Car Hire Guimaraes - Mini guide to Guimaraes

Guimaraes

Renowned as Portugal's first capital and birthplace of its first king, Guimaraes is one of the most beautifully preserved places in Europe. Historical records of this UNESCO World Heritage site date back to 840 AD, and its centuries old structures are imbued with legends of fierce battles and infamous kings.

Strolling past facades adorned with statues, the cobblestone lanes of the city's old quarter lead to the palace, with its small museum. The town's churches include: the 12th century Capela de S Miguel, 14th century church of São Francisco, and the monastery of Nossa Senhora da Oliveira, which contains centuries of religious artwork. Guimaraes' Museu Martins Sarmento houses historical items dating back to antiquity.

Plenty of fine dining on traditional Portuguese cuisine can be had about town, with a wide variety of options for shopping, or a glass of local wine.

There are many places of interest within a short drive from Guimaraes. The 11th century Igreja de Fonte Arcadais lies to the north and the Benedictine monastery of Pombeiro de Ribavizela is southeast. Celorico de Bastos village holds a castle where ancient statues of Celtic warriors were found hidden in its surrounding woods and mountains.

Known since antiquity as a region of spas, the ancient town of Caldas das Taipas, dating back to the Roman era, lies northwest of Guimaraes with the spa town of Vizela directly to the south.

Located in the country's northwest, 217 miles (350kms) north of Lisbon and 30 miles (50kms) from Porto, Guimaraes is linked to all major cities in Portugal by train and motorway. The nearest airport, Francisco Sá Carneiro International, is in Porto. The city's old town can be seen on foot, but hiring a car is the best way to see the surrounding region. We can arrange cheap car rental for you in Guimaraes, taking the stress out of getting around.

Car hire deals in: Portugal

We rent the following types of cars: Economy (Vauxhall Corsa or equiv.), Mini, Small family (Ford Focus or equiv.), Medium family (Toyota Avensis or equiv.), large family (BMW 5 series), 4x4, SUV, Convertible, Van, Sports car, Luxury cars.

Hire cheap cars from the following suppliers, Ebookers, Opodo, Avis, Expedia, Sixt, Thrifty and budget rental prices from EasyCar, Budget, Holiday Autos, Economy, 121carhire.