Exploring Portugal’s Minho region becomes effortless and immersive with this small group tour from Porto. For $189.73, travelers enjoy a 10-hour guided journey that covers Braga, Ponte de Lima, Viana do Castelo, and a Vinho Verde winery, including a regional lunch and wine tasting. The tour offers Porto hotel pickup and drop-off, eliminating transportation worries and making for a smooth experience. With guided visits to iconic sites like the Bom Jesus Sanctuary and Brejoeira Palace, along with tastings of local sweets and Vinho Verde wine, this tour appeals to those seeking a comprehensive day trip with rich sights and flavors.

One of the key advantages of this tour is its small group size, capped at 5 travelers, which ensures personalized attention from the guide, Pedro. It’s highly recommended for anyone interested in cultural sights, scenic landscapes, and Portuguese wine. While the tour does require some walking, most locations are accessible and suitable for most travelers. With positive reviews emphasizing expert guides and well-paced visits, this trip offers a practical way to explore the highlights of Minho without the hassle of planning.

Key Points

Affordable full-day excursion from Porto for $189.73 per person
Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, saving you time and effort
Visits Braga, Ponte de Lima, Viana do Castelo, and a Vinho Verde winery
Tastes of local sweets and Vinho Verde wine are part of the experience
Includes guided tours of Brejoeira Palace and Bom Jesus Sanctuary
Small group size of up to 5 travelers for a more intimate experience

Discover the Charm of Braga, Portugal’s Oldest Diocese

The tour begins with a pickup from your Porto hotel in the morning, leading to the historic city of Braga. Known for its oldest diocese in Portugal, Braga was once a rival to Santiago de Compostela in medieval prominence. The city center is lively and filled with historic architecture and charming streets. Visitors can enjoy a taste of local sweets at a well-known cake shop, adding a delicious touch to the cultural exploration. This stop lasts about 90 minutes, providing time to stroll and appreciate Braga’s unique atmosphere.

If wine interests you, we've examined these other wine experiences in Porto

The Spectacular Bom Jesus Sanctuary and Its Baroque Stairway

After exploring Braga, the tour takes you to Bom Jesus Sanctuary, a highlight due to its neo-classical architecture and dramatic baroque stairway. The 17 landings are adorned with fountains and allegoric statues, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors ride the funicular (included in the tour) up to the sanctuary, making the ascent smooth and comfortable. The site’s architecture and scenic setting make this stop a photo-worthy moment and a favorite feature among travelers.

Savoring a Traditional Lunch in Ponte de Lima

Next, the itinerary includes a stop in the medieval village of Ponte de Lima for a regional lunch. This ancient town, dating back to 1125 when it received its first charter from D. Teresa, offers a taste of Minho gastronomy. The walk across the Roman bridge that gave the village its name adds to the experience. The lunch offers a chance to try local dishes and enjoy the authentic atmosphere of a town that has maintained its historic charm.

Tasting Vinho Verde and Exploring Arcos de Valdevez

Following lunch, the tour heads to Arcos de Valdevez, where visitors can taste Vinho Verde, a famous regional wine available in both white and tinto varieties. This stop lasts about 90 minutes, giving enough time to sample the wines and appreciate the local viticulture. The experience highlights the importance of Vinho Verde to the Minho region’s identity and makes for a flavorful break in the day’s itinerary.

Visiting the Iconic Brejoeira Palace and Gardens

The journey continues north to Palacio da Brejoeira, a striking neo-classical building from the 19th century. The guided tour of the palace recounts its history and significance in Alto-Minho. The visit includes a walk through the gardens, offering picturesque views and photo opportunities. The experience concludes with a wine tasting of the famous white Vinho Verde Alvarinho, allowing guests to appreciate the local wine craftsmanship firsthand.

While in Porto, here are other experiences we've covered

Final Stop at Viana do Castelo and Santa Luzia Sanctuary

The last main stop is Viana do Castelo, a charming coastal city founded in the 13th century by D. Afonso III. Situated near the mouth of the river Lima, the city’s historic center features narrow streets and colorful buildings. Visitors are led to the Santa Luzia Sanctuary, which offers sweeping views over the city and coastline. After exploring Viana, the tour concludes with transportation back to Porto, ending the day around 6:00 pm.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour departs from Largo dos Lóios in Porto at 8:00 am. The group is limited to 5 participants, ensuring an intimate setting where the guide, Pedro, provides personalized insights and storytelling. The modern vehicle used for transportation is praised for its cleanliness and comfort. The tour includes bottled water, and all entry fees to Brejoeira Palace and Gardens are covered.

The Experience of a Small Group Tour with Pedro

Reviews highlight Pedro’s expertise as a guide and his ability to tell engaging stories about each site. Travelers praise the small group format for its personalized attention and the well-paced itinerary. The guide is noted for patience and storytelling skills, making the experience both informative and enjoyable. The vehicle’s comfort and the thoughtful scheduling are also appreciated, allowing visitors to see a lot without feeling rushed.

Value and Booking Information

This tour is priced at $189.73 per person, a competitive rate considering the full-day itinerary, multiple site visits, wine tastings, and lunch. It is recommended to book well in advance, with an average booking lead time of 97 days. The tour can be canceled free of charge if canceled at least 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Suitable Audience and Final Considerations

This tour suits those interested in Portuguese culture, historical sites, and regional wines. It is accessible to most travelers, although some walking is involved at sites like Braga and Ponte de Lima. The small group size makes it ideal for travelers who prefer a personalized experience. This tour is particularly well-suited for those who enjoy guided storytelling, scenic views, and local gastronomy.

Ready to Book?

Minho Tour small group, Braga, Ponte de Lima, Viana, Vinho Verde Winery & Lunch

5.0

(18)

100% 5-star

“This was the first of three tours we were to take with Pedro. Picked up outside our apartment we drove out of Porto into the Minho region, with its…”

— Susan V, Aug 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off in Porto, visits to Braga, Bom Jesus Sanctuary, Ponte de Lima, Viana do Castelo, the Vinho Verde winery, lunch, wine and sweet tastings, and entry to Brejoeira Palace and Gardens.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 10 hours, departing at 8:00 am and returning around 6:00 pm.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children 3 years and under are free, but seats are limited. Most travelers can participate; however, some walking and site visits may require moderate mobility.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 5 travelers, providing a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours before the start time.

This Minho Tour from Porto offers a well-rounded, culturally rich day trip through Portugal’s scenic Minho region, blending historic sights, regional wines, and authentic cuisine in an intimate group setting. It’s a practical choice for those eager to explore without the stress of planning, enjoying the beauty, history, and flavors of northern Portugal.