After reading our Porto to Braga article , you’re probably thinking of even more awesome day trips you can take while in Porto! Although there are many places you can go from Porto, in this article we will discuss how to take a day trip to Guimaraes by train and let you know the best things to do while in Guimaraes.
How long is the Porto to Guimaraes train? And how much does it cost?
Porto Campanha
From this station to Guimaraes, it takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes. Depending on which train you take, the arrival time could vary by a few minutes. Most tickets cost around 3.25€ ($3.72) with the most expensive ticket costing 15.50€ ($17.75). The first train leaves around 6:25 AM, and the latest train leaves at around 11:25 PM. Make sure to check the timetables on http://www.cp.pt/ as it could vary depending on the day you go.
Porto Sao Bento
If you decide to leave from Sao Bento, the journey is around 1 hour and 20 minutes long. The cheapest train tickets start at 3.25€ ($3.72), but can cost up to 13.15€ ($15.06). The earliest train you can take is at 6:20 AM, and the latest at 11:20 PM. As with Porto Campanha, http://www.cp.pt/ is where you can book your tickets easily.
What do I need for the train ride?
When you buy your tickets, you will need to input your passport number as it will be your method of identification. On the train, they will ask to see your passport so it is crucial that you have it on you. If you bought the tickets for everyone in your group, the group members will still need to bring their passports as well.
Due to the current Covid-19 pandemic, you have to bring an approved face mask. Check their requirements here. You can also bring sanitary wipes, hand sanitiser, gloves, etc. if you want an extra layer of safety. With Covid-19 regulations, the train service is not currently providing water or snacks. However, it is a short ride so you should be okay.
What to do in Guimaraes
There are so many wonderful sites to explore in Guimaraes, but here are the top 3 places to go when visiting for one day.
Palace of the Dukes of Braganza
Built in the 1420’s, this gorgeous palace was built by the Count of Barcelos. The palace is filled with courtyards, galleries, Gothic-style arches and chimneys that create a unique architectural site. Take your time while in the palace and marvel at the spectacular tapestries, ceramics, and overall design of the palace.
Historic Guimaraes
The old city of Guimaraes is a dizzying array of twisted lanes and narrow cobblestone roads. Each passageway is surrounded by granite buildings and scenic balconies. The buildings in Guimaraes are famous for being one of the most well preserved in the world, maintaining much of the original building materials and techniques. It is the perfect place to see classical Portuguese architecture.
Plataforma das Artes e da Criatividade
This museum is not just filled with gorgeous art, the building itself is art! It looks like a collection of golden boxes stacked in different angles, and lights up beautifully at night. The permanent exhibition hosts African, Indigenous, and Ancient Chinese art, but also hosts a rotation of exhibitions highlighting young, up-and-coming artists. Come check out the incredible art, or at least take a picture of this unique museum!
Guimaraes is a fantastic day trip from Porto, so take the time to venture out to this beautiful, old town.
Boa Viagem (Have a good trip)!
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