We Love —
- This charming former monastery is perfectly restored, and enjoys amazing views over medieval Guimarães
- You are just 2km from the UNESCO listed centre of this important historic town, full of charming cobbled streets, amazing architecture and excellent food
- Why not add car hire to explore the Duoro Valley and pretty Porto nearby?
Your Destination —
Guimarães holds great value for the Portuguese as a symbol of their national identity - it was the first capital of Portugal and birthplace of the nation's first king, Afonso Henriques. It is a charming city to explore, a veritable maze of narrow winding streets, leading to the impressive main square, Largo da Oliveira and the old Ducal Palace.
Sightseeing
The imposing medieval castle Guimaraes Castle with eight crenellated towers standing 92ft high, was built in the 10th century to protect the population from attacks by the Moors and the Normans. It was then extended to its present size in the 12th century by Afonso Henriques, the first king of Portugal, who was baptized in the small Romanesque chapel next to the castle.
Across from the chapel is the Palace of the Dukes of Bragança, built in the 15th century as a medieval palace, with 39 unusual brick chimneys showing strong Northern European influence. It was used as recently as a few decades ago during the Salazar dictatorship as an official residence for the president. Inside is an impressive banqueting hall with a splendid wooden ceiling, and an extensive collection of portraits, furniture, carpets, and porcelain dating mainly from the 17th and 18th centuries.
Among the several churches in Guimarães, the finest is São Francisco Church on the south side of the city gardens. Built in 1400 in Gothic style, it was restored in the 18th century and features a series of magnificent tiles and an elegant Renaissance cloister and fountain.
From the castle, the beautiful cobbled Rua de Santa Maria has remained essentially unchanged for centuries, and leads down into the heart of the old town, where there are superbly restored historic buildings. One of those buildings is the former 16th-century Baroque convent of Santa Maria, now serving as the City Hall.
Enjoy marvellous panoramic views of Guimarães from Penha hill. To get there, take the cable car, which gives passengers a spectacular bird’s eye view of the city.
Your Hotel —
Located just 2km from the historic city centre, this former monastery dating back to the twelfth century, was awarded the National Prize for Architecture in 1985. It displays a perfect union between the historic past with contemporary comforts - the result of a meticulous restoration.
With beautiful views Guimaraes, the Pousada de Guimarães is a refuge of romantic tranquility, and is particularly pretty at nightfall. The outdoor pool is wonderfully refreshing after sightseeing, and the restaurant serves fantastic modern interpretations of traditional regional cuisine.
This unique boutique is a great choice for a romantic city break.
51 guest rooms
Restaurant
Outdoor pool
Bicycles
Free Wifi
Some services may incur additional charges, payable locally
Your Room —
Just for you: An upgrade to Superior room
Your Board Basis —
This offer is based on a bed and breakfast stay. You may choose to upgrade to Half Board at the next stage of booking. Just for you: A welcome drink on arrival.
The hotel restaurant, D. Mafalda is a large room with large stone arches that had once housed the basements and cellars of the monastery.
The dishes you can enjoy are typical of the traditional gastronomy of the region, including roasted kid, grilled bass filler and pumpkin cake. All washed down with fantastic local wine.
Your Journey —
Flights: The flights included are with either a scheduled or no-frills airline and are subject to live availability and prices can change. You can choose your preferred departure times during the booking process. Please select your flight options carefully as departure and arrival airports may differ.
Transfers: Are not included (Porto Airport = 40 minutes / 55km)
Car Hire: Can be added at the next stage of booking process for an additional fee
