Braga and Vinho Verde wine tasting

Bite-sized trip

Itinerary:
Northern Portugal
Duration:
3 days / 2 nights (flexible)
Price:
From £ 165.- per person

The region of Minho, in the far northwest of Portugal, is a hidden gem! It’s home to the holy city of Braga and medieval Guimarães. But is probably best known for producing Vinho Verde – fresh, ‘green’ wine, which you will have the chance to learn more about and sample on this bite-sized trip.

Day 1 – Arrival in Braga

After a journey of about two hours from Porto or the Douro, you can reach the city of Braga. The centre of the city is the Praça da República, and from here you can stroll through the alleys and admire old baroque houses. Braga is the ‘religious capital’ of the country and a visit to the Sé Cathedral should not be missed in this religious capital. A visit to the pilgrim mountain Bom Jesus do Monte in Braga is also worthwhile. If you would prefer not to climb the hundreds of steps, just take the Elevador do Bom Jesus lift. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the city. You’ll be staying in a hotel in the historic centre with trendy cafes and a choice of restaurants close by.

Day 2 – Vinho Verde wine tasting

The Minho region is well-known for its production of Vinho Verde wine and today you will learn more, and of course, taste, the local produce. Vinho Verde means ‘green wine’. This is not referring to the colour of the wine (green could be a little off-putting!), but how young the wines are when they are drunk. Today we will arrange a wine tasting for you. The winery dates from 1378 and has a special interior with unique murals and antiques. You will visit the wine cellar and the vineyards and learn everything about the entire production process. This is followed by a wine tasting with tapas and Portuguese cheese. Then continue to the cultural city of Guimarães, the birthplace of Portugal. Visit one of the seven wonders of Portugal, the castle, before returning to your hotel in Braga.

Would you rather stay in Guimarães tonight? Let your Travel Specialist know and we can arrange this.

Day 3 – Depart Braga

If this trip has sparked an interest in Portuguese wine, why not continue your journey to the Douro Valley for more wine tasting? Or if you’re ready to stretch your legs and get out into the countryside, we’d recommend walking in the Peneda-Gerês national park.