✅Minho tour offers mountain ranges with breathless views in the land of dense vegetation and profound historic wealth. Stare at manor-houses and mansions and enjoy the abundant gastronomy, light, acidulous wines (vinhos verdes) and rich wines, and a variety of handicrafts that mingles the shine of the filigree with the colour of the local embroideries. Throughout the region, the rivers, waterfalls, vineyards and fertile plots combine with the ancestral monuments in urban centres.
Guimaraes, is known as the "cradle of the nation", owing to the fact that it was the first capital of Portugal. It has a well preserved old town and profusion of historic monuments and art treasures.
The big draw of the city tends to be up on the hill where Guimaraes Castle (Castelo de Guimaraes) and the Palace of the Dukes of Braganca stand.
Braga, the Rome of Portugal, is the spiritual home of the country with thirty five churches chiming across the city. There is a rich cultural heritage marked by impressive religious festivals and architecture. Everywhere in the old town visitors will encounter fine old burghers' houses and noble mansions built of granite in an imposing style characteristic of this city. The Cathedral was built in Romanesque style in the 11th century.
The city is still Portugal's religious capital. Look around and you soon become aware of the weight of ecclesiastical power. The city's outlying districts also boast a selection of important religious buildings and sanctuaries, notably Bom Jesus, one of the country's most extravagant Baroque creations.
Barcelos - Probably the most famous symbol of Portugal, the colourful ceramic cockerel has its origins in the pretty town of Barcelos. Other parts of interest in the town include the old Jewish quarter and the various streets lined with medieval and baroque houses. The town houses a variety of monuments and an attractive riverside location it's an enjoyable enough place to spend half a day wandering around.
