Guimarães and Braga are two historic cities near Porto. While many people combine these two cities in a single day trip, I believe they deserve at least a day each.
Guimarães
This charming city in the north is fondly referred to as the birthplace of Portugal. The first king, Afonso Henrique was born here and fought the Battle of Sao Mamede nearby, which led to Portugal’s independence. Guimarães became Portugal’s first capital in the 12th century.
Imagine yourself in another time as you walk around the historic center within the original city walls of Guimarães. Narrow cobblestone streets take you under old arches, past iron verandas, old monasteries, and up to the ancient stone Castle of Guimarães. Locals and tourists enjoy local cuisine and drink sangria at umbrella shaded tables in the plazas.
Wandering these cobblestone streets, a church around almost every corner, was a relaxing way to spend the afternoon. Even during the busy part of the day, with the day tours walking through, Guimarães was a welcome break from the intense crowds of Porto. The medieval historic center is especially charming in the quiet evening when the tour groups have left.
What to see:
The Church of Nossa Denhora da Oliveira is the cornerstone to the popular square named Largo da Oliveira. This is the most well known church in Guimarães and was rebuilt in the late 14th century. The gothic canopy in front of the church shelters a cross and marks the place of a local legend. In the 7th century, the elected king of the Visigoth’s plunged his olive branch staff into the ground declaring he would only accept the crown if the stick were to blossom. It quickly did just that and he became king of the Visigoths.
Walking under the old town hall from Largo da Oliveira takes you to yet another large square, Praca de Sao Tiago. Both of these squares are filled with cafe seating, shaded by umbrellas, and surrounded by typical houses of northern Portugal.
The Castle of Guimarães was under renovation, so we couldn’t see very much. This 10th century castle was originally build by the Moors but underwent many renovations over the next few centuries. It is belived that the castle is the birthplace of Afonso Henriques, the first king of Portugal.
Nearby is the small Igreja de São Miguel do Castelo (Chapel of St. Micheal) where it’s said that Afonso Henrique (first king) received baptism.
The Convento de Santo António dos Capuchos (Convent of St. Anthony) was built in the early 17th century. The building has been preserved but no longer functions as a convent. Medical offices are now located within this beautiful building.
Church of St. Francis is stated to have one of the most dramatic interiors (filled with blue and white tiles) in Guimarães. Unfortunately we did not enter the church, but I enjoyed the view of the exterior and statue as we walked by.
Igreja e Oratórios de Nossa Senhora da Consolação e Santos Passos (Church of Our Lady of Consolation and the Holy Steps) is probably the prettiest church in town, it’s slender profile rising up in front of the long formal gardens.
The Convent of Santa Clara was built in the mid 16th century. Nuns were housed here until 1891. Now the building houses City Hall.
That wraps up everything we saw while in the charming town of Guimaraes.
Braga
Braga, the third largest city in Portugal is considered the religious capital of Portugal. It offers many restaurants, hotels, and entertainment options while still showcasing its well preserved historic center. The city is known for it’s historic buildings, gardens, fountains, and of course cathedrals. Travelers will find that many tourist sites can easily be explored by foot within the compact historic center.
What to see:
The Cathedral of Braga is the oldest cathedral in Portugal, with construction beginning in the late 11th century. Purchasing an entrance ticket is worthwhile to see the decadent decor inside. The most awe inspiring of which is the organ which can be seen by looking straight up from the back of the cathedral.
Walk around and see all the churches in the historic center including the Congregados Basilica, the Capela da Nossa Senhora da Torre, and the Holy Cross Church.
Check out the gorgeous blue tiles on the Palacio do Raio.
Wander through the Garden of Santa Barbara and enjoy the view of the old Archbishop’s Palace while surrounded by fresh colorful flowers. This is a public garden and free to enter.
The one must see stop that isn’t in easy walking distance of the historic center is the Bom Jesus do Monte. The church sits on top of a steep hill 5km east of the city. Climbing the 577 steps up the magnificent stairs represents the ascent to heaven. If you are feeling a bit lazy, a taxi or Uber can drive you to the top of the hill and you can check out the statues and fountains as you climb down instead.
And that wraps up our time in Braga.
I recommend visiting both Guimarães and Braga while in Portugal if you are able to do so. Guimarães is charming and quiet. Braga is packed full of beautiful buildings and has a slightly faster pace to the city. Both are fantastic side trips from Porto!
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