Founded by the famous 9th century warrior Vimara Peres, Guimarães is a town steeped in history. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, its labyrinthine medieval centre is deemed by many to be the 'birthplace of Portuguese nationality’, and oozes timeless charm. Many of the best places to stay in Guimarães are tucked along those same narrow lanes, or set facing centuries-old squares — perfect for culture buffs and romantics looking to discover the town on foot.
Delve into Guimarães’ rich history with visits to the 11th century castle, birthplace of Portugal's first king, and to the lavish Paco do Duques de Braganca, a fourteenth-century palace situated on an adjacent hilltop. The impressive Alberto Sampaio museum, housed in three historic buildings of the Collegiate Church of Nossa Senhora da Oliveira is dazzling, as are the two museums of the prestigious Martins Sarmento Society.
The metallic Platform for Arts and Creativity, built on the old Market Square for the city's 2012 'European Capital of Culture' designation, hosts fabulous events, while the 2005-established Centro Cultural Vila leads the city's cultural renaissance with its cinema, theatre, and exhibition spaces. A university town, Guimarães has a lively buzz throughout the year — and it’s worth booking your room are one of the best place to stay in Guimarães well in advance.
