of Guimarães is intrinsically linked to the formation and identity of Portugal. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its authentic restoration, the city preserves a harmonious and well-maintained heritage.
Admire the elegant iron balconies, granite verandas, mansions, arches connecting narrow streets, time-worn paving stones, towers, and cloisters. You'll feel transported to a medieval era, where noble houses like Mota Prego, Vila Flor, and Toural palaces were built, contributing to Guimarães' unique ambiance.
· 30 min