Guimaraes

Guimaraes holds a place in Portuguese hearts that few cities can claim: it is the "Cradle of the Nation," the birthplace of Afonso Henriques, the first king of Portugal, who declared the country's independence from the Kingdom of Leon here in 1139. The castle where he was born still stands on its granite hilltop, its crenellated towers gazing out over a medieval town centre that UNESCO inscribed as a World Heritage Site in 2001. Guimaraes is the place where Portugal began, and walking its ancient streets is to walk through the origin story of a nation that went on to build one of history's greatest maritime empires.

The historic centre is a masterclass in medieval and Renaissance urban planning. The Largo da Oliveira is framed by granite arcades, half-timbered houses, and the Romanesque Church of Nossa Senhora da Oliveira. The Rua de Santa Maria, the oldest street in town, climbs past gothic doorways and wrought-iron balconies. The Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, a fifteenth-century mansion built in the Burgundian Gothic style, dominates the castle quarter with its forest of cylindrical brick chimneys.

The cuisine of Guimaraes and the Minho region is among Portugal's most distinctive. Bacalhau a Minhota — salt cod fried with potatoes, eggs, and onions — is the local variation of Portugal's national obsession. Rojoes, marinated fried pork cubes served with chestnuts and blood sausage, is hearty and delicious. The Minho is the homeland of vinho verde — the light, slightly sparkling young wine that flows freely in every restaurant in town.

The surroundings offer natural beauty and cultural depth. The Penha Mountain, accessible by cable car, offers sweeping views and excellent hiking. Braga, the religious capital of Portugal with the extraordinary Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary, is a short drive north. The Douro Valley is accessible for day trips. The Citania de Briteiros, a pre-Roman hilltop settlement, lies just fifteen minutes outside Guimaraes.

Guimaraes is a port of call for CroisiEurope, Riviera Travel, and Uniworld River Cruises on their Douro River itineraries. The city's compact centre is entirely walkable. The best time to visit is April through October, with June offering the festive Festas Gualterianas.