Guimarães is a city and a territory with a deeply marked identity, often played and portrayed as the second capital of the Countship of Portugal, the first of the Kingdom of Portugal, steeped in a medieval atmosphere.
However, it is far more than that, it is a reach tapestry of tradition and modernity of a wider territory, where religious elements and local lore are always present. This is what want to explore together.
The plans begin north of the city, in the Valley of S. Torcato, a sleepy town where locals still sell their wares and vegetables as countless generations have done before, so walking, (perhaps perusing and shopping) in the local street market is earmarked as our first stop. Right next, lies the Basilica of S. Torcato, an imposing monument to such a minor town.
Then off to Guimarães proper, here, we do our familiar take Architectour, beginning at the hilltop, we will further climb up the castle towers and little by little we make our way in the town, with a stop to visit the Ducal Palace, through the Old Town, the Custom’s House Tower and the Tanner’s Quarter, newly added to the World Heritage boundary, first set in 2001 -
We also give you some free time within the city to explore on your own, have a refreshment, or shop for a souvenir or two.
Then, together, at the end of the day, we will have a sweeping view over the city from Penha, the Peak, an imposing hill overlooking the region. We will enjoy that golden glow before getting back to Porto.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION (do not skim over this section):
Price €60/ person (includes door-to-door transportation, drive to the location and back to your home, plus guide fees and entrances at museum sites.
“I do have a car, thus wouldn’t need a ride, can I join? Yes, absolutely, we have special conditions, do enquire!
How do I sign up for the tour? Because seats are extremely limited, RSVP-ing alone is not enough. We'll have to insist on advance payment, and only that will secure a place. To this effect, do send us a message, and we will tell you how to proceed. You can do it here directly, by Whatsapp at +351910430259, or by email at [email protected]. As our capabilities are not limitless (quite the opposite), the first ones to do it will have ensured their presence.
Do we always go no matter what? If the weather turns foul, (extreme heat or rain) for safety reasons, we will not set out and you will be fully reimbursed.
What if I need to cancel? If you need to cancel, let me know up to 36 hours prior and you will be fully reimbursed.
