Explore the Majestic Guimarães Castle
Discover the captivating history of Guimarães Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of Portugal's rich medieval heritage.
A brief summary to Guimarães Castle
- R. Conde Dom Henrique, Guimaraes, 4800-412, PT
- +351253412273
Guimarães Castle is a historical gem located in the charming city of Guimarães, Portugal. This medieval fortress, built in the 10th century, played a pivotal role in the formation of the Portuguese nation and is often referred to as the birthplace of Portugal. The castle's impressive architecture features towering stone walls, ancient battlements, and a stunning keep that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. As you explore the grounds, you'll find yourself transported back to a time of knights and battles, making it an ideal location for history buffs and curious travelers alike. The castle is surrounded by lush gardens and scenic pathways, perfect for leisurely strolls and photography. The site also hosts various cultural events and reenactments throughout the year, providing visitors with an immersive experience that brings history to life. For those seeking a deeper understanding of the castle’s significance, guided tours are available to enhance your visit. Open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM, Guimarães Castle is easily accessible and offers a delightful escape into the past. After your visit, consider wandering through the historic streets of Guimarães, where you can enjoy local cuisine and visit other nearby attractions, including the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza. With its rich history and picturesque surroundings, Guimarães Castle is a highlight of any trip to Portugal.
Local tips
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter experience.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views from the castle's towers.
- Check for any special events or reenactments happening during your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven in parts of the castle grounds.
- Consider visiting the nearby Palace of the Dukes of Braganza for a complete historical experience.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are in the city center of Guimarães, start at Praça de S. Tiago (St. James Square), an easy landmark to find. From the square, head towards Rua de Santo António, which will take you to the historic part of the city. Continue straight, and you will reach Largo do Toural, a large square surrounded by beautiful buildings. From Largo do Toural, walk towards Rua de São Francisco, which leads you to the entrance of the castle area. Follow the signs for 'Castelo de Guimarães' as you walk along Rua Conde Dom Henrique. The castle entrance will be on your right at R. Conde Dom Henrique, 4800-412 Guimarães.
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Public Transport
From the Guimarães train station, exit and head towards the bus stop located just outside the station. Take the local bus that heads towards the city center (usually marked as 'Centro'). The ride will take approximately 10 minutes. Get off at the stop near Praça de S. Tiago. From there, follow the walking directions provided above to reach Guimarães Castle.
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Bicycle
If you prefer cycling, there are bike rental shops near the city center. Rent a bike and take Avenida de São Gonçalo towards the castle. Follow the road as it curves to the left, leading you to Rua de São Francisco. Continue straight on this road until you reach the castle's entrance at R. Conde Dom Henrique, 4800-412 Guimarães. Ensure to follow the bike lanes for safety.
Attractions Nearby to Guimarães Castle
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Igreja de São Miguel do Castelo
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Parque do Castelo e Paço dos Duques de Bragança
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Convento de Santo António dos Capuchos
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Dom Afonso Henriques
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Palace Duques de Bragança
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CRUZEIRO DA PAIXÃO
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Igreja Nossa Senhora do Carmo
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Lar de Santa Estefânia
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Capela a Virgem Maria, Senhora Nossa
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Igreja de São Dâmaso
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Jardim do Carmo
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Estátua da Condessa Mumadona Dias
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Porta do Burgo
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Antigo Convento de Santa Clara
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Largo dos Laranjais
Landmarks nearby to Guimarães Castle
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Guimarães Local Tours By Leandro
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Campo De Sao Mamede
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Muralha de Guimarães
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Praça Cidade de Igualada
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Posto de Turismo de Guimarães
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Old Town Council Chambers
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Histórico by Papaboa
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Guimarães, Braga, Portugal
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Monumento a João Franco
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Chafariz do Largo da República do Brasil
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Largo de Donães
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Praça da República
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Torre dos Almadas
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Jardim do Largo da República do Brasil
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Escultura de D. Afonso Henriques