GAY GUIMARAES, PORTUGAL
Holiday Houseboys
To fully appreciate Guimaraes you need to book a Holiday Houseboys, your local gay friendly tour guide. He will be able to show you around like a local. Whether you want to see the tourist sites, places off the beaten track or discover new experiences, the Holiday Houseboy is there to help you. He looks after your safety and welfare at all times.
Alex
Gay friendly tour guide Guimaraes. Alex originally comes from Rome and he is an official tour guide of Guimarães in Portugal. Alex also has a doctorate degree in languages. He was an official tour guide in Rome and the Vatican Museum for more than 35 years, working especially with American customers. From 2007 to 2010 Alex lived in London where he worked as a tour guide with a London Blue Badge in the major museums and monuments in the city. And from 1997 to 2000 he lived in Paris working in Disneyland Paris, and from 1992 to 1997 Alex was a tour manager for American groups in Italy. With his extraordinary multilingual abilities and decades of experience across Europe’s greatest cities, he brings unparalleled expertise to exploring Guimarães. Whether you want to discover the medieval Guimarães Castle and Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, explore the UNESCO World Heritage historic centre with its charming squares and medieval streets, visit the Alberto Sampaio Museum, or experience the vibrant cultural scene and LGBTQ+ heritage of this birthplace of Portugal, Alex’s deep knowledge makes every tour special. His favourite interests include food, astrology, meeting new people, exploring local history and hidden stories, urban walking and city discovery, museum and art gallery visits, and travel photography. To book Alex as your guide, please click on the green “BOOK NOW” icon below.
Alex is a non smoker, and speaks English, French, Italian, Portuguese and Spanish.
He charges a guide fee of 70 euros per hour.
The cost for the guide services of Alex for one day (8 hours) = a non refundable deposit of 45 euros by Paypal or major credit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) PLUS 560 euros in cash to Alex after his guide services. Total 605 euros.
Alternatively the cost for the guide services of Alex for half a day (4 hours) = a non refundable deposit of 25 euros by Paypal or major credit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) PLUS 280 euros in cash to Alex after his guide services. Total 305 euros.
This does not include transport, entrance fees or any food & beverage costs. Please pay the guide’s expenses when he is with you.
How To Book A Holiday Houseboy
To book any of our Holiday Houseboys please go to the booking form.
Or send an email to info@holidayhouseboys.com.
Alternatively WhatsApp +34-676-78 63 51.
Remember a Holiday Houseboy is your gay friendly tour guide who looks after your safety and welfare at all times.
Please note these are guide services and not sexual services.
Our other destinations in Portugal are Azores, Braga, Coimbra, Evora, Faro, Lisbon, Madeira, Porto, Sao Tome, Setubal and Sintra.
Your Gay Friendly Tour Guide can tell you Stories about Guimaraes like these:
Guimarães is a historic city in northern Portugal, located in the Braga District in the Minho region. Many people call it the “Birthplace of Portugal” because it played a central role in the country’s foundation. Today, the city attracts visitors with its medieval charm, cultural heritage, and well-preserved architecture.
Most importantly, Guimarães connects directly to the origins of the Portuguese nation. Afonso Henriques, who became Portugal’s first king in 1139, was born here. In 1128, he led forces in the Battle of São Mamede near the city. This victory marked a decisive step toward independence from the Kingdom of León. As a result, locals proudly display the phrase “Here Portugal was born” on one of the old city towers.
One of the city’s main landmarks is the Guimarães Castle. Builders constructed this fortress in the 10th century to defend the region from invasions. Today, visitors walk along its strong stone walls and climb its towers for panoramic views. Nearby, the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza stands as another impressive monument. This 15th-century palace features distinctive brick chimneys and grand halls. Inside, exhibitions present furniture, tapestries, and historical artifacts that reflect noble life.
Furthermore, the historic center of Guimarães holds UNESCO World Heritage status, which it received in 2001. The old town preserves its medieval layout, narrow cobblestone streets, and traditional houses with wooden balconies. At the heart of the center lies Largo da Oliveira, a lively square surrounded by important buildings. For example, visitors can explore the Church of Our Lady of Oliveira and admire the Gothic Padrão do Salado monument.
In addition to its medieval heritage, Guimarães embraces modern culture. In 2012, the city served as the European Capital of Culture. This title encouraged investment in the arts and public spaces. Consequently, Guimarães now hosts festivals, concerts, exhibitions, and theater performances throughout the year. These events strengthen its reputation as a dynamic cultural center.
Meanwhile, the local economy combines tradition and innovation. Tourism plays a key role, but education and industry also contribute strongly. The University of Minho operates a campus in the city, bringing energy and diversity. At the same time, textile production and manufacturing continue to support the regional economy.
Finally, Guimarães offers natural beauty alongside history. Visitors often travel to nearby Penha Mountain by cable car. From the top, they enjoy scenic views, walking trails, and peaceful surroundings. Therefore, the city provides both cultural depth and outdoor experiences.
In conclusion, Guimarães represents the heart of Portuguese identity. It preserves its past with pride while actively shaping its cultural future. Because of this balance, the city remains one of Portugal’s most meaningful and captivating destinations.
