September 10th 2024.
Are you looking for the perfect Portuguese city break? Imagine strolling through sun-kissed streets, admiring the charming tiled buildings and indulging in delicious Portuguese sweet treats. If this sounds like your dream vacation, then you'll definitely want to check out Guimarães, a hidden gem located just 30 miles north of Porto.
While most people are familiar with popular destinations like Lisbon and the Algarve, Guimarães often gets overshadowed by its more well-known neighbor. But don't let that fool you, this UNESCO Heritage site and original capital of Portugal is well worth adding to your must-visit list.
As CN Traveller describes it, Guimarães is one of the most beautiful small towns in Europe. With its 1000-year-old castle and thriving arts scene, it's no wonder the city was named the Capital of Culture in 2012. Lonely Planet praises its picturesque plazas and labyrinthine lanes, and notes that the city has a unique creative edge.
TripAdvisor even compares Guimarães to a fairy tale, and it's easy to see why. Visitors can't help but fall in love with the charming atmosphere, as one reviewer wrote, "Everywhere was so full of fun and happiness under a perfect sunny sky and a pleasant evening." It's no wonder this city is a favorite among travelers.
But how do you get to this magical destination? While there is no airport in Guimarães, getting there from the UK is a breeze. Simply catch a direct flight to Porto, with prices starting at just £43 return in October according to SkyScanner. Even in August 2025, during the height of summer, return flights are just £109. With airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet serving the Portuguese city, you'll have plenty of options to choose from.
Once you arrive in Porto, it's just a short 45-minute train ride to Guimarães from the main station, Porto São Bento. And at around £14 for a ticket, it's an absolute steal. Tickets can be purchased on the day or online from the Comboios de Portugal website.
Now that you know how to get there, it's time to plan your stay. Booking.com has some great options for accommodations, including the Bellu Suites for £55, Eurostars Santa Luzia for £60, Pousada Mosteiro de Guimaraes for £100, Stay Hotel Guimarães Centro for £40, and Hotel da Oliveira for £124. These prices were checked in September 2024 for a four-star stay for one night for two adults in November 2024 in Guimarães City Centre.
But before you start packing, you may be wondering what the weather is like in Guimarães. As expected from a Portuguese city, it has a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and colder winters. The best time to visit is from June to September when the temperature can reach highs of 25°C in August. The coldest month is usually January, with average highs of almost 13°C.
Now that you know when to go and how to get there, let's talk about what to do in Guimarães. The city is full of history, earning it the title of "the birthplace of Portugal." In 1128, Afonso Henriques defeated the Moors, freeing the nation, and making Guimarães his capital. It's no wonder it's often referred to as the "cradle city."
One of the must-see attractions in Guimarães is the famous castle, which has been well preserved since its construction over 1000 years ago. Visitors can climb to the highest points of the castle for breathtaking panoramic views. For more scenic views, take a cable car 600m up to Mount Penha. Here, you can stroll around the hills, and visit the unique 1930s modernist church.
But Guimarães isn't just a city full of history. With around half of its inhabitants under the age of 30, it's also one of Europe's youngest cities. The Platform for Arts and Creativity, built for the city's recognition as the European Capital of Culture, reflects this youthful energy with its stacked box design. The museum hosts visiting exhibitions and features a permanent collection by renowned Portuguese pop artist, José Guimarães.
When night falls, the city comes alive with its vibrant nightlife. You can enjoy a sundowner at one of the many bars in São Tiago Square or head to the Concert Café at the Villa Flor Cultural Centre and Palace, where you can sip cocktails and listen to live music on the weekends.
No visit to Guimarães is complete without trying their famous pastry, Tortas de Guimarães. Legend has it that nuns living in the convent created this recipe, and it has become a traditional treat in the town. These crescent-shaped pastries are made with eggs, sugar, almonds, and filled with squash. After baking, they are dipped in syrup for a crispy, glossy coating and an extra sweet taste. For an authentic taste, head to Casa Costinhas, a family-run spot now into its fifth generation. And if you visit in November, be sure to check out the jazz festival, Guimarães Jazz, now in its 33rd year.
But don't worry, you won't go hungry in Guimarães. The city has plenty of delicious food options, including the Michelin starred A Cozinha, which offers a mouth-watering nine-course tasting menu featuring traditional Portuguese flavors. And for another unique dining experience, try Hool, located inside the Hotel da Oliveira, where you can see the chef at work behind a glass wall.
So what are the top things to do in Guimarães? According to TripAdvisor, they are:
1. Visit the historical town centre
2. Palace Duques de Bragança
3. Guimarães Castle
4. Quinta das Manas farm
5. Ride the cable cars
As you can see, Guimarães has something for everyone, from history buffs to foodies to party-goers. So why not add this charming city to your travel bucket list? With its rich history, picturesque scenery, and delicious treats, Guimarães is the perfect destination for your next Portuguese city break.
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