The Top 10 Things To See And Do In Guimarães, Portugal

Named after a centuries-old olive tree that was planted here, the social square of Largo da Oliveira is one of the city’s cultural focal points alongside the nearby Largo da Sao Tiago. The square hosts an array of traditional Portuguese houses featuring a spectacular gothic shrine in the middle. This was built in the reign of Alfonso IV to commemorate the battle of Salado, where Portuguese and Castilian forces drove back the Moorish army in 1339.

No trip to Guimaraes is complete without visiting its most monumental and imposing landmark – the Guimaraes Castle. The castle stands as a symbol of local prowess. It is an architectural treasure that attracts a large number of visitors each year. Whether you wish to stand in its splendid shadow and admire the castle from beneath, or scale its fortifications and experience the city from above, this is a must-visit for any traveler.

One of Guimaraes most historic and culturally significant streets, Rua de Santa Maria is home to a variety of architectural marvels from the medieval period. Walk along the street to feel like you have traveled back in time. The street also hosts a variety of restaurants and shops. It is the perfect place to take in the beauty of the city while doing some shopping or having a meal in one of the restaurants.

The Convent and Church of Sao Francisco is one of the major architectural and historical pieces of Portuguese identity. It stands as a lasting relic of the Franciscan order in Guimaraes. The church is a splendid example of architectural blends. These includes gothic and mannerist as well as a host of other styles, reworked over many centuries in order to create the beautiful amalgamation that can be seen today.

One of the most remarkable natural landmarks of Northern Portugal, the Serra Penha is seen as the home mountain of Guimaraes. More than 600 meters high, this colossal granite mountain stands proud above the city. The summit offers a variety of activities such as mini golf, as well as hosting a statue commemorating Pius IX. Climb the mountain and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the region.

Founded in 1928, the Museu de Alberto Sampaio stands as one of Guimaraes main museums within its cultural center. The museum is home to many collections of cultural and historical interest. The collections include pieces such as a sculpture featuring different statues made between the 13th and 18th centuries from limestone and wood, several wood-carved pieces and various holy relics and altarpieces. One of the highlights is the tunic of Don Jõao I from the battle of Aljubarrota.

The gardens and palace of Vila Flor are suggested as one of the initial points from which Guimaraes cultural prowess has blossomed. The Jardins do Palaci de Vila Flor are a stunning example of the fruitful mix between human creativity and natural beauty. The gardens provide a welcoming retreat and a relaxation spot from which to take in the magnificence of Guimaraes city.

The Foxtrot Adventura is a an adventure program designed for the bravest, most active travelers. As part of the experience, visitors will be exposed to an array of adrenaline -nducing and action-packed tasks. These range from rock climbing to unstable bridge crossings. Foxtrot Adventura is the perfect attraction for those wishing to add a bit more risk to their trip.

Many of the sights featured on this list look at the artistic mastery passed down to us in the form of historic architectural examples. The Center for Art and Architecture provides a different perspective of art in Guimaraes. Opened in 2011 in the building of an old textile factory, this center specializes in creative expression within various fields while working as a non profit organization. The center provides an insight into the developing cultural scene of Guimaraes. It also offers a well-chosen selection of works for visitors wishing to explore the best that the arts and culture scene of the city has to offer.