Guimaraes

Guimaraes is a city in northern Portugal, 55 km northeast of Porto, with origins in the 9th century and a beautiful Medieval center. The city is considered the birthplace of Portugal due to being the birthplace of Afonso Henriques the first king of Portugal.
Spend half a day in the city’s beautiful and charming Medieval center enjoying the narrow streets and small squares, the old buildings with the granite balconies and porticos, the arches, the old charming churches, and the magnificent mansions.

Guimaraes Street

Guimaraes Castle

Santiago Square

The main attractions of Guimaraes recommended by TheTjoy.com are

The 15th century Burgundian style Palace of the Dukes of Braganca, Paco dos Duques de Braganca, and the nearby 10th century Guimaraes Castle, a Portuguese symbol, both on the top of Monte Latito. In the restored palace visit the courtyard, the grand halls, and the museum home to a beautiful 16th -17th centuries collection of Flemish tapestries, porcelains, period furniture and more. Near the palace visit the nearby Romanesque church of Sao Miguel do Castelo, and the Romanesque Guimaraes Castle and its impressive fortifications, towers, and the military square and central keep.
In the City’s historic center, on your way to the palace, enjoy the Collegiate Church of Nossa Senhora da Oliveira with its impressive Romanesque/Mudejar architecture, and the Alberto Sampaio Museum part of the church complex, home to 12th to 19th centuries religious artworks. The museum collections include liturgical instruments and sculptures, woodcarvings, frescoes and painted panels, gold and silverware, Ceramics, textile and more.
Visit Praça de Santiago Square with its restaurants and terraces
Admire the former Convent of Santa Clara now the Guimaraes city hall, with its small, charming courtyard, cloisters and gardens, and the highly detailed and beautiful Baroque facade.
Behind and part of the 14th century Church of the Convent of S. Domingos, visit the important Romanesque Museum Martins Sarmento of prehistoric and pre-Roman cultures. On site, admire the 18th century Baroque church of Santos Passos, Igreja dos Santos Passos, its beautiful gardens, its tiles decorated facade and nave, and the floors decorated with ceramic mosaic.
If time allows, consider riding the Penha Hill Cable Car to Monte da Penha, to enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the north of Portugal.

Spend few hours to half a day visiting Guimaraes as part of a day trip from Porto, and consider combining a visit to beautiful Braga as part of the trip.