A stunning medieval city in Portugal, remarkably overlooked by tourists, has been named a must-visit destination for 2026. Guimarães, celebrated for its rich history, outstanding value, and forward-thinking culture, features in a prominent BBC ranking of the year's top 20 travel spots, described as "astonishingly under the radar".
A Tapestry of History and Modern Vibrancy
Located just 65km inland from Porto, Guimarães is revered as the 12th-century birthplace of Portugal and its first capital. Its heart is a beautifully preserved medieval core, a labyrinth of cobbled lanes and squares adorned with grand palaces and inviting restaurants. As highlighted by travel writer Norman Miller for the BBC, this historic warren offers an eclectic mix of dining, from Michelin-starred establishments to relaxed eateries and craft beer bars.
For budget-conscious travellers, the city is a haven. O Petisko offers a daily set lunch of soup, a main course, and a drink starting from just £4. For a slightly higher price point, Taberna Trovador in the city centre delivers classic taverna atmosphere with tapas and small plates.
History enthusiasts are drawn to significant monuments like the Palace of the Dukes of Bragança, a magnificent 17th-century building classified as a National Monument since 1910. Yet, Guimarães is far from being stuck in the past. As one of Portugal's oldest university towns, almost half of its population is under 30, injecting a dynamic energy. The city's nightlife thrives around the old town squares of Praça de São Tiago and Largo da Oliveira, with popular spots including the vibrant university bar Púrpura and the Madeira-themed Poncha cocktail bar.
Celebrating Sustainability and Heritage in 2026
The coming year holds special significance for Guimarães. The city will celebrate 25 years of its UNESCO World Heritage status, awarded in 2001 for its exceptionally preserved historic centre. Simultaneously, it will proudly hold the title of Europe’s Green Capital for 2026, recognising two decades of embedded sustainability work.
This commitment is visible throughout the city, from creatively repurposed heritage buildings and restored riverbanks to a fleet of electric buses. The European Commission reports that 97% of its residents enjoy ‘good’ or ‘very good’ air quality. This innovative spirit has also seen Guimarães named European Capital of Culture in 2012 and the most sustainable municipality in Portugal for three consecutive years.
How to Get There from the UK
While there are no direct flights from the UK to Guimarães, several airports offer budget-friendly routes to nearby Porto, including London Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, and Bristol. From Porto Airport, direct coaches to Guimarães take approximately 40–50 minutes, with operators like FlixBus offering tickets from around €5 (roughly £4–£6). Alternatively, travellers can take a train from Porto's São Bento or Campanhã stations, with the journey taking about 60 minutes.
With its compelling blend of ancient heritage, youthful vibrancy, acclaimed sustainability, and remarkable affordability, Guimarães stands out as what the BBC calls "one of Europe's most compelling surprises for 2026" – a perfect escape for British travellers seeking culture, sunshine, and fresh air.
