Exploring the Birthplace of Portugal: A Journey to Guimarães

Guimarães in Bloom: A Sunday Ramble

Today was one of those perfect travel days where everything just seemed to fall into place. After five days in Guimarães, Hans and I felt like locals, ready to explore the nooks and crannies of this historic city. Our Sunday itinerary was simple: wander, discover, and savor. And that’s exactly what we did.

Our morning began, as it often does, with a delightful breakfast at Norma. It's become our favorite spot, and today was no exception. I opted for the *tártaro* with tomato, avocado and peanut, while Hans enjoyed the *bifana*. The sun was shining, the coffee was strong, and the pastries were divine – the perfect start to a day of exploration.

Fueled and ready, we set off towards the Arco do Amor. As we strolled along Rua de Santa Maria, the narrow street was already buzzing with activity. The air was filled with the sounds of Portuguese chatter and the scent of freshly baked bread. When we arrived at the Arco do Amor, I was immediately struck by its charm. The stone archway, draped in bougainvillea, framed a perfect view of the city beyond. It's easy to see why this spot is so popular with couples. We took a few photos, naturally, and soaked in the romantic atmosphere. It’s funny, back in Ouro Preto, there’s a similar arch, and seeing this one made me feel a little closer to home. Hans, ever the romantic, whispered something about our own love story being as timeless as the arch itself.


Discover the enchanting Arco do Amor in Guimarães, a romantic archway steeped in love and culture, perfect for unforgettable memories.

Continuing our walk, we soon arrived at Porta do Burgo, one of the ancient gates that once formed part of the city's defensive walls. Standing there, I couldn't help but imagine what it must have been like centuries ago, with soldiers guarding the entrance and merchants passing through with their wares. The gate itself is a simple yet imposing structure, a testament to the city's rich history. Hans, with his software engineer mind, was fascinated by the engineering aspects of the gate, commenting on the clever design and the sheer durability of the stone. I, on the other hand, was more interested in the stories it could tell, the lives it had witnessed.


Explore the historical beauty of Porta do Burgo, a must-visit landmark in Guimarães, Portugal, where past and present meet in stunning harmony.

Sometimes, the most beautiful discoveries are the ones you stumble upon unexpectedly, like a hidden garden in a historic city.

Our next stop was Jardim do Carmo, a tranquil oasis tucked away from the bustling streets. As we stepped through the entrance, we were immediately enveloped in a sense of calm. The garden was a riot of color, with flowers blooming in every shade imaginable. A charming fountain gurgled softly in the center, and benches were scattered throughout, inviting visitors to sit and relax. We found a quiet spot beneath a shady tree and simply enjoyed the peace and quiet. It was a welcome respite after the crowds of the city center. I closed my eyes and listened to the birds singing, feeling a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of Heidelberg. Hans, who usually has trouble sitting still, seemed equally content, simply enjoying the moment.


Discover the serene beauty of Jardim do Carmo, a peaceful garden in Guimarães perfect for relaxation and exploration amidst lush greenery.

By now, our stomachs were starting to rumble, so we made our way to República do Polvo for lunch. I had heard great things about this restaurant, and it did not disappoint. As its name suggests, the restaurant specializes in octopus dishes, and everything we tried was delicious. I opted for the *Polvo à Lagareiro*, while Hans went for the *Arroz de Polvo*. The octopus was cooked to perfection, tender and flavorful, and the portions were generous. The restaurant itself had a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, and the staff were friendly and attentive. It was the perfect place to refuel after our morning of exploring. I even tried to recreate the *Polvo à Lagareiro* when we got back to the hotel, but it just wasn't the same. I guess some things are best left to the professionals!


Discover the culinary delights at República do Polvo in Guimarães - where fresh seafood meets authentic flavors in a cozy atmosphere.

After lunch, we decided to indulge in a little retail therapy. We strolled through the streets, popping into various shops and boutiques. Guimarães has a great selection of local crafts and souvenirs, and we picked up a few items to take back home. I found a beautiful hand-painted tile, while Hans bought a bottle of local wine. We even stumbled upon a small shop selling traditional Portuguese ceramics, and I couldn't resist buying a few pieces for my collection. As someone who appreciates sustainable living, I was thrilled to find so many locally made products, supporting the local economy and reducing our environmental impact.

As evening approached, we decided to check out Music Food & Drinks, a local bar known for its lively atmosphere. The bar was packed with locals and tourists alike, all enjoying the music and the drinks. We ordered a couple of cocktails and soaked in the vibrant energy of the place. The music was a mix of Portuguese and international hits, and the dance floor was packed. We even managed to squeeze in a few samba steps, much to the amusement of the locals. It was a fun, carefree way to end our day. I felt a sense of connection to the city and its people, a feeling that only comes from truly immersing yourself in the local culture.


Discover the perfect blend of tapas, drinks, and live music at Music Food & Drinks in the heart of Guimarães, a culinary hotspot for tourists.

For dinner, we chose Restaurante Cafè Oriental, a historic establishment with a prime location in Largo do Toural. The restaurant has been around since 1925 and has a fascinating history. The food was traditional Portuguese fare, and we enjoyed a hearty meal of *Bacalhau à Brás* and *Arroz de Marisco*. The restaurant had a classic, elegant ambiance, and the service was impeccable. It was the perfect setting for a relaxed, romantic dinner. Hans, being the history buff that he is, was captivated by the restaurant's backstory, while I was more focused on the delicious food. We lingered over our meal, savoring every bite and enjoying each other's company.


Experience authentic Portuguese flavors blended with international cuisine at Restaurante Café Oriental in Guimarães.

As we walked back to Hotel De Guimaraes, the city was bathed in the soft glow of streetlights. The air was cool and crisp, and the sounds of the city had quieted down. We held hands and strolled along, feeling grateful for the wonderful day we had shared. Guimarães had truly captured our hearts, and we knew that we would never forget our time here. I thought about how lucky I was to be sharing this experience with Hans, my partner in life and travel. It's moments like these that make all the hard work and planning worthwhile.


Experience modern luxury at Hotel De Guimaraes with top-notch amenities, ideal location, and incredible dining options for all travelers.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Vista panorâmica de Guimarães, Parque da Cidade, and Garden Alameda. I’m also hoping we can pop into Good Cork, Guimarães, a local shop specializing in cork products. I've heard they have some unique and interesting souvenirs, and I'm always on the lookout for something special to take back home. Until then, *boa noite* from Guimarães!

As I reflect on today, I realize that travel is not just about seeing new places, it's about experiencing new things, connecting with new people, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. And today, in Guimarães, we did just that. It was a Sunday well spent, a day filled with love, history, and delicious discoveries.