Guimaraes

Guimarães is a city in northern Portugal. It’s known for well-preserved medieval buildings like the hilltop, 10th-century Guimarães Castle, with its sweeping city views. The restored Dukes of Bragança Palace, built in the style of a French chateau, has a museum showcasing furniture, tapestries and weapons. Between the palace and the castle is the Romanesque São Miguel do Castelo Church, built in the 13th century.
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Top attractions in Guimaraes

Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira
1. Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira
4.6
(1202)
Catholic church
Sights & Landmarks
Late 15th-century church featuring Gothic architecture & ornate baroque artwork inside.
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Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira Type: church Time spent: 15-20 min Price: 2 EUR Parking: not available Bike parking: not available Historical church in the old city centre.
This 15th century church is marvelous and a beauty of the architecture. We were not able to visit the church from inside as it was closed, but it had a quite a stance in the middle of the market. There is a ancient monument just outside it with a cross within it. Overall a magnificent structure and well preserved.
A stunning Gothic church rich with history and atmosphere. Beautiful architecture and peaceful surroundings in the old town. A must-visit landmark when exploring Guimarães!
It is located on Largo de Oliveria. It is definitely an amazing church. Not just it is a part of the culture but architecture wise it is also amazing. Inside of the church is another story. You will be impressed for sure. You can spend lots of time inside by embracing serenity and peace. Recommended strongly!
I can’t go inside because it’s Mass time. I stand and watch from the outside, took some photos, feel great to be there. I ask them about coin souvenir for selling, but they don’t have it, so sad in minute.
Great & beautifully designed ☺️
I love this church. Such a beautiful arches and even the old fire alarm box that used to be connected to the bells.
The Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira (Church of Our Lady of the Olive Tree) in Guimarães is a deeply unique and historically resonant landmark, central to the city's identity as the birthplace of Portugal. What sets it apart is its Gothic architecture and its profound connection to King John I and the Battle of Aljubarrota, as he ordered its reconstruction in the late 14th century as a vow of thanks for the Portuguese victory. This makes it a significant symbol of Portuguese independence. Adding to its distinctiveness is the "Legend of the Olive Tree", which gives the church its name. According to tradition, an ancient olive tree in front of the church miraculously revived after being cut down, leading to the placement of the Padrão do Salado (a Gothic shrine commemorating the Battle of Salado) right outside its doors. The church's interior features notable 18th-century altarpieces and a revered image of Our Lady of Oliveira. This blend of historical significance, architectural evolution, and local legend makes Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira a truly singular site.
Guimarães Castle
2. Guimarães Castle
4.5
(33901)
Castle
Sights & Landmarks
Hilltop Romanesque castle, founded in the 1000s & thought to be the birthplace of Afonso Henriques.
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This 10th century castle of the first king of Portugal is a piece of architectural marvel. It is spread over a vast land with a palace and a church just outside the castle. The castle itself is not that big, but is well preserved and maintained. The entrance gate is big and it has stairs to climb to the top of the boundary wall and one can explore the entire castle. They also have a 3D show happening at the top of the castle. This is worth a visit.
Imposing building that can be seen from all around. The original structure is largely still fully intact, however they're is no interior to look at, side from the room where the virtual reality experience is held. The wall walk is essentially all there is, however yes still very impressive, with stunning views all around, including it the palace nearby.
Guimarães Castle is the impressive ruin of an ancient fortress, believed to have been one of the first residences of Portugal’s early kings. This stronghold was originally built to defend the surrounding lands and played a key role in the country’s formation. Today, visitors can explore the remaining towers and walls while enjoying a fascinating VR experience that recreates what the castle looked like centuries ago. It’s a great way to imagine its former glory and understand its importance in Portuguese history. Definitely worth a visit — especially if you’re interested in medieval architecture or the origins of Portugal itself.
Nice Castle, short walk around. Lots of history here. 360 virtual tour was cool. If your going to visit, either buy your tickets online or visit the ducal palace first and buy Combo tickets there first.
The castle of Guimarães is a must-see and truly impressive, full of history and atmosphere. However, the online ticketing system is a real nightmare: the process is unnecessarily complicated and PayPal is not even available. It’s a shame that visitors have to go through such a complex journey just to get in. On top of that, the central tower was closed without any prior notice, which was disappointing. Overall, the monument itself is absolutely worth it, but the management of the visitor experience could and should be much better.
Parked far away so walked a lot, but discovered great cafe and walked through old town after castle and chapel. Entry is free for Portuguese and 5euros each for castle and palace for tourists. Visited Sep 2025.
A very weird place. Just four walls and that's it. The only interesting thing is the tower and it's closed. In one loophole you can buy water for €2, in another you can watch a 3D cartoon for €6. What's the entrance fee for? The creepiest attraction in Portugal.
It is a scam for the tourist. You pay 5.31euro to see 4 walls in 5 minutes. You cannot even enter the central tower. Don't go to this place. There is plenty of castels much more interesting like in Obidos, Silves, Sintra or Montemor-o-Velho. I was really deceived and I could have spend 5 euro to get 4 bananas, 1 bottle of water, 2 packs of granola and 3 packs of lemonade. Just stay outside is really enough and enjoy the photo I posted. Regards
Palace Duques de Bragança
3. Palace Duques de Bragança
4.6
(6077)
Art museum
Sights & Landmarks
Medieval residence with period interiors plus a museum including noteworthy tapestries & porcelain.
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Absolutely captivated by the Palace of the Duques de Bragança in Guimarães! A truly immersive journey into Portuguese history. The beautifully preserved rooms, rich with tapestries, furniture, and artifacts, really bring the lives of the dukes to life. The architecture itself is stunning, and the informative displays (or guided tours!) make it a genuinely enriching experience. A definite highlight of my trip – highly recommend!
The palace grounds have some nice huge trees, benches, … very nice area. Inside, the walkthrough has nice examples of tapestry, furniture, and such from the Baroque era. The history of the palace ties deeply into the history of Portugal, so well worth visiting. Plus, Guimarães is so charming.
I really admired the historical objects, furniture, paintings and weapons inside; the explanations were also quite in detail. It would have been a better visit if there was more information about those who have lived in this Palace and also so situate it's importance in Portuguese history.
The Palácio dos Duques de Bragança is a modern reconstruction of the original palace, and it’s clear that several contemporary features — such as the distinctive chimneys — were added during restoration. While these newer elements somewhat alter the authenticity of the original design, the site remains impressive and historically significant. The entrance fee is very reasonable, and the palace’s location right next to Guimarães Castle makes it convenient to visit both in one trip. The building is clean, well-maintained, and still manages to convey a strong sense of Portugal’s past. Despite the reconstruction, it’s definitely worth a visit for anyone interested in architecture, history, or simply exploring the heritage of Guimarães.
A truly beautiful property with elegant rooms, detailed carpets, and many historic objects that give the place a very special atmosphere. You can buy a combined ticket for the palace and the castle, which costs only 8 euros and is absolutely worth it. The whole site is peaceful, well maintained, and definitely worth a visit.
A must visit place if you are in Guimarães. The site is both beautiful and offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of people from centuries past. The chapel, in particular, was stunning. Keep in mind that waiting times can be lengthy, especially on hot days, so it might be wise to visit during cooler seasons. Free admission is available for residents of Portugal.
Impressive building with lots of history. Gets quite busy and there's not a lot to see for the entry price - especially with the building works currently going on. If you buy the castle ticket say the same time, there is a discount.
There is something serene about this palace, you are embraced by it as you go inside. It's free if you buy the Guimaraes Pass from Casa de memorias so is the castle and 9 other places in Guimaraes.
Largo da Oliveira
4. Largo da Oliveira
Sights & Landmarks
Historic Sites
Quaint cobbled square surrounded by centuries-old buildings & a Gothic church, plus alfresco cafes.
Penha Cable Car - Lower Station
5. Penha Cable Car - Lower Station
4.4
(3484)
Mountain cable car
Transportation
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Cable car Type: public transport Price: 5/10 EUR (one way / +back) Path for disabled: not available Car parking: available Bike parking: available Distance: 1.7 km (400m up) Time spent: 10 min This cable car is located close to the city centre and connects it to the Penha mountain. You can enjoy the panoramic view of Guimarães via your window, including the Castle, the Palace, churches and other notable places of the city. Penha mountain has nice viewpoints of the city, several caves, a large park, a chapel, a monument of Papa Pio IX, and a church (Santuário da Penha).
10 eur for the round trip, definitely worth it. The views during the ride and at the top are amazing. I only wish they installed some kiosks to sell tickets, because the line can stuck sometimes as there is only one counter.
A beautiful and highly recommended experience! The cable car ride is calm, safe, and offers stunning views of Guimarães and the surrounding nature. At the top, the Penha Sanctuary is a magical place to walk around, relax, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Perfect for photos and a peaceful moment in nature. It’s best to go early or on a weekday to avoid queues.
They need to purchase new cable cars because the glass has scratches. It was hard to see the view
Great journey to the top of the mountain, €7.50 return. Dog friendly too & also takes bikes. Views from the top are amazing! Huge boulder formations, pretty church, park, several cafe/restaurants up there too. Def not to be missed if visiting Guimaraes!👍🏻
Only €10 to go up and down. A real bargain and great views of the city below. Also, at the top of the hill, it is very beautiful.
It was a pleasant journey since we visited off season and there were not many people there. The view was not particular beautiful or anything and it’s a bit strange to sit in a cable car above some people’s house. The church and the park on the peak were peaceful though.
So nice! Worth the trip! Beautiful view of the city and lots of picnic tables.
Parque da Penha
6. Parque da Penha
4.7
(321)
Park
Nature & Parks
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Great views over the valley below, amazing boulders with adventurous narrow paths paved in between them (great for kids). A small jem. Recommended!
Very beautiful and a lot of stones, every time you find a new route to walk, and there are many places and tables in the park where you can have a quiet picnic
What a stunning place, above Guimaraes, you can get the cable car up for free if you get the Guimaraes pass from the Casa de Memorias. This park at the top is breathtaking and tranquil. Enjoy the park take a picnic you won't regret it. Cable car runs from 10.00 to 18:00
This is probably the most beautiful place on Portugal for me. Looks like magic forest, full of green life.
Unique place with outstanding views, calm forests and majestic boulders, which are very fun to walk around in. The cable car trip up there (and back down) is also a nice experience :)
An unexpected find at the top of the cable car. Really unusual park like something out of The Hobbit
The beauty of the paths is worthile the visit. Worthwhile to visit all year long.
Charming parque with an amazing view! Enough parking space available or accesible by cable car
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Other notable attractions

Praça de São Tiago
Sights & Landmarks
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira
Catholic church
Sights & Landmarks
Late 15th-century church featuring Gothic architecture & ornate baroque artwork inside.
Citânia de Briteiros
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Archeological site boasting the ruins of an Iron Age fort, plus various structures & artifacts.
Largo do Toural
Sights & Landmarks
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Sanctuary of Penha
Religious destination
Sights & Landmarks
Modern sanctuary on a spacious, hilltop piazza with city views & surrounded by walking trails.
Dom Afonso Henriques
Sights & Landmarks
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Church of Saint Francis
Catholic church
Sights & Landmarks
Museu de Alberto Sampaio
Museum
Art museum
Museum in a former church spotlighting historic religious art, sculptures & relics.
Igreja de São Miguel do Castelo
Sights & Landmarks
Churches & Cathedrals
Modest medieval Romanesque church constructed of granite & surrounded by forests & walking trails.
Padrão do Salado
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
In a medieval square, this Gothic monument with 4 arches & a cross commemorates a battle victory.

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Weather in Guimaraes

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Monthly temperature highs and lows in Guimaraes
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