Off Porto: Roman Vizela and Medieval Guimarães

Guimarães is a city and a territory with a deeply marked identity, often played and portrayed as the second capital of the Countship of Portugal, the first of the Kingdom of Portugal, steeped in a medieval atmosphere.
However, it is far more than that. It is a tapestry of tradition and modernity spanning a wider territory, where religious elements and local lore are always present. This is what we want to explore together.
First, we go to the mountain of Penha, which offers a commanding view of the city.
Then off to Guimarães proper, here, we do our familiar take Architectour, beginning at the hilltop, we will make a circuit around the old castle, Saint Michael's church and little by little we make our way into the town, with a stop to visit the Ducal Palace, through the Old Town, the Custom’s House Tower and the Tanners’ Quarter, newly added to the World Heritage boundary, first set in 2001 -
We also give you some free time within the city to explore on your own, have a snack, or shop for a souvenir or two.

Yet, before Guimarães, tucked between gentle valleys made by the Ave and Vizela rivers, Vizela is one of those small northern Portuguese towns where life seems to move at a calmer rhythm. Known since Roman times for its warm thermal waters, the town grew around its spa culture, leafy gardens and riverside walks. Today, visitors discover a place where elegant nineteenth-century buildings, quiet squares, and the sound of flowing water create an atmosphere that invites you to slow down.

Along the way, we make a short stop at Tagilde, where the Old Alliance, treaty being Portugal and England was forged and the green valley of Roriz, where two Benedictine Monasteries still farm the land.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION (do not skim over this section):
Price €49/ person (includes door-to-door transportation, drive to the locations and back to your home, plus guide fees and entrances at museum sites.
“I do have a car, thus wouldn’t need a ride, can I join? Yes, absolutely, we have special conditions, do enquire! We're covering abut 200km in this trip

How do I sign up for the tour? Because seats are extremely limited, RSVP-ing alone is not enough. We'll have to insist on advance payment, and only that will secure a place. To this effect, do send us a message, and we will tell you how to proceed. You can do it here directly, by Whatsapp at +351910430259, or by email at architectoursporto@gmail.com. As our capabilities are not limitless (quite the opposite), the first ones to do it will have ensured their presence.

Do we always go no matter what? If the weather turns foul, (extreme heat or rain) for safety reasons, we will not set out and you will be fully reimbursed.
What if I need to cancel? If you need to cancel, let me know up to 36 hours prior and you will be fully reimbursed.