10 Things to Do in Palácio de D. Afonso Henriques, Guimarães, Portugal
Palácio de D. Afonso Henriques is a magnificent palace located in the city of Guimarães, Portugal. This palace, also known as the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, is a historic landmark in the city and offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the city’s past. Here are 10 things to do in Palácio de D. Afonso Henriques that will make your trip to Portugal even more memorable.
1. Take a Tour of the Palace
The best way to experience the grandeur of the Palácio de D. Afonso Henriques is to take a guided tour. The tour will take you through the palace’s many rooms, including the grand ballroom, the chapel, the reception hall, and the library. You’ll also get to see the palace’s impressive art collection, which includes works by famous Portuguese artists.
2. Visit the Palace Gardens
The Palácio de D. Afonso Henriques is surrounded by beautiful gardens that are perfect for a leisurely stroll. The gardens are filled with lush vegetation and colorful flowers, and you can find benches throughout the grounds where you can sit and enjoy the view.
3. Explore the Palace Museum
The Palácio de D. Afonso Henriques also houses a museum that showcases the history of the palace and its former residents. The museum features a variety of artifacts, including furniture, paintings, and sculptures. You can also learn about the palace’s many renovations over the years and the various families who have lived there.
4. Climb the Tower
The Palácio de D. Afonso Henriques has a tower that visitors can climb for an amazing view of the city. The tower is open during the day, and you can climb up to the top and take in the stunning views of the city below.
5. Attend a Concert
The Palácio de D. Afonso Henriques is also home to a grand concert hall. The hall hosts a variety of concerts throughout the year, including classical music, jazz, and folk music. Attending a concert in the palace is a great way to experience the city’s cultural side.
6. Take a Cooking Class
The Palácio de D. Afonso Henriques offers a variety of cooking classes for visitors who want to learn how to make traditional Portuguese dishes. The classes are taught by local chefs and will teach you everything you need to know about Portuguese cuisine.
7. Have a Picnic in the Gardens
The gardens surrounding the palace are a great place to have a picnic. You can bring your own food or purchase food at the nearby cafes and restaurants. The gardens are a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of the palace.
8. Take a Wine Tasting Tour
The city of Guimarães is known for its excellent wines, and the Palácio de D. Afonso Henriques offers wine tasting tours. You’ll get to sample some of the best wines in the region and learn about the history of Portuguese winemaking.
9. Visit the Chapel
The Palácio de D. Afonso Henriques has a chapel that dates back to the 16th century. The chapel is open to visitors and is a great place to learn more about the history of the palace and its former residents.
10. Explore the City
The city of Guimarães is a great place to explore, and the Palácio de D. Afonso Henriques is located in the heart of the city. You can take a stroll through the city’s many cobblestone streets and visit the nearby cafes and shops.
Palácio de D. Afonso Henriques is a must-see destination in Portugal. Whether you’re looking to explore the palace’s history, take a cooking class, or simply enjoy the city’s beauty, this palace has something for everyone. So, make sure to add Palácio de D. Afonso Henriques to your list of places to visit in Portugal.