A stunning medieval city in northern Portugal, remarkably overlooked by tourists, has been highlighted as an essential destination for 2026. Guimarães, celebrated for its profound historical significance and contemporary vibrancy, combines UNESCO-listed heritage with cutting-edge sustainability and remarkably affordable dining.
An Under-the-Radar Historical Powerhouse
Featured in a BBC ranking of the year's top 20 travel spots, Guimarães is described as "astonishingly under the radar." This is despite its status as the 12th-century birthplace of Portugal and its former role as the nation's first capital. Located just 65km inland from Porto, the city boasts a magnificently preserved medieval heart—a labyrinth of cobbled squares, lanes, grand palaces, and terrace restaurants.
Travel writer Norman Miller, who profiled the city for the BBC, praised its enchanting atmosphere. The historic centre is a warren where visitors can discover an impressive array of culinary options. These range from Michelin-starred establishments and craft beer bars to relaxed local eateries.
Feast Like a King on a Budget
For those seeking exceptional value, Guimarães delivers. O Petisko is renowned as one of the city's most affordable lunch spots, where a daily set menu of soup, a main course, and a drink starts from just £4. For a slightly higher price point, Taberna Trovador in the city centre offers classic taverna ambiance with tapas and small plates.
History buffs will be captivated by landmarks like the grand Palace of the Dukes of Bragança. This 17th-century architectural masterpiece, the birthplace of the House of Bragança, has been a National Monument since 1910. While the city proudly honours its past, it is far from being stuck in it.
A Forward-Thinking Sustainable Capital
As one of Portugal's oldest university towns, almost half of its 156,830 residents are under 30, injecting a dynamic, youthful energy. The city received a major refresh when it was named European Capital of Culture in 2012.
2026 is a landmark year for Guimarães, marking 25 years of its UNESCO World Heritage status and its new title as Europe’s Green Capital. This recognises two decades of embedded sustainability work. Visitors today will see creatively repurposed heritage buildings, restored riverbanks, and a fleet of electric buses.
The European Commission reports that 97% of residents enjoy ‘good’ or ‘very good’ air quality. The city has also been named the most sustainable municipality in Portugal for three consecutive years. "It's a forward-thinking, quietly confident city – and one of Europe's most compelling surprises for 2026," concludes the BBC.
Nightlife thrives in the old town's heart around Praça de São Tiago and Largo da Oliveira, with popular spots including the vibrant university bar Púrpura and the Madeira-themed Poncha cocktail bar.
How to Get There from the UK
While there are no direct flights from the UK to Guimarães, several airports—including London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, and Bristol—offer budget-friendly fares to nearby Porto. From Porto Airport, direct coaches operated by companies like FlixBus take approximately 40–50 minutes to reach Guimarães, with tickets from around €5 (roughly £4–£6).
Alternatively, travellers can take a bus or taxi to Porto's city centre and catch a train from São Bento or Campanhã stations. The scenic train journey to Guimarães takes about 60 minutes.
