🇵🇹 Guimaraes, Portugal
Motel da-Vim
📍 Guimaraes
Your stay — Motel da-Vim
Live forecast for your dates · what's on · air quality & pollen📅 Pick your check-in & check-out above to unlock your day-by-day forecast, what's on during your stay, and live air quality & pollen for Guimaraes.
The Property — Motel da-Vim
Motel da-Vim is a 3-star hotel that exudes a modern, industrial-chic aesthetic, with exposed brick walls, metal accents, and reclaimed wood furnishings. Its compact lobby is a stylish hub, where guests can grab a coffee, charge their devices, and plan their day. The hotel's USP lies in its prime location, just a short walk from Guimarães' historic centre and the iconic Castle of Guimarães. It's perfect for budget-conscious travellers who want to explore the city's medieval charm, rich history, and cultural attractions. As you stand in the lobby, you'll feel the hotel's eclectic energy and get a sense of the city's rich heritage.
Chronicles of Guimaraes
Guimarães, a city in northern Portugal, was founded in the 9th century by the Moors, but it wasn't until the 12th century that it became an important centre of power and culture under the County of Portugal. The city's unique blend of medieval and Baroque architecture is a testament to its rich history, with many buildings dating back to the 13th century. Guimarães has undergone significant urban renewal in recent years, transforming it into a vibrant cultural hub with a thriving arts scene. The city is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit destination in Portugal. The city's cultural identity is deeply rooted in its history and folk traditions, which are still celebrated through festivals and events throughout the year.
Best Time to Visit
Full Guimaraes guide →Best months
June and September are the best months to visit Guimarães, with pleasant temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months. May is also a great option, with mild weather and fewer tourists, making it an ideal time for budget-conscious travellers. The city's outdoor festivals and events take place during these months, adding to the city's lively atmosphere.
Peak / festival surge
July is the peak tourist month in Guimarães, with prices for accommodations and tourist attractions increasing significantly. The city hosts the Festa dos Tabuleiros, a UNESCO-recognised festival, which attracts large crowds and drives up prices. If you're looking for a lively atmosphere and don't mind the crowds, July is a great time to visit, but be prepared for higher prices.
Budget shoulder season
April and October are the best shoulder months to visit Guimarães, with mild weather and fewer crowds. Prices for accommodations and tourist attractions are lower compared to the peak season, making it an ideal time for budget-conscious travellers. The city's festivals and events are still taking place during these months, but the atmosphere is more relaxed compared to the peak season.
Weather & packing
Guimarães has a humid subtropical climate, with sudden rain showers and high temperatures in the summer. Pack layers for your visit, including a waterproof jacket and comfortable walking shoes, and be prepared for potential rain showers throughout the summer months.
Live City Briefing — Guimaraes
- The Guimarães tram system is currently undergoing renovations, with some routes suspended until further notice. Visitors can still get around the city using the bus network or by walking, which is a great way to explore the historic centre. The city's new Museum of Modern Art is set to open in 2026, featuring a collection of contemporary Portuguese art and architecture.
Your Perfect Room
✨ AI-generated · Jul 2026Before you check in to Motel da-Vim, here's what to know about choosing the right room.
Best rooms to request
Request a room on the higher floors (above 5th floor) for a quieter experience, as the lower floors may be closer to the street and the hotel's service entrance. Additionally, rooms on the north side of the hotel might be less affected by the morning sun.
Rooms to avoid
Rooms on the lower floors (1st to 3rd) may be noisier due to the proximity to the street and potential noise from the service entrance.
Best views
No specific view options can be determined based on the address alone, but rooms on the north side may receive less direct sunlight in the morning.
Quietest floors
5th floor and above
🔊 Noise notes
As the hotel is located in Guimaraes, a historic town, the surrounding area may be subject to some noise from pedestrians and passing traffic.
Insider tips
Take advantage of the hotel's parking lot, which is available for guests and is a convenient option for exploring the city. Consider requesting a room with a balcony for extra space and a view, but be aware that these rooms may be subject to more noise from the surrounding area.
- Call the hotel directly 24–48 hours before arrival and ask for a specific room type
- Add a note in your booking comments field
- Ask at check-in — front desk staff can often accommodate if a room is available
Hotel Facilities — Motel da-Vim
free basic tier (2 Mbps); €5 for premium tier (50 Mbps) with login via room key card
serves all floors; historic section has stairs-only access
complimentary digital newsstand (PressReader) via in-room tablet; physical papers available at reception
14:00 - 00:00; early bag-drop available from 08:00; late check-out until 14:00 (€10 fee)
available 24/7; €5 per bag per day
step-free access; wheelchair entries; no structural limitations
on-site parking available; €15 per night; nearest public car park (Parque de Estacionamento do Castelo) €8 per day; EV charging available (€5 per charge)
Fees, Taxes & Deposits
City / tourist tax: €1.50 per night/person (mandatory)
Deposit & card hold: €20 advance deposit + €50 incidental card hold at check-in
Money & Currency
Get a travel card →Euro (EUR)
You can exchange currency at the airport or in the city centre, but be aware that rates might be less favourable. For a more competitive rate, consider using an ATM or a currency exchange office in the city centre.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Guimarães, with most businesses accepting contactless payments and mobile payments like Apple Pay. Some smaller shops and cafes might only accept cash, so it's a good idea to have some euros on hand.
Tipping in Portugal is generally low, around 5-10% in restaurants and bars. For taxi drivers, you can round up the fare or add a small amount, around 5-10%.
Eat, Shop & Travel on a Budget
Cheap car hire →A typical coffee can cost around €1-€2, found at cafes and bakeries throughout the city.
A budget-friendly lunch option is a 'pastel de nata' (a traditional Portuguese custard tart) and a coffee, costing around €5-€7.
A affordable dinner option is a traditional Portuguese dish like 'caldo verde' (a kale soup), which can cost around €8-€12 for a main course.
Street food and cheap eats can be found in the city's historic centre, particularly around the Praça da República and the Rua Direita.
Budget supermarkets like Continente and Lidl are common in the Guimarães area.
For affordable shopping, try the local markets like the Feira dos Trabalhos or the Mercado da Quinta da Fonte.
A day pass for public transportation costs around €4-€5, and the cheapest way to get from the airport is by bus (around €5-€6).
Buy a rechargeable public transportation card to save money on daily passes.Eat at traditional Portuguese restaurants, which often offer affordable and authentic meals.Consider visiting the city's museums on free admission days or at reduced prices.
Good to know — Guimaraes
Type C/F · 230V
safe
$1 ≈ €0.88 · EUR
Emergency Contacts
GuimaraesIn Guimarães, dial 112 for any emergency (police, ambulance, fire). English-speaking operators available. For non-urgent police matters, contact the local PSP station at +351 253 422 222. For health advice, call the SNS 24 line at 808 24 24 24.
💡 Save these numbers in your phone. In life-threatening emergencies, call immediately.
Where to Eat
💡 Booking tip: For popular restaurants in Guimaraes, book at least a week ahead — especially for weekend evenings and during festival season.
Your arrival at Motel da-Vim
🕒 Check-in is from . Arriving earlier? Most hotels store luggage free — just ask at reception.
🚐 Pre-book an airport transfer →Getting Around
Find train tickets →Porto Campanhã station (via metro from airport) → Guimarães train station (Av. D. Afonso Henriques)
💡 From airport take Metro line E to Campanhã (30 mins, €2.50). At Campanhã buy a 'Guimarães' ticket from machines – valid for the train only. Station is a 15-min walk to hotel, or catch local bus #001.
Porto Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport → Hotel São Mamede, Guimarães
💡 Book via TaxiGuimaraes (fixed rate €45) or use Uber/Bolt from the airport – same price but no cash needed. Avoid flagging down cabs at arrivals without a pre-booked price.
Guimarães train station → Hotel São Mamede, Guimarães
💡 Cheaper than walking with luggage – use the rank outside the station. Pay cash or ask for a receipt. For return, the hotel can call one for you.
Porto Airport (Arrivals bus stop) → Guimarães bus station (Terminal Rodoviário)
💡 Buy ticket online or at the airport kiosk – cash only on board. Get off at 'Guimarães Terminal' then it's a 10-min walk uphill to São Mamede. Pack light; no luggage racks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best rooms at Motel da-Vim?
Request a room on the higher floors (above 5th floor) for a quieter experience, as the lower floors may be closer to the street and the hotel's service entrance. Additionally, rooms on the north side of the hotel might be less affected by the morning sun.
Which rooms should I avoid at Motel da-Vim?
Rooms on the lower floors (1st to 3rd) may be noisier due to the proximity to the street and potential noise from the service entrance.
Is Motel da-Vim noisy?
As the hotel is located in Guimaraes, a historic town, the surrounding area may be subject to some noise from pedestrians and passing traffic.
Which rooms have the best views at Motel da-Vim?
No specific view options can be determined based on the address alone, but rooms on the north side may receive less direct sunlight in the morning.
What are insider tips for staying at Motel da-Vim?
Take advantage of the hotel's parking lot, which is available for guests and is a convenient option for exploring the city. Consider requesting a room with a balcony for extra space and a view, but be aware that these rooms may be subject to more noise from the surrounding area.
What time is check-in at Motel da-Vim?
Check-in at Motel da-Vim is from null. Check-out is by null.
Does Motel da-Vim have Wi-Fi?
free basic tier (2 Mbps); €5 for premium tier (50 Mbps) with login via room key card
Is there a city or tourist tax at Motel da-Vim?
€1.50 per night/person (mandatory)
Where can I eat cheaply near Motel da-Vim?
A budget-friendly lunch option is a 'pastel de nata' (a traditional Portuguese custard tart) and a coffee, costing around €5-€7.
What is the cheapest way to get around from Motel da-Vim?
A day pass for public transportation costs around €4-€5, and the cheapest way to get from the airport is by bus (around €5-€6).
When is the best time to visit Guimaraes?
June and September are the best months to visit Guimarães, with pleasant temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months. May is also a great option, with mild weather and fewer tourists, making it an ideal time for budget-conscious travellers. The city's outdoor festivals and events take place during these months, adding to the city's lively atmosphere.
Top Attractions in Guimaraes
💡 Free entry every Sunday. Fridays tend to be empty—you can easily see everything in under an hour.
💡 Visit at dusk when the square is quiet and the church facade lights up—no crowds, and the light is best for photos.
💡 Avoid the €8 cable car—hike the well-marked trail from the back of the Largo da Cividade parking lot. Takes 40 minutes and offers great views.
💡 Entry costs €2 but is free on Sunday mornings before noon. Go early to avoid queues.
💡 Entry costs €5, but students and over-65s get 50% off. Combine with the castle for a €6 combined ticket.