Top 10 Things to Do in Guimarães You Can’t Miss

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Guimarães might be known as the birthplace of Portugal, but it’s so much more than that.

I visited on a day trip during a month in Porto and didn’t expect it to leave such a lasting impression. But with castle walls, colorful streets, and cozy cafés in medieval squares, it quickly became one of my favorite spots in northern Portugal.

Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying longer, there’s plenty to see and do in this charming city. In this post, I’ll share the best things to do in Guimarães, from famous landmarks to hidden gems, so you can make the most of your visit.

Table of Contents

1. Stroll Through the Old Town

A wide-angle view of a historic square in Guimarães, Portugal, featuring a large stone fountain in the foreground with water gently cascading down its tiers. In the background stands the neoclassical Igreja da Oliveira with its clock tower, surrounded by colorful old buildings and a spacious cobblestone plaza with a few pedestrians and parked cars under an overcast sky. — Largo do Toural

The best way to experience Guimarães is to wander without a map. The mostly car-free old town is packed with picturesque alleys, stone archways, and charming little shops — perfect for aimless exploring.

The entire historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so you’re guaranteed to come across plenty of beautiful corners.

Make sure to walk down Rua de Santa Maria and check out Largo do Toural, a lovely square at the edge of the old town where you’ll also spot the famous “Aqui Nasceu Portugal” (“Portugal Was Born Here”) inscription on the wall.

2. Walk the Walls of Guimarães Castle

The outside of the Guimaraes castle, next to it is a tree — Guimarães castle, one of the highlights on my Porto Guimarães day trip

Guimarães Castle is the city’s most iconic landmark and the reason it’s called the birthplace of Portugal. This is where Afonso Henriques, the country’s first king, was born.

You’ll find the castle just north of the old town, right next to the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza. The park around both buildings is free to wander and offers great views, not just of the historic architecture, but of the city itself.

Entry to the castle costs €5 (buy your ticket at the palace next door). Inside, you can walk along the walls and take in the best views of the area. There’s also an exhibit in the central tower, though I found the walk itself much more memorable than the display.

3. Explore the Ducal Palace

The courtyard of the palace in Guimaraes — Guimarães palace

Right next to the castle, the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza is a 15th-century residence that was heavily restored in the 20th century. Today, it’s a museum filled with historical furniture, textiles, weapons, and decorative arts.

My favorite parts were the inner courtyard and the small chapel, especially the stained-glass windows — they’re far more vibrant in person than any photo can capture.

Admission is €5. The combined ticket to see both, castle and palace, is €8.

4. Visit the Alberto Sampaio Museum

A tree in a courtyard — Alberto Sampaio Museum

If you’re visiting the castle and palace, you can get a €13 combined ticket that also includes the Alberto Sampaio Museum. I added it last minute after reading some great reviews while waiting in line.

The museum is just off Largo da Oliveira and has a lovely columned courtyard. The museum itself… well, let’s say it wasn’t my cup of tea. They try to combine old religious paintings with modern art.

If you’re only in Guimarães for a day trip, I don’t think it’s a must-see. But if you’re staying longer, it could be a nice bonus stop.

5. See the Nossa Senhora da Consolação e dos Santos Passos Church

Flower bed and far in the back you can see a church — Amazing short walk to the Nossa Senhora church

This might just be the church with the longest name I’ve ever seen, but it’s also my favorite in Guimarães. While the church itself is beautiful, what really makes it stand out is the walk next to the Jardim do Largo da República do Brasil to get there.

Starting at the fountain, follow the path lined with colorful flowers leading to the church. It’s a picture-perfect view that makes you pause and appreciate the moment.

You can also pop inside the church for free, and since you’re already there, you might as well, but for me, the approach was the best part.

6. Have a Drink at Largo da Oliveira

If you’re ready for a break, Largo da Oliveira is the perfect place to pause. The square is lined with inviting cafés and bars, making it a great spot to enjoy a drink and do some people-watching.

With the cobblestone setting and historic architecture all around, it’s one of the most scenic squares of Guimarães.

7. Go Inside the Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira

A canopy with a cross inside — Monument in front of Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira

You can’t miss Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira, it sits right at Largo da Oliveira, the lively square that felt like the heart of Guimarães to me.

The church, paired with the striking Gothic monument in front of it, makes for an unforgettable backdrop, especially if you’re relaxing at one of the nearby cafés. It’s free to go inside, so definitely take a quick look while you’re soaking in the atmosphere of the square.

8. Church of Saint Francis

Church from the inside with blue tiles on the wall — Inside of Church of Saint Francis

If you’re a fan of classic Portuguese tiles, don’t miss the Church of Saint Francis, it’s easily the most beautiful church inside that I visited in Guimarães.

The walls are covered in the iconic blue-and-white azulejos that Portugal is known for, giving the space a peaceful, unique atmosphere. It’s a great stop if you enjoy architecture or just want a quiet moment away from the busy streets.

9. Check for Events at Jardim Público da Alameda

Guimarães often hosts festivals and cultural events, and one of the main venues is at Jardim Público da Alameda. When I visited, the park came alive in the evening with artisan stalls and live music.

If you’re planning your trip, it’s worth Googling what’s on, catching a local festival can add something special to your visit.

10. Enjoy the View from Penha

Scenic view of the Sanctuary of Penha in Guimarães, Portugal, perched atop a lush, forested hill with a stone bell tower and cross rising above the treetops, and panoramic mountain landscape in the background under a clear blue sky. — Sanctuary of Penha

Penha is a hilltop park and viewpoint just outside the city, accessible by cable car. At the top, you’ll find wooded trails, panoramic views over Guimarães, and the Sanctuary of Penha, a church that still attracts pilgrims but is now mostly visited for the scenery.

I didn’t have time to go because of dinner plans back in Porto, and it’s the one thing I regret skipping. If you’re visiting Guimarães on a day trip, make sure to set off early and give yourself time in the evening so you don’t have to cut your visit short like I did.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Guimarães

Whether you’re walking the same streets as Portugal’s first king, relaxing with a drink in a centuries-old square, or riding the cable car up to Penha, there’s no shortage of memorable experiences in Guimarães.

It’s the kind of place that rewards slow exploration and proves that some of Portugal’s most meaningful travel moments happen beyond the big cities.

👉 Looking to explore more of this region? Don’t miss my guide to the best destinations in Northern Portugal, it’s full of ideas for where to go next.