Guimarães: The Complete Guide

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Feliciano Guimarães

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.

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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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

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Krzysztof Golik

Established in 1928, the Alberto Sampaio Museum was created to house the art and various artifacts belonging to the former Collegiate Church of Nossa Senhora da Oliveira, as well as other churches and convents in Guimarães. The museum is located in the heart of the old historic centre of the city, which has been designated as a World Heritage site,…

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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

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Visiting Alberto Sampaio Museum

We recommend to rent a car in Portugal through Discover Cars, they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies. Book your rental car here.

Largo da Oliveira

CC BY-SA 2.0 / manuelfouce

Considered today as the heart of the city, in the 17th century it was an extramural square next to the main gate of the village, where the cattle fair and other products were held. It was named after a centuries-old olive tree that was planted here. In 1791 the Council allocated the land next to the wall for the construction…

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Location: Largo da Oliveira, Guimaraes, Portugal | Distance: 0.1km

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Visiting Largo da Oliveira

Here are all your hotel options in Guimarães.

Convento de Santa Clara (Guimarães)

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Ramón

The former Convent of St. Clare ("Convento de Santa Clara de Guimarães", in the Portuguese language), built back in 1548 and occupied by the nuns between 1562 and 1891 (when the last surviving nun died). In 1968 it was designated as the City Hall of Guimarães, housing also the municipal archives. The entrance is free on working hours and you…

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Location: Antigo Convento de Santa Clara, Largo Cónego José Maria Gomes, Guimarães, Portugal | Distance: 0.2km

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Visiting Convento de Santa Clara (Guimarães)

Click here to read our blog about Self-guided Tour of Guimarães (with photos & map!)

Igreja de São Francisco Guimarães

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Pedro

Igreja de Sao Francisco is a gothic church that underwent numerous changes, especially in the 18th century. In the main chapel, the most notable Johannine altarpiece in the city stands out, the gilded altarpieces, rocaille-style valances and tiles depicting scenes from the life of Christ. Also worth a close look are the sacristy, with its paneled ceiling, the two-story cloister,…

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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

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Visiting Igreja de São Francisco Guimarães

Rua de Santa Maria

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Ramón

Rua de Santa Maria is the oldest and most picturesque street in Guimarães' old town, it meanders down the slope from north to south. Rua de Santa Maria boasts many sophisticated examples of 15th and 16th century architecture that were popular among Guimarães' nobility and affluent families. The street was initially designed to connect the 10th-century monastery on the current…

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Location: Rua de Santa Maria, Guimarães, Portugal | Distance: 0.2km

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Visiting Rua de Santa Maria

Praça de São Tiago

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Feliciano Guimarães

Praça de São Tiago or Praça de Santiago is a plaza or square in Guimarães, Portugal. Legend has it that the apostle S. Tiago brought an image of the Virgin Mary to Guimarães, which was then placed in a pagan temple located in a square that later became known as Praça de S. Tiago. Despite being referenced in various historical…

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

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Visiting Praça de São Tiago

Muralhas de Guimaraes

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Reis Quarteu

The Muralhas or Walls of Guimaraes were built around the 9th century. The first part to be walled was the upper city or village, called Vila do Castelo. Construction of the wall started in the reign of D. Afonso III and was completed in the reign of D. Dinis. The wall stretched about two kilometres and had defensive towers in…

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Visiting Muralhas de Guimaraes

Largo dos Laranjais

CC BY-SA 2.0 / José Antonio Gil Martínez

Largo dos Laranjais or the Square of the Orange Trees is a charming small square adorned with stone benches and a delightful orange grove. The orange trees stand out beautifully against the square's backdrop, creating a picturesque scene.  The square is overlooked by a tall medieval tower - the Casa dos Laranjais. Casa dos Laranjais The Casa dos Laranjais is…

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Location: Largo dos Laranjais, Guimaraes, Portugal | Hours: 24 Hours | Distance: 0.3km

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Visiting Largo dos Laranjais

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

CC BY-SA 4.0 / John Samuel

Fonte do Largo Dr. João da Mota Prego is a small green area in the heart of the Historic Centre, with two olive trees and a lavender plantation, which on summer days leaves an unforgettable scent on passers-by. This square is adorned by a Fountain, also known as “Tanque de Santo António” (its name comes from the fact that this…

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

Largo do Toural

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Halley Oliveira

Largo do Toural holds a significant place as one of the most central and crucial squares in the city of Guimarães, Portugal. It has a rich history that dates back to the 17th century when it was used as a marketplace to sell oxen and other goods. Although it was once located outside the city walls, it is now recognized…

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Location: Largo do Toural, Guimaraes, Portugal | Distance: 0.3km

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Visiting Largo do Toural

Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Consolação (Guimarães)

CC BY-SA 2.0 / xlibber

At the termination of an extensive and graceful formal garden stands the slender Church of Our Lady of Consolation and the Holy Steps, which is considered one of Portugal's most exquisite baroque churches. Its construction commenced in the 18th century, and two pointed towers were later added almost a century afterward. The steps and balustrade were also erected around the…

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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

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Visiting Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Consolação (Guimarães)

Martins Sarmento Society

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Manuelvbotelho

Established in 1881, the Martins Sarmento Society is a cultural organization that boasts a diverse and valuable heritage. Among its notable possessions is the Martins Sarmento Archaeological Museum, a premier source of information on pre-Roman cultures in Portugal and one of the most significant museums dedicated to these cultures across Europe. Located within the 14th-century Gothic cloister of the São…

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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

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Visiting Martins Sarmento Society

Paço dos Duques de Bragança

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Donald Judge

The construction of the Palace of the Dukes of Bragança was initiated in the early 15th century, with a design based on French manor houses. It was commissioned by D. Afonso de Barcelos, the illegitimate son of D. João, Master of Avis and future king D. João I, who became the first Duke of Bragança. As the dukes moved their…

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

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Visiting Paço dos Duques de Bragança

Igreja de São Miguel do Castelo

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Stegop

According to tradition, the origins of the small church of São Miguel do Castelo date back to the 12th century when Count Dom Henrique (Henry of Burgundy) is said to have built it. It was believed that this was where he baptised his son, the 1st King of Portugal, Dom Afonso Henriques. Although officially constructed in the 13th century, the…

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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

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Visiting Igreja de São Miguel do Castelo

Centro Cultural Vila Flor

CC BY-SA 2.5 / Spicka

After undergoing restoration in 2005, one of the wealthiest mansions in the city was furnished with an impressive cultural centre. The modern wing features two auditoriums, one capable of accommodating up to 800 attendees and the other up to 200, where classical, as well as rock music performances, talks, and conferences are held. There is also a futuristic exhibition area…

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

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Visiting Centro Cultural Vila Flor

Castelo de Guimarães

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Dudva

The castle at Monte Largo is steeped in legend, poetry, and heroism, evoking the beginning of Portuguese history. In the year 968, Countess Mumadona of Galicia ordered the construction of a castle on this site as a refuge for the population against Viking attacks from the north and Muslim raids from the south. Later, Count Henry, who took over the…

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

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Visiting Castelo de Guimarães

Monte da Penha

CC BY-SA 4.0 / RaquelRosa7

About 7km southeast of Guimarães, accessible by a winding, cobbled road or a short ride on an old cable car, is the forested peak of Penha (617m). It offers a breathtaking view of Guimarães and the surrounding areas, as it is the highest point for kilometers. The cool woods provide an excellent refuge from the city and the summer heat.…

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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

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Visiting Monte da Penha

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

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Feliciano Guimarães

Braga is a town steeped in history, with a plethora of churches, palaces, gardens, and fountains visible almost everywhere you turn. The Romans knew it as Bracara Augusta, and it has been inhabited by various conquerors, including the Suevi, Visigoths, and Moors. For centuries, it has served as an archiepiscopal seat and pilgrimage site, with the Visigoths reputed to have…

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Visiting Braga

Barcelos

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Krzysztof Golik

Barcelos is a picturesque town in Northern Portugal, celebrated for its vibrant markets, artisanal craftsmanship, and traditional Portuguese charm. One of the main attractions for visitors is the weekly market, one of the largest and most historic in the country. This bustling event offers a mix of fresh produce, hand-painted ceramics, textiles, and regional delicacies, creating a colorful and lively…

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Visiting Barcelos

Esposende

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Otávio Nogueira

Esposende, a coastal gem in northern Portugal, offers visitors a relaxed atmosphere and a beautiful mix of sea, river, and countryside. Located between Porto and Viana do Castelo, it sits at the mouth of the Cávado River and is part of the Green Coast (Costa Verde), a region known for its natural beauty and temperate climate. The town is ideal…

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Visiting Esposende

Porto

Porto or Oporto is the second-largest city in Portugal, the capital of the Oporto District, and one of the Iberian Peninsula's major urban areas. Oporto city proper, which is the entire municipality of Porto, is small compared to its metropolitan area, with an estimated population of just 231,800 people in a municipality with only 41.42 km2. Porto's metropolitan area has…

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Visiting Porto

Vila Real

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Varun Shiv Kapur

Vila Real, the capital of Trás-os-Montes in Northern Portugal, is a bustling town located on a plateau in the foothills of the Serra do Marão. The town is connected by bridges that span the deep ravines created by the Corgo and Cabril rivers, which converge here. From a terrace high above, once the site of a castle, visitors can enjoy…

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Visiting Vila Real

Peso da Régua

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Vitor Oliveira

Peso da Régua is a town located in the Alto Douro wine region in Northern Portugal, and it is considered the capital of the Upper Douro province. The town is situated on the banks of the Douro River, and it is an important center for the production and trade of port wine, which has been the main economic activity in…

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Visiting Peso da Régua

Viana do Castelo

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Sergei Gussev

Viana do Castelo, situated amidst an estuary of the Lima River and rolling hills, is a charming city in northern Portugal that is renowned for its traditional character. Despite being a significant hub for deep-sea fishing, as well as housing industries such as pyrotechnics, wood manufacturing, ceramics, and boat building (which have experienced a resurgence after years of decline), the…

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Visiting Viana do Castelo

Lamego

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Vitor Oliveira

Lamego is a city located in the Viseu District in Northern Portugal. It is situated in the Douro Valley region, known for its picturesque landscapes and world-renowned wine production. Lamego has a rich history, with evidence of human settlement dating back to prehistoric times. In the Roman period, the city was an important center for trade and agriculture, and later…

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Visiting Lamego

Espinho

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Ricardo Saraiva de Almeida

Espinho, located in northern Portugal, is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, seafood delicacies, and relaxed atmosphere. The town’s golden sands and rolling Atlantic waves make it a popular destination for beach lovers and surfers alike. Praia de Espinho, one of the main beaches, offers stunning sea views and a lively boardwalk lined with restaurants and cafés,…

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Visiting Espinho

Pinhão (Alijó)

CC BY-SA 3.0 / jfreire

Pinhão is a small town located in the heart of the Douro Valley wine region in Northern Portugal. It is situated on the banks of the Douro River, surrounded by rolling hills covered in vineyards. The town is often considered to be one of the most picturesque in the region, with its traditional whitewashed houses and red-roofed buildings. Pinhão is…

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Visiting Pinhão (Alijó)