European Green Capital 2026 – Learning with Nature
Located 55 km from Porto and just 40 minutes from Francisco Sá Carneiro International Airport, Guimarães is one of Portugal’s most enchanting and historically rich cities — often called “the birthplace of the nation”.
Surrounded by green hills and medieval architecture, Guimarães combines heritage with a bold commitment to the future. As the European Green Capital 2026, the city embraces design, innovation, and sustainability as forces for social and ecological transformation.
Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its historic core unfolds into a creative ecosystem of universities, museums, ateliers, and design labs.
Within this living landscape, the Design Commit 2026 will invite participants to learn with nature, to observe, regenerate, and design with the intelligence of life itself.
All venues are located in the Zona de Couros, the city’s creative district, where the sound of flowing water once animated the leather tanneries that gave Guimarães its identity. Today, these spaces unite memory and innovation — a perfect stage for a design conference that celebrates the dialogue between past and future.
Travel guide for visitors attending Design Commit 2026 in Guimarães, whether you’re an international guest arriving through Porto Airport or a national attendee travelling by train or bus from other Portuguese cities.
Guimarães is well connected and compact, making it easy to move between venues on foot. Most conference locations are within walking distance of each other and of the historic centre — all within 25 minutes.
1. Getting to Guimarães
Origin | Estimated Time | Stop / Station | Transport |
Porto Airport (OPO) | 45 min (direct shuttle) / 1h45 (metro + train) | GetBus / Guimarães Station | Direct Shuttle or Metro (Line E) to Campanhã + Train to Guimarães |
Porto (Campanhã) | ~1h15 | Guimarães Train Station | Direct CP Train (Urban Line) |
Other Cities (Lisbon, Braga, Coimbra) | 2–4h | Guimarães Bus Terminal | Rede Expressos / FlixBus |
Tip:
The GetBus shuttle runs directly from Porto Airport to Guimarães city centre every hour. Tickets available online or at the airport arrivals area.
2. Event Venues
Venue | From Station | Nearby Transport | To Historic Center |
Centro Cultural Vila Flor (CCVF) | ~10 min by car / 15 min walk | Urban buses at Av. D. Afonso Henriques | ~5 min walk |
Teatro Jordão | ~10 min by car / 15 min walk | Urban buses at Av. Conde Margaride | ~5 min walk |
Instituto do Design & Zona de Couros | ~12 min by car / 20 min walk | TUG buses (Lines 052, 055) | ~10 min walk |
Pousada Mosteiro de Santa Marinha da Costa | ~15 min by car / 40 min walk (uphill) | Taxi / Bolt / Shuttle | ~10 min drive from city centre |
Notes:
All venues are located within the urban core of Guimarães, except the Pousada, which sits on the slopes of Monte da Penha and can be reached by shuttle or taxi (about 10 minutes).
3. Moving Between Venues
Between Venues | Walking Time | Suggested Transport |
CCVF ↔ Teatro Jordão | ~5–7 min | Walking |
CCVF ↔ Instituto do Design (Zona de Couros) | ~20–25 min | Walking or City Bus (Lines 052, 055) |
Teatro Jordão ↔ Instituto do Design | ~15–20 min | Walking or City Bus |
City Centre ↔ Pousada Santa Marinha da Costa | ~10 min drive / 35–40 min walk (uphill) | Shuttle (recommended) or Taxi |
Quick Tips
-Guimarães is a walkable and safe city — comfortable shoes are the best transport.
– Check TUG – Transportes Urbanos de Guimarães for real-time routes and schedules.
– Taxis and ride-share services (e.g., Bolt) are widely available and inexpensive.
– Shuttle service to the Pousada may be organised by the conference for the Gala Dinner.
– All venues are signposted in English and Portuguese.
Main Venue – Opening Sessions, Keynotes, Coffee Breaks, Lunches, Welcome Cocktail & Parallel Sessions.
The Centro Cultural Vila Flor, inaugurated in 2005, rises from the elegant gardens and 18th-century palace that once hosted the nobility of Guimarães.
Restored and expanded as a state-of-the-art cultural complex, it now stands as a symbol of the city’s creative energy and civic pride.
Here, Design Commit 2026 will open its doors: the main sessions, keynotes, and parallel discussions will unfold in its luminous halls, alongside the coffee breaks, lunches, and welcome cocktail.The CCVF embodies the conference’s spirit — a meeting place where heritage and contemporary design coexist in harmony.
ON FOOT
Main entrance:
Av. Dom Afonso Henriques 701, 4810-431 Guimarães
5-minute walk from the city centre and most hotels.
BY CAR
Av. Dom Afonso Henriques 701, 4810-431 Guimarães
located near the main city avenues, with direct access from the A11 and A7 motorways.
Parking:
large underground car park (public, paid), with direct internal access to the venue; additional street parking available in the surrounding area.
BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT
10-minute walk from Guimarães Train Station (connected to Porto).
Regular urban bus lines serve the venue area.
Taxi and ride-sharing drop-off zone at the main entrance.
Creative Encounters & Closing Sessions
The Teatro Jordão, built in the 1930s and reborn in 2022 after decades of silence, represents the revival of Guimarães’ cultural heart.
This iconic theatre, now reimagined as an educational and creative hub, merges its Art Deco soul with modern architecture, offering a dynamic space for experimentation.
It will host the Creative Encounters and Closing Sessions, moments where performance, reflection, and collaboration come together to celebrate design as a collective act of imagination.
ON FOOT
Approximately 5 minutes from CCVF and the city centre;
BY CAR
Direct access via Avenida Conde Margaride, near several public car parks;
Parking options:
– Paid on-street parking near the venue;
– Parque de Estacionamento da Mumadona (covered, 5 minutes’ walk);
– Parque do Mercado Municipal, nearby.
BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT
Frequent urban buses and taxi stops directly in front of the theatre.
Instituto do Design & Zona de Couros
IDEGUI – Instituto de Design de Guimarães
Rua da Ramada, 52
4810-445 Guimarães
Exhibitions, Workshops & Urban Installations
The Instituto do Design de Guimarães is located in the restored tanneries of the Zona de Couros, an area deeply intertwined with the city’s industrial and cultural memory.
Once a centre for craftsmanship and trade, Couros is now a creative district where designers, students, and entrepreneurs transform tradition into innovation.
During the conference, this space will become a living laboratory, hosting exhibitions, workshops, and urban installations that connect participants with the local community and landscape.
The atmosphere of Couros — its textures, materials, and water channels — will serve as inspiration for dialogue and experimentation.
ON FOOT
5–10 minutes from city hotels and main venues.
BY CAR
Access via Avenida Conde Margaride or Rua da Caldeiroa.
Parking:
Public parking available near Largo do Tanoeiro and Rua da Ramada.
BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT
Nearby bus stops and easy pedestrian connection to all central locations.
Pousada Mosteiro de Guimarães
Largo Domingos Leite de Castro,
Lugar da Costa,
4810-011 Guimarães
(+351) 253 511 249
recepcao.stamarinha@pestana.com
Gala Dinner
Overlooking the city of Guimarães from the green slopes of Monte da Penha, the Pousada Mosteiro de Santa Marinha da Costa is one of Portugal’s most magnificent historical monuments — a place where time, architecture, and nature coexist in perfect harmony.
Founded in the 12th century as an Augustinian monastery, the complex was later expanded in the 16th and 17th centuries, becoming a masterpiece of Portuguese monastic architecture. In the 20th century, it was meticulously restored under the direction of architect Fernando Távora, one of the leading figures of the Porto School, transforming it into a Pousada — a unique combination of historical preservation and contemporary hospitality.
Today, the Pousada is both a National Monument and a symbol of timeless elegance, renowned for its stone cloisters, vaulted halls, carved wood ceilings, and stunning azulejos panels. The surrounding gardens and terraces open panoramic views over the city and valley, creating a setting of tranquillity and grandeur.
ON FOOT
30 minute walk from the city centre and most hotels.
BY CAR
Approximately 5 minutes by car from the city centre and 10 minutes from the CCVF.
Parking:
Ample private parking on-site for cars and buses.
BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT
Shuttle service may be arranged from central venues (CCVF and hotels).
Hotels | Reservation code | Discount |
Pousada Mosteiro | Make a reservation to the email antonio.freitas@pestana.com and provide the name of the conference
| 110€ per night |
Hotel Guimarães | DESIGNCOMMIT2026 | 5% |
Hotel Fundador | DESIGNCOMMIT2026 | 5% |
Stay Hotel | DESIGN | 20% |
Hotel Toural | DC2026 | 10% (double room) 21% (single room) |
Hotel Torel Royal Court | Send an email to reservas@torelroyalcourt.com with the promotional code: DC2026 | 10% |
Hotel Eurostars Santa Luzia | Send an email to reservas@torelroyalcourt.com with the promotional code: DesignCommit2026 | 15% |
Hotel O Laranjal | Make a reservation to the email reservasolaranjal@guisal.pt and provide the name of the conference | 10% |
Hotel Mestre de Aviz | send an email to reservas@torelroyalcourt.com with the promotional code: DesignCommit2026 | 5% |
Design Commit Dinner
Tales from the Field: A Toast to Design
We are delighted to extend an invitation to all conference participants to join us for the Design Commit Dinner on May 21, 2024. This special event, themed ‘Tales from the Field: A Toast to Design’, promises an evening of relaxation and camaraderie after a day of engaging discussions and knowledge sharing.
To ensure a seamless experience, we kindly ask that you register for the dinner by May 10, 2024. Please click the link below to secure your spot:
https://sgiconf.beformal.pt/designCommit2024-dinner/
We look forward to sharing this memorable evening with you!
Pousada Mosteiro de Amares
Located in a unique and memorable setting, Pousada Mosteiro de Amares combines the grandeur of centuries of history with contemporary comfort. This luxurious hotel is situated in a former Cistercian monastery from the 12th century, offering a unique lodging experience nestled between the historic city of Braga and the majestic Serra do Gerês.
The monastery’s magnificent cloister and the serene atmosphere of its surroundings make this hotel the perfect place to relax and soak up the culture and history of the region. Situated just 18 km from the center of Braga, Pousada Mosteiro de Amares is an ideal choice for those wishing to explore the north of Portugal and enjoy an unforgettable stay in an environment filled with history.
Address:
Largo do Terreiro – Santa Maria do Bouro, 4720-633, Amares, Portugal
Phone number:
(+351) 253 371 970
Transportation:
For registered participants, we will provide transportation from the Forum to the Pousada Mosteiro de Amares at 18h:30 and return to the Forum at 22h:30.
Location
Foyer, Floor 0, Altice Forum
20 May from 18:00 to 19:30
Overview
The Design Commit welcome cocktail is the first meeting point for conference attendees, offering a perfect opportunity for thought leaders, innovators, and design professionals to connect in an informal setting. Located in the spacious and modern ground floor foyer of the Altice Forum, this event provides an ideal atmosphere for exchanging ideas, strengthening professional relationships, and gearing up for the intense days of the conference ahead.
Drinks and Appetizers
A selection of beverages, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, will be served alongside a variety of light appetizers and canapés. Choices will be carefully curated to cater to a range of dietary preferences, ensuring there are options for everyone.
Networking Opportunities
This moment is specially designed to foster networking among participants. We encourage everyone to take this opportunity to make new contacts, discuss potential collaborations, and share insights on the latest trends and challenges in the field of design.
Starting Off on the Right Foot
The welcome cocktail not only serves as a warm introduction to the conference but also sets the tone for what will be an enriching and stimulating event. It is the perfect way to relax, recharge, and get inspired before the intensive learning and discussion sessions that will follow in the coming days.
We hope all participants enjoy this time to get acquainted and connect, laying the groundwork for a productive and memorable conference experience.
Join us for two special musical moments at the Design Commit conference, presented by the talented students from the Music Department of the University of Minho. These performances are fundamental to the theme of our conference, which intertwines academic excellence with cultural enrichment. We are proud to showcase the exceptional abilities of our students, who will perform under the experienced direction of distinguished professors.
About the Music Department
The Music Department of the University of Minho, is a vibrant hub of musical activity and learning. It is committed to community engagement through a variety of events, including instrumental recitals, orchestral concerts, and academic discussions, reflecting the university’s dedication to fostering an environment of cultural and educational growth.
For more information and updates on future events, please visit our Music Department’s official website.
PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE
May 20, 2024, at 9:30 AM
György Ligeti: Bagatelles for Wind Quintet (1953)
Duration: Approximately 13 minutes
– Allegro con spirito
– Rubato – Lamentoso
– Allegro grazioso
– Presto ruvido
– Adagio. Mesto (In memoriam Béla Bartók)
– Molto vivace – Capriccioso
Performers:
– Flute: José Luís Ferreira
– Oboe: Vera Teixeira
– Clarinet: Carolina Zeferino
– Horn: Ricardo da Costa
– Bassoon: João Flores Azevedo
Directed by Professor Pedro Junqueira Maia
May 22, 2024, at 14:30 PM
Antonín Dvořák: Serenade for Winds in D minor, Op. 44 (1878)
Duration: Approximately 20 minutes
– Moderato, quasi Marcia
– Tempo di Menuetto
– Andante con moto
– Allegro molto
Performers:
– Oboes: Francisca Almeida, Jéssica Marquez
– Clarinets: João Almeida, Jorge Guise
– Bassoons: João Mendes, Marta Valle
– Horns: Carlos Estrela, Gonçalo Dinis, José Cancela
– Cello: Maria Benedita
– Double Bass: Francisca Rocha
Directed by Professor Vítor Matos
Social Activities for Non-Gala Dinner Attendees
We are delighted to offer a walking tour of Braga’s historic centre, starting at Forum Braga at 18h:30 and lasting approximately 1.5 hours. This cultural excursion will take us through the heart of the city, allowing us to explore the rich historical tapestry on foot.
Please come prepared for a relaxed walk, and don’t forget to wear comfortable footwear suitable for cobblestone streets.
Note: If you are not attending the gala dinner and have not yet signed up for the walking tour of Braga’s historic center, please be informed that you can still register for this unique opportunity.
Initially, this registration was available through the sign-up form, but we have now expanded the option to accommodate additional participants by registering at the Forum welcome desk.
This activity is an exclusive offer for those who are not attending the gala dinner, providing a perfect chance to delve into Braga’s history and charm. For all other attendees interested in local tours and attractions, we’ll have a tourist information point at the Forum ready to provide you with all the necessary details for your visit. Don’t miss out on this chance to enrich your conference experience!
We hope you will join us to discover the hidden gems of Braga. See you there!
Our journey will include:
– Palácio do Raio: Discover the stunning Baroque architecture on Avenida da Liberdade.
– Teatro Circo: Experience the cultural heartbeat of the city on Avenida Central.
– Arcada at Largo Carlos Amarante: Admire the renowned ‘Letras de Braga’ in one of the city’s most picturesque spots.
– Igreja de Santa Cruz: Behold the history within the walls of this church near Rua do Souto.
– Jardim de Santa Bárbara: Stroll through the enchanting gardens for a touch of serenity.
– Câmara Municipal de Braga and Paço Arquiepiscopal: Witness the grandeur of the Town Hall and the Archbishop’s Palace.
– Sé de Braga: Visit the cathedral, an emblematic monument steeped in history.
– Rua da Violinha and Arco da Porta Nova: Our tour will conclude by meandering through the charming streets, culminating at the iconic arch.