Tossing between Braga and Guimaraes, picked the latter for the logistics reason. It is a lovely little town with well maintained roads and old buildings. Enjoyed the stroll through the town from the train station to the castle (ruin).

We travelled here on a day trip from Porto. It is easily managed by train, journey takes about 70 minutes from the Central station. The centre was a delightful surprise. It was one of the best preserved historical centres we have visited. Unlike some places it is also a working centre where people live, plenty of places to eat and everywhere was absolutely immaculate and really quite refined, unlike boisterous Porto. Everywhere is within walking distance and it makes a very good day trip. In hindsight we could have stayed here perhaps on the final night of our 5 night trip, rather that staying the whole time in Porto but on this occasion, everything had already been pre-booked before arriving.

The historic center of Guimarães is truly beautiful, as this is the birthplace of Portugal. All the history that surrounds this city is transmitted in its historic center. It deserves a long and fruitful visit, and you can also enjoy a fantastic lunch or dinner in one of the restaurants located in this historic center.

We had some free time on a trip to this area to walk around the old centre of the town. The town is a maze of tiny alley ways and gorgeous squares. The area is not large but exciting to walk down the twisting streets. There are lots of places to eat and drink and enjoy the atmosphere.

Fantastic midevil city with lots of beautiful center squares for food and entertainment. Local designer clothing shops, historical cathedrals and museums. You can walk the town in 4 hours or less.