Guimarães allows you to combine the history of the castle with the town’s small squares. For the first day, it’s best to start at the top of the route and gradually make your way down to the old quarters. It’s best to leave your luggage behind before setting off along the cobbled streets.
Where to start your walk
The castle and the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza are different sites, although they are often placed side by side on maps. Decide where you want to go inside and where an exterior view will suffice. Two full visits will leave less time for the town’s streets.
How to continue the route
Largo da Oliveira helps you transition from large buildings to the scale of the square and its arcades. It’s a good idea to take a longer break here and continue your walk through the neighbouring alleys. Don’t spend the whole day just visiting ticketed attractions.
A local detail worth bearing in mind
If you’re continuing your journey to another city, check the departure point in advance. The historic centre doesn’t always coincide with the transport hub.
What to do after the bus journey
This itinerary is designed for exploring the city at your own pace, rather than a guided tour with a strict timetable. First, check the arrival address on your ticket and find somewhere to leave your luggage. Mark your accommodation, the first sightseeing spot and the return pick-up point on an offline map. Count the time for your city walk from the moment you’ve left your luggage and are ready to set off.
On the day of arrival, plan just one main sightseeing stop. If your flight is delayed, cut back on the extra part of your itinerary, whilst still allowing time for a meal and the journey back. Before paying for entry, check the official opening hours, access conditions and any ongoing works. A view of the building from the outside does not mean that its interiors are accessible without restrictions.
What to note before leaving
- the drop-off address and the transport provider’s contact details;
- an offline map showing your return route;
- confirmation of your chosen museum or guided tour session;
- contact details for your accommodation and the arrangements for collecting any luggage you’ve left behind.
You may find the following useful: How to plan your first day after a long coach journey, How to find a hotel from the coach station, Offline maps for travelling in Europe: how to set up your phone. Check available bus options on RedRay; this guide does not confirm the availability of direct services to every city.
Resources for preparation
General information about the city and attractions: Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, Castle of Guimarães, Guimarães. The suggested walking route is an editorial suggestion; please check current opening times with the relevant venues.
Image details
- Castelo de Guimarães Castelo da Fundação.JPG — Marco Aldeia; CC BY-SA 4.0. The image has been resized and converted to WebP. Licence terms are available on the original page.
- Palace of the Dukes of Braganca in Guimaraes (1).jpg — Krzysztof Golik; CC BY-SA 4.0. The image has been resized and converted to WebP. Licence terms are available on the original page.
- Old town hall of Guimarães (1).jpg — Krzysztof Golik; CC BY-SA 4.0. The image has been resized and converted to WebP. The licence terms are available on the original page.
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Questions and answers
Can this route be used on the day of arrival?
Yes, by choosing the central part and one main sightseeing spot. After travelling overnight, it’s better to leave the steep climbs and longer journeys until the next day.
What is the most important thing to bear in mind for the walk?
If you’re continuing your journey to another city, check the departure point in advance. The historic centre doesn’t always coincide with the transport hub.
What should I do with my suitcase?
Before you set off, confirm that your luggage will be stored at your accommodation or in a reputable left-luggage facility, including the time for collection. Keep your documents, ticket and a fully charged mobile phone with you.
Do you need to buy all your admission tickets in advance?
First, choose your main attraction and check its rules. Don’t book several slots close together until you’ve confirmed the route between them. Keep your city walk flexible.