Things to do in Guimaraes
Discover the best attractions and experiences Guimaraes has to offer
Historic Monuments
Guimarães’ historic center is a UNESCO-listed treasure of medieval streets, castles, and royal legacies that shaped Portugal.
Castelo de Guimarães
Medieval fortress in the heart of the historic center, offering city views and a tangible sense of Portugal’s origins.
Paço dos Duques de Bragança
Renaissance-era palace near the castle with period rooms and royal atmosphere.
Muralha Fernandina (Fernandina Walls)
Ancient city walls built under King Ferdinand that frame Guimarães' medieval streets.
Museums
Explore sacred art, local history, and regional storytelling in Guimarães’ compact museum scene.
Museu Alberto Sampaio
A fine collection of sacred art and local artifacts set in a medieval cloister.
Centro de Interpretação da História de Guimarães
Exhibits and multimedia displays about the city’s pivotal role in Portuguese history.
Religious Monuments
Religious sites that reveal the spiritual layers of Guimarães’ past and present.
Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira
Ancient church at the center of Guimarães’s foundation legend with Romanesque elements.
Santuário da Penha
Hilltop sanctuary accessible by a funicular offering panoramic views of the city.
National & Theme Parks
Green spaces to enjoy Guimarães’ landscapes and views, from hilltop parks to city viewpoints.
Coming Soon!
We're currently working on adding national & theme parks recommendations for Guimaraes. Check back soon for curated suggestions in this category.
Neighborhoods
Explore the city’s most atmospheric areas where history and daily life blend.
Centro Histórico de Guimarães
The UNESCO-listed historic center, full of narrow lanes, balconies and ancient charm.
Penha Hill Area
A hillside district around the Penha sanctuary with viewpoints and winding streets.
Free Things to Do
Discover Guimarães on foot without spending a euro: history, views, and squares.
Walk the UNESCO-listed Historic Centre
Stroll through medieval lanes and squares that tell Guimarães’ story.
Praça do Toural & Surroundings
Relax in the central square and observe life in the old town.
Penha Hill viewpoints (external)
Take a free stroll to vantage points with sweeping city views.
Gastronomy
Sample local flavors that pair perfectly with Minho wines.
Bolo de Mel
Guimarães’ famous honey cake, a sweet local specialty.
Vinho Verde
Light, refreshing white wine from the Minho region.
Caldo Verde
Traditional green soup made with kale and potato.
Nightlife
Evenings in Guimarães center around lively bars, cafés and cultural venues.
Historic center bars and terraces
Casual spots around the old town to enjoy drinks al fresco.
Centre Cultural Vila Flor (CCVF) events
Evening concerts and performances at the principal cultural venue.
Theatre or live shows at Teatro Jordão
Local performances add a touch of culture after dark.
Entertainment
Cultural venues and performances add texture to Guimarães’s evenings.
Centro Cultural Vila Flor (CCVF)
Multifaceted cultural venue with concerts, theater and exhibitions.
Teatro Jordão
Venue for plays, dance and live performances in the city center.
Sports
Sports fans can catch a game or enjoy active moments around the city.
Estádio Dom Afonso Henriques
Home stadium of Vitória S.C., where you can feel the local football fervor.
Bike or hike around Penha hillside
Active ways to explore the city’s green hills and viewpoints.
Off the Track
A few less touristy routes that reveal Guimarães’s hidden corners.
Walk the Fernandina Walls path
Follow parts of the ancient Fernandine walls with city views.
Penha funicular ride to the sanctuary
Ride the historic funicular for a different city perspective.