Castle of Guimarães travel guide

The Castle of Guimarães, often considered the birthplace of Portugal, boasts a rich history dating back to the 10th century. It was originally built by the Countess of Portugal, Mumadona Dias, as a defense against Viking and Moorish attacks.

Over the centuries, the castle's importance grew, especially during the 12th century when the country's first king, Afonso Henriques, was born here. This event led to the castle being recognized as the 'Cradle of the Nation'.

During the 14th century, the castle underwent significant restorations under King Dinis. However, by the 15th century, it fell into disrepair and was abandoned. It wasn't until the 20th century, under the Salazar regime, that the castle was fully restored to its former glory. Today, it stands as a symbol of Portugal's rich history and heritage, attracting visitors from around the world.

The Castle of Guimarães, also known as the birthplace of Portugal, is a visually stunning blend of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles. Its eight crenelated towers, with an imposing central keep, are the first unique features that catch your attention. The original wooden bridge entrance has been replaced by a beautiful stone entrance, adding to the castle's aesthetic appeal. Inside, the castle's chapel, São Miguel do Castelo, is a Romanesque gem, which is said to be the baptismal site of Portugal's first king, Afonso Henriques. The castle's walls possess a unique irregularly polygonal plan, and there is a central square that was used for military exercises. The lower floor of the castle's main tower, the Keep, is notable for its barrel-vaulted ceiling. Another remarkable feature is the ruins of the old royal palace inside the castle grounds, which add a historical depth to the overall visit. The castle's elevated position offers panoramic views of Guimarães city, another compelling feature for visitors.

Discover Castle of Guimarães, a prime feature of Guimarães, in the vibrant Oliveira, São Paio e São Sebastião. Castle of Guimarães is situated at R. Conde Dom Henrique, 4800-412 Guimarães, Portugal, just a short distance from Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira and Padrão do Salado, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Castle of Guimarães, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Guimarães, a city in Portugal rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city for an unforgettable adventure.

Castle of Guimarães is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Guimarães, Portugal. If you're flying in, Porto Airport is approximately 24.9 miles (40.1 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach Castle of Guimarães by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Guimarães, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Castle of Guimarães, which is located 0.5 miles (0.8 km) from the city center. Its exact address is R. Conde Dom Henrique, 4800-412 Guimarães, Portugal.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Castle of Guimarães!

The best time to explore Castle of Guimarães is during the late spring and early autumn months, specifically May and September. These months offer mild temperatures and minimal rainfall, creating the perfect environment to walk around this medieval relic. During these periods, the crowd levels are also less compared to the peak summer months, offering a more leisurely and less hurried experience. The city of Guimarães also hosts several cultural events during these times, enhancing the overall touristic appeal. One such event is the 'Afonsina Medieval Fair' held in June, where the city transforms into a medieval town, a spectacle that beautifully complements your castle visit. Remember, the castle is open from 10 am to 6 pm, so plan your day accordingly. For the most comfortable exploration, it is recommended to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the Portuguese sun is less intense.

If you're looking for an effortless way to explore Castle of Guimarães, perfectly planned travel packages to Guimarães make it easy and enjoyable, all while keeping costs manageable. With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Guimarães, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Castle of Guimarães.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic castle in Portugal.

Choosing the right accommodation near Castle of Guimarães from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Guimarães can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Castle of Guimarães, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Castle of Guimarães, Guimarães boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From establishment to establishment, the top attractions in Guimarães offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Guimarães is Largo do Toural, located at Largo do Toural 22, 4810-445 Guimarães, Portugal. This well-known establishment enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Palace Duques de Bragança is worth seeing when you're in Guimarães. It's a popular museum that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at R. Conde Dom Henrique 3, 4800-412 Guimarães, Portugal.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Aqui Nasceu Portugal completes any trip to Guimarães. This establishment draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at R. Do Anjo 15, 4810-225 Guimarães, Portugal, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Guimarães below to discover even more incredible places to explore.