A Journey Through Braga & Guimarães: Hiking the Sacred Hills and Ancient Roots of Portugal

1 Day Round trip from Porto Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Discover Braga and Guimarães, two UNESCO cities where Portugal was born
02 Hike through ancient forests and Celtic castros with breathtaking views
03 Visit the sacred sanctuaries of Bom Jesus do Monte, Sameiro, and Nossa Senhora da Penha
04 Learn about the Celtic roots and the spiritual evolution of the Portuguese people
05 Experience a day filled with nature, history, and serenity away from the crowds
06 Enjoy a relaxing local lunch in a traditional restaurant (optional, paid separately)
07 Led by a certified local guide passionate about history and sustainable tourism

Step back in time and discover the ancient soul of Northern Portugal on this full-day experience through Braga and Guimarães — two cities that shaped the country’s history and identity.

This full-day tour combines nature, history, and spirituality, joining cultural visits with short hikes on the sacred hills.

We’ll walk along forest trails surrounded by the scent of pine and eucalyptus, exploring ancient Celtic castros — fortified settlements that reveal the roots of Portuguese civilization.
You’ll visit sacred sanctuaries overlooking the cities, such as Bom Jesus do Monte, Sameiro, and Nossa Senhora da Penha, where nature and faith blend in perfect harmony.

Along the way, you’ll learn about the origins of the Portuguese people, the myths of the Celtic tribes, and the transition from pagan traditions to Christian devotion.
It’s a journey through time, landscape, and emotion — ideal for those who love authentic places, history, and peaceful walks in nature.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 1 Day

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Not included

Transport Not included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Porto, Braga, Guimarães

Languages English, French, Italian, Portuguese

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Day 1

Itinerary – Braga & Guimarães: Sacred Hills & Ancient Roots

09.00 – Pick-up from Porto
Departure from your accommodation in Porto and scenic drive towards the Minho region, cradle of Portugal’s history.

Visit to (Celtic Castro)
Start your journey by exploring the ancient Celtic settlement, one of the most fascinating archaeological sites in Portugal.
Walk among stone houses and fortified walls dating back more than 2,000 years, and learn about the early tribes who once lived here — the ancestors of the Portuguese people.

Hike to Penha Sanctuary.
Continue to Monte da Penha, above Guimarães, and enjoy the hike along the PR3 trail through oak and chestnut forests.
Reach the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Penha, a peaceful and spiritual site offering panoramic views over the entire region.

Lunch
Enjoy a traditional local lunch in a family-run restaurant

After visiting the Penha Sanctuary, we’ll descend to Guimarães by cable car (optional), enjoying a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding hills.
Drive to Braga; Visit to Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary; climb the baroque stairway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its symmetry, fountains, and scenic views over Braga.

From Bom Jesus, choose between a forest hike (approx. 2.5 km / 40 min) to reach Sameiro Sanctuary, or travel comfortably by car.
Both sanctuaries are surrounded by nature and imbued with peace, representing centuries of devotion and artistic heritage.

17:30 – Return to Porto
Relax on your journey back, enjoying the views of the northern landscape.

18:30 – Arrival in Porto and end of the tour.

The route