Benefit from a pick-up at your hotel in Porto or Vila Nova de Gaia, and then discover the "Cradle of Portugal" on a day trip to Guimarães and Braga. Upon arrival in Guimarães, visit the birthplace of Portugal's first king at the medieval Castle of Guimarães. See the Chapel of St. Michael where he was baptized, and discover the Palace of the Dukes of Bragança. Continue to the Church of Our Lady of Consolation (Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira) and the Holy Steps. Then, discover a favorite meeting point for several generations in Guimarães on Praça da Oliveira. Marvel at the UNESCO World Heritage monuments of the historic center, including the beautiful Town Hall. Venture down one of the oldest streets of Guimarães on Rua de Santa Maria, and contemplate the Convent of Santa Clara before you take a break for lunch and soak up the city's youthful vibe on Praça de Santiago. Continue in the afternoon at the old city of Braga. Visit Praça da República, admire the unique façade of the Igreja dos Congregados, discover the House of Riddles and the famous A Brasileira café. Go to the fortified tower of the Torre de Menagem and see the 18th-century fountain of the Largo do Paço. Admire the cathedral that survived many earthquakes to emerge as one of Portugal's most important monuments. Then, head to Monte do Bom Jesus, 6 kilometers from the city center, and see the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus de Braga to experience the most famous religious sanctuary in Portugal. Depart Braga as the sun begins to set, and return to Porto to get dropped off at your hotel.