Quick Facts: Your Guimarães Day Trip at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Distance from Porto | ~55 km (34 miles) |
| Travel Time (one way) | 45-75 minutes |
| Best Transportation | Train |
| Average Cost (per person) | €30 – €60 for a full day |
| Best Time to Visit in 2025 | Spring (April-June) & Autumn (September-October) on a weekday |
Is a Day Trip to Guimarães Worth It?
Absolutely, yes! If you’re looking for a day trip that perfectly blends profound history with fairytale charm, Guimarães is your answer. Stepping into its medieval core feels like traveling back in time. It’s not just a city; it’s the very cradle of a nation, and that powerful sense of history is palpable on every cobblestone street. If you’re still on the fence, here’s why Guimarães is one of the most rewarding day trips from Porto:
- Unmatched Historical Significance: This is where Portugal began. You can literally walk in the footsteps of the country’s first king, Afonso Henriques, and stand in the shadow of the castle where he was born.
- A UNESCO World Heritage Site: The historic town center is a magnificently preserved labyrinth of medieval squares, gothic arches, and traditional houses. It’s a photographer’s dream.
- Compact & Walkable: Unlike sprawling cities, all the main attractions in Guimarães are clustered together, making it incredibly easy to explore on foot without feeling rushed.
- Easy & Affordable Logistics: With frequent, cheap, and direct train connections from Porto, getting to Guimarães is completely hassle-free, leaving you more time and money to enjoy the destination itself.
How to Get from Porto to Guimarães
Getting from Porto to Guimarães is straightforward, with several great options available. While you can drive or take a bus, the train is overwhelmingly the best and most popular choice for its cost, convenience, and scenic route. Here’s a quick comparison of your options:
| Transportation | Duration | Cost (One-Way) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train | ~75 mins | ~€3.25 | Affordable, scenic, departs from the city center (São Bento). | Can be crowded during peak hours. |
| Bus | ~50 mins | ~€7 | Slightly faster than the train, comfortable seating. | Bus station is less central in Porto than São Bento. |
| Car | ~45 mins | ~€5 (tolls) + fuel | Flexible, great for exploring nearby areas like Braga. | Parking is difficult and costly, toll expenses. |
| Guided Tour | Full Day | €60+ | Stress-free, includes a guide, often combines Braga. | Less freedom and flexibility, more expensive. |
By Train (The Best Option)
The train is the quintessential way to travel from Porto to Guimarães. You can catch the direct CP Urbanos (U) line from two main stations in Porto: the iconic São Bento Station (worth visiting just for its azulejo tiles) or Campanhã Station (Porto’s main transport hub). The journey takes about 70-75 minutes and offers lovely views of the Northern Portuguese countryside. At just €3.25 for a one-way ticket, it’s an incredible value. Trains run frequently throughout the day, so you have plenty of flexibility.
By Bus
If speed is your top priority, the bus is a solid alternative. Companies like Rede Expressos operate comfortable coaches from Porto’s Campo 24 de Agosto terminal. The journey can be as quick as 50 minutes, though it typically costs a bit more than the train, around €6-€8 one-way. The main drawback is that the bus terminal in Porto is less central and picturesque than São Bento station.
By Car
Driving offers the most flexibility, especially if you plan to visit other nearby towns like Braga. The drive takes around 45-50 minutes via the A3 or A7 motorways. Be aware that these are toll roads, which will cost approximately €4-€5 each way. The biggest challenge is parking. Strongly avoid driving into the historic center. Instead, use a paid garage like Parque do Toural or the large open-air lot near the castle, Estacionamento do Castelo.
By Guided Tour
For a completely stress-free experience, a guided tour is an excellent choice. These tours handle all transportation and often include entrance fees and a knowledgeable guide. Many tours from Porto combine Guimarães and the nearby religious center of Braga into a single, efficient day trip. This is the best option if you’re short on time and want to see both cities without worrying about logistics.
Top 5 Things to Do in Guimarães
For a city so rich in history, it’s remarkably easy to see the highlights in a single day. Here are the five must-do experiences for your day trip:
-
Climb the Walls of Guimarães Castle (Castelo de Guimarães)
This is where it all began. The formidable 10th-century castle is considered the birthplace of the nation. Climb its central keep for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the surrounding Minho region. The history here is tangible, and it’s the perfect place to start your journey.
Price: €2.00 (or €6.00 for a combined ticket with the Palace).
Hours: 10:00 – 18:00 daily. -
Step into Royalty at the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza (Paço dos Duques)
Just a short walk from the castle lies this stunning 15th-century palace. Inspired by French manor houses, its unique architecture with crenellated towers and striking brick chimneys makes it stand out. Inside, you’ll find opulent rooms filled with impressive tapestries, period furniture, and porcelain collections.
Price: €5.00 (or €6.00 combined ticket).
Hours: 10:00 – 18:00 daily. -
Get Lost in the UNESCO Historic Centre
The true magic of Guimarães is found by wandering its perfectly preserved medieval core. Don’t rush this part! Make sure you visit these key spots:
Largo da Oliveira (Oliveira Square)
This is the heart of the old town. Admire the beautiful Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira (Church of Our Lady of the Olive Tree) and the unique Gothic shrine, the Padrão do Salado, in front of it. The square is lined with charming cafes, perfect for a coffee break.
Praça de São Tiago (St. James Square)
Connected to Largo da Oliveira, this lively square is filled with beautiful medieval buildings and buzzing restaurants with outdoor seating. It’s a fantastic spot to soak in the atmosphere and enjoy a leisurely lunch.
Rua de Santa Maria
Follow this picturesque cobblestone street that connects the Palace and Castle area to the town squares. Lined with historic buildings, including the Town Hall, it’s one of the most beautiful and important streets in Guimarães.
-
Take the Cable Car to Penha Mountain
For the absolute best view of Guimarães and the entire region, take the Teleférico de Guimarães up to Penha Mountain. The peaceful ride offers incredible vistas. At the top, you’ll find the Santuário da Penha, a modern sanctuary nestled among giant mossy boulders and a beautiful park perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Price: €8.00 round trip for adults.
Hours: Varies seasonally, generally 10:00 – 18:30 (later in summer). Always check the official website! -
Snap a Photo at the “Aqui Nasceu Portugal” Wall
You can’t leave Guimarães without capturing this iconic shot. On a remaining section of the old city wall (the Torre da Alfaia), you’ll find the famous inscription: “Aqui Nasceu Portugal” – “Portugal Was Born Here.” It’s a simple but powerful reminder of the city’s importance and a quintessential memory from your trip.
Sample 1-Day Guimarães Itinerary from Porto
Want a foolproof plan for your day? Follow this schedule to hit all the highlights without feeling rushed.
- 9:00 AM: Depart from Porto’s São Bento Station. Grab a coffee and pastry to enjoy on the scenic 75-minute train ride.
- 10:15 AM: Arrive in Guimarães. Take a short walk from the station to Largo do Toural for a quick coffee and to get your bearings.
- 11:00 AM: Head up the hill to explore the Guimarães Castle and the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza. Buy the combined ticket to save money.
- 1:30 PM: Time for lunch! Wander down into the historic center and find a restaurant in the lively Praça de São Tiago.
- 3:00 PM: Spend the afternoon exploring the medieval streets. Don’t miss Largo da Oliveira and the beautiful Rua de Santa Maria.
- 4:30 PM: Ride the cable car up to Penha Mountain for incredible late-afternoon views over the city.
- 6:00 PM: Head back down and make your way to the train station for your return journey.
- 7:30 PM: Arrive back in Porto, just in time for a late Portuguese dinner.
Combining Guimarães and Braga in One Day Trip
It’s ambitious, but combining Guimarães and Braga in a single day is possible, though it requires a tight schedule. A guided tour is the most efficient and stress-free way to do this. If you choose to do it independently, using a car is your best bet. A suggested plan would be: spend the morning in Guimarães focusing on the Castle and historic squares, then drive to Braga for the afternoon to see the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte and the Braga Cathedral. Be prepared for a long and fast-paced day!
Where to Eat in Guimarães: From Local Bites to Fine Dining
The food in the Minho region is hearty and delicious. Guimarães offers fantastic options for every budget.
Budget-Friendly (€)
For a quick, authentic, and cheap meal, look for a cafe advertising the “prato do dia” (dish of the day). We recommend Cantinho dos Sabores for delicious traditional daily specials or Buxa for excellent tapas and local wine.
Mid-Range & Traditional (€€)
For a memorable sit-down lunch, head to the historic center. Histórico by Papaboa, located right in Largo da Oliveira, offers great food with an unbeatable view. For a more modern take on Portuguese classics, try Mumadona.
A Local Sweet Treat
You must try the local specialty, Torta de Guimarães, a unique pastry made with squash and almonds. Another heavenly local cake is Toucinho do Céu (“Bacon from Heaven”), a rich almond and egg yolk cake. You can find them in most pastelarias (pastry shops).
Insider Tips for Your Guimarães Day Trip
- Wear comfortable walking shoes. This is non-negotiable! The city is covered in uneven cobblestones that are beautiful but unforgiving on the feet.
- Buy a combined ticket. The combo ticket for the Castle, Palace, and Alberto Sampaio Museum (€8.00) offers the best value if you plan to visit all three.
- Visit on a weekday. Guimarães is a popular destination for locals on weekends. Visiting Monday-Friday will give you a much quieter and more relaxed experience.
- Start your day early. Catching an early train from Porto allows you to maximize your time and beat the biggest crowds at the castle.
- Check the festival calendar. If you’re visiting in June, don’t miss the Feira Afonsina medieval fair. In August, the city comes alive for the Festas Gualterianas.
What to Pack for a Day in Guimarães
Pack light but smart for your day trip. Here’s a quick checklist:
- Comfortable Walking Shoes
- Camera and/or Smartphone
- Portable Power Bank (for charging your phone)
- Refillable Water Bottle
- Sunscreen & Sunglasses (especially in summer)
- A light rain jacket or umbrella (winters are mild but can be wet)
- Some Cash (Euros) as smaller cafes might not accept credit cards
Estimated Budget Breakdown (Per Person)
Here’s what you can expect to spend on your day trip, from a budget-conscious approach to a more comfortable mid-range experience.
| Expense | Budget | Mid-Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transport (Return Train) | €6.50 | €6.50 |
| Attractions | €6.00 (Castle + Palace) | €14.00 (incl. cable car) |
| Lunch | €12.00 | €25.00 |
| Coffee/Snacks | €5.00 | €8.00 |
| TOTAL | ~€29.50 | ~€53.50 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long is the train from Porto to Guimarães?
The direct urban train journey from Porto (either São Bento or Campanhã station) to Guimarães takes approximately 70-75 minutes.
Is Guimarães a day trip from Porto?
Yes, Guimarães is a perfect day trip from Porto. Its compact, walkable center and excellent, affordable train connections make it easy to see all the main highlights in a single, memorable day.
Is it worth going to Guimarães?
Absolutely. As the birthplace of Portugal and a UNESCO World Heritage site, its incredible history, stunning castle, and charming medieval squares make it one of the most rewarding and beautiful day trips in Northern Portugal.
What is the most beautiful town near Porto?
While “most beautiful” is subjective, Guimarães is consistently ranked as a top contender due to its pristine medieval architecture and historical ambiance. Other popular and beautiful towns near Porto include Aveiro (the “Venice of Portugal”) and the religious center of Braga.
TL;DR: Your Perfect Guimarães Day Trip
In a hurry? Here’s the short version:
- Go by train: It’s cheap (~€6.50 return), easy, and scenic from Porto’s São Bento station.
- Must-Sees: Climb the Castle, tour the Palace of the Dukes, and get lost in the medieval squares of Largo da Oliveira and Praça de São Tiago.
- Best View: Take the cable car up Penha Mountain.
- Essential Photo: Find the “Aqui Nasceu Portugal” wall.
- Pro Tip: Wear very comfortable shoes and visit on a weekday to avoid crowds.
