A Journey Through Braga & Guimarães: Hiking the Sacred Hills and Ancient Roots of Portugal
About This Tour
Step back in time and discover the ancient soul of Northern Portugal on this full-day experience through Braga and Guimarães — two cities that shaped the countr...
Duration: 1 Day · Tour type: Private · Activity level: Moderate · Accommodation: Not included · Transport: Not included · Wheelchair access: No · Cities: Porto, Braga, Guimarães · Languages: English, French, Italian, Portuguese
About Braga
Braga
Nestled between the valleys of the Cavado and Este Rivers, Braga is unquestionably a jewel of the Portuguese north. Get a local guide to show you the city’s Baroque churches and buzzing bars, Francesinha joints and hilly surrounds.
What's Included
- Lunch
- Hotel Pickup
- Hotel Drop-off
Itinerary
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1Day 01
Day 1
Itinerary – Braga & Guimarães: Sacred Hills & Ancient Roots 09.00 – Pick-up from PortoDeparture from your accommodation in Porto and scenic drive towards the Minho region, cradle of Portugal’s history. Visit to (Celtic Castro)Start your journey by exploring the ancient Celtic settlement, one of the most fascinating archaeological sites in Portugal.Walk among stone houses and fortified walls dating back more than 2,000 years, and learn about the early tribes who once lived here — the ancestors of the Portuguese people. Hike to Penha Sanctuary.Continue to Monte da Penha, above Guimarães, and enjoy the hike along the PR3 trail through oak and chestnut forests.Reach the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Penha, a peaceful and spiritual site offering panoramic views over the entire region. LunchEnjoy a traditional local lunch in a family-run restaurant After visiting the Penha Sanctuary, we’ll descend to Guimarães by cable car (optional), enjoying a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding hills. Drive to Braga; Visit to Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary; climb the baroque stairway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its symmetry, fountains, and scenic views over Braga. From Bom Jesus, choose between a forest hike (approx. 2.5 km / 40 min) to reach Sameiro Sanctuary, or travel comfortably by car.Both sanctuaries are surrounded by nature and imbued with peace, representing centuries of devotion and artistic heritage. 17:30 – Return to PortoRelax on your journey back, enjoying the views of the northern landscape. 18:30 – Arrival in Porto and end of the tour.
Meeting Point
Meeting point: Porto · Tour start: Porto — Tour ends at the same location as the start point.