Guimarães Free Tour
Old centre, medieval walls, the castle and Largo do Toural, with a guide in English
Reserve your free spotQuick answer
Yes, it is free: no ticket, you tip the guide at the end. Guimarães Free Tour meets at Padrão do Salado, lasts about 2h and is guided in English; rated 8.8/10 from 63 reviews on Civitatis.
Start times vary by date and are confirmed when you book.
A walk of about two hours through Guimarães, led in English and starting at number 6, Padrão do Salado. The route goes through the historic centre past the Church of Nossa Senhora da Oliveira and several other churches, takes in the castle and the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, stops at the medieval walls and the Couros area, and ends near the Church of Nossa Senhora da Consolação e Santos Passos. The guide explains why the city is called the birthplace of Portugal.
The tour moves through the centre past the Church of Nossa Senhora da Oliveira and, from the outside, the Basilica of São Pedro and the churches of São Francisco and São Miguel, all over 600 years old. Nearby are the Castle of Guimarães, from the 10th century, and the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza.
The guide leads through Largo de Santiago, Largo da Misericórdia, Largo de São Damasco and Largo da Oliveira, where the Padrão do Salado commemorates a battle between Moors and Christians, and on to Largo do Toural, often regarded as the heart of the city. Along the medieval walls a sign reads "Portugal was born here", a spot for a photo. The group then reaches the Martins Sarmento Society, founded in 1881, and the Couros area.
Tour highlights
- Church of Nossa Senhora da Oliveira
- Padrão do Salado
- Castle of Guimarães
- Palace of the Dukes of Braganza
- Medieval walls and the "Portugal was born here" sign
- Largo do Toural
- Couros area
Good to know before you go
- The guide speaks English only.
- Not wheelchair accessible.
- Tips are not part of the booking: you leave them at the end, if you wish.
Meeting point
After the tour
This tour is free — there's no charge to join. At the end, tip your guide whatever you feel the experience was worth. 100% of tips go directly to them.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Guimarães Free Tour really free?
Yes — there is no ticket and no upfront cost. You reserve a free spot, join the tour, and at the end tip your guide whatever you feel it was worth. Most travelers tip the equivalent of €10–20 per person, but the amount is entirely up to you.
Where does the Guimarães Free Tour start?
The tour meets at Padrão do Salado (Padrão do Salado). The exact meeting point and how to spot your guide are confirmed in your Civitatis booking.
How long is the tour, and what languages is it in?
It lasts around 2h and is guided in English. One booking covers up to 6 people; larger parties need a private tour. Comfortable walking shoes recommended.
Is the Guimarães free tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it is listed as not wheelchair accessible.
How do I find the meeting point?
Meet at number 6, Padrão do Salado, in Largo da Oliveira, at the time you chose. Please be punctual.
What if I cannot make it?
Cancel the booking so the guide does not wait for you. Cancellation is free.