Historical Minho: Guimaraens, and Braga. From Porto.

The Minho region is known as the Cradle of the Nation because it is the birthplace of Portugal's first king Afonso Henriques and the site where Portuguese independence was declared in Guimaraes. The area played a key role in the country's political history with Guimaraes as the birthplace of the kingdom and Braga as a major religious center. Today the region remains an important hub for culture history and natural beauty. Minho has its own unique traditions architecture and cuisine which make it a very special place. Guimaraes and Braga are the most important cities to visit in the region offering a mix of medieval streets historic buildings and religious landmarks.

The tour begins at 9 am when your driver guide will pick you up from your accommodation and take you north from Porto through landscapes filled with mountains vineyards and small fields. The first stop is Guimaraes where you will explore Guimaraes Castle the 12th century S Miguel Church and Braganza Ducal Palace. You will walk down narrow streets past ancient houses former convents and visit important landmarks including Santa Maria Street Saint Claire's Church Santiago Square and Nossa Senhora da Oliveira Church. After lunch at a local restaurant you will continue to Braga to see Bom Jesus Shrine with its Neoclassical basilica and gardens followed by a visit to Braga Cathedral before returning to Porto for drop off at your accommodation.