Guimaraes City in the northern part of Portugal. Guimaraes Portugal has a good collection of preserved medieval buildings, like the Guimaraes Castle from the 10th century, which provides breathtaking views of the city. The Dukes of Bragança Palace, which is a French-style chateau, has a museum featuring paintings and antiques. At the same time, the nearby São Miguel do Castelo Church dates back to the 13th century. Be it for a lovely getaway or a quiet vacation, it can offer you that perfect escape.
Why Choose Guimaraes Portugal?
Guimaraes is, therefore, often called the "birthplace of Portugal" owing to its indispensable historical significance. The very essence of the town is reflected in rich medieval architecture with incredible views of the amazing quiet corners, ideal for some cherished moments. This is further enhanced by the UNESCO World Heritage status of the city, which invites visitors to an experience of stepping back in time into the midst of beautiful monuments.
Unlike the wider cities like Porto or Lisbon, Guimaraes is calm and welcoming. Therefore, it would be really good for couples wishing to spend their time hand in hand with no fuss of ordinary large crowds. So, whether it is a long weekend or a brief romantic escape, Guimaraes has all you will ever need for a dreamy experience.
Things to Do Guimaraes Portugal
1. The Old Town at Night: Wander and Explore
It is called the Old Town of Guimaraes Portugal where history and grace meet. During the daytime, you could find it crowded with quaint cafes, lots of cute shops, and monuments that have seen wonderful years of history. When night falls, however, this place transforms into a magical and almost unreal place. The streets are calm, and the mellow caress of street lights presents itself romantically. Walk through the narrow, cobble-stoned streets into hidden squares peaceful courtyards, and impressive medieval buildings.
What you will do is stand outside an old stone house lighted by a lantern, with the sound of church bells very far away and the evening breeze being incredible, as if taking you somewhere else in time. Don't hurry: revel in one another's company, wandering and soaking in the atmosphere.
2. Guimaraes Castle Visits
Guimaraes Castle is the most attractive place to visit in Guimaraes Portugal. It is located on a hilltop and gives a view of the bage town. The castle is an ancient medieval fortress built in 10th century and one of the best-preserved castles in the country. Walk through this magnificent ancient gate and tour the tall stone walls and big courtyards.
The view from the top of the castle is absolutely breathtaking, especially during golden hours when the sun sets and shines a warm, romantic light upon the city. It is a good place to share a quiet moment with your beloved as you gaze into the surrounding countryside.
3. Visit the Palace Duques de Bragança
The stunning Palace Duques de Bragança is just a stone's throw away from that castle. I mean, literally just a few steps across the courtyard will see you close to this majestic example of 15th-century architecture, once a royal residence and now a museum dedicated to all things to do with the ducal family. The internal area has impressive wooden ceilings, halls that can be described only as grand, and fancy furnishings, which render it an interesting place for couples to explore together.
Indeed, the great things take time. The arts and history have something to shower your admiration on; remember to walk your way into the quiet gardens behind the palace. A very tranquil atmosphere with a beautiful view of the castle is an ideal setting for a romantic walk.
4. Feast at the Penha Sanctuary and Parque Campismo
Da Penha Penha Sanctuary is a sanctuary for adventure-loving couples who want to taste Mother Nature. Built on top of a hill, this sanctuary proves itself as an oasis where you will be able to enjoy the very delightful panoramic views of Guimares and the neighboring countryside. Cable car riding would take you to the sanctuary on an € 7 round trip. For nature lovers, it can be reached by a trail, which is quite good for hiking.
Walking through the Parque Campismo Da Penha is a fun way to spend time at the top, after which you explore this zigzagging network of trails and picnic areas, all surrounded by greenery and mighty boulders. This ideal place with a meditative atmosphere and awe-inspiring views is the perfect option to steal moments away from the town's commotion into a secluded-dreamy moment.
5. Admire the Azulejo Tiles at the Chapel of Sã Francisco
One of the most romantic places, and possibly the prettiest places in Guimaraes, is the Capela de São Francisco, a small chapel bedecked traditionally with Portuguese azulejo tiles. The church is most elegantly covered on the outside by an intricate design of blue and white tiles, depicting some of the most prettily laid-out scenes, while the inside is made up of intricate woodcrafts and gold.
The charm of the picturesque architecture and peaceful atmosphere makes it perfect for some quiet time with your partner. The tile work is worth looking closely at, as it truly illustrates the beauty of Portuguese craftsmanship.
6. Visit the Jardim do Largo Nissan and
Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Consolação
If you have been to Guimaraes during the summer visiting Jardim do Largo Nissan, a superb place for having a calm and lovely afternoon with a partner, it would have been in a different light when this beautiful garden in front of the Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Consolação, adorned with fountains, multicolored flowers, still shady spots for rest, came into things.
This church presents the beauty of light and shadow on this magnificent facade and all its detailed ornamentation even more magically near dusk when the sun becomes warm and golden. And after that, you can walk down Old Town's streets and drop in on one of the many small cafes along the way for a drink or light snack.
7. Relax at Museu de Alberto Sampaio and Courtyard Gardens
Anyone who values art or history will highly appreciate the Museu de Alberto Sampaio: it brings together an extraordinary collection of religious art sculptures, paintings, and artifacts old, all found in the very heart of Old Town. While touring the collections hall, this museum would give you the brief chance to spend time at one of its fine courtyards, beautifully green and soothingly quiet.
Getting Around Guimaraes Portugal
Getting Around Guimaraes Portugal is a very straightforward exercise, as the town is small and walkable. Most major attractions are within Old Town, where you will find charming streets and alleys to explore on foot because that is the best way to take in the beauty of the town at your own pace.
If the footsteps are not something you would want to do, it could be an option to take a taxi, Uber, or use scooter-sharing services like Bird and Circ present in the area, as well as said buses for one more affordable and accessible way around if you want to travel the places outside Old Town.
For that matter, if you are traveling from Porto, Guimaraes is about an hour away by train or bus. There are comfortable trains, and the rides are pretty scenic as the scenery passes through the countryside.
Budgeting for a Romantic Getaway in Guimaraes Portugal
Compared to the big cities in Portugal, Guimaraes is relatively cheap. Expect to spend around €50 to €60 daily for two people, including accommodation, eating, and activities. Hostel beds in shared dorms will range from €15 to €25 per night, while a really nice meal at any of the local restaurants costs around €7 to €15 per person.
Most of the important attraction entrances could be accessed between €3 to €10. For about €8, you will get a combined ticket to visit Guimaraes Castle and Palace Duques de Bragança. Value for money, I should say.
For an ultimately romantic experience, a cozy dinner at one of those town's lovely restaurants or staying at a boutique hotel right in the heart of Old Town for a more intimate feeling.