Guimarães, often referred to as the Cradle or birthplace of Portugal, is a charming city located in the north of the country, about 50 kilometres from Porto. With a population of around 158,000, this historic city offers a unique blend of medieval charm and modern amenities.
Guimarães is renowned for its well-preserved old town, which has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city’s compact size and rich cultural heritage make it an attractive option for expats and retirees seeking an authentic Portuguese experience.
Living in Guimarães allows you to immerse yourself in Portuguese history while enjoying a high quality of life. The city’s historic centre is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, grand plazas, and well-preserved medieval buildings, creating a picturesque setting for daily life.
Despite its historical significance, Guimarães has a youthful energy, thanks in part to its university population. The city strikes a balance between preserving its past and embracing the future, with a growing economy and modern infrastructure.
While not as popular with expats as coastal cities or larger urban centres like Lisbon and Porto, Guimarães is gaining attention from international residents looking for a more authentic Portuguese lifestyle.
The cost of living in Guimarães is generally lower than in major cities, including nearby Braga making it an attractive option for those seeking affordability without sacrificing quality of life.
The city’s location in the heart of the Minho region also offers easy access to beautiful natural landscapes, vineyards, and other historic towns, providing plenty of opportunities for exploration and day trips.
Renting & Buying Property
The property market in Guimarães offers a range of options for both renters and buyers. Whether you’re looking for a modern apartment in the city centre or a traditional house in the surrounding areas, you’ll find various choices to suit different preferences and budgets. The city’s real estate market has been growing steadily, attracting both local and international interest.
Buying
Property prices in Guimarães are generally more affordable compared to larger Portuguese cities like Lisbon or Porto. You can find apartments in the city centre starting from around €100,000, while renovated houses in good locations may range from €150,000 to €300,000. Luxury properties or larger houses with gardens in desirable areas can exceed €500,000.
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Renting
Rental prices in Guimarães are reasonable, making it an attractive option for expats and students. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre typically ranges from €350 to €500 per month, while larger apartments or houses can cost between €500 and €800. Living in nearby towns or rural areas can offer even more affordable options, with prices about 20-30% lower than in the city centre.
For more information about renting in Portugal, including tips and legal considerations, check out our comprehensive guide to renting in Portugal.
Cost Of Living
The cost of living in Guimarães is generally lower than in Portugal’s major cities, making it an appealing destination for expats and retirees. Housing costs, whether renting or buying, are the most significant expense but are still quite reasonable compared to other European cities.
Daily living expenses such as groceries, dining out, and entertainment are quite affordable. A couple can live comfortably in Guimarães on a budget of €1,500 to €2,000 per month, including rent. Utilities are relatively inexpensive, and public transportation is affordable and efficient.
Can I move to Guimarães?
Moving to Guimarães, like any city in Portugal, is possible for many international residents. Portugal offers various visas and residency permits to accommodate different situations:
- EU/EEA/Swiss nationals can move to Portugal fairly easily without needing a visa. This also applies to their spouses/partners and some qualifying family members.
- The D7 Visa is ideal for those with regular passive income, such as pensions, social security, rental income, dividends, or royalties.
- The D8 Visa, or Digital Nomad Visa, is perfect for freelancers and remote workers.
- The Golden Visa is aimed at those with significant savings who want to invest in Portugal. It requires minimal physical presence in the country.
- The D2 Visa is designed for entrepreneurs or those wanting to start a business in Portugal.
Each visa has specific requirements and application processes. It’s advisable to consult with an immigration lawyer or visa specialist for personalised advice.
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Attractions
- Guimarães Castle: This 10th-century castle is a symbol of Portuguese nationality. It’s believed to be the birthplace of Portugal’s first king, Afonso Henriques. Visitors can explore the well-preserved fortress, climb its towers for panoramic views, and learn about the country’s early history.
- Paço dos Duques de Bragança: This 15th-century palace, now a museum, showcases medieval architecture and houses an impressive collection of furniture, tapestries, and weapons. Its ornate rooms and beautiful gardens offer a glimpse into the lives of Portuguese nobility.
- Historic Centre: Guimarães’ old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through its narrow cobblestone streets, admire the well-preserved medieval buildings, and soak in the atmosphere of Largo da Oliveira, the main square dominated by the Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira.
- Penha Mountain: Just outside the city, this mountain offers beautiful natural scenery and panoramic views of Guimarães. You can reach the top by cable car or hiking trails, and enjoy its parks, chapel, and viewpoints.
- Plataforma das Artes e Criatividade: This modern cultural centre, housed in a converted market building, hosts contemporary art exhibitions and cultural events. It’s a testament to Guimarães’ blend of historic charm and modern creativity.
Expat Life
While Guimarães has a smaller expat community compared to larger Portuguese cities, it’s growing steadily. The expat population in Guimarães is diverse, including retirees and professionals working in the city’s industries. You’ll find a mix of nationalities, with a significant number of British, French, American, and Brazilian expats.
The local community in Guimarães is generally welcoming to newcomers, and many expats find it easier to integrate here compared to larger, more tourist-oriented cities. The city’s size allows for a close-knit feel, making it easier to build connections with both locals and other expats. While the expat scene may not be as bustling as in Lisbon or Porto,or even Braga, there are still opportunities to connect through social media groups, language exchange meetups, and cultural events.
Attractions
Guimarães Castle: This 10th-century castle is a symbol of Portuguese nationality. It’s believed to be the birthplace of Portugal’s first king, Afonso Henriques. Visitors can explore the well-preserved fortress, climb its towers for panoramic views, and learn about the country’s early history.
Paço dos Duques de Bragança: This 15th-century palace, now a museum, showcases medieval architecture and houses an impressive collection of furniture, tapestries, and weapons. Its ornate rooms and beautiful gardens offer a glimpse into the lives of Portuguese nobility.
Historic Centre: Guimarães’ old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through its narrow cobblestone streets, admire the well-preserved medieval buildings, and soak in the atmosphere of Largo da Oliveira, the main square dominated by the Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira.
Penha Mountain: Just outside the city, this mountain offers beautiful natural scenery and panoramic views of Guimarães. You can reach the top by cable car or hiking trails, and enjoy its parks, chapel, and viewpoints.
Plataforma das Artes e Criatividade: This modern cultural centre, housed in a converted market building, hosts contemporary art exhibitions and cultural events. It’s a testament to Guimarães’ blend of historic charm and modern creativity.
Expat Life
While Guimarães has a smaller expat community compared to larger Portuguese cities, it’s growing steadily. The expat population in Guimarães is diverse, including retirees, digital nomads, and professionals working in the city’s industries. You’ll find a mix of nationalities, with a significant number of British, French, German, and Brazilian expats.
The local community in Guimarães is generally welcoming to newcomers, and many expats find it easier to integrate here compared to larger, more tourist-oriented cities. The city’s size allows for a close-knit feel, making it easier to build connections with both locals and other expats. While the expat scene may not be as bustling as in Lisbon or Porto, there are still opportunities to connect through social media groups, language exchange meetups, and cultural events.
Retiring Here
Guimarães offers an attractive option for retirees seeking a blend of historical charm, modern amenities, and a relaxed lifestyle. The city’s compact size and relatively flat centre make it easy to navigate, although some areas can be hilly. The cost of living is lower than in larger Portuguese cities, including nearby Braga, allowing retirees to stretch their pensions and savings further.
Healthcare in Guimarães is of good quality, with both public and private options available. The city has a central hospital and several clinics, and its proximity to Porto means access to more specialised medical care if needed. The mild climate is another draw for retirees, with warm summers and mild winters.
There’s plenty to keep retirees active and engaged in Guimarães. The city’s rich cultural heritage offers numerous museums, historical sites, and cultural events to explore. The surrounding Minho region provides opportunities for day trips, wine tasting, and outdoor activities.
While the expat community is smaller than in some other Portuguese cities, retirees often find it easier to integrate into local life and build meaningful connections with both expats and locals.
Food
Regional dishes in Guimarães include:
- Papas de Sarrabulho: A hearty dish made with various meats, bread, and cumin, popular during winter months.
- Rojões: Cubes of pork marinated in wine and garlic, then fried until crispy.
- Vitela Assada à Moda de Fafe: Roasted veal typically served with potatoes and greens.
- Bacalhau com Broa: Cod fish topped with cornbread crumbs, olive oil, and garlic.
- Toucinho do Céu: A rich almond cake, whose name translates to “bacon from heaven”.
You’ll also find national Portuguese dishes like caldo verde (kale soup), grilled fish, grilled meat dishes, and cozido à portuguesa (a Portuguese stew) on most traditional Portuguese menus. These are found throughout Portugal, along with the ubiquitous pastel de nata.
For vegans, vegetarians, and those requiring gluten-free options, Guimarães offers a growing number of choices, especially in the city centre. While traditional Portuguese cuisine is heavy on meat and fish, and bread is a staple, awareness of diverse dietary needs is increasing.
You’ll find some restaurants and cafes catering to these diets, particularly those popular with students and international visitors. However, options will be more limited compared to larger cities like Porto or Lisbon.
Upsides & Downsides Of Living Here
Pros
- Rich cultural heritage and beautiful architecture
- Lower cost of living compared to major Portuguese cities
- High quality of life with good healthcare and education systems
- Proximity to nature and outdoor activities
- Less touristy, offering a more authentic Portuguese experience
- Good location for exploring northern Portugal
Cons
- Smaller job market compared to larger cities
- There is no airport in Guimarães (although Porto Airport is close by)
- Fewer English speakers compared to more tourist-oriented areas
- Smaller expat community
- Can be quite rainy in winter
Climate
Guimarães has a Mediterranean climate with Atlantic influences. Summers are warm and dry, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 28°C (59°F to 82°F). Winters are cool and rainy, with temperatures typically between 5°C and 14°C (41°F to 57°F). Spring and autumn are generally mild and pleasant.
While Guimarães isn’t a coastal city, it’s not far from beautiful beaches along the Costa Verde. For summer cooling, locals often head to praias fluviais (river beaches) in the nearby countryside, which offer refreshing spots to escape the heat.
Will I Need To Learn Portuguese?
While English is widely spoken in major Portuguese cities, in Guimarães, knowing Portuguese becomes more important. Many locals, especially older generations, may not speak English fluently. Learning Portuguese is crucial for daily life, from shopping to dealing with local authorities. It’s also key to fully integrating into the community and appreciating the local culture.
Portuguese people are generally helpful and enjoy speaking other languages, but they truly appreciate when you make an effort to speak their language. Moreover, if you’re considering applying for Portuguese citizenship in the future, you’ll need to pass an A2 level Portuguese language exam.
Learning Portuguese will greatly enhance your experience living in Guimarães. It opens doors to deeper connections with locals, better understanding of the culture, and smoother navigation of daily life.
For resources and tips on learning Portuguese, check out this helpful guide to learning Portuguese.
Schools
Guimarães offers a range of educational options. The public school system is well-regarded, with several top-performing schools in the area. There are also private schools that offer alternative curricula. While Guimarães doesn’t have international schools, there are options in nearby Porto and Braga for families seeking an international curriculum. However, this is a considerable journey to make every day.
For higher education, the University of Minho has a campus in Guimarães, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The university’s presence contributes to the city’s youthful and dynamic atmosphere.
For more detailed information about education, including public, private, and international options, check out this comprehensive guide to the Portuguese school system.
Getting Around
Guimarães is a relatively compact city with a walkable historic centre. The core of the city is fairly flat, making it easy to explore on foot, although some outlying areas can be hilly. For longer distances or when venturing outside the city centre, other modes of transportation become necessary.
- Train: Guimarães has a train station with regular connections to Porto (about an hour’s journey) and other nearby towns. This makes it easy to explore the region or commute to larger cities.
- Bus: The city has a good bus network covering most areas of Guimarães and its surroundings. For those living outside the city centre, buses can be a reliable option for daily commutes.
- Car: While not absolutely necessary for daily life in the city centre, having a car can be beneficial for exploring the Minho region and for convenient access to nearby towns and natural areas. As the city is quite small, you’re likely to spend a lot of time exploring the surrounding area.
- Ride-sharing: Uber and other ride-sharing services are available in Guimarães, providing a convenient alternative to traditional taxis.
- Flying: The nearest major airport is Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport in Porto, about 50 km away from Guimarães. This international airport offers connections to many European cities and some international flights to the US and Canada. For more options, you may need to go to Lisbon.
Day trips from Guimarães are plentiful and varied. You can easily visit historic cities like Braga or Porto, each offering unique attractions and atmosphere. Nature lovers can explore the beautiful Peneda-Gerês National Park, with its stunning landscapes and hiking trails.
The Douro Valley, famous for its port wine production, makes for a fantastic day out with its terraced vineyards and wine tasting opportunities. Coastal towns like Viana do Castelo are within reach, offering beautiful beaches and maritime charm. The region’s rich history means there are numerous castles, monasteries, and archaeological sites to discover in the surrounding area.
Similar locations
When comparing Guimarães to other Portuguese cities for living, it shares some similarities with Braga and Coimbra. All three are historic cities with rich cultural heritage and university presence. However, Guimarães is smaller and offers a more intimate experience.
Guimarães is often seen as a more affordable and less touristy alternative to Porto, offering a similar northern Portuguese lifestyle but with a lower cost of living and a more relaxed pace. It’s far less cosmopolitan than Lisbon or Porto, due to its size, but offers a strong sense of community and tradition.
Compared to coastal cities like Aveiro or Faro, Guimarães offers a different lifestyle, being inland and slightly cooler. However, like these cities, it maintains a good balance between urban amenities and a manageable size, making it attractive for those seeking a high quality of life without the bustle of a major metropolis.