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When to Visit

The best time to visit Guimaraes is between April to November, when there is warm weather without rain, as on most of the territory of Portugal. Spring and autumn average temperatures are between 15 to 22.2° C, perfect for outdoor activities and exploration. Summer from June to August is a high season, when the temperature may exceed 30° C, hence, it is not the best time for visitors to dive into the Guimaraes history without the crowds. Due to the increase in tourists, the accommodation costs will be at a year-long high during this season. The winter season is quite cold, with an average temperature of around 0° C, so it can be not comfortable to express the city this time, but still, all the main attractions are available.

Getting Around

Guimaraes is a small city, so it's easy to explore it on foot to see all the meaningful spots. It's highly recommended to prepare the most comfortable shoes to walk around and see all the most significant places. As for the transport, there are also the options. In case you want to see the  sightseeings around, for longer distances there is a taxi service. It's easy to get to nearby towns by bus from the local bus station. As for those who come here by car, there is a comfortable parking area, from where it's easy to start the sightseeing tour. Guimaraes is connected with big cities and is accessible via major highways like the A3 and A7. It's about a 50-minute drive from Porto and around 3 hours from Lisbon, depending on traffic and road conditions. If you prefer rail transport, it is easy to get from Braga or Porto.

Travel Information

You can get an unforgettable experience while traveling in Guimaraes if you consider a few simple Guimaraes travel tips:

1. How to make the first trip to Guimaraes unforgettable?

The trip to Guimaraes is like traveling through the times, from one historical era to another as it's a perfect blend of historical and cultural monuments, green parks, and peaceful life flow. In the center of attention of all visitors is the royal palace, which is reminiscent of the times of the city’s prosperity, and the best example of medieval architecture. After restoration, this palace began to serve as the residence of the President of Portugal. The architecture of Guimaraes UNESCO spots, such as the monastery of Nossa Senhora da Oliveira, the Doge's Palace, and the building of the Church of St. Francis, is also unique. The monastery today houses a number of interesting items of historical significance. Among them are the weapons of King João I, which can be seen by all the visitors in an open exhibition.

2. What is a list of Guimaraes hidden gems?

Guimaraes is small, but still rich in historical, cultural, and religious sightseeings. Some of Guimaraes attractions are not so popular but still deserve attention. 

Nearby there is the beautiful garden Jardim do Lugar das Hortas, perfect for walking and taking a break from the hustle and bustle of the world. One more excellent place to relax is Mini Golfe – Penha. Here it’s possible not only to play everyone’s favorite game, but also enjoy the views of breathtaking landscapes. Those who are looking for leisure activity should visit Foxtrot Aventura with paintball, zip lining, and canyoning. A considerable dose of adrenaline here is guaranteed. And if you take Teleférico de Guimarães lift, you'll witness the beautiful views of the Pigna hills. 

3. What dishes are the must-try in Guimaraes?

Guimaraes local cuisine is typical to the rest of Portugal, it's rich in seafood and meat, natural ingredients, and minimal cooking to keep the real taste of high-quality products. Both small cafes and fashion restaurants offer a great variety of barbecues for smoking over coals or wood cooking. The aroma is so exquisite and unique that no one can stay indifferent. Additionally, the residents of Guimaraes, not without reason, value all kinds of pickled foods. Cooking meat for barbecues using this method is especially common. There is a wide variety of smoking meat over coals or wood, and every cooker has its own secrets. But in most cases, the meat product is marinated a couple of days before cooking. Light wines, as well as heads of garlic, lemon juice, and black pepper, can be added as seasoning. Typical Portuguese bakery such as the Pastel de nata is the best accompaniment for the meal.