Once an Augustinian monastery founded by Portugal’s first Queen in the 12th century, the beautifully repurposed Pousada Mosteiro de Guimarães stands proudly on a hill overlooking the city celebrated as the birthplace of Portugal.

With its grand halls, sprawling estate and old-world allure, this remarkable yet surprisingly affordable hotel is well worth at least a night’s stay.

Scroll on for our unforgettable experience at the Pousada and my top booking tip!

This post is not sponsored & reflects my personal opinions.

Stepping into the pages of a classic mystery novel

We arrived late at night, when there were hardly any other guests around.

Wheeling our luggage across the magificant halls and past elegant vintage furniture, we were both in awe and intrigued. We’d just learned there isn’t a 4th floor at the Pousada; no one knows why the architect made that decision centuries ago.

Looking down at our key, we realised we were assigned room 505… or was it S.O.S? It felt as though we’d stepped into the pages of a classic mystery novel!

#FYI Find out more about the Pousada’s fascinating history here.

Once a monk’s cell, now a traveller’s retreat

Upon entering our room, the first thing that caught our attention was the cosy nook with a stone bench and large window facing the estate’s garden—a hint of the room’s past life as a monk’s cell.

The room also had the usual modern comforts, though the furnishings were a bit dated (not that we’re complaining; given how much we paid, the experience was great value for money!).

#FYI We booked the Standard Room via booking.com for ~€90/A$150 a night with breakfast included (late 2024).

The buffet breakfast of our (Portuguese) dreams

Beyond the staples like eggs, cereals and fruit, the Pousada’s impressive buffet breakfast also features an array of deli meats, cheeses and local treats such as bola de carne (meat cake) and bolo real (royal cake).

Nothing makes my partner happier than a generous, all-inclusive hotel breakfast, so imagine his joy as he went for his third (or fourth, but who’s counting?) round!

These pasteis de nata (Portuguese custard tarts) were legit. They were slightly smaller than the famous ones, yet similarly flaky, creamy and addictive. I think we each had three in a single sitting... calories don’t count while on holiday, right?

As a big fan of the dish while growing up (Dad’s version remains my favourite!), I was excited to find ‘The Best French Toast in the World’ being served. While it’s a bold claim on their part, it seemed well-soaked in egg batter before being fried to perfection; I can confirm it was delightful!

An expansive estate of over eight hectares to explore

We’ve never stayed at a hotel with such a vast estate to explore. There are quaint courtyards, lush gardens, a swimming pool, and countless spots to soak in the historic ambience.

Don’t miss the Frei Jerónimo’s Balcony, which is adorned with precious 18th-century azulejos. It offers a splendid view of Guimarães and an idyllic setting for rest and contemplation.

#FYI Guimarães is about an hour away by train from Porto’s São Bento station and the Pousada is another 10-minute drive from there. While the Pousada is also accessible by public bus from Guimarães’ historic centre, we found Uber/Bolt to be an affordable and more convenient option to get around.

My top booking tip!

The Pousada’s rooms seem to be in two distinct areas: a charming historic wing (where we passed the grand halls and an arched-ceiling hallway to reach our room) and a newer, less atmospheric modern wing (where rooms may be a floor below the main lobby, giving a slight ‘basement’ feel).

If ambience and budget matter more than a city view to you, I suggest booking a garden-facing ‘Standard’/ ‘Classic’ room. Typically, it is in the historic wing and is the most affordable option (though it’s best to confirm with the hotel directly).

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Portugal | Stay at a former 12th-century monastery steeped in history & mystery