This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Guimarães.
Guimarães, in the north of Portugal one hour away from Porto and a half-hour to Braga, is of the most historical places in Portugal; the independence movement happened this city in the twelfth century and Portugal was also recognized around that time as an independent country thanks to the events of the independence movement.
The city offers many kinds of Guimarães hostels and accommodation. The nightlife in Guimarães kicks in mostly at weekends, and in the city center, Oliveira and Santiago Square offer you a diversity of pubs where you can hang out at night time -- look for a Guimarães hostel in this area if you wish to be close to all the action.
The city isn't that big, but it's enough to keep you busy for three or four days; you can find many attractions like old buildings from the fifteenth century, and some green parks, castles, and many historical monuments. The city itself offers you cultural options, with an accessible price usually. A good way to enjoy the city is by walking -- and on a sunny day riding a bicycle could be enjoyable as well -- but this city offers you large paths, walking through this impressive UNESCO Heritage site from the fifteenth century, you can feel like you're walking back into history. On the top of Guimarães, you will fond the Mountain of Penha, where you can have a panoramic view of the city and enjoy the nature near town.
Guimarães is a place where you will find welcoming people -- the city was recently named a European capital of culture; it's not a metropolitan city but surely has many things to offer you. If you're looking to enjoying a city and feel cozy, Guimarães could be a good option, because of its culture, people, and rich history.
Written by local enthusiast for Guimarães hostels
Maciel