Individual Tour: Bright Emblems of Portugal - From Porto to Braga and Guimaraes
About this experience
Portugal has a lot to be proud of and show off. And also to treat with. You will see two ancient cities where Portuguese culture originated and admire their main attractions. Visit a winery, taste drinks from its cellars and decide what you prefer: port wine, green wine, or aguardente.
What to Expect
Winery Tasting
Our journey will begin with a visit to a picturesque 17th-century estate, an exquisite park, and a winery. We will stroll along winding paths, inhale the scents of roses and hydrangeas, imbibe the charm of romantic gazebos and bridges over water. And, finally, peek into the storage room of barrels with aguardente - grape brandy. You will learn about the peculiarities of this drink, as well as other iconic symbols of Portugal - port wine and green wine. You will be offered a tasting of drinks along with a cheese platter.
Guimaraes - the Cradle of Portugal
We will enter the heart of the city - the Oliveira Square, where the Church of Our Lady of the Olive Tree rises. We will pass by the city hall and reach Santiago Square, which served as a refuge for pilgrims heading to the Spanish city of Santiago de Compostela. We will see medieval mansions, ancient churches, parks, and architectural complexes - Guimaraes is filled with monuments of antiquity from the 11-19th centuries. You will find out why this city is considered the cradle of the country.
Medieval Braga
The road to the historical part of Braga will pass through the majestic Arco-da-Porta-Nova gates. We will see the King's Chapel, where the parents of Portugal's first ruler are buried, the cathedral, and the gardens of Saint Barbara. We will walk through the center past the former archbishop's palace, now a library, and medieval mansions. We will visit the unique complex of the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte - the hill of the passions of Christ. Here we will ascend on an ancient funicular, powered by water traction.
Organizational Details
- Important! Visiting the winery and tasting is possible by prior reservation of the date and time - at least 2 weeks before the planned travel date.
- The winery may be closed to tourists (November-February) or fully booked. In this case, a replacement with other wineries nearby is possible: one with a museum estate, another with beautiful vineyards. If all three wineries are available, you can choose any for a visit. I will send options for different tasting programs upon request.
- The order of sightseeing may change, as it depends on the time of visiting the winery.
- The tour is possible with children from 7 years old. The tour is free for children up to 14 years old.
Included in the Price
- Transfer from your hotel
- Transportation and expenses (fuel, parking)
- Guide services
Additional Expenses
- Visiting the winery and tasting - from 7.5 euros per person. The price depends on the type of tasting offers at the winery.
- Entrance tickets for sightseeing attractions (optional)
- Meals during the trip