Morning Visit to Guimarães Castle

You can find the latest updates on Guimarães travel info.

You can find the latest updates on Guimarães travel info.

The castle is open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Entry tickets cost about five Euros for adults in 2026. You should allow 45 minutes to explore the entire grounds. This is a key part of most Guimarães self guided walks available today.

Just outside the castle sits the small Saint Michael's Chapel. Tradition says the first king of Portugal was baptized here. The chapel is small but holds deep historical meaning. Entry is usually free with your castle ticket.

The walk from the castle to the next stop is very short. You will pass through a beautiful green park area. Keep your camera ready for the impressive statue of King Afonso Henriques. This area provides a great introduction to the city's royal past.

The Palace of the Dukes of Braganza

The Palace of the Dukes is located just below the castle. This 15th-century palace features unique brick chimneys. Its architecture was inspired by Northern European styles of that era. It serves as a museum and official residence today.

Inside, you will find massive rooms filled with period furniture. The Flemish tapestries are among the must-see stops in Guimarães for any visitor. Each room tells a story of Portuguese nobility and power. Plan to spend at least one hour inside.

A combined ticket for the palace and castle is available. This option saves you money during your 2026 visit. The palace inner courtyard is perfect for quiet reflection. The wooden ceilings are also a major highlight of the tour.

The palace gift shop offers high-quality local crafts. You can find unique souvenirs that represent the Minho region. Restrooms and water fountains are available near the entrance. This stop is essential for understanding the city's wealth and history.

Walking Through the Historic Center

Walk down the Rua de Santa Maria toward the city center. This is the oldest street in Guimarães. It connects the upper castle area to the lower squares. Look for the ornate balconies and traditional stone houses.

You will soon arrive at Largo da Oliveira. This square is the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage site. It features the beautiful Church of Nossa Senhora da Oliveira. You can find many scenic walks in Guimarães that converge here.

Next to it lies the Praça de Santiago. This medieval square is surrounded by cozy cafes and restaurants. It is the perfect place to stop for a quick snack. Try a local pastry like the Tortas de Guimarães.

The atmosphere here is vibrant and welcoming. Locals and tourists gather to enjoy the historic surroundings. The medieval arches provide excellent shade on sunny days. This area marks the end of your main walking route.

Practical Tips for Your Guimarães Walk

Wear comfortable walking shoes for this itinerary. The historic streets are made of uneven cobblestones. These stones can be slippery when wet. Good grip will make your journey much more enjoyable.

Start your walk around 9:30 AM to avoid large tour groups. This timing allows you to see the castle before the heat. Most sites are less crowded during the early morning hours. You can find more budget-friendly self-guided walks by starting early.

Carry a reusable water bottle during your tour. There are several public fountains with fresh water. Staying hydrated is important during the warm Portuguese summers. You will also find many small grocery stores for snacks.

Guimarães is easily reached by train from Porto. The journey takes about one hour and fifteen minutes. The train station is a ten-minute walk from the center. This makes it a perfect day trip for any traveler.