Treasures of the North: From Walls to Sanctuaries in Portugal

Upon arrival in Guimarães, we will be greeted by our representative, who will be our driver and guide throughout the route. From the first moment, we will be enveloped by the medieval atmosphere of this city, considered the cradle of the Portuguese nation. We will transfer to our accommodation, where we will check-in and we can rest before starting our adventure.

We will walk through the historic center, recognized as a World Heritage Site, where every corner will transport us to medieval times. We will discover the imposing Guimarães Castle, witness to the founding of the country, and the majestic Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, with its impressive structure that evokes the grandeur of the Portuguese nobility. (2h 30min)

Later, we will enter the streets of the city, exploring the Piazza de Oliveira, where the atmosphere of the taverns and cafes will invite us to stop to admire the beauty of its architecture. (1h)

We will have dinner in our accommodation, enjoying an evening framed by the history and tradition of this unique city. From the tranquility of our stay, we will let ourselves be enveloped by the medieval essence of Guimarães, which prepares us for the wonders that await us in the coming days.

We will have breakfast at our accommodation, with the opportunity to taste local products while we prepare for the day.

We will depart for Barcelos, famous for its legendary rooster, a symbol of Portugal. We will stroll through its historic center, where we will discover the Medieval Tower of Homage, the Barcelos Bridge and the lively weekly market, where local artisans exhibit their traditional ceramics. (2h)

We will stop for lunch at a local restaurant (direct payment), where we can taste typical dishes of the region, in an atmosphere full of authenticity. (1h 30min)

In the afternoon, we will travel to Viana do Castelo, a coastal town with a strong link to the sea. We will go up to the Sanctuary of Santa Luzia, from where we will contemplate one of the most impressive views of Portugal, with the Atlantic stretching out before our eyes. (1h 30min)

We will descend to tour the old town, with its streets of stately homes and its relationship with the naval history of the country. We will explore the Place de la République, the Costume Museum and the charming river port. (1h 30min)

We will arrive at our accommodation in Viana do Castelo, where we will check-in and have dinner in an environment where seafaring tradition mixes with elegance. With the sound of the waves in the distance, we will rest in a privileged enclave to continue discovering the north of Portugal.

After breakfast, we will leave Viana do Castelo and travel to Braga, a city with an impressive religious and cultural legacy. (45min drive)

We will head to the iconic Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, a masterpiece of the Baroque with its monumental staircase that symbolizes spiritual ascension. We will contemplate the panoramic views of the city and be amazed by the beauty of its architecture. (1h 30min)

We will descend to the historic center to discover the Cathedral of Braga, the oldest in Portugal, whose fusion of architectural styles reflects centuries of history and spirituality. (1h 30min)

We will tour the Santa Barbara Garden, the Republic Square and the lively shopping streets, where you can feel the vibrant energy of this university and religious city. (1h)

Finally, we will enjoy our last lunch in Braga (direct payment), where we will be able to savor traditional dishes in an environment full of history. (1h 30min)

With the image of Braga engraved in our memory, we will say goodbye to this journey that has taken us through the essence of northern Portugal. We have toured cities full of history, admired unforgettable landscapes and felt the soul of a country in every street, square and viewpoint. Beyond what we have seen, we take away the feeling of having been part of a legacy that is still alive, waiting to be discovered once again.