The Church of Our Lady of Oliveira, in Guimarães
The northern city of Guimarães was the Portuguese city chosen by the National Geographic community, among 26 destinations chosen as the “Best in the World”.
The “cradle city” of Portugal, whose medieval historic center earned it classification as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001, appears in 19th place in the ranking, just before it begins to shine as European Green Capital in 2026.
The magazine, which every year asks its community of explorers, photographers and editors from around the world to organize the competition, through photographer Renata Haidle, explores the city’s historic streets, from its sidewalks to its granite and wooden facades and centuries-old walls.
Of course, the imposing Guimarães Castle and the Palace of the Dukes of Bragança are not forgotten. But Guimarães is not just a museum cityand this is what National Geographic tries to highlight. With a clear vision for the future, the city invests in pioneering environmental initiatives. From “pay-as-you-throw” waste management systems and electric public transport to advanced recycling programs, the city is a model of sustainable urbanism, in a mix of heritage and innovation.
To explore the city, the ideal is to walk, reminds the magazine. The Customs Tower offers a panoramic view over terracotta roofs and green hills, while Largo da Oliveira reveals the charm of open-air cafes in front of the Gothic arcades of Padrão do Salado, built in 1340 by King D. Afonso IV. The cable car takes visitors to Serra da Penha, a meeting point for walkers and nature lovers, with trails, picnic areas and the Penha Sanctuary, built in the 1930s, for moments of contemplation.
In spring and autumn, mild temperatures make the city perfect for enjoying a glass of Vinho Verde. In June, Afonsina celebrates the birth of the first king of Portugal, D. Afonso Henriques, the first king of Portugal. In late November and early December, the student-led Festas Nicolinas feature candlelit processions and community festivities in honor of Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of students.
The author doesn’t forget the ‘cheats’: bacon from heaven, Guimarães pie, seminarians and Jesuits are everywhere.
Below, the complete list of things to visit in 2026:
1st: Dolomites, Italy;
2nd: Quebec, Canada;
3rd: Beijing, China;
4th: Dominica, Caribbean;
5th: Rabat, Morocco;
6th: Hull, England;
7th: Badlands of North Dakota, United States of America;
8th: Manila, Philippines;
9th: Black Sea Coast, Türkiye;
10th: Khiva, Uzbekistan;
11th: Akagera National Park, Africa;
12th: Vancouver, Canada;
13th: Yamagata Prefecture, Japan;
14th: Route 66: Oklahoma, United States of America;
15th: Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Australia;
16th: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil;
17th: Oulu, Finland;
18th: South Korea;
19th: Guimarães, Portugal;
20th: Basque Country, Spain;
21st: Maui, United States of America;
22nd: Pittsburgh, United States of America;
23rd: Oaxaca Coast (Costa Chica), Mexico;
24th: Fiji, Oceania;
25th: Medellín, Colombia;
26th: Banff, Canada.
