Exploring the Birthplace of Portugal: A Journey to Guimarães

Guimarães Unveiled: Art, History, and Culinary Delights

Today in Guimarães was a beautiful blend of art, history, and delicious food. Hans and I explored the city's cultural heart, diving into modern art, ancient squares, and, of course, savoring the local flavors. It’s amazing how much this city, known as the birthplace of Portugal, has to offer. Every corner seems to whisper stories of the past, while also embracing the present with vibrant energy.

Our day started with a delightful breakfast at Histórico by Papaboa. The restaurant was conveniently located in the city center and had a really cozy atmosphere. I opted for a traditional Portuguese pastry, while Hans enjoyed a hearty sandwich. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration. What I loved most was the attentive service; the staff were incredibly welcoming and made us feel right at home. We even overheard some locals raving about the codfish dishes, so I made a mental note to try them later in the trip. I was reminded of my childhood in Ouro Preto, where every meal felt like a celebration of community and tradition. It's these little moments of connection that make traveling so rewarding. I am always eager to discover more about the local culture and traditions wherever I go.


Experience traditional Portuguese flavors at Histórico by Papaboa in Guimarães – where every meal tells a story of culinary heritage.

First on our itinerary was the Centro Internacional das Artes José de Guimarães (CIAJG). As someone with a deep appreciation for art, I was really looking forward to this. The museum is housed in a transformed old market, which is an architectural marvel in itself. The building seamlessly blends modern design with historical elements, creating a unique and inspiring space. Inside, we found a diverse collection of contemporary art, including pieces from José de Guimarães' personal collection, which features African, pre-Columbian, and ancient Chinese art. It was fascinating to see how these different cultures and artistic styles were brought together in one place.


Explore contemporary creativity at Centro Internacional das Artes José de Guimarães, a vibrant museum showcasing modern art and cultural dialogue.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

I was particularly struck by the way the museum encouraged dialogue between different artistic mediums and cultures. There were thought-provoking installations, paintings, and sculptures that reflected current societal themes. I found myself contemplating the role of art in shaping our understanding of the world. Hans, with his software engineer's mind, was intrigued by the technical aspects of some of the installations, and we had a lively discussion about the intersection of art and technology. The museum also hosts workshops and lectures, which I think would be a great way to delve deeper into the art scene here.

After immersing ourselves in the art world, we headed to the Live Science Center of Guimarães. This was a completely different experience, but equally fascinating. Located in a former tannery in the Zona de Couros, the science center offers interactive exhibits that make learning about science fun and engaging. It’s geared towards children, but I have to admit, Hans and I had a blast playing with the exhibits. We explored themes ranging from communications and electronics to robotics and virtual reality. I was particularly impressed by the recycling exhibit, which demonstrated the recycling process in a very hands-on way. Hans, of course, was drawn to the robotics section, where we got to play with Lego robots and learn about basic programming. It reminded me of how much I enjoy learning new things, and it’s wonderful to see a place that makes science accessible and exciting for people of all ages.


Discover the Live Science Center of Guimarães, where science comes alive through interactive exhibits and engaging educational experiences.

Next on our list was Largo da Oliveira, a historic square that’s often referred to as the heart of Guimarães. As we stepped into the square, I felt like we were transported back in time. The square is surrounded by stunning medieval buildings, including the Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira, a beautiful church with a rich history. The square gets its name from an ancient olive tree that once grew there, adding a touch of natural beauty to the historical setting. We took a leisurely stroll around the square, soaking in the atmosphere and admiring the architecture. The square was bustling with activity, with locals and tourists alike enjoying the sunshine and the lively ambiance. I imagined what it must have been like centuries ago, when this square was the center of daily life in Guimarães. We stopped for a coffee at one of the outdoor cafes and watched the world go by. It was a perfect moment of relaxation and reflection.


Explore the historic Largo da Oliveira in Guimaraes, a picturesque square surrounded by stunning architecture and vibrant local culture.

For lunch, we chose Restaurante Solar do Arco, drawn in by the promise of traditional Portuguese cuisine. The restaurant, located on Rua de Santa Maria, had a cozy and inviting atmosphere. We started with some delicious appetizers, including local cheeses and olives, and then I opted for the baked cod, while Hans tried the octopus salad. Both dishes were cooked to perfection, and we savored every bite. The service was excellent, and the staff were very attentive. It was such a delightful experience, and I would highly recommend this restaurant to anyone visiting Guimarães.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Restaurante Solar do Arco in Guimarães – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

After lunch, we decided to indulge in a bit of retail therapy at GuimarãeShopping. While I generally prefer exploring local shops and markets, it was nice to see a modern shopping center with a variety of stores. We browsed through some of the fashion boutiques and home goods stores, and I even picked up a few souvenirs for friends back in Germany. The shopping center was spacious and well-designed, making it a pleasant place to spend a couple of hours. I did notice they had a hospital inside the mall, which I thought was very convenient. It’s interesting how shopping centers are evolving to meet the diverse needs of the community.


Explore GuimarãeShopping, Guimarães' premier shopping mall offering a blend of fashion, food, and fun for every visitor.

As evening approached, we made our way to Restaurante El Rei D. Afonso, Limitada for dinner. This restaurant, located near Praça de São Tiago, had a warm and inviting ambiance. We started with some local wine, and then I ordered the feijoada à transmontana, a traditional Portuguese bean stew. Hans opted for the roast lamb. Both dishes were hearty and flavorful, providing a perfect end to a day of exploration. The service was attentive, and the staff were happy to answer our questions about the local cuisine. I felt a connection to my Brazilian roots as I enjoyed the feijoada, a dish that’s also popular in Brazil. It’s amazing how food can transcend borders and bring people together.


Discover traditional Portuguese cuisine at Restaurante El Rei D. Afonso in Guimarães, where rich flavors meet a warm ambiance.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we’re planning a trip to the Sanctuary of Penha. I’m particularly excited about taking the Teleferico Station up to the sanctuary, as I’ve heard the views are breathtaking. We’ll also be visiting the Jardim do Largo Condessa do Juncal, which I’m sure will be a peaceful retreat. And in the evening, we’ll be checking out SamBar Snack-Bar | Guimarães for a relaxing drink. I’m looking forward to another day of adventure and discovery in this beautiful city.

Today was a reminder of why I love to travel. It’s not just about seeing new places, but about immersing myself in different cultures, connecting with people, and expanding my understanding of the world. Guimarães, with its blend of history, art, and culinary delights, has definitely captured my heart. I am so grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with Hans, and I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings. It is wonderful to share these experiences with my spouse, as we discover new places and make memories together.

As I reflect on the day, I’m reminded of a quote by the Portuguese poet Fernando Pessoa:

To travel is to be born, and to die at every step.

It’s a sentiment that resonates deeply with me, as I embrace the transformative power of travel and the constant cycle of discovery and renewal.

Until tomorrow!