Gonçalo Porem Murta Tour Guide - Private Tours - Passeios Privados

23/03/2026

Another great group in Sintra.

Palace of Pena and Quinta da Regaleira with more than 40 people.
Another success.

Let’s do it

20/03/2026

Morocco trip with such an amazing crew!

Let’s do it again!

19/03/2026

Another great review from a happy guest!

10/03/2025

Another super satisfied group, after a pouring in Sintra’s palaces. It’s not rain that prevents us from appreciating the beauties that Portugal has to offer.

07/03/2025

Coimbra city

“Coimbra tem mais encanto na hora da despedida” the poem from the lyrics of one of the most meaningful academic songs in Portugal. Perhaps more than that. The symbol of academic life is undoubtedly Coimbra’s university.
The University of Coimbra is an institution with 7 centuries of existence and 5 centuries in the same place. The old royal castle of Coimbra houses the university since 1537 by order and offer of King João III of Portugal.
Continuously changing over time structurally and administratively adding more subjects to the degrees and opening minds to this day.
UNESCO World Heritage Site the University of Coimbra showcases a unique library built in the 18th century full of gilded wood bookshelves and ceiling art paintings elaborated by local and international artists that put in effort the work and artistic expression of that time that impress the eyes of every visitor every time.

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05/03/2025

Guimarães was once the capital of the land Portucale.
It was after 868 when a warlord under Alfonso III of Léon, took over the land of Portuscale where he instaled his residence, it was in Guimarães, and that itself derives from his own name Vimara Péres.
After becoming Vimara’s residence the land won the important status of political and economical center, developing the region around towards the Atlantic Ocean and between the Minho River in the north and the Vouga River in the south, that later in the 12th century became the Kingdom of Portugal. Conquered by the hands of our first king depicted in the photo in the statue Afonso Henriques the first of list of kings with same first name as him. By him and series of renamed warlords that supported the Portuguese cause. Successfully arriving into the south of the Tejo River (Tagus River) in Lisbon and far beyond that later in the 12th century.
🏰🗡️❤️‍🔥
Today a UNESCO Heritage Old Town with stunning views over beautiful monuments and windy streets.
Houses a noble palace and the famous Guimarães Castle nestled on top of the main hill.
Not to mention my favorite pastry that is Tortas de Guimarães, taking over 36 hours to make them.

It’s worth every second spent here!!

04/03/2025

The best chef in Portugal and with more Michelin stars in the whole country.
Take a look where his projects are located and go have an incredible experience.

Em dois anos, saltou de uma para cinco estrelas Michelin, tornando-se o chef mais premiado de sempre em Portugal. Vítor Matos acredita ter encontrado a fórmula para o sucesso e que ainda vai conquistar mais distinções. Até lá, ser odiado não lhe tira o sono, garante, sublinhando a n...

02/03/2025

Discover Braga - the capital of the Baroque

💥1. Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte for its views and the old funicular

🏯2. Old town and The Raio Palace - iconic blue palace

🪧3. BRAGA name sign near the Hotel Vila Gale Collection

⛪️4. Old Carhedral of Braga, one of the oldest cathedrals in the Iberian Peninsula

🍲5. Gastronomy- Bacalhau Braga Style

28/02/2025

Hi my friends

When visiting Portugal there are many places not to be missed out but I’ll share with you today two of my favorite places in Portugal that I always hit when going to Porto through Aveiro or on the way from Porto to Aveiro on a trip.
Here they go.
1. Chapel of Our Lord of the Stone
Built in the 18th century in a hermitage site where cults of unknown pagan Gods were worshiped here thousands of years ago. Built on top of rocks in the water that gives it a location more special and scenic views.
2. Church of Saint Mary of Válega
Built originally in the 18th century but fully renovated in the 60s of the 20th century with its colorful tiles depicting religious scenes of the life of Our Lady. Also beautiful stain glass windows and exotic woods are part of the inside.

Do not miss the “off the beaten path” way of touring.

27/02/2025

Portugal has around 150 castles, including well-preserved fortresses, ruins, and historical sites. Many of these castles date back to the medieval period, particularly from the time of the Christian Reconquista.

Where is the biggest concentration of castles?
The central and northern regions of Portugal have the highest concentration of castles. Some key areas include:

1. Beira Interior (Central Portugal) – This region, near the Spanish border, has many castles built as defensive structures. Notable examples:
* Sortelha Castle
* Sabugal Castle
* Belmonte Castle
* Linhares da Beira Castle

2. Douro and Trás-os-Montes (Northern Portugal) – Several castles were built to defend the kingdom from invasions. Examples:
* Montalegre Castle
* Bragança Castle
* Guimarães Castle (one of Portugal’s most famous)

3. Lisbon and Surroundings – The capital region also has a high density of castles, including:
* São Jorge Castle (Lisbon)
* Sintra’s Moorish Castle
* Palmela Castle

4. Alentejo - region of Portugal is home to numerous castles, each with its own historical significance and architectural grandeur. While exact measurements of size can be challenging due to varying definitions and the current state of preservation, the following castles are notable for their historical importance and prominence:
* Elvas Castle: Part of the "Border City-Barracks of Elvas and its Fortifications" complex, Elvas Castle is a prime example of military architecture in Portugal. �portugalafora.com� * Beja Castle: Located in the city of Beja, this castle features an imposing 42-meter high keep, considered one of the most beautiful in the country. �portugalafora.com�
* Marvão Castle: Perched atop the Serra de São Mamede at 843 meters above sea level, Marvão Castle offers expansive views and is noted for its excellent preservation. �aeroflap.com.br�
* Monsaraz Castle: Built in the 14th century by order of King Dinis, Monsaraz Castle is a national monument and was a finalist in the Seven Wonders of Portugal. �portugalafora.com�
* Mértola Castle: Situated in the town of Mértola, this castle has historical significance due to its strategic location along the Guadiana River. �portugalafora.com�
* Evoramonte Castle: This castle is notable for its unique architecture and historical importance in the Alentejo region. �visitevora.net�
* Vila Viçosa Castle: Built in the 14th century by order of King Dinis, Vila Viçosa Castle has a long history and is one of the most important castles in the Alentejo region. �visitevora.net�
* Juromenha Castle: Perched above the Guadiana River, Juromenha Castle dates back to the 12th century and played a vital role in safeguarding the border during the Reconquista. �portugal.com�
* Viana do Alentejo Castle: A Gothic castle constructed during the reconquest and settlement of the central region of the Portuguese Alentejo. �en.wikipedia.org�
* Almourol Castle: Located on a tiny islet in the River Tejo, Almourol Castle is one of the purest examples of 12th-century military architecture in Portugal. �visitalentejo.pt�
These castles not only showcase the rich history of the Alentejo region but also offer insights into the architectural styles and strategic importance of fortifications in Portugal's past.

Portugal has some stunning castles, each offering unique historical significance and breathtaking views. Here are my top recommendations based on different interests:

Best Castles for History Lovers
1. Guimarães Castle (North) – Known as the "birthplace of Portugal," this 10th-century fortress played a key role in the country's independence.
2. São Jorge Castle (Lisbon) – A Moorish-era castle with fantastic city views and a deep connection to Portugal’s early history.
3. Bragança Castle (Northeast) – A well-preserved medieval fortress with a museum inside.
Best Castles for Scenic Views
1. Moorish Castle (Sintra) – Located on a hill, offering incredible panoramic views over Sintra and the Atlantic Ocean.
2. Marvão Castle (Alentejo) – A hidden gem on a mountaintop with breathtaking views over the Spanish border.
3. Óbidos Castle (Central Portugal) – Overlooking a picturesque medieval town with whitewashed houses and cobbled streets.
Best Castles for Unique Experiences
1. Pena Palace (Sintra) – Not a traditional castle but a fairytale-like palace with vibrant colors and romantic architecture.
2. Almourol Castle (Central Portugal) – A stunning fortress located on a small island in the Tagus River, accessible by boat.

26/02/2025

Check some of the latest reviews about the work I call work but that is actually my passion!

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.