Guimarães: The Complete Guide

Guimarães, often regarded by the Portuguese as the birthplace of their country, is blessed with an abundance of riches that can be almost overwhelming. Nestled at the base of a mountain range, this city, which served as the first capital of Portugal, has managed to preserve a medieval ambience at its core. It was in Guimarães where Afonso Henríques, the first king of Portugal and son of Henri de Bourgogne, a French nobleman, and his wife, Teresa, the daughter of the king of León and Castile, was born. Teresa, who received the county of Portucale as her dowry, eventually gave rise to the name “Portugal.” The area that comprised Portucale was the land that lay between the Douro and the Minho, which included present-day Porto. Teresa and Henri chose Guimarães as their court, where Afonso Henríques was born.
After the death of Henri, Teresa became the regent for the infant king. However, her affair with a count from Galicia and her strong ties with her native Spain caused her to fall out of favor with her subjects. Afonso, as a young man, led a rebellion against the regent’s forces outside Guimarães in 1128. His major victory came in 1139 when he defeated the Moors near Santarém. He broke away from León and Castile and declared himself king of Portucale. In 1143, Spain recognized the newly established kingdom.
In addition to Afonso Henríques, Guimarães was also the birthplace of Gil Vicente (1465–1537?), who is considered the father of Portuguese theatre and is often called the Shakespeare of Portugal. Although trained as a goldsmith, Vicente entertained the courts of both João II and Manuel I with his farces and tragicomedies, as well as his religious dramas.
Nowadays, Guimarães is a bustling town with a keen interest in trade, particularly in weaving, tanning, and the production of kitchenware and cutlery. It is also renowned for its handicraft industries, such as pottery, silver- and goldsmithing, and embroidery.
Table of Contents
- History of Guimarães
- Guimarães in Ancient and Early Medieval Times
- Guimarães in the Formation of Portugal
- Guimarães in the Late Middle Ages and Renaissance
- Guimarães in the Modern and Contemporary Era
- 17 Best places to See in Guimarães
- Alberto Sampaio Museum
- Largo da Oliveira
- Convento de Santa Clara (Guimarães)
- Igreja de São Francisco Guimarães
- Rua de Santa Maria
- Praça de São Tiago
- Muralhas de Guimaraes
- Largo dos Laranjais
- Fonte do Largo Dr. João da Mota Prego (Guimarães)
- Largo do Toural
- Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Consolação (Guimarães)
- Martins Sarmento Society
- Paço dos Duques de Bragança
- Igreja de São Miguel do Castelo
- Centro Cultural Vila Flor
- Castelo de Guimarães
- Monte da Penha
- 10 Best Day Trips from Guimarães
- Where to Stay in Guimarães
- Best Time to Visit Guimarães
- How to get to Guimarães
History of Guimarães
Guimarães in Ancient and Early Medieval Times
Guimarães traces its roots back to a Roman settlement, but it began to emerge as a significant center during the early medieval period. By the 9th century, it had developed around a monastery founded by Countess Mumadona Dias, who also built a castle nearby to protect the religious community from invasions. This combination of spiritual and military infrastructure laid the groundwork for Guimarães’ growth in both religious and strategic importance. The area became a key location in the early Christian reconquest of the Iberian Peninsula and played a formative role in shaping the early identity of what would become Portugal.
Guimarães in the Formation of Portugal
Guimarães holds a central place in Portuguese national history as the birthplace of the country’s first king, Afonso Henriques. In the 12th century, it served as the base from which Afonso declared independence from the Kingdom of León, eventually founding the Kingdom of Portugal. The famous Battle of São Mamede in 1128, fought near Guimarães, is considered a pivotal event in this process. As a result, Guimarães earned its title as the “Cradle of Portugal.” During this time, the city expanded around its castle and defensive walls, establishing institutions of governance and consolidating its role in the emerging nation-state.
Guimarães in the Late Middle Ages and Renaissance
Throughout the later medieval period and into the Renaissance, Guimarães continued to thrive as a regional center of culture, religion, and commerce. It retained its importance as a political and administrative hub while also becoming known for textile production and artisanal crafts. The cityscape evolved with the construction of noble mansions, churches, and civic buildings, many of which still stand today. The well-preserved medieval layout, complete with winding streets and traditional squares, reflects this era of prosperity and development. Guimarães maintained strong links with the monarchy and the Catholic Church, shaping its artistic and architectural legacy.
Guimarães in the Modern and Contemporary Era
In the 19th and early 20th centuries, Guimarães modernized while preserving its historic core. The textile industry became a dominant economic force, helping to transform the city into a key industrial player in northern Portugal. Despite industrialization, Guimarães maintained its cultural and historical identity, leading to extensive preservation efforts in the late 20th century. In 2001, its historic center was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its exceptional state of conservation and historical significance. In 2012, Guimarães was named the European Capital of Culture, further affirming its role as a living symbol of Portuguese heritage and innovation.
Visiting Guimarães for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Guimarães on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!
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17 Best places to See in Guimarães
This complete guide to Guimarães not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.
This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Guimarães and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!
Alberto Sampaio Museum

Location: Museu de Alberto Sampaio, Rua Alfredo Guimarães, Guimaraes, Portugal | Hours: 10am-6pm Tue-Sun | Price: adult/child €3/free, Sun morning free | Website | Distance: 0.0km
Visiting Alberto Sampaio Museum
Largo da Oliveira

Location: Largo da Oliveira, Guimaraes, Portugal | Distance: 0.1km
Visiting Largo da Oliveira
Convento de Santa Clara (Guimarães)

Location: Antigo Convento de Santa Clara, Largo Cónego José Maria Gomes, Guimarães, Portugal | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Convento de Santa Clara (Guimarães)
Igreja de São Francisco Guimarães

Location: Igreja de São Francisco, Rua Padre Gaspar Roriz, Guimarães, Portugal | Hours: 9.30am-noon & 3-5pm Tue-Sat, 9.30am-1pm Sun | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Igreja de São Francisco Guimarães
Rua de Santa Maria

Location: Rua de Santa Maria, Guimarães, Portugal | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Rua de Santa Maria
Praça de São Tiago

Location: Praça de São Tiago, Guimaraes, Portugal | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Praça de São Tiago
Muralhas de Guimaraes

Visiting Muralhas de Guimaraes
Largo dos Laranjais

Location: Largo dos Laranjais, Guimaraes, Portugal | Hours: 24 Hours | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Largo dos Laranjais
Fonte do Largo Dr. João da Mota Prego (Guimarães)

Visiting Fonte do Largo Dr. João da Mota Prego (Guimarães)
Largo do Toural

Location: Largo do Toural, Guimaraes, Portugal | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Largo do Toural
Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Consolação (Guimarães)

Location: Igreja e Oratórios de Nossa Senhora da Consolação e Santos Passos, Largo de São Brás, Guimarães, Portugal | Hours: Monday to Saturday: 8 am-12 pm / 3 pm - 5 pm; Sunday 8 am-12 pm. | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Consolação (Guimarães)
Martins Sarmento Society

Location: Sociedade Martins Sarmento, Rua Paio Galvão, Guimaraes, Portugal | Hours: Tuesday-Friday: 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m./ 2:30 p.m.–5:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday: 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m./ 2:30-5:30 p.m. Closed: Monday and public holidays | Website | Distance: 0.4km
Visiting Martins Sarmento Society
Paço dos Duques de Bragança

Location: Paço dos Duques de Bragança, Rua Conde Dom Henrique, Guimaraes, Portugal | Hours: 10am-6pm | Price: adult/child €5/free | Website | Distance: 0.4km
Visiting Paço dos Duques de Bragança
Igreja de São Miguel do Castelo

Location: Igreja de São Miguel do Castelo, Rua Conde Dom Henrique, Guimaraes, Portugal | Hours: 10.00 a.m.-6.00p.m. (last entry 5.30 p.m.) Closed: 1 January, Easter sunday, 1 May and 25 December | Distance: 0.5km
Visiting Igreja de São Miguel do Castelo
Centro Cultural Vila Flor

Location: Centro Cultural Vila Flor (CCVF), Avenida Dom Afonso Henriques, Guimaraes, Portugal | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting Centro Cultural Vila Flor
Castelo de Guimarães

Location: Castelo de Guimarães, Rua Conde Dom Henrique, Guimaraes, Portugal | Hours: 10am‑6pm | Price: adult/child €2/free | Website | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting Castelo de Guimarães
Monte da Penha

Location: Penha, Guimarães, Portugal | Hours: Winter: Open Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays 10 am - 5:15 pm | Price: Adults €7.50, Children €3.50. | Distance: 2.3km
Visiting Monte da Penha
Best Day Trips from Guimarães
A day trip from Guimarães offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Guimarães provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary. If you are looking to rent a car in Portugal I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.
Braga

Visiting Braga
Barcelos

Visiting Barcelos
Esposende

Visiting Esposende
Porto

Visiting Porto
Vila Real

Visiting Vila Real
Peso da Régua

Visiting Peso da Régua
Viana do Castelo

Visiting Viana do Castelo
Lamego

Visiting Lamego
Espinho

Visiting Espinho
Pinhão (Alijó)

Visiting Pinhão (Alijó)
Where to Stay in Guimarães
Guimarães offers a variety of accommodations to suit different preferences, from historic charm to modern comfort.
For those seeking a luxurious experience, Pousada Mosteiro de Guimarães is set in a 12th-century Augustinian monastery, offering elegant rooms and a serene atmosphere.
Travelers interested in staying in the heart of the historic center might consider Hotel da Oliveira, which combines modern amenities with a prime location near major landmarks.
For a contemporary stay, Hotel de Guimarães provides modern facilities, including a spa and indoor pool, within walking distance of the city center.
Budget-conscious visitors may find Hotel Mestre de Avis appealing, offering comfortable accommodations at an affordable price.
Each of these options provides a unique experience, allowing visitors to choose accommodations that best fit their preferences while exploring the rich history and culture of Guimarães.
Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Guimarães. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.
Guimarães Accommodation Map
Best Time to Visit Guimarães
Guimarães, often referred to as the birthplace of Portugal, offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and architecture, making it a captivating destination year-round. However, some periods may enhance your visit depending on your interests:
Spring (March to May): Spring is an excellent time to visit Guimarães, as the weather is mild and the gardens and parks around the city are in full bloom. This season is perfect for exploring historical sites like the Guimarães Castle and the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza without the summer crowds.
Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak tourist season, characterized by warm weather and a bustling atmosphere. The city hosts several cultural events, including the popular Guimarães Jazz Festival and the Medieval Market. While it’s the busiest time of year, the lively street ambiance and extended daylight hours make it ideal for enjoying the outdoor cafes and vibrant nightlife.
Fall (September to November): Autumn is another favorable time to visit, with cooler temperatures and fewer tourists. The changing foliage offers a beautiful backdrop for photographs, especially in the city’s historical center, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Winter (December to February): Winters are generally mild in Guimarães, making it a good time for visitors who prefer a quieter experience. The city is less crowded, and you can enjoy the local cuisine and culture at a leisurely pace.
Annual Weather Overview
- January 12°C 58°F
- February 14°C 62°F
- March 18°C 68°F
- April 21°C 73°F
- May 23°C 77°F
- June 25°C 81°F
- July 31°C 91°F
- August 30°C 89°F
- September 27°C 85°F
- October 23°C 78°F
- November 16°C 64°F
- December 13°C 58°F
How to get to Guimarães
By Air:
- The nearest airport to Guimarães is Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport in Porto, which is about 50 kilometers away.
By Train:
- Regular trains connect Porto to Guimarães, with the journey taking approximately an hour. Trains depart from São Bento or Campanhã stations in Porto and are a convenient way to reach the city.
By Bus:
- Buses also run frequently from Porto to Guimarães, with services provided by several bus companies including Rede Expressos. The bus ride takes around an hour and offers a cost-effective way to travel.
By Car:
- Driving from Porto to Guimarães via the A3 and A7 highways is straightforward, taking about 40 minutes. This option provides flexibility to explore the region at your own pace.
- If you are looking to rent a car in Portugal I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.