Guimarães is a fantastic place to enjoy a lunch experience that combines delicious food with a glimpse of Portugal’s most iconic sites. What makes Guimarães stand out isn’t just its beautiful medieval streets or its UNESCO World Heritage status, but also the authentic local flavors you can savor along the way. Among the many tours available, we’re especially fond of the tours that include a traditional Portuguese lunch at a local restaurant, often paired with visits to historic landmarks like the Guimarães Castle and the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus. These experiences not only satisfy your appetite but also deepen your understanding of Portugal’s culture and history.
For instance, the From Porto: Braga & Guimarães Day Tour with Lunch (see here) offers an engaging day that covers both cities’ highlights, with a well-reviewed lunch featuring local specialties and green wine. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a full-day, guided experience that balances sightseeing with culinary delights.
1. From Porto: Braga and Guimarães Day Tour with Lunch
At number 1, this popular full-day tour explores two of northern Portugal’s most historic cities. It runs for about 9 hours and includes visits to the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, where a guided tour offers insight into Portugal’s noble past. The tour then takes you to Guimarães Castle, where you get a quick photo stop and a walk through the medieval streets, before sitting down for a traditional Portuguese lunch at a local restaurant.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of well-paced sightseeing and a local-style lunch that includes green wine, a regional specialty. The journey continues with stops at the Bom Jesus do Monte and Sameiro Sanctuary, providing scenic views and spiritual sites. The guide’s knowledge and the included meals have earned it a 4.8/5 rating from 14 reviews, with visitors praising the outstanding lunch and smooth itinerary.
Bottom Line: This tour balances cultural exploration with a hearty lunch, making it ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive day with relaxed pace and expert guidance.
2. From Porto: Braga & Guimarães Day Trip with Lunch
Coming in as a perfect choice for those wanting a personalized experience, the From Porto: Braga & Guimarães Day Trip with Lunch offers a more intimate atmosphere with small groups (maximum 6 people). For around $108, this 8-hour tour includes visits to Braga’s cathedral and the medieval village of Guimarães. You’ll explore sites like the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus and the 11th-century Braga Cathedral, with guided commentary that makes history come alive.
The highlight is the authentic Portuguese lunch at a local restaurant, which offers a chance to taste genuine regional cuisine. The tour’s small-group format means more flexibility and personalized attention, making it suitable for travelers who prefer a more relaxed, less crowded experience. Reviews call it “an amazing day,” with one reviewer noting that “the guide Emmanuel made everything special.”
Bottom Line: For travelers seeking a more exclusive experience with a focus on local flavors and cultural depth, this tour offers a great blend of sightseeing and authentic dining.
3. From Porto: Braga & Guimarães full day experience with lunch
At number 3, this small-group tour offers a personalized approach to exploring Braga and Guimarães for around $164. It spans roughly 9 hours and is designed for those who want to immerse themselves without feeling rushed. The itinerary hits key sites like the Palace of the Dukes with a guided tour, and you’ll also visit Guimarães Castle, with time to soak in the medieval atmosphere.
The highlight, of course, is the lunch at a traditional Portuguese restaurant, which complements the sightseeing. The tour also includes visits to Sameiro Sanctuary and Bom Jesus do Monte, with ample free time to explore shopping and sights at your own pace. Passengers praise the tour for its relaxed pace and quality guide, with a notable quote saying, “Our guide Emmanuel made everything special.”
Bottom Line: This tour suits those wanting a more intimate, flexible day with high-quality visits and regional cuisine, making it ideal for culture and food lovers alike.
4. Porto: Braga and Guimarães Small-Group Day Trip with Lunch
The smallest group size on this list, with a price tag of around $340 per person, makes this small-group day trip stand out. It offers a well-rounded itinerary with visits to Bom Jesus do Monte and Guimarães Castle, along with lunch at a traditional Portuguese restaurant. Being a smaller, more exclusive group, it appeals to travelers who want a more personalized experience and deeper engagement.
While the reviews are not provided, the focus here is on quality over quantity, with plenty of opportunities for authentic interaction and tailored sightseeing. The tour emphasizes visiting the major sites with a relaxed pace, making it suitable for those who enjoy a more curated experience with a bit of luxury.
Bottom Line: If you’re willing to spend a bit more for a customized, intimate experience, this tour delivers a memorable day with excellent cultural sights and regional cuisine.
$340 per person
How to Choose
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time, and what you want from your day. For a full, guided experience with comprehensive sightseeing and a hearty lunch, the From Porto: Braga and Guimarães Day Tour with Lunch fits the bill. If you prefer a more personal touch, the small-group option is perfect, especially if you’re interested in a luxury experience. Meanwhile, the full-day small-group tour offers a good balance of sightseeing and relaxed pacing for those looking for a slightly more intimate feel without the higher price.
Also, think about your interest in specific sites like the Palace of the Dukes, Guimarães Castle, or Bom Jesus Sanctuary. If your main focus is a culinary experience with regional dishes and wine, all these tours include that aspect, but check the itinerary to see which fits your schedule and interests best.
Final Thoughts
Guimarães offers a variety of lunch experiences that combine history, culture, and gastronomy. Whether you want a full guided tour, a small-group intimate experience, or a luxury day trip, there’s a suitable option for every traveler. For those eager to sample regional green wine, explore medieval streets, and enjoy authentic Portuguese cuisine, booking early is advised — especially in peak tourist season.
If you’re planning a trip to Porto and want to experience Portugal’s cradle of history, these tours are an excellent way to turn a day into a memorable feast for the senses. Pick the one that matches your style and budget, and get ready for a day full of cultural delights and delicious bites in Guimarães.