visit portugal braga

We Travel Portugal

Braga – The Ultimate Guide to Braga in Northern Portugal [2024]

Braga is a historical city located in the Northern Region of Portugal . Braga has become known for its beautiful Baroque architecture, and its supremely impressive Bom Jesus do Monte on a dramatic hilltop overlooking the city. Braga is Portugal’s third largest city with a population of 190,000, however when exploring the small streets, and historical attractions it rarely feels this big. However, you’ll find a vibrant array of bars and restaurants, and all the facilities a larger city provides! It’s also home to one of the largest universities in Portugal, the University of Minho with a student population of nearly 20,000. Want to find out what to see and do in Braga?

Brief history of Braga

Braga has 2,000 years of recorded history and walking through its medieval streets it’s easy to get lost in time. Evidence of pre-Roman iron age settlements have been found beneath the city although there is no recorded history or written evidence of them. A Roman city – Bracara Augusta was founded in the area in 15BC. Bracara Augusta would become the capital of Galécia, a Roman province that covered modern day Northern Portugal, Galicia, Asturias and Léon. Bracara Augusta then moved through several distinct periods, being part of the Suevian Kingdom, and then the Moorish empire, which culminated in the Reconquista in the 11 th century.

The City of Braga was born. Its main cathedral – Sé de Braga, which also happens to be the oldest cathedral in Portugal dates to 1089 and was built on the ruins of a Roman Temple. The new city would gradually be developed around the fortified cathedral, only taking a small part of the once much larger city.

What to See and Do in Braga

Braga is a fascinating city to explore, blending medieval streets, with historic plazas, and ancient architecture. There’s a modern city here too, brew-pubs and modern bars, restaurants, and extensive shopping to explore as well! We typically recommend visitors start in the historic quarter at one of the main plazas. The first of these Rua Dom Paio Mendes. It’s a pedestrianised street that leads right up to the cathedral, a great place to grab a coffee to fuel up before exploring further.

Braga Cathedral – Sé de Braga

As you walk up the street, the grand towers of Braga Cathedral loom over you. Braga cathedral is the oldest cathedral in Portugal and features a mix and match of architectural styles leading through the Romanesque, Gothic, Manueline and Baroque periods. Access to the cathedral is not through its main entrance and Gothic portals, but actually on a side street of the Cathedral on Rua do Cabido.

There’s several different routes and tickets to access the Cathedral, a ticket to the cathedral only (€2.00), the chapels and high choir (€2.00), and a ticket to the Cathedral Museum (€3.00), and a ticket that covers everything for €5.00. The simplest is to buy the full ticket for €5.00 which allows access to everywhere. The cathedral visit is roughly split into three main areas, the cathedral itself, the chapels, and its museums.

Arco da Porta Nova

After exiting the cathedral, heading west along Rua Dom Diogo de Sousa, will lead you to Arco da Porta Nova a Baroque portal and historic entrance to the city. It dates to 1722 and was designed by a local architect André Soares, who’s left his mark on other northern cities like Viana do Castelo . By the time the grand gate was completed, Braga had already expanded well beyond the entrance and such no door was ever placed within the grand arch.

“És de Braga?” – Are You from Braga?

According to popular folklore, this grand gate and its famously gateless entry is the origins of the phrase és de Braga? Which translates to are you from Braga? Which is often used as a retort to people leaving doors open, much like the English – were you born in a barn?

Praça do Município

The archway is just a short walk from the grand Praça do Município, it’s a lively square lined with trees and a historic fountain at the centre. On one side of the square is the Paços do Concelho de Braga, a Baroque palace that dates to 1754 it is now the city hall of Braga. On the other side of the square is the public library which is also housed in a former palace which dates to 1746. Both Baroque buildings were designed by André Soares.

Santa Barbara Gardens – Jardim de Santa Bárbara

One of the prettiest corners of Braga is the Santa Barbara gardens. You’ll find immaculate rows of colourful flower beds, a 17 th century fountain, all within the backdrop of a Medieval palace, and some ruins. The castle like building is the medieval and older section of Paço Arquiepiscopal Bracarense, which Baroque frontage faces the Praça do Município. Surrounding the garden, you’ll find several cafés and ice cream shops which give the whole area a lively communal feel right in the city centre.

Café A Brasileira Braga

The pedestrianised Braga centro histórico offers explorers ample shopping and restaurants in almost any direction you walk, and once you’ve taken in the sights and sounds you should head to one of the most historic and famous cafés in Braga, and perhaps Portugal. Café A Brasileira dates to the early 20 th century when a returning emigrant called Andriano Telles founded several outlets across Portugal to sell coffee from his coffee plantations in Brazil.

Supposedly, for the first 15 years or so of business, Telles would give a fresh café with every purchase of a bag of beans. Soon, his business would become more popularly known for selling cafés, then selling beans and the historic brand A Brasileira was established. The first Café A Brasileira’s opened in Porto 1903, but establishments in Aveiro, Coimbra, Braga and Lisbon soon followed .

Praça da República

From Café a Brasileira you’ll be able to see a large opening, this is Praça da República and it leads directly to Jardim da Avenida Central. It’s a treelined square and park and is the centre of the city. It’s one of the busiest areas but you don’t have to walk far to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Braga Tower

Looking back towards the historic quarter of the city you’ll see Igreja da Lapa and the iconic Braga Tower. This is the keep and only remains of the former castle that protected Braga. The 30m tall Gothic tower is a 13th Century reminder of just how old parts of Braga really are. Inside is a small museum where you can see the original layout of the city and its original walls, you’ll also find a photography exhibition featuring local artists, and at the very top some great views of Braga.

Avenida da Liberdade

Avenida da Liberdade is a wide-open pedestrianised street that leads south from Praça da Republica. It’s one of the main commercial streets and you’ll find a mixture of both local Portuguese brands, and many of your international favourites. It’s line with geometric flower beds and it’s a great place to simply grab a coffee and people watch on many of the available benches. Avenida da Liberdade is also where you’ll find Braga’s theatre – Teatro Circo. It’s a 900-seat theatre that dates to 1906 and is perhaps the focal point of Braga’s lively cultural calendar. You can find its events calendar and purchase tickets directly at its box office, or online on its website .

Largo Carlos Amarante

A right turn at the Theatre Circo will lead you towards Largo Carlos Amarante, another of Braga’s emblematic squares. It’s here you’ll find your typical touristy sign made of Braga’s letters, and the very impressive Igreja do Hospital ou Igreja de São Marcos. The public square, gardens and flowers, and monumental Baroque hospital and church towers really do shout Braga, even if the sign wasn’t there! The building itself no longer functions as a hospital, in 2018 the hotel chain Vila Galé redeveloped the right wing and courtyard into a luxury hotel .

Palácio do Raio

Getting yet another mention in this guide to Braga, is André Soares’ stunning Palácio do Raio. It’s a mid-18 th century palace that was designed for a wealthy merchant in the city – João Duarte de Faria. Interestingly, and a characteristic that’s missing from many other Baroque buildings in Braga, are the bright blue Azulejo tiles covering the palace. These are not from the original André Soares design and were actually added to the palace at the end of the 19 th century. Inside the palace is a small but worthwhile interpretive centre with several collections covering the architectural heritage of Braga, some religious artifacts, and even some medical equipment from its use as a hospital building.

Roman Thermae of Maximinus – Roman Ruins in Braga

Braga’s Roman connection is often mentioned, but often hidden from plain site. However, at the Termas Romanas de Maximinos you’ll find plenty of evidence. The ruins of the public baths were discovered in 1977 and date to the 1 st century, an early period of the city’s Roman development. It’s a small museum that’s covered from the elements, with walkways over and around the bathing complex. A great place to see some of the Roman history in Braga. It costs €2 to enter.

Is Braga Really the Portuguese Rome?

Braga is rather affectionately known as Roma Portuguesa the Portuguese Rome. It’s a title that’s often used due to its Roman history, the large number of churches across the city, and because it’s known as the religious centre of Portugal. However, the title actually dates to the 16 th century when Archbishop D. Diogo de Sousa was inspired by a recent visit to Rome to create a city with open public plazas with churches just like in Rome. His city plan left his mark on the city to this day.

You’ll also hear it referred to as Cidade Romana – the Roman City, this title more accurately reflects its Roman History and connection to Bracara Augusta which was the most important Roman city in the modern area of Northern Portugal and Galicia.

Santuário do Bom Jesus do Monte

The highlight of any trip to Braga, and the picture-perfect moment everyone tries to capture is from the stunning Bom Jesus do Monte. It’s not actually in Braga, but 6km away from the centre on a hill that overlooks the city. It’s an incredible 18 th century basilica that sits atop a grand set of stairs.

Via Sacra do Bom Jesus – Sacred Way of the Cross of Bom Jesus

There are 573 individual stairs, across three different sections that make up the pathway of Via Sacra do Bom Jesus. Each section draws inspiration from religion, mythology and natural forms, and lead the way to the grand church at the top of the staircase. In total they cover a 116m rise in altitude. At the very top of the stairs is Santuário do Bom Jesus do Monte the 18 th century church, you’ll also find landscaped gardens, a forecourt with fountains and statues and several chapels.

Basílica do Bom Jesus

Despite its religious nature, the area has the overall feel of a landscaped city park, you’ll see locals exercising on the grand steps, people walking their dogs, and people catching up over coffee on one of the many benches spread around. All converging with coach trips and day trippers that get dropped off in the car park of the sanctuary itself. Early in the mornings, or late in the afternoons are the best time to experience Santuário do Bom Jesus do Monte. You’ll get the best light, and it’s the quietest time for taking photos of the stairs. The sunset and views over Braga are just incredible.

Local Food and Drinks in Braga

As a major city Braga has its fair share of eating and drinking establishments, and as the heart of the Minho region some excellent local dishes and flavours to explore. One of the most emblematic dishes you’ll find is a variant of bacalhau named after Braga –  Bacalhau à Braga. It’s a dish that combines bacalhau with fried onions, peppers, garlic and fried sliced potatoes! On the sweeter side of things Braga is famous for Pudim Abade de Priscos, a crème caramel dessert.

For drinking, make sure you try Vinho Verde a light, fresh, and slightly sparkling wine from the Minho region. It’s a DOC (Denominação de Origem Controlada) which means it can only be produced in the Minho wine region. For beer lovers, Braga even has its own craft brewery scene pioneered by Cerveja Letra. You’ll find their tap room Letraria on Rua Dom Gonçalo Pereira just a short walk from the cathedral.

Should you Stay in Braga?

Although yes, Braga can be completed within a day trip. To really experience these cities like these we often recommend staying at least a night. This will allow you to wonder around the town once the typical day trippers have left, to sample some incredible local food and drink. Trust us when we say that the sunset from Bom Jesus do Monte is absolutely incredible, it’s probably one of our favourite sunsets in Portugal! It’s an experience few day trippers will have because it means you’ll need to stay late enough to capture it!

Where to Stay in Braga?

Braga boasts a wider array of accommodation covering all budgets. You’ll also find a few of the major chains like Meliá just a couple of km from the city centre. We do recommend staying in the city centre itself though – for the historic experience and ability to simply walk to the sites. For a palatial like stay in a Baroque building, than the Vila Galé is the supreme luxury option . Porta Nova Collection House is a small hotel/guesthouse offering simple rooms in a restored building right in the city centre. For a full list of accommodation available in Braga you can check here .

How to Get to Braga

Braga is located in the north of Portugal, around 55km north of Porto. Nearly all public transport connections will take you through Porto. If you drive, it will also take you around the outskirts of Porto.

Driving to Braga – If you have a rental car or your own vehicle, then driving directly to Braga is a simple option. It will take around 40 minutes to drive to Braga from Porto, or around 3 and a half hours to drive from Lisbon. There’s some fantastic places to stop on the way as well !

Don’t have a rental car booked yet? Then our guide covers everything you should know about renting one in Portugal !

Public Transport in Braga – Trains and Buses

Braga is served by a regular Urban service from Porto, which departs from São Bento in the city centre, Braga is the final stop on the railway line. The journey will take around an hour, with the longest route taking 71 minutes). A single ticket from Porto to Braga costs €3.25 for adult, and a return cost €6.50. For the full timetables and for tickets, book directly on the official website ( Combois de Portugal ).

Braga is also served by a large bus station, with multiple connections to the local and wider area. Rede Expressos, also known as Renex, operate regional services, as well as the low-cost long-distance operator Flixbus. Services from Lisbon to Braga are available but they typically take around 4 and a half hours, but they are direct!

Braga or Guimarães?

Braga or Guimarães is a popular question, they’re both beautiful northern cities boasting heritage, culture, and great scenery. Adding to their twin status is the fact they both have hillside retreats that overlook the town – Bom Jesus do Monte in Braga, and Santuário da Penha in Guimarães . They have their differences, and they have their similarities. Can you visit both?

Should you Visit Braga?

Braga is one of our favourite cities in Portugal and combines stunning architecture, with a vibrant and local feel. It’s one of our favourite northern cities and we always recommend it to visitors exploring  North Portugal. Bom Jesus do Monte is a stunning place and is worthy of a trip in its own right, but combine it with the historic and lively town below and you’ve got a fantastic base to explore the Northern region of Portugal .

Affiliate disclosure . Some of the links included in this post are affiliate links. What this means is we get a tiny percentage of the booking fee if you do click the links and book something. This costs no extra for you and helps support the site.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Getty Images/Flickr RF

Portugal’s third-largest city is an elegant town laced with ancient narrow lanes closed to vehicles, strewn with plazas and a splendid array of baroque churches. The constant chiming of bells is a reminder of Braga’s age-old devotion to the spiritual world. Its religious festivals – particularly the elaborately staged Semana Santa (Holy Week) – are famous throughout Portugal. But don’t come expecting piety alone: Braga’s upscale old centre is packed with lively cafes and trim boutiques, some excellent restaurants and low-key bars catering to students from the Universidade do Minho.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Braga. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Braga’s extraordinary cathedral, the oldest in Portugal, was begun when the archdiocese was restored in 1070 and completed in the following century. It’s…

Escadaria do Bom Jesus do Monte

Climbing dramatically to the hilltop pilgrimage site of Bom Jesus do Monte, 5km east of Braga, is this extraordinary staircase, with allegorical fountains…

Centro Interpretativo das Memórias da Misericórdia de Braga

Braga's newest museum is housed inside Palácio do Raio, whose exuberantly tiled rococo façade (by André Soares) is must-see material for any aficionado of…

Capelas e Coro Alto

A guided tour grants access to the cathedral’s three most striking chapels: the showpiece Capela dos Reis, home to the tombs of Henri of Burgundy and Dona…

Museu dos Biscainhos

An 18th-century aristocrat’s palace is home to Braga's enthusiastic municipal museum, with a nice collection of Roman relics and 17th- to 19th-century…

This spiffy modern cultural centre lives inside an 18th-century building that once housed police headquarters. Enter through the sliding glass doors and…

Fonte do Ídolo

Tucked away below street level and concealed by a modern lobby is this evocative ancient spring, one of Braga's unexpected treasures. An essential…

Museu Dom Diogo de Sousa

The archaeological museum houses a nicely displayed collection of fragments from Braga’s earliest days. The four rooms feature pieces from Palaeolithic…

Plan with a local

Experience the real Portugal

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

Latest stories from Braga

Jan 29, 2019 • 1 min read

Listed in 2016 as the number one city in Portugal with the best quality of life (the third one in Europe), Braga is the only Portuguese city on the run to…

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Braga

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

Get to the heart of Braga with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

Porto-North-Portugal.com

The best guide to north Portugal

The best independent guide to north Portugal

Porto - Braga - Aveiro - Douro - Guimarães - Monsanto - Lamego - Chaves - Serra da Estrela - Trancoso

Braga, Portugal; a tourism, day trip and holiday guide for 2024

Braga is regarded as the religious centre of Portugal and is a fascinating city that combines a proud history with outstanding tourist attractions.

It was in Braga that the first cathedral of Portugal was constructed (in 1089), and was the seat of power of Pedro de Braga (1035 - 1096), the first bishop of Portugal. Ever since, Braga has been the religious heartland of Portugal, and today has the highest concentration of religious buildings in any Portuguese city.

Along with the numerous churches, there are characterful shopping streets, elegant Baroque mansions, and grand plazas. Braga is the third-largest city of Portugal and has a young and vibrant population, as it is home to a major university.

Braga is also the setting of the most impressive monument in Northern Portugal, the Bom Jesus do Monte. This beautiful church is famed for its Baroque stairway that climbs the side of a steep hill and depicts the ascent to heaven.

As a tourist destination, Braga is a varied and fascinating city, and is one of the best day trips from Porto. For a day trip, it is very easy to travel to Braga, as both cities are connected by a regular and inexpensive train service. This article will provide an introduction to Braga and help you get the most from your trip here. Related articles: Guide to Porto – Day trips from Porto

Highlights of Braga

The Sé de Braga cathedral – The ancient gothic cathedral of Braga, influential in Portugal’s early history and steeped in legends. (€5 entrance)

The Bom Jesus do Monte – A sacred pilgrimage church, situated at the top of a hill and is reached via a magnificent stairway or the world’s oldest water-powered funicular.

The Praça da República – A grand plaza and bustling heart of the city; where the historical side of Braga combines with the modern-day.

Paláicio dos Biscainhos – A splendid 17th-century aristocratical palace that contains Portugal’s finest baroque gardens.

Is there more than just churches in Braga?

Braga may be the religious centre of Portugal, but the city offers more sights than just endless ancient churches.

Braga has a delightful city centre, which is fully pedestrianised and comprises of charming plazas, busy shopping streets, and formal gardens.

The pretty city gardens, include the Jardim da Avenida Central and the Jardim de Santa Bárbara, while each of the main plazas (Largo de Santa Cruz, Largo São João do Souto and the Praça Conde de Agrolongo) has its own unique character.

Braga is a labyrinth of narrow streets, each one concealing historic sights, unique monuments or traditional family-run shops and restaurants. The compact city centre can be easily explored on foot, and is a joy to wander and just get lost in.

Even the Bom Jesus do Monte is more about the decorative stairs and views, than the actual church.

Braga obviously has a lot of churches, but these need not be the main aspect of your day trip, nor should the presumed religious atmosphere deter you from visiting. Insight: A fun way to view the city is via a Tuk-Tuk tour, and these start from €15 per person for a 30-minute tour .

The Convento do Pópulo and the statue of Gomes da Costa, the 10th president of Portugal, but who only led the country for 22 days in 1927

The Jardim de Santa Bárbara overlook the ruins of the bishop’s palace

Is the Bom Jesus do Monte worth visiting?

The Bom Jesus do Monte will be a highlight of any visit to Braga, and should be definitely included in your day trip to Braga. The church stands at the top of a hill, and the much-photographed baroque stairway signifies the ascend into heaven.

From the summit of the Bom Jesus hill, there are impressive views over Braga, and the surrounding park provides tranquil forested walks.

If the climb up the 577 steps to the church is too much, then there is the world’s oldest water-powered funicular, to the summit.

The Bom Jesus do Monte is 6km to the east of Braga city centre and is connected by a regular bus service (route 2). The bus departs from the Avenida da Liberdade (see the map in the next section) and is operated by TUB buses ( https://tub.pt/ ), and terminates at the base of the stairs.

The Sacred Way staircases with 577 steps is a lot to climb in the summer heat!

A day trip to Braga

Braga is a fantastic day trip from Porto. There are sufficient sights and attractions to easily fill a day’s sightseeing, and there is a direct train service between Braga and Porto (details later in this article).

It is possible to combine Braga and the Bom Jesus do Monte in a single trip, but it will be a long day of 8-9 hours. A typical day trip would be divided into; train from Porto (1h15min hour each way), 3-4 hours in the historic centre, 2 hours for the Bom Jesus do Monte (including the bus ride) and 30 minutes for lunch.

Note: Braga requires a whole day to explore; never consider combining Braga with Guimarães as there is too much to see in each city for a single day.

The interactive map below shows a suggested tour of Braga. The green line is the tour of the city, the yellow line is the tour of Bom Jesus do Monte, and the grey line displays the bus route from Braga to the Bom Jesus do Monte. ( Note: zoom out to see the entire map)

Sights of Braga: 1) Arco da Porta Nova 2) Sé de Braga cathedral 3) Jardim da Praça do Município 4) Convento do Populo 5) Paláicio dos Biscainhos 6) Jardim de Santa Barbara 7) Largo São João do Souto 8) Largo do Paço 9) Arcada shopping centre 10) Convento dos Congregados 11) Theatro Circo 12) Palácio do Raio 13) Igreja de São Marcos 14) Igreja de Santa Cruz 15) Capela De Sao Bentinho 16) Capela da Nossa Senhora da Torre Bom Jesus do Monte sights: 17) Elevador Bom Jesus do Monte 18) Santuário do Bom Jesus 19) Via Crucis 20) Miradouro do Santuário do Bom Jesus viewpoint

How about an organised tour of Braga? An organised tour removes the hassle of public transport, provides an enthusiastic guide, and is the chance to meet fellow travellers. The standard of tours in Portugal has greatly improved and now cater to modern and worldly visitors. We have worked with GetYourGuide.com for the previous 7 years, and some of their best tours of Braga include: • Braga and Guimarães full-day tour with Lunch (€60) • Guimarães and Braga tour with tickets and lunch (€90) • A private tour of Braga and Guimarães for up to three people (€195)

The Capela dos Coimbras

What about a longer stay in Braga?

A rushed day trip to Braga will only skim the surface of the city, and a stay of two days is the recommended length of time to discover the city.

A two-day stay provides one day to fully explore the historic centre and a second day to visit the Bom Jesus, and the lesser-known hillside churches of Santuário do Sameiro and Igreja da Falperra.

The Reitoria part of the Universidade do Minho

Braga could be a base for a longer holiday, and the city has a wide selection of restaurants, shops and good nightlife. There is excellent public transport covering the surrounding region, and day trips could include Guimaraes, Viana do Castelo and Ponte de Lima.

When choosing your hotel in Braga, it is advisable to be within 700m of the Se Cathedral, so that you are close to the historic centre and the decent selection of restaurants and bars this area provides. The map below shows the location of the best hotels in Braga, and if you adjust the dates to your holiday, it will display current prices and availability:

Braga for families

There are much better destinations for young children and families. Families will be fully welcomed, but the majority of the main attractions are of a historical or religious aspect, so will have little appeal to children.

How to travel from Porto to Braga?

Braga is connected to Porto by an urban railway network, which means there are regular and inexpensive train services throughout the day.

The train departs from the São Bento station in Porto, a single ticket costs €3.20, and the journey takes a tedious 75minutes. The latest timetable can be seen on the CP (Comboios de Portugal) website: www.cp.pt/ StaticFiles/ timetables/ oporto-braga-urban -trains.pdf

(the link is a pdf, which may download on mobile phones)

If you are travelling to or from Porto airport, you should use the Getbus bus service, which takes 50 minutes and costs €8. https://getbus.eu/en/braga-airport-braga/

A private transfer from Porto Airport to Braga costs €30, and can be booked from here Related article: Porto to Braga

The train to Braga waiting in the São Bento train station

Our most popular guides to northern Portugal

Where historic and modern Portugal meet, and have a glass of Port wine!

A vibrant city, regarded as the religious centre of Portugal

Known as the birthplace of Portugal and steeped in history

Douro by car

Leave the tourists behind and discover the true allure of the Douro

Picturesque village perched between huge boulders

Charming town surrounded by vineyard-covered hills

Historic northern defensive town, famed for its hot water springs

Beira region

Castles, hilltop towns and arid plains, discover Portugal’s frontier

Canals, colourful fishing boats and a rich history

Estrela by car

See the best of the Serra da Estrela with our driving tour

Linha do Douro

Ride the scenic railway as it snakes up the beautiful Douro Valley

Vila do Conde

Likeable harbour town surrounded by beautiful beaches

Ponte de Lima

Ancient crossing point of the Lima River

Viana do Castelo

A city that exemplifies all of the finest aspects of the Minho region

Liberal students and ancient university traditions create a fascinating city

Top 10 Porto

What are the top 10 sights and activities in Porto?

48 hours in Porto

Itinerary for two fully packed days in Porto

Porto's beaches

Porto is on a coastline of glorious beaches

Porto day trips

Porto's day trips; where to go? which order?

Lively beach resort, offering the best beaches close to Porto

A complete list of all of our Porto and North Portugal guides

Getting Started

• Porto Home Page
• When to visit Porto?
• 1 Week Porto
• Porto in 3 Days
• Porto in 2 Days

Porto Beaches

• Porto Beach Guide
• Vila do Conde Intro
• Povoa de Varzim Intro
• Senhor da Pedra beach
• Aguda beach
• Espinho beach
• Introduction
• Day trip to Ponte de Lima
• Aveiro Introduction
• Porto to Aveiro

Other guides

• How long to stay in Porto?
• Porto Language
• Serra da Estrela by car
• Is it safe to visit Porto?
• Porto Airport
• Chaves Portugal

Viana Do Castelo

• Day trip to Viana
• Santuario de Santa Luzia
• Day trip to Valenca

Porto Guides

• Porto Day Trips
• Walking tour of Porto
• Airport to Porto city
• Porto's trams
• Torre dos Clérigos
• Linha 1 tram route
• Porto to Lisbon
• Porto to the Algarve
• Porto to Coimbra
• Lisbon to Porto Tour
• The Douro by car
• Linha do Douro train ride
• Leonardo de Galafura viewpoint

Porto or...

• Porto or Barcelona
• Porto or Copenhagen
• Porto or Florence
• Porto or Lisbon
• Porto or Madrid
• Porto or Milan
• Porto or Seville

Matosinhos intro Matosinhos beach

• Guimarães Introduction
• Day Trip to Guimarães
• Porto to Guimarães
• Guimarães or Braga?
• Braga Introduction
• Porto to Braga
• Day trip to Braga

Portugal Guides

Where to go in Portugal? Where to Live in Portugal Top 10 Portugal 1 week in Portugal Top 10 beaches

Central Portugal

• Sintra introduction
• Sights of Sintra
• Day trip to Sintra
• Lisbon to Sintra
• Sintra beaches
• Sintra tourist bus 434
• Palacio da Pena
• Palácio de Monserrate
• Quinta da Regaleira
• Parque da Pena
• Castelo dos Mouros
• Cascais introduction
• Day trip to Cascais
• Cascais beach guide
• Cascais sights
• Cabo da Roca
• Lisbon to Cascais
• Evora guide
• Evora sights
• Evora day trip
• Bone Chapel
• Lisbon to Evora
• The Alentejo region
• Sesimbra intorduction
• Sesimbra sightseeing
• Sesimbra beaches
• Lisbon to Sesimbra
• Cabo Espichel
• Obidos Introduction
• Things to see in Obidos
• Obidos day trip
• Ericeira introduction
• Lisbon to Ericeira
• Ericeira beaches
• Setubal introduction
• Serra da Arrabida
• Peninsula de Troia
• Berlengas Islands

Lisbon Guides

• Lisbon introduction
• Lisbon top 10
• Secret Lisbon
• Lisbon beach guide
• 24 hours in Lisbon
• 48 hours in Lisbon
• 3 days in Lisbon
• Lisbon in 5 Days
• 1 Week Lisbon
• Lisbon day trips
• Where to stay?
• Lisbon shopping
• Lisbon Parks
• Lisbon on a wet day
• Museums and galleries
• Alfama District
• Baixa District
• Belem District
• Parque Nações
• Alcântara District
• Graça District
• Cais do Sodre
• Lisbon airport
• Lisbon Metro
• Castelo de São Jorge
• Elevador Santa Justa
• Torre de Belem
• Elevador da Bica
• Elevador do Lavra
• Elevador da Gloria
• Praça do Comercio
• Mosteiro dos Jerónimos
• Padrão dos Descobrimentos
• Lisbon Viewpoints
• Miradouro da Graça
• Sao Pedro de alcantara
• Senhora do Monte
• Lisbon to Belem transport
• Costa da Caparica Portugal
• Lisbon at Christmas
• Santos Populares
• Lisbon for Families
• Lisbon for Seniors
• Cristo Rei Christ
• Lisbon Markets
• Ponte 25 de Abril
• Príncipe Real
• Free Lisbon
• Is Lisbon Walkable
• Lisbon Budget
• Driving in Lisbon
• From the airport
• To Cristo Rei
• Lisbon to Porto
• Lisbon tram guide
• Lisbon Ferrys

South Portugal

• Algarve introduction
• Albufeira guide
• Albufeira activities
• Albufeira beaches
• Day trip to Albufeira
• Albufeira boat trips
• Carvoeiro beaches
• Percurso dos Sete Vales hike
• Sights and activities
• Faro beaches
• Funchal introduction
• Lagos guide
• Lagos beaches
• Praia da Marinha
• Praia da Rocha
• Praia da Rocha beaches
• Tavira guide
• Tavira sights
• Tavira Beaches
• Vilamoura beaches
• Vila Nova de Milfontes

Braga Portugal © 2024 Porto-North-Portugal.com - Privacy Policy

Why it’s Time to Visit Braga, Portugal’s Third Largest City

Portugal is enjoying something of a moment.

Topping European getaway lists and popping up in tourism articles in publications worldwide.

While pictures of Lisbon’s picturesque streets, complete with its 1930’s trams, or Porto’s incredible waterfront are familiar sights, few tourists venture to the atmospheric and historical city of Braga.

Why should you visit Braga?

If you’re looking for a slice of authentic Portugal, the sleepy northern city of Braga is the perfect spot to enjoy traditional Portuguese food and hospitality away from the tourists. Nestled among the hills between the fantastic Peneda-Gerês National Park  and the coast, it’s a stop off the beaten track that’s well worth it.

Where is Braga?

Braga is about an hour’s drive from Porto and also the Peneda-Gerês National Park, and less than 70 km (43 miles) from the Spanish border.

To get to Braga from Lisbon, it’ll take roughly four hours by road or by train, five if you take the bus from Sete Rios bus station.

The nearest airport is Porto , and there are companies which offer shuttle buses directly to and from Braga ( Getbus operates a service starting at €8).

When is the best time to visit Braga?

Like most of Portugal, Braga has a moderate climate all year round, with August usually being the hottest month and January the coldest.

If you want to make sure you avoid the rain during your visit, it’s best to pick sometime in the months of June to September, though the quieter months of spring (March to May) and the autumn months of October to November could also be nicer for those who prefer slightly cooler temperatures for sightseeing.

Festivals in Braga

Braga is home to a number of cultural festivals, and coinciding with these could greatly enrich your trip.

The Braga Theatre Festival (Mimarte) sees theatre pieces performed in the streets of the city, and usually takes place in June or July. This year should be its 20th edition.

The summer months are a busy time for festivals in Braga. The Braga Jazz Festival will be taking place in July this year, which features international as well as local jazz artists.

Autumn is also filled with musical delights with the Festival Para Gente Sentada taking place towards the end of the year, as well as the world-renowned Semibreve , an electronic music and art festival, which will take place this year at the end of October.

Where to stay in Braga

If you’re looking for a place to stay when you visit Braga, then there are a number of high and low cost options to consider.

If you’re passing through Braga on a backpackers budget, then there’s a selection of hostels to choose from.

Among the low-priced, highly-rated hostels in the Lisbon city is the Collector’s Hostel . Close to the city centre in the historic area, this hostel offers beds in shared dorms for €17.50, or doubles for €22 per person, with breakfast included.

If your budget is a little higher, then there are also many excellent mid- and high-range hotels to stay in when you visit Braga.

Amelia’s House  (website is in Portuguese) offers clean and simple rooms, with access to a communal kitchen and breakfast included. Prices start at €41 per night.

Braga Heritage Lofts  (website is in Portuguese) has a selection of simple and modern rooms with kitchenettes. Located in central Braga, prices start from €58 per night.

Another option in central Braga is Pateo de Janes , a welcoming guesthouse with friendly staff, with rooms starting at €42 per night.

If you’re looking for luxury accommodation when you visit Braga, try the Vila Galé Collection . This grand hotel is housed in an incredible 16th century building in the centre of Braga, and has a spa as well as indoor and outdoor swimming pools. Prices start at €110 per night.

For a more tranquil option, try the Do Parque Hotel  situated near the sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte. This picturesque hotel also includes a spa, and prices start from €65 per night.

If you prefer to stay in accommodation sourced through Airbnb when you visit Braga, there are many good suggestions to consider.

Apartamento Central costs €40 per night for two guests, and the charming apartment comes complete with a fully equipped kitchen and living room.

Penthouse Historic Centre costs €72 per night and sleeps four people. This penthouse apartment in central Braga boasts incredible views in a stunning location, with a large terrace and a pool table.

If you choose Comodità Braga , you get an entire apartment for €30 per night for up to four people, in a more tranquil area a bit further from the centre.

Things to do in Braga

Visit the amazing churches.

The city of Braga is known for its religious history as it’s one off the oldest Christian cities in the world, so unsurprisingly, churches feature heavily on the list of must-see sights.

When you visit Braga you will most certainly want to visit the postcard-perfect Bom Jesus do Monte , and climb its 577 steps.

Equally impressive is the Braga Cathedral , which dates back to the third century and is one of the most historically significant buildings in the whole of Portugal. Within the cathedral complex there is also the Igreja da Misericórdia , one of the only renaissance churches in the city.

Other impressive religious monuments include the Church of Santa Cruz (“Irmandade de Santa Cruz”), as well as the Monastery of St Martin of Tibães , which is known for its ostentatious decoration.

The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Sameiro is a neoclassical wonder which is also worth a visit.

Walk around the city

The lively Rua do Souto , which begins at the arch of the new gate and ends at the impressive Praça da República is a must-do walk through Braga.

The incredible facade of the Raio Palace is also worth a look.

Braga is also home to a number of beautiful squares and gardens, like the garden of Casa dos Biscainhos , and the Garden of Santa Barbara .

Take a day trip near Braga

There are also many great spots to visit less than an hour from Braga. The nearby city of Guimarães is only half an hour’s drive away, and is essential for all those interested in Portugal’s history.

For nature lovers, the National Park of Peneda-Gerês is less than an hour’s drive, and is famous for its picturesque valleys, rivers and waterfalls.

In the summer months, the river beach of Adaúfe also makes for an excellent day trip from Braga, with its cool, crystalline waters offering some respite from the heat.

Where to eat when you visit Braga

Braga has a wide variety of restaurant options, which are largely incredibly affordable in comparison to the higher prices in Porto and Lisbon.

For typical regional and Portuguese food, head to Restaurante O Jaco  (website is in Portuguese) near the city hall.

If you’re looking for some petiscos or Portuguese tapas, then we recommend trying the reasonably priced restaurant  Tabuas, Copas e Outras Cenas  or Petisqueira Confianza , for a more intimate setting.

Vegetarian travellers will want to check out Gosto Superior for some excellent plant-based dishes.

For a friendly dinner with the locals in a quirky setting, try Retro Kitchen .

How much will it cost to visit Braga?

For two travellers, a two-night stay in Braga in a mid-range hotel can cost as little as €100 per person, including food, accommodation and travel to and from Porto airport.

What is life like in Braga?

The cost of living in Braga is lower than most other cities in Portugal, meaning that those who live there will have more money to spend if earning the same salary.

As a small city, the pace of life is a little slower, however it is also home to the University of the Minho, which brings a lot of youthful energy and nightlife to Braga.

Did you enjoy this article about Braga, Portugal? Do you have any tips to share? Feel free to leave a comment below.

Discover Portugal and BE part of Portugal. Sign up for our FREE newsletter today and never miss a thing.

• Places to visit

Property in Porto: Is it the Right Time to Buy a House or an Apartment?

The most romantic honeymoon destinations in portugal.

22 Things to do in Braga

February 25, 2022 | Posted in: Portugal

Often referred to as the ‘Portuguese Rome,’ Braga is a beautiful city in the historic Minho region of northern Portugal. Braga is the third-largest city in Portugal.

One of the oldest Christian cities in the world, it was built by the Romans more than 2,000 years ago. At the end of every May, the Roman city hosts the huge Braga Romana festival, which celebrates Roman history.

Braga's abundance of historic buildings makes it an exciting destination for architecture and history lovers.

Cute cobbled streets and alleyways leading to impressive squares and plazas make it fun and easy to explore Braga on foot. With churches on every street corner (there are 47 in total), Braga is Portugal ’s most religious city. The architectural style in Braga is diverse; you will find everything from Neolithic to Roman, Medieval, and Modernist.

If exploring historic buildings isn’t your thing, the area surrounding the city offers plenty of opportunities for day trips and outdoor exploration to enjoy nature.

Let’s look at some of the best things to do in Braga.

1. Bom Jesus do Monte

2. ride on the funicular, 3. braga cathedral, 4. pass through the arco da porta nova, 5. museu de arqueologia d. diogo de sousa, 6. visit the sanctuary of our lady of sameiro, 7. spend time at igreja de são marcos, 8. visit the igreja de santa cruz, 9. stroll around jardim de santa bárbara, 10. see the chapel of sao frutuoso, 11. take in the beautiful palacio do raio, 12. delve into braga’s history at the museu pio xii, 13. have lunch at the oldest cafe in braga – cafe vianna, 14. check out museu de arte sacra, 15. visit the museu dos biscainhos, 16. enjoy coffee in cafe a brasileria, 17. watch the world go by in the praça da república, 18. go to an sc braga game, 19. appreciate the creativity at the são martinho de tibães, 20. hike in the peneda gerês national park, 21. visit the ancient village of lindoso, 22. taste some vinho verde, where to stay in braga, don't forget travel insurance, 22 fun things to do in braga.

There are so many buildings with religious significance to visit in Braga; it can be hard to know where to start. This list notes some of the most important ones to see on your trip.  

If you want to see the panoramic views from the monte sanctuary, you’ll need to work for it. The Monte Bom Jesus hill is 116m high and you need to climb 580 steps to get to the top. The whitewashed staircase leading up to the beautiful church is a sight in its own right; the beautiful baroque style stairs are some of Portugal’s most photographed.

The monumental staircase represents the Christian ascent to heaven and as you climb, you’ll see statues from throughout Christian history, as well as small chapels that display the passion of Christ.

When you reach the top of the Bom Jesus staircase, the reward is the peaceful sanctuary of the Bom Jesus de Braga, which was built in 1784. The architectural style of this beautiful church is a blend of baroque, neoclassical, and rococo.

From the church, the views of the city below are mesmerizing. In the park surrounding the church, you can take a walk, visit the ancient caves, or even take a rowing boat out on the lake.

If you don’t have your own transport and are staying near Braga, try out a guided day tour of Braga and the surrounding area .  

The engineer who designed the funicular (Nikolaus Riggenbach) also designed the well-known funicular railways in Lisbon.

The elevator operates every half an hour and only costs 2.50 EUR for a return trip at the time of writing. It’s a novel and fun way to get up to the Bom Jesus do Monte hilltop sanctuary.  

The cathedral is the seat of the Archdiocese of Braga as well as the Archbishop of Portugal and Spain. Braga Cathedral has been a national monument since 1910. The gothic style building dates back to 1070 when construction first started, but it took a century to complete.

Once you’re done marveling at the outside of the cathedral, you can take a look at the cathedral’s treasury. You’ll find art from throughout the centuries amongst the collection of treasures.

Another great thing to do on a visit to Braga’s Cathedral is to take a tour of the upper choir to view the two baroque organs and golden stonework.  

Originally built in 1512, the purpose of the Arco da Porta Nova was as the city’s main entrance. It connected the medieval city with the world outside the walls and was where the city keys were presented to important people.

It may be one of the city’s biggest tourist attractions but is still well worth visiting. When you walk through the stone arch, be sure to look up to admire the intricate stonework.  

In this museum named after Braga’s archbishop from the 16th century, you’ll get to see archeological collections from the whole of Portugal’s northern region. You’ll find jewelry, pottery coins, and utensils arranged in chronological order.

A guided tour of the museum will help bring the archeological pieces to life. Events and activities are held at the Museu de Arqueologia D. Diogo de Sousa throughout the year, so check out their calendar to learn more.  

The impressive neoclassical church built in the 19th century has a large white dome.

Inside the building, you will find a collection of precious religious artwork representing various religious viewpoints. There is a silver tabernacle on the main altar with an image of the patron saint.

If the artwork is not of interest to you, it’s worth making your way to the hilltop sanctuary purely for the views and photo opportunities of the city below.  

It is also known as the hospital's church, as it's connected to the São Marcos hospital. Two large towers differentiate this church from the others in the city and life-size statues of the apostle adorn the exterior. Inside the church, you’ll find the relics of the Apostle of St. Mark.  

Go inside this historic building to take a look at the gilded altarpiece carved from gold, the organ, and the pulpit, along with the glazed tiles.

Fun fact: a church in San Jose, California, is modeled on Braga’s Igreja de Santa Cruz.  

Geometric designs, combined with a large variety of plants and hedges, make the garden of Santa Barbara a pleasant place to spend some time relaxing and exploring.

Historic relics pepper the elaborate baroque gardens, such as the ruins of the medieval palace which once stood here. Saint Bárbara is the patron saint of the Santa Barbara gardens; her statue is in the center of the garden on the fountain.  

The small chapel is on the Convent of São Francisco site and is a rare example of a Visigothic building (very few still exist in Portugal) and is laid out in the Greek Cross design.  

André Soares is the mastermind behind the palace’s beautiful facade. The Raio palace has been intricately restored and has ten rooms you can visit. You can see paintings, clothing, art, documents, and furniture within the palace's rooms.

The beautiful main staircase is decorated with traditional blue and white Portuguese tiles. When inside each of the rooms, remember to look up to admire the intricate ceiling designs.  

This museum is one of the most impressive things to do in Braga Portugal. Home to one of the most expansive collections of religious art in the country, the museum is not to be missed on your visit to Braga.

Founded in 1957 by a pastor who had spent much of his life collecting religious art. There are three main sections to the museum. The first tells the history of humanity through archaeological pieces and art.

Next is the gallery dedicated to Portuguese artist Henrique Medina. Lastly, there’s the Medieval Tower.  

Dating back to 1858, you can’t miss a visit to this iconic cafe when you visit Braga.

The Cafe Vianna has played an essential part in the social life of Braga throughout the city’s history. One of the most famous coffee shops in the city, it was a meeting point for nobles, artists, activists, and everyone in between. The people who started the 1926 coup used to meet in the cafe.

These days, the cafe is less about politics and more about enjoying the range of brunch, lunch, coffee, cake, and snacks.  

The Museu de Arte Sacra is in one of the old buildings of the ancient Monastery of Arouca.

From textiles to sculptures, tapestries and paintings, there’s an array of interesting, sacred art to see in this collection.  

Inside the house, the Biscainhos museum now has an extensive collection of art, furniture, ceramics, glassware, Portuguese watches, and clocks. It is also worth taking a walk in the house’s stunning gardens.  

It’s a great spot to sit and watch the world go by from the outdoor terrace. People from all walks of life stop at the cafe, always buzzing with a great atmosphere.  

The locals popularly call the Praça da República “Arcada”. It's located between the São Francisco and Barão de São Martinho squares and the Avenida da Liberdade. Historically the square was where all the city’s goods were sold, supplied, and exchanged.

To get more of a feel for the city and guidance from an expert local, why not take a guided city tour of Braga ?  

If there’s a home game on when you visit the city, why not go and watch the team play? The stadium is impressive in itself and seats over 30,000 spectators; it’s the seventh-largest football stadium in the world! The stadium is carved out of the granite of an old quarry which makes the setting very unique.

You can take stadium tours to learn more about the team and their home ground. The stadium is in the north of the city in the Parque Urbano area and is easily reachable by public transport.  

A Benedictine monastery was the motherhouse of the Benedictine order in both Brazil and Portugal; this religious building dates back to 1060.

During the 17th and 18th centuries, a lot of artistic experimentation took place at the rococo-style church of the monastery. The extravagant, gold interior is a relic of the creative artistic exploration which took place here.

The art at the monastery had a significant influence on Rococo and Baroque art in Portugal and its colonies.  

From ancient granite villages, tranquil trails, outdoor pools, waterfalls, and stunning vistas, there’s no shortage of things to see here. You’ll find some of the best hiking trails in northern Portugal in this park.  

The town is one of many historic towns in the Peneda Gerês National Park and is surrounded by natural beauty and the Limia river. It’s a great starting point if you want to do some hiking in the national park.

Don’t miss a visit to the national monument of the 13th century Lindoso castle, which was of critical significance during Portugal’s restoration wars.  

Why green wine? The greenness of the region may have influenced the name; however, the main reason for the name Vinhos Verdes is because very young grapes are used to make the wine.

Try out a Vinho Verde wine tour while you’re in Braga to get a complete insight into the production of this delicious wine. Don’t forget to taste some!  

Looking for a place to stay while in Braga, Portugal? Check out these accommodation options in the city center:

The Arch Charming Apartments : centrally located with modern decor and excellent ratings.

Melia Braga Hotel & Spa : a luxury hotel with its own spa.

Vila Gale Collection Braga : a hotel in a beautiful old building and a stone’s throw from the Se Cathedral.

The Domus 26 Guesthouse B&B : is right in the historic center of the city, highly rated and reasonably priced.  

Plan for the best, prepare for the worst. Travel insurance has you covered in case (part of) your trip gets canceled, you get sick or hurt abroad, and sometimes even when your electronics break or get stolen. I always make sure I'm covered every trip I go on. Don't have travel insurance yet? Check out SafetyWing. They offer super flexible plans that you can even sign up for while you're already on your trip. On top of that, they were the first travel insurance to cover COVID, and when I got COVID, they reimbursed all of my expenses without making a fuss. Their customer support team is great and I can personally recommend them.  

The editorial team at Wonderful Wanderings brings together travel experts with backgrounds in travel writing, web development and digital marketing. The team, through their collaborative effort, provides readers with relevant travel experiences and up-to-date digital content. The vast expertise within the team ensures an informative blend of travel stories and useful online travel guides and trip experiences, built on a foundation of both industry recognition and hands-on global adventures. Learn more about Wonderful Wanderings

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Join 58,000+ other Wonderful Wanderers!

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Visit Braga in Portugal

• Victor | Essencial Portugal

Book your holidays in 3 clicks all over Portugal using the button below. I have created for you a page that gathers the best rated and most recommended English speaking tours and activities throughout Portugal as well as the luxury hotels or villas classified by the most sought after and appreciated criteria.

Braga is the third largest city in Portugal and is located in the north of the country, near the Douro Valley. This historic city is known for its rich cultural and religious heritage, with many monuments and historical buildings to discover. Braga is also known for its cultural dynamism, with many festivals and events organised throughout the year. Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s history and culture or enjoy Braga’s lively nightlife, you’ll find plenty to do in this bustling city.

Guided tour of Braga in Portugal

Braga is a fascinating city to discover, with its rich cultural and historical heritage. If you are looking for guided tours in Braga, you are in luck! There are a number of guided tours that will take you to the most important sites in the city in a professional and exciting way.

Whether you want to learn more about Braga’s history, discover the city’s historic buildings and monuments or simply enjoy the city with an experienced guide, there is a tour to suit you. French speaking guided tours are also a great opportunity to discover the city in an authentic way and to understand the local culture and traditions.

Choose below my selection of the best guided tours in Braga, Portugal. These tours can be cancelled 24 hours before departure in case you change your mind!

Getting to Braga

There are several ways to get to Braga, the 3rd largest city in Portugal!

Here are the different options available to you:

• Getting to Braga by plane: Francisco Sá Carneiro International Airport in Porto is the closest to Braga and is easily accessible from many European destinations. Once at the airport, you can take a bus or train to Braga. There are also airport shuttles that will take you directly to Braga.
• Getting to Braga by train: Braga is served by the railway line from Porto to Viana do Castelo. You can take a train from Oporto or from other cities in northern Portugal to Braga.
• Getting to Braga by bus: There are many bus companies that offer travel services between Porto and Braga. You can take a bus from the bus station in Porto or from other cities in northern Portugal to Braga.
• Getting to Braga by car: If you prefer to travel by car, you can easily get to Braga by taking the A3 motorway from Porto. There are also plenty of public car parks in Braga if you wish to visit the city by car.

There are many other transport options to get to Braga to visit the north of Portugal , such as taxis and car rental services. Feel free to explore all the options available to you and choose the one that best suits your needs and budget.

The best hotels in Braga, Northern Portugal

Braga is an ideal destination for those looking to experience the charm and history of northern Portugal. If you are looking for a hotel in Braga, you are in luck! The city has many hotels of all levels of comfort and luxury, offering comfortable rooms equipped with everything you need for a pleasant stay.

Whether you are looking for a 4-star hotel with an outdoor pool and fitness centre, or a 5-star hotel with all the amenities, you will find the right hotel in Braga. Furthermore, most of the hotels in Braga are located in the city centre, allowing you to enjoy the city and its sights on foot.

Use the button below to see my selection of the top rated hotels to book in Braga, Northern Portugal!

• Melia Braga Hotel & Spa: This 5-star hotel is located in the centre of Braga and offers luxurious and comfortable rooms, as well as a spa and fitness centre.
• Burgus Tribute & Design Hotel: This 4-star hotel is located in the centre of Braga and offers modern and comfortable rooms, an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness centre.
• Hotel Moon & Sun Braga: This 4-star hotel is located in the centre of Braga and offers modern and comfortable rooms, an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness centre.
• Hotel do Parque: This 4-star hotel is located in the centre of Braga and offers comfortable and stylish rooms, an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness centre.
• Vila Gale Collection Braga: This 4-star hotel is located in the centre of Braga and offers modern and comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool and a fitness centre.
• Villa Theatro Heritage Apartments: This 4-star hotel is located in the centre of Braga and offers luxurious and comfortable flats, as well as an outdoor pool and fitness centre.

The best restaurants in Braga, Portugal

Braga is an ideal destination for food lovers! The city has many restaurants offering a wide range of local and international dishes. Braga’s cuisine is influenced by the culinary traditions of northern Portugal and includes tasty dishes such as cozido à portuguesa, caldo verde and bacalhau. You can also enjoy delicious desserts such as pastéis de nata and travesseiros.

If you are looking for a restaurant to enjoy good food and wine, Braga is the place to be. Braga’s restaurants are renowned for their quality and warm welcome, and will offer you an unforgettable culinary experience. Visit one of the many restaurants in Braga to discover the gastronomy of the region and to spend a pleasant moment in good company.

Discover below my list of the best restaurants in Braga.

Restaurante O Castelo in Braga

This restaurant offers quality traditional Portuguese cuisine, with a selection of local dishes such as cozido à portuguesa, caldo verde and bacalhau.

Restaurante A Botequim in Braga

The restaurant offers traditional Portuguese cuisine with a modern twist, as well as delicious desserts such as pastéis de nata and travesseiros.

Restaurante O Mercado in Braga

This restaurant specialises in traditional Portuguese cuisine using fresh, local produce.

Restaurante O Pátio in Braga

This restaurant specialises in traditional Portuguese cuisine with a modern twist.

This list is of course not exhaustive and there are many other good restaurants in Braga offering a variety of cuisine. Don’t hesitate to ask your hotel staff or local people for advice on the best restaurants in the city.

Weather in Braga, Northern Portugal

The weather in Braga in northern Portugal varies according to the season. In summer, temperatures can reach up to 30 degrees Celsius, with sunny and warm days. In winter, temperatures can drop to 5 degrees Celsius, with cooler, cloudy days. Rainfall is frequent throughout the year, with a peak in autumn and winter. It is advisable to check the weather forecast before planning your trip to prepare for the weather and to ensure that you have the right clothing and equipment.

Here is the weather in Braga according to the 4 seasons:

• Spring: temperatures start to rise in April and reach around 20 degrees Celsius in May. Rainfall is frequent in April, but decreases in May. The sky is often cloudy with some sunny spells.
• Summer: Temperatures peak in July and August, with temperatures reaching up to 30 degrees Celsius. Rainfall is rare in summer, with sunny, warm days.
• Autumn: Temperatures start to drop in September and reach around 20 degrees Celsius in October. Rainfall is frequent in autumn, with a peak in October. The sky is often cloudy with a few sunny spells.
• Winter: Temperatures reach their lowest point in December and January, with temperatures dropping to 5 degrees Celsius. Precipitation is frequent in winter, with a peak in December. Skies are often cloudy with occasional sunny spells.

It is advisable to check the weather forecast before planning your trip to prepare for the weather and to ensure that you have the right clothing and equipment.

What to do in Braga, Portugal

Braga is an exciting and charming city in northern Portugal. It is full of things to do and discover for tourists of all ages. Here are some ideas of things to do in Braga:

• Visit the historic city centre: Braga is a city rich in history and culture, and the historic city centre is a testament to its prestigious past. There are many historical buildings and monuments to see, such as the Braga Cathedral, the Palacio do Raio and the Santa Bárbara Park.
• Stroll through the Santo André Gardens: Located high above the city, the Santo André Gardens offer a panoramic view of Braga and its surroundings. It is an ideal place to walk around and enjoy nature.
• Discover Braga’s culinary traditions: Braga’s gastronomy is influenced by the culinary traditions of northern Portugal and includes tasty dishes such as cozido à portuguesa, caldo verde and bacalhau. Don’t hesitate to visit one of the many restaurants in the city for good food and wine.
• Visit the Parque de la Bomba: Located a few kilometres from Braga, the Parque de la Bomba is an ideal place to relax and enjoy nature. There are gardens, playgrounds and landscaped walks.
• Take a city tour: To learn more about Braga’s history and culture, you can take a guided tour of the city. You can discover the city’s main points of interest and learn more about its past and culture.

There are many other things to do in Braga, and this list is of course not exhaustive. Don’t hesitate to ask your hotel staff or local people for advice on other activities and attractions in the city.

The main monuments of Braga

Sanctuaire Bom Jesus of Braga

The Bom Jesus Sanctuary is a must-see religious and tourist site in Braga, located a few kilometres from the city. This impressive baroque monument is built on a hill and offers a panoramic view of the city and its surroundings.

The sanctuary includes a church, a calvary and a monumental staircase decorated with statues. The staircase is an outstanding example of Portuguese Baroque art and is considered one of the most beautiful in Portugal.

There are also many works of art on display, including paintings, sculptures and stained glass windows. The sanctuary is a peaceful and spiritual place, ideal to recharge your batteries and reconnect with yourself. Make sure you visit the Bom Jesus Sanctuary during your stay in Braga to see this impressive building and enjoy the panoramic view of the city.

Sé Cathedral in Braga

Braga’s Sé Cathedral is a majestic historical building located in the heart of the city. It is considered one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Portugal and houses many artistic treasures.

Its Gothic façade is adorned with sculptures and decorative motifs, while its interior is richly decorated with frescoes, paintings and stained glass windows. You can also discover the chapel of Nossa Senhora do Pópulo, which houses a wooden statue of the Virgin and Child. Braga’s Sé Cathedral is a popular place of worship and pilgrimage, and attracts many visitors each year.

If you are interested in the history and culture of Portugal, Braga’s Sé Cathedral is a must-see during your stay in Braga.

Santa Barbara Garden

The Santa Barbara Garden is an ideal place to walk and enjoy nature during your stay in Braga.

This garden is located high above the city and offers a panoramic view of Braga and its surroundings. You will find many species of plants and flowers, as well as picnic areas and benches where you can relax. The Santa Barbara Garden is also the perfect place to watch the sunset over the city. You can also visit the Santa Barbara Castle, located next to the garden, which houses a museum dedicated to the history of Braga. If you are looking for a quiet and peaceful place to recharge your batteries, the Santa Barbara Garden is the place to be.

The Biscaínhos Museum

The Biscaínhos Museum is an art and history museum located in the Palacio do Raio, an impressive historical building in the heart of Braga. The museum houses many works of art and historical objects that reflect the history and culture of Braga and northern Portugal.

There are paintings, sculptures, tapestries, furniture and many other works of art. The museum is also known for its gardens, which are a great place to walk around and enjoy nature. If you are interested in history and art, the Biscaínhos Museum is a must-see during your stay in Braga.

Arco da Porta Nova

Arco da Porta Nova is a historical triumphal arch located in the centre of Braga. This monument is one of the main points of interest in the city and is known for its façade decorated with decorative motifs and sculptures. The triumphal arch was built in the 17th century to celebrate the visit of Infante Dom Afonso Henriques to Braga.

Today, it is a popular meeting place for Braga’s inhabitants and a must-see for tourists. You can also enjoy the panoramic view of the city from the top of the triumphal arch. If you are looking for a place to discover Braga’s history and culture, Arco da Porta Nova is a must-see.

Theatro Circo in Braga

Theatro Circo is a variety theatre located in the centre of Braga. The theatre is known for its music, dance and theatre performances, which attract many visitors every year.

Theatro Circo is also an imposing historical building, with a facade decorated with decorative motifs and a spacious and comfortable auditorium. If you are looking for entertainment and culture during your stay in Braga, the Theatro Circo is a great place to visit.

Here you will find many quality productions and can enjoy an unforgettable evening in the heart of the city.

Palácio do Raio

The Palácio do Raio is an imposing historical building located in the centre of Braga. The palace was built in the 17th century and now houses a museum dedicated to contemporary art.

The Palácio do Raio is a very active place for artistic dissemination and creation, hosting numerous exhibitions, performances and cultural events. You can see many works of contemporary art, including paintings, sculptures and installations, as well as many historical objects that bear witness to the history of Braga.

If you are interested in contemporary art and culture, the Palácio do Raio is a must-see during your stay in Braga.

The Monastery of Tibães

The Monastery of Tibães is a Cistercian monastery located a few kilometres from Braga. It is one of the most important monasteries in northern Portugal and contains many artistic and historical treasures.

You can visit the monastery’s church, which is adorned with frescoes and stained glass windows, as well as the conventual buildings, which now house a museum dedicated to the history of the monastery. The Monastery of Tibães is also known for its gardens, which are an ideal place to walk around and enjoy nature.

If you are interested in the history, religion and culture of Portugal, the Monastery of Tibães is a must-see during your stay in Braga.

The Braga Museum of Archaeology

The Archaeology Museum of Braga is a museum dedicated to the history and culture of northern Portugal. The museum houses numerous collections of archaeological objects that bear witness to the history of the region and its inhabitants.

There are numerous objects from prehistoric, ancient and modern times, as well as temporary exhibitions on historical and cultural themes. The Archaeology Museum is an ideal place of discovery and learning for anyone interested in the history and culture of Portugal.

If you are looking for a place to learn more about the history of Braga and the region, the Archaeology Museum is a must-see during your stay in Braga.

The history of Braga in Portugal

Braga is a historic city in northern Portugal with a rich history and vibrant culture.

The city was founded over 2000 years ago by the Romans and was the seat of the Archbishopric of Braga, one of the most important in Europe, for many centuries.

Braga enjoyed a period of prosperity in the Middle Ages, when it was an important trading city and a centre of pilgrimage for the faithful from all over Europe.

Over the centuries, Braga has been influenced by many cultures and civilisations, and this influence is reflected in the city’s architecture, museums and monuments.

Today, Braga is a dynamic and cosmopolitan city, which welcomes many visitors every year to discover its historical and cultural heritage. If you are interested in the history and culture of Portugal, Braga is an ideal destination to discover during your trip.

Related Articles

Visit the Douro Valley in Portugal The Douro is a region in northern Portugal known…

Evora is one of the most beautiful cities in Portugal . Walking along its centre,…

Between the two rivers Tagus and Mondego in the 12th century, the Templars built a…

Essencial Portugal

Prepare your vacation in the north of Portugal in a few clicks: essential places, guided tours, transfers, hotels, villas, ticket purchase and information. A concentrate of everything you need to know to visit Porto and the north.

Guided tours of northern Portugal

Porto Card - Discounts

Porto Airport Transfers

Luxury Villas Portugal North

Hotels in the North

Visiting Northern Portugal

• Guide: visit Porto in 3 days
• Public transport in Porto
• 11 things to do in Porto
• 15 must-see places in Porto
• Visiter Guimarães
• Visit Braga
• Peneda-Gerês National Park
• Visit the Douro River

Due to the complexity of this process, I have found only one serious english speaking service provider to assist you with the registration of your vehicle in Portugal. This is a law firm based near Lisbon that will take care of the registration application + the ISV exemption application to the customs . The price of this firm is 2000€ per vehicle and does not include the costs of the technical inspection, the registration and the registration fee.

Please only fill in this form if you are ok with this price to avoid unnecessary exchanges with this provider. If you wish to do this yourself, you will find a lot of information below on the dedicated page.

Once this form has been completed, it will immediately be forwarded to the english-speaking service provider who will contact you.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form. Name * First Last E-mail * Phone * Subject * Your project / Your needs * Website Send

By validating this form, you authorise me to forward your request to an English-speaking company in Lisbon who will contact you to discuss your project. Nothing is automated, these are people I know personally, who are serious and qualified to help you with your project.

The form below will be forwarded to an insurance broker specialising in the Portuguese market who will offer you the best prices for death insurance in Portugal.

Benjamin will contact you directly to discuss your needs and offer you the best death insurance deals at the best prices. He will take care of proposing you several offers and of subscribing to your new death insurance. A precious help to make your expatriation project in Portugal a reality.

You can indicate in your message when you would like to be contacted to discuss this.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form. Name * First Last E-mail * Phone * Subject * Your project / Your needs * Phone Send

The form below will be forwarded to an insurance broker specialising in the Portuguese market who will offer you the best prices for boat insurance in Portugal.

Benjamin will contact you directly to discuss your needs and offer you the best boat insurance deals at the best prices. He will take care of proposing you several offers and of subscribing to your new boat insurance. A precious help to make your expatriation project in Portugal a reality.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form. Name * First Last E-mail * Phone * Subject * Your project / Your needs * Comment Send

The form below will be forwarded to an insurance broker specialising in the Portuguese market who will offer you the best prices for dental insurance in Portugal.

Benjamin will contact you directly to discuss your needs and offer you the best dental insurance deals at the best prices. He will take care of proposing you several offers and of subscribing to your new dental insurance. A precious help to make your expatriation project in Portugal a reality.

The form below will be forwarded to an insurance broker specialising in the Portuguese market who will offer you the best prices for motorcycle insurance in Portugal.

Benjamin will contact you directly to discuss your needs and offer you the best motorcycle insurance deals at the best prices. He will take care of proposing you several offers and of subscribing to your new motorcycle insurance. A precious help to make your expatriation project in Portugal a reality.

The form below will be forwarded to an insurance broker specialising in the Portuguese market who will offer you the best prices for life insurance in Portugal.

Benjamin will contact you directly to discuss your needs and offer you the best life insurance deals at the best prices. He will take care of proposing you several offers and of subscribing to your new life insurance. A precious help to make your expatriation project in Portugal a reality.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form. Name * First Last E-mail * Phone * Subject * Your project / Your needs * Email Send

The form below will be forwarded to an insurance broker specialising in the Portuguese market who will offer you the best prices for car insurance in Portugal.

Benjamin will contact you directly to discuss your needs and offer you the best car insurance deals at the best prices. He will take care of proposing you several offers and of subscribing to your new car insurance. A precious help to make your expatriation project in Portugal a reality.

The form below will be forwarded to an insurance broker specialising in the Portuguese market who will offer you the best prices for home insurance in Portugal.

Benjamin will contact you directly to discuss your needs and offer you the best home insurance deals at the best prices. He will take care of proposing you several offers and of subscribing to your new home insurance. A precious help to make your expatriation project in Portugal a reality.

The form below will be forwarded to an insurance broker specialising in the Portuguese market who will offer you the best prices for a mutual insurance in Portugal.

Benjamin will contact you directly to discuss your needs and offer you the best health cover at the best price for you and your family. He will take care of proposing you several offers and of subscribing to your new health insurance. This is a precious help to make your expatriation project in Portugal a reality.

The form below will be forwarded to an English-speaking architect based in Lisbon who specialises in the study and support of construction or renovation projects in Portugal.

He will contact you directly to find out more about your project, your needs and discuss with you its feasibility and the best way to accompany you. Study of the file, analysis of the feasibility with the town hall, constitution of the best team or coordination of the building site are all steps that will allow you to carry out your project. A precious help to make your expatriation project in Portugal a reality.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form. Name * First Last E-mail * Phone number * Subject * Your project * Email Send

The form below will be forwarded to an English speaking company based in the Algarve and specialised in the purchase of new vehicles in Portugal.

They will contact you directly to find out more about your project, your needs and will accompany you through the whole process of buying a vehicle in Portugal: proposal of the best prices found in Europe, import of the vehicle, registration and delivery. A precious help to make your car purchase project in Portugal a reality.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form. Name * First Last Email * Phone Number * Project and needs * Submit

The form below will be sent to an English speaking company based in Lisbon and specialised in company buy-outs in Portugal. A company takeover is a meticulous operation for which it is essential to be accompanied in the research, selection, visits, financial analysis, negotiations or even the signature to make sure that everything is done correctly and in accordance with the legislation in force in Portugal.

Experts in business acquisition in Portugal will contact you directly to discuss your project, your needs and the best way to accompany you to make it happen. Valuable help from English-speaking experts to make your plans for setting up in Portugal a reality.

You can indicate in your message when you would like to be contacted to discuss it.

The form below will be forwarded to an English-speaking company based in Lisbon that specialises in assisting with administrative procedures in Portugal.

They will contact you directly to find out more about your project, your needs and accompany you through the process of obtaining your Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) status in Portugal. They will accompany you to the authorities and will take care of the preparation and submission of your application. A precious help to make your expatriation project in Portugal a reality.

The form below will be forwarded to a firm of English speaking accountants based in Lisbon who specialise in all accounting activities for companies based in Portugal.

They will contact you directly to find out more about your project, your needs and how best to assist you with your personal or business accounting: bookkeeping, declarations, human resources, balance sheets, VAT recovery and other tasks essential to the smooth running of your Portuguese business.

Valuable English-speaking support for the development of your business in Portugal. You can indicate in your message when you wish to be contacted to discuss this.

The form below will be forwarded to an English-speaking company based in Lisbon that specialises in property searches throughout Portugal. These property hunters can assist you in your search for a property, but also in the search for building land, agricultural land or even the search for a business to buy.

They will contact you directly to find out more about your project, your needs and will accompany you throughout the process of research, negotiation, signing, translation of documents, installation and administrative procedures. A turnkey search and a precious help to concretize your project of personal or professional installation in Portugal.

Please provide as much information as possible about your project and your search. You can also indicate in your message when you would like to be contacted to discuss it.

They will contact you directly to find out more about your project, your needs and accompany you through the process of obtaining your NIF in Portugal. They will make an appointment at Finanças and accompany you to obtain your Portuguese tax number. A precious help to make your expatriation project in Portugal a reality.

You can indicate in your message when you wish to be contacted to discuss this.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form. Name * First Last E-mail * Phone * Subject * Your project / Your needs * Name Send

The form below will be forwarded to a firm of English-speaking accountants based in Lisbon who specialise in business creation and accounting throughout Portugal.

They will contact you directly to find out more about your project and will accompany you throughout the entire process of setting up your business in Portugal: administrative procedures, assistance with financing, opening your bank account, declarations, drafting the articles of association and accounting. A precious help to make your business project in Portugal a reality.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form. Name * First Last E-mail * Phone * Where do you want to set up your business * What type of company would you like to create * Your project / Your needs * Website Send

The form below will be forwarded to an English-speaking company based in Lisbon that specialises in property projects throughout Portugal.

Rui will contact you to find out more about your project and will accompany you throughout the entire property purchase process, from research to negotiation, translation of documents, installation, administrative procedures and even accompaniment to the notary’s office for the signature. A precious help to make your real estate project in Portugal a reality.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form. Name * First Last E-mail * Phone * Type of property required * House Villa Apartment Location * Approximate date of real estate purchase Period of presence in Portugal Budget * Interior area in m2 * Outside surface area in m2 Number of bedrooms * Number of bathrooms Small works possible Yes No Major work possible Yes No Your project / Your needs * Message Send

Home » Travel Guides » Portugal » 15 Best Things to Do in Braga (Portugal)

15 Best Things to Do in Braga (Portugal)

One of Portugal’s oldest cities, Braga was also an ancient seat of religious power with an archdiocese anchored in the 4th century. The cathedral is mandatory, as are several of the old churches, chapels and monasteries in the area.

There’s also the lofty Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary that you can reach via a splendid Baroque stairway with allegorical sculpture, or on a 19th century funicular. You have to see the imposing old mansions around the city, festooned with azulejos and taking you back to aristocratic life in Braga in days gone by.

Lets explore the best things to do in Braga :

1. Bom Jesus do Monte

The city’s most visited tourist attraction high on a hilltop to the east.

This sanctuary is a pilgrimage site and has been attracting religious devotees since at least the 14th century.

And devoted is what you need to be to make it up the stairway, which rises more than 100 metres and has 640 steps.

These stairs zigzag up the slope and are adorned with Baroque sculpture to inspire you as you climb.

On the way up look out for the fountains, which are themed on the five senses.

Your goal is a Neoclassical church completed in 1834, but the real appeal lies in the journey and then the exhilarating views of Braga at the top.

2. Bom Jesus do Monte Funicular

You could always take the funicular railway, which shuttles up and down the side of the hill.

This system was installed in the early 1880s, under the direction of the Swiss engineer Nikolaus Riggenbach.

Before that there had been horsecars, vehicles on rails hauled up the hill by horses.

The replacement system is ingenious and is the oldest funicular in the world to use water counterbalancing.

The cars run at the same time in opposite directions; the one coming down the hill is weighed down with water, powering the lighter one up the track.

3. Braga Cathedral

If you’re an architecture student there’s a little bit of every architectural movement at the city’s cathedral.

The building has been modified many times, furnishing it Romanesque, Gothic, Manueline, Renaissance and Baroque elements and decoration.

The Romanesque triple nave is still easy to identify, but what will distract you right away are the two Baroque organs from 1737 and 1739, with cases covered with exuberant gilded wood.

Track down the baptismal font, which has a Manueline design and see the stunning  15th century recumbent tomb of King John I’s son Afonso.

This is made from wood coated with gold and silver-plated copper.

4. Praça da República

In the middle of historic Braga, this plaza is known locally as “Arcada”. The name refers to the 18th-century arcaded building on the west side of the square.

The square itself was plotted in the 1800s and is long and grand, and walled by tall apartment buildings.

It makes sense to begin your visit to Braga from this point, partly because the tourist office is here but also because of amount of sights on the square (Igreja da Lapa and the beautiful fountain)and the radiating streets.

By day it’s also somewhere to find some shade and a cold drink, and at night you could come for a meal at this stately setting.

5. Garden of Santa Barbara

This exquisite formal garden is next to Braga’s medieval episcopal palace and bounded by the palace’s beautiful north walls, which is topped by typical pointed merlons.

The garden is strict and ordered, with geometric lines and manicured boxwood hedges and topiaries.

But inside the borders is a riot of colourful flowers in the summer, attracting lots of birds.

Back towards the palace there are the remnants of a Gothic arcade delineating the palace’s patio, and in the stonework on the walls you can make out fragments of sculpture and coats of arms.

6. Sanctuary of Our Lady of Sameiro

Just south of Bom Jesus do Monte is another hilltop sanctuary, set even higher at 566 metres above sea level.

And even though it’s still one of Portugal’s most frequented pilgrimage sites, it feels relatively quiet compared to its neighbour to the north.

The church up here is rather new, dating to the 1860s, but has an important Marian shrine that receives lots of devotees on Sundays between June 1 and August 31. For everyone else it’s all about the view.

There’s an immense terrace in front where you’ll want to meditate over the Cávado countryside and Braga in the distance to the northwest.

You’ll need as long as you can get if you hiked up the hill!

7. Biscainhos Museum

Set on its namesake square is a house museum in a resplendent 17th and 18th century aristocratic palace with sumptuous gardens.

It’s a window on the lives of Portugal’s nobility, and there’s no lack of refined decoration inside.

You’ll see some magnificent azulejos (Iberian painted tiles) and masterful stucco mouldings, along with collections of glassware, furniture, jewellery, ceramics and musical instruments.

The one-hectare grounds outside are enriched with fountains and sculpture and were landscaped in 1750. There’s an orchard area arranged on a parterre and a formal garden with labyrinthine boxwood sculptures.

These are considered among the finest 18th-century gardens in Portugal.

8. Raio Palace

In the centre of Braga, this divine palace from the 1750s was commissioned by João Duarte de Faria, a wealthy merchant and knight of the Order of Christ.

It will stop you in your tracks as its walls are clad with blue azulejos, which contrast with the graceful granite carvings on the doorways and window frames.

If you’ve been to Barcelona you might see a similarity between his work and exaggerated, organic fittings on the facade of this building.

The palace is next to Braga’s hospital and inside there’s a free museum with some old medical artefacts as well as information about the building and its recent restoration.

9. Chapel of São Frutuoso

There’s something very ancient partially hidden in this church in the Real area.

It’s a Pre-Romanesque chapel founded by the Visigoths in the 7th century.

Damage sustained during the Islamic period was repaired in the 9th and 10th centuries, but apart from that the building has had the same Greek cross layout since it was built.

In the 18th century it was incorporated into a Baroque church, and you can access the chapel on the right hand side of the nave.

Inside there are triple horseshoe arches, and on the exterior you can study the blind arcades and the  portico with pediment that was the main entrance before the chapel was attached to the church.

10. S. C. Braga

The city’s football team plays in the Primeira Liga.

As a rule of thumb they’re the next best side in the division after the Big Three of Porto, Benfica and Sporting Lisbon.

Braga play in the Europa League almost every season, so there’s a high standard on show.

But, truth be told, your motive for coming is to glimpse the marvellous Estádio Municipal, which is embedded in a former quarry.

This was designed by Pritzer prize-winner Eduardo Souto de Moura and was built in for Euro 2004 when Portugal was the host country.

The stadium seats 30,000 but there are only stands on the sidelines, and on the byline to the southeast there’s nothing but a hulking wall of granite.

11. Arco da Porta Nova

At the eastern entrance to the historic centre of Braga, this triumphal arch is a real head turner.

It was crafted by the Braga-based sculptor André Soares in the middle of the 18th century, and his name comes up often in the city as he contributed several fountains and sculptures here.

This arch replaced an old gateway, and has a very different character depending on the side you approach it from . The east side is understated, with an niche with a Marian sculpture (Nossa Senhora da Nazaré), while the west side is far bolder, featuring a stone coat of arms and pyramidal pinnacles above a baroque arch.

12. Monastery of São Martinho de Tibães

Moments outside Braga to the west is a Benedictine monastery that has some unbelievably rich decoration.

There’s an interesting reason for this as from the 16th to the 18th century São Martinho de Tibães was the mother house for the Benedictine order in all of Brazil.

The riches that this generated is clear to see in the opulent Mannerist, Baroque and Rococo furnishings in the church and cloister.

The jaw-dropping decoration is the gilded altarpiece and the exceptionally intricate woodwork on the triumphal arch midway along the nave.

13. Misericórdia Church

Part of the same complex as the cathedral, this church by the episcopal palace is one of the few Renaissance monuments in Braga.

It was erected at the start of the 1560s when Bartholomew of Braga was bishop (he was beatified by Pope John Paul II in 2001). The facades are in the Mannerist style, while the interior got a Baroque makeover in the 17th century and is festooned with gold.

The reredos (decoration behind the altar) is almost absurdly ornate with paintings and gilding from floor to ceiling.

14. Festa de São João

The night of the June 23 is probably the most fun and colourful of the year in Braga.

This is São João, celebrating the birth of St John the Baptist, the city’s patron saint The city spends two weeks getting ready, decorating the parade route along Avenida da Liberdade, on the way to Parque da Ponte.

During the day there are percussion bands, traditional musicians playing accordions and parades with traditional Minho dress.

And that night people come back out onto the streets to bash each other with garlic (if they’re traditional) or toy plastic hammers that make a squeak.

Restaurants on this night serve caldo verde, a typical vegetable broth, and grilled sardines.

15. Vinho Verde

The big regional beverage in the Minho region is vinho verde, literally “green wine”. This doesn’t refer to the colour of the drink, but the young age, as it’s best enjoyed soon after bottling.

Famously they are crisp and light and often come with a little sparkle.

In the past this as caused by secondary fermentation inside the bottle, but is now usually made with carbonation instead.

Reds and rosés are made in this region, but far the most common is white, made with the albariño grape.

And being fresh vinho verde is great with bacalhau à Braga, which is deep fried cod with sautéed potatoes, fried onions and a kind of pickle with carrots, cauliflower and olives.

15 Best Things to Do in Braga (Portugal):

• Bom Jesus do Monte
• Bom Jesus do Monte Funicular
• Braga Cathedral
• Praça da República
• Garden of Santa Barbara
• Sanctuary of Our Lady of Sameiro
• Biscainhos Museum
• Raio Palace
• Chapel of São Frutuoso
• S. C. Braga
• Arco da Porta Nova
• Monastery of São Martinho de Tibães
• Misericórdia Church
• Festa de São João
• Vinho Verde

Top 20 things to do in Braga

Braga is located in Northern Portugal and was founded by the Romans more than 2000 years ago with the name Bracara Augusta. It is one of the oldest Portuguese cities and one of the oldest Christian cities in the world.

Considered as the capital of Minho region, Braga is the third biggest city in Portugal, after Lisbon and Porto. In 2012 it was the European Youth Capital and in 2019 was considered the second best European tourist destination .

Braga is also known as the “ Portuguese Rome ” because of its many and beautiful churches. But other treasures can be found in this city and you can’t miss them! Discover beautiful monuments , enjoy the gastronomy , the handicrafts , the traditions and popular and religious festivities .

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning i get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you. Please read my disclosure for more info.

Below, you’ll find the 20 places you can’t miss during your visit to Braga, the itinerary to easily discover the wonders of this city, where to sleep, where to eat as well as the traditions and festivities that you can admire.

Before finding out the places to visit, I urge you to watch my video below and discover the wonders this city has to offer:

Top 20 things to do in Braga:

1. basílica dos congregados, 2. arcada da lapa, 3. igreja dos terceiros, 4. torre de menagem, 5. jardim de santa bárbara, 6. museu dos biscainhos, 7. arco da porta nova, 8. museu de arqueologia d. diogo de sousa, 9. capela da nossa senhora da torre, 10. igreja de santa cruz, 11. igreja de são marcos, 12. palácio do raio, 13. theatro circo, 14. casa dos crivos, 15. sé de braga,  16. largo do paço , 17. miradouro do picoto, 18. santuário do bom jesus do monte.

• 19. Santuário do Sameiro

20. Mosteiro de Tibães

Itinerary to visit the 20 most beautiful places in braga, where to sleep in braga, where to eat in braga, what will also interest you:.

Historic centre

Congregados Basilica was built during the 18th century (but it was only in 1964 that its construction ended when the west tower was erected) and was part of the old Convent of the Congregation , in Baroque style.

Inside the church, you can admire four granite statues representing Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and David and in the chancel the plaster, typical of the city’s Rococo style.

Located in the square Praça da República , the arcade was built in 1715 where part of the city walls were at. This sheltered place was, for a long time, a place where the city’s merchants sold their products.

Between 1761 and 1764, Lapa Church was built in the middle of the arcade due to the increasing devotion of the inhabitants towards Nossa Senhora da Lapa.

Under the arcade you’ll find two of the oldest cafés/restaurants in Braga: Café Vianna , inaugurated in 1871, and  Café Astória  in 1928. Don’t hesitate to stop for a moment and have a cup of coffee while enjoying this square’s beauty.

Located at the back of Arcada da Lapa, Terceiros Church was built in 1690 by the Franciscan Order. At first sight, this church is nothing special, but I suggest you enter to admire the wonderful glazed-tile panels.

The 30-metre high keep or donjon, is what’s left of the Braga castle , destroyed in 1906. The primitive castle dates back to the Roman Empire (3rd century), having undergone some restorations and improvements throughout the centuries.

After the 16th century, the castle lost its defensive function due to the new techniques used by the opposing forces.

As I mentioned before, the castle was destroyed in the beginning of the 20th century, perpetuating the local custom of destroying everything that is old to build new. Braga suffered from this and, sadly, lost some of its historic buildings because of it.

The garden Jardim de Santa Bárbara is one of the places you can’t miss during your visit to Braga. Apart from its natural beauty, this location is surrounded by historic buildings .

In the centre of the garden, you can admire a 17th-century fountain with a statue of Saint Bárbara whom this place was named after. Facing the garden, you’ll find the Archiepiscopal Palace , built between the 14th and 15th centuries; to the left, you can admire the back of the University of Minho’s Rectory and the beautiful square Largo do Paço .

Inaugurated in 1978, Biscainhos Museum is located at a palace with the same name, built in the 17th century. This place was an accommodation used, among others, by the king D. Luís I and the Counts of Bertiandos, an important family of the Portuguese aristocracy.

The museum displays several rooms and spaces where one can get to know the daily life of the Portuguese aristocracy between the 17th and 19th centuries.

Apart from its one-hectare garden , dating back to the 18th century (one of the most important in the Baroque period), what I loved the most was the beauty of the palace and its amazing collections .

• Site:  https://museudosbiscainhos.gov.pt

Porta Nova’s Arch was built in 1512 (the current version is from 1772) to connect the medieval city to its surroundings , outside city walls, during the expansion of Braga.

This entrance to the medieval city never had a gate since, by that time, the walls and castle didn’t have their defensive function anymore.

While passing through the arch, don’t forget to raise your head to admire the front and back facades with a statue of Nossa Senhora da Nazaré and another representing the city.

Inaugurated in 2007, this archaeology museum gives its visitors an insight over the archaeological researches that took place in Braga and surrounding area throughout the years.

Here, you’ll find collections from the Palaeolithic, Bronze and Iron Ages and another from the Roman Empire , a period in which Braga was created, under the name of Bracara Augusta.

Information:  between Porta Nova Arch and the archaeology museum, you can make a stop at the square Largo Paulo Orósio to admire the statue of the emperor Caesar Augustus, founder of the Roman Empire.

Built between 1756 and 1759 as a way to thank Our Lady for protecting Braga during the major earthquake of 1755 that destroyed Lisbon, this chapel is located at the tower Torre de Santiago .

Apart from admiring the beautiful facade of the chapel and tower, you should also know that you can go inside and discover its five floors and the Museum Pius XII , located in the square Largo de Santiago.

Information:  between the museum of archaeology and Nossa Senhora da Torre Chapel, you can visit the Roman Thermae located in the street Rua Dr. Rocha Peixoto.

Built in Baroque and Mannerism styles from the 17th century, Santa Cruz Church was rebuilt less than 100 years later because of its poor condition.

The facade, still from the “first version” of the church, was restored in 2000 and is, for me, the most beautiful among all the churches in Braga.

Inaugurated in 1836 and property of Santa Casa da Misericórdia de Braga, a catholic institution that helps the poor and sick people, São Marcos church was the one that surprised me the most !

Contrary to Santa Cruz Church, this church amazed me for its interior due to its unique style, different from the other churches in the city. When I visited this church, I had the feeling of being in the National Pantheon, in Lisbon, but in a smaller scale.

Built in 1755 by an important merchant of the city, this palace became known as Raio Palace after its sale in 1853 to viscount Miguel José Raio .

In 1882, the viscount’s heirs sold the palace to a local bank that subsequently resold it to Santa Casa da Misericórdia. Afterwards, this institution established some services of São Marcos Hospital in this place.

From 2015 onwards, the palace gained a new life with the Interpretation Centre that was setup in this place and that shows to visitors the history behind this religious institution, São Marcos Hospital, inaugurated in 1508 and closed in 2011, of religious art and you can even admire its beautiful decoration – I loved it!

Information:  in the same street (Rua do Raio), you can visit Fonte do Ídolo , a Roman water fountain sculpted by Celicus Fronto in the 1st century.

Considered as one of the most beautiful theatres in Portugal and in Europe , Theatro Circo is the place you can’t miss during your visit to Braga.

Its construction began in 1911 and ended in 1914 and its total capacity is 1500 seats . This theatre soon became one of the biggest and most beautiful Portuguese theatres.

The first show in Theatro Circo took place in the 21st April 1915, performed by Lisbon’s company Éden Teatro. Between 1999 and 2006, Theatro Circo underwent restoration works and was restructured. The biggest stage was restructured according to the original design which set it free from all the additions made throughout the years.

The reopening of Theatro Circo happened in the 27th October 2006 and it is today a reference in the field of performing arts , not just because it has one of the most charismatic theatre halls but also because of its eclectic and high-standard program.

You can discover Theatro Circo and its treasures by going on a guided tour . Tours are available in Portuguese and English and take place on Mondays and Saturdays at 14:30 and last one hour (the schedule may change depending on the theatre’s program).

Apart from discovering the magnificent theatre hall with 897 seats, you’ll also have access to the backstage (stage, rehearsal area, dressing rooms, trap room, etc.), always in the company of a guide that will explain how the theatre works.

This tour showed me the true beauty of this place – it is, without a doubt, the most beautiful theatre I have ever seen ! Aside from that, I had the chance to visit the backstage which helped me understand how a theatre really works.

• Tickets and schedule:  www.theatrocirco.com

When you leave the theatre and before visiting the next place, don’t hesitate to make a stop at Café A Brasileira , inaugurated in 1907 by the same owner of the famous Café A Brasileira in Lisbon and in Porto.

Built between the 17th and 18th century, Casa dos Crivos is the only house in Braga to have a facade full of shutters, very useful to protect the building from the heat as well as giving the residents the possibility to see everything outside without being seen.

With its origins in the year 400, the present cathedral of Braga dates back to the 11th century and is considered to be the oldest Portuguese cathedral .

As centuries went by, the cathedral underwent several modifications, reason why it presents today some different architectural styles such as the Romanesque and the Baroque.

Apart from having the possibility to visit the cathedral, you’ll also have access to four chapels, one of which ( Capela dos Reis , literally Chapel of Kings) with the tombs of the parents of D. Afonso Henriques, the first Portuguese king.

You’ll also have the possibility to admire the 19th-century cloister and the Treasure-Museum , created in 1930 and holding an important religious art collection.

The cathedral of Braga is, without a doubt, another monument you can’t miss during your visit to the capital of Minho region .

Information: to visit all the wonders of the cathedral, you’ll have to purchase the ticket for options 1, 2 and 3.

• Tickets:  http://se-braga.pt

When you leave the cathedral, look to your left and admire the beautiful facade of the church Igreja da Misericórdia de Braga , built in the 16th century and renovated in 1891.

Information: during your walk from Casa dos Crivos and the cathedral, go to the square Largo São João do Souto to admire the Coimbras Chapel , dating back to 1525.

To finish your visit to the historic centre of Braga, don’t miss the opportunity to admire the square Largo do Paço, located in the street Rua do Souto.

Surrounded by the Archiepiscopal Palace, which is today the building for the University of Minho’s Rectory, the square has a beautiful fountain, Chafariz dos Castelos , dating back to 1723.

What to visit close to Braga historic centre

Located less than 3 km from the historic centre of Braga, this viewpoint is at Monte do Picoto . From here, you’ll have a wonderful 360º view over the city and the sanctuaries of Bom Jesus do Monte and Sameiro.

Information:  right beside this viewpoint, you’ll find Picoto Park (Rua João Evangelista de Araújo Vieira) where you can do lots of activities like tree climbing and paintball.

Listed in 2019 as World Heritage by UNESCO , Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary, also known as Bom Jesus de Braga, is a place where art and nature live in perfect harmony which makes it a wonderful location and a sacred and resting place.

The construction of the basilica began in 1784 to substitute an old temple that was demolished because if its poor state of conservation. The construction ended in 1811.

The stairway connecting the uptown to the sanctuary is divided into three sections: the Baroque, from 1723, where you’ll find chapels displaying the Passion of Christ (Via Sacra) ; the five senses section with fountains and statues of characters from the Bible and the three virtues section with chapels and fountains representing faith, hope and Christian charity .

The funicular, also known as the elevator, connects the uptown to the sanctuary as well and follows a parallel route to the sanctuary’s stairway.

Inaugurated in 1882, this was the first funicular built in the Iberian Peninsula and it is today the oldest funicular in the world working with a water-counterweight system.

At Bom Jesus you can also admire the beautiful gardens, the caves, the fountains, the viewpoints and even discover the lake and relax on a rowing boat.

Fun fact:  if you’re driving to the sanctuary, don’t miss the opportunity to go to the “magic road” where you can see your car moving backwards on its own, on neutral, in a street that is going up. Here is a video proving this!

Actually, our eyes are deceived (optical illusion) by the road below which is going down and the surrounding landscape – the truth is that the “magic road” goes down not up.

If you want to try it yourself, check the coordinates in Google Maps .

Information: the access by car to the sanctuary is paid (around 1 €).

Here is the map to access the sanctuary by car, funicular or using the stairway.

In blue: route by car. The star marks the point where you’ll have to pay if you want to proceed by car and point B is one of the parking lots and one of the exits. In red: route if you want to go on foot. In black: funicular’s route.

To climb the stairway or take the funicular, park your car here or in the square Largo do Arco.

If you got to Braga by train, know that you can take the bus nº 2  in the historic centre (Avenida Central) that will take you to the funicular of Bom Jesus do Monte.

Located just 5 km from the historic centre, Bom Jesus do Monte is, definitely, a slice of heaven that you can’t miss during your visit to Braga!

• Site:  http://bomjesus.pt

19.  Santuário  do Sameiro

Sameiro Sanctuary is a neoclassic temple and its construction began in 1863 but ended only in the 20th century. Pope Paul VI elevated this place to the category of basilica in 1964.

Facing the sanctuary, you’ll find a stairway and, at the bottom, two columns with statues of the image of Virgin Mary and the Sacred Heart. Surrounding the sanctuary, you’ll see a place to celebrate mass in the open, a park with trees, gardens and a chapel.

When you visit this place, apart from admiring the gardens, take the opportunity to discover the interior of the basilica, the crypt and climb to the top of the church to enjoy a magnificent 360º view over Braga and its surroundings . In clear-sky days, you can even catch a glimpse of the blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean, located 40 km away.

To enjoy this wonderful view, go to the back of the basilica and climb the stairs that will take you to the top of this monument (paying entrance).

• Site:  https://santuariodosameiro.pt

Old base for the Portuguese Benedictine congregation, Tibães Monastery is located at Mire de Tibães, 6 km away from Braga.

Founded in the 11th century (the buildings still standing are from the 17th and 18th centuries), this was for many centuries one of the richest and most influential monasteries in Northern Portugal .

When religious orders were disbanded from Portugal, between 1833-1834, the monastery was closed and its assets were auctioned; the selling of its assets only ended in 1864.

From the 1970s onwards, the monastery was left to ruin and abandoned. After the Portuguese state bought it in 1986, a restoration project was in place to give life back to the monastery as well as giving the chance for visitors to see this monument.

When you visit this monastery, take the opportunity to admire the beautiful church, the museum and stroll through the garden with fountains, a chapel and a lake.

Apart from being open to the public, the monastery has a restaurant and a small hotel with nine rooms, very much appreciated by guests that stayed there (rated 8,8/10).

• Site:  mosteirodetibaes.gov.pt
• Days needed to visit Braga and its surroundings: 2 days

Historic centre:

If you get to Braga by car, I suggest you park your car in the underground paying parking lot “Parque Avenida Central” and then visit the places in this article by the same order I presented them.

If you arrive to Braga by bus, then the stop will be at the bus station , located 700 metres away from the historic centre (Basílica dos Congregados). Visit the places in this article by the same order I presented them.

Are you taking the train to Braga? Then start your visit to the city in Biscainhos Museum, then, once you get to Theatro Circo, visit Basílica dos Congregados, Arcada da Lapa, Terceiros Church, the keep, Santa Bárbara Garden, the cathedral, the square Largo do Paço and finish at Casa dos Crivos.

These itineraries will be useful to you if you’re counting on visiting every point of interest in the historic centre that I mentioned in this article. However, if you don’t have the time or don’t want to, you can make your own itinerary using Google Maps.

Braga surroundings

To discover the points of interest outside the historic centre of Braga, I suggest you use a car as your means of transportation since it will give you more freedom of movement and time to visit each place.

If you want to use public transportation to visit Bom Jesus do Monte and Sameiro sanctuaries, you can take the bus n° 88  at the historic centre, in the street Rua do Raio. As I mentioned before, bus n° 2  will also take you to Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary.

To visit Tibães Monastery, you’ll have to take bus n° 50  at Carmo bus stop, located close to the bus station.

The other possibility to discover the wonders of Braga and its surroundings without having to hire a car or lose too much time in public transportation is by taking a guided tour leaving from Porto city .

With pick-up service at your hotel in Porto, this guided tour will take you to the amazing cities of Guimarães and Braga.

After having visited the historic centre of Guimarães, listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, and after lunch (included in the tour) you’re going to discover the points of interest of Braga like the cathedral, the beautiful streets and, at sunset, the wonderful Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary.

Are you staying in Porto and want to explore the city of archbishops on a 4-hour guided tour ? If so, don’t hesitate and choose this activity ! During this unique tour through Braga, a guide will take you through the beautiful historic centre and tell you some curiosities and stories of this ancient city that you wouldn’t know otherwise.

However, the two places to highlight in this activity are, without a doubt, the cathedral and the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus, which offer some of the best views over the city. A must-see!

Hotel Mercure ****  

Fully renovated in 2013, this 4-star accommodation has a gym and an outdoor pool and welcomes its guests in the centre of the city, just 500 metres away from the cathedral.

Rooms are equipped with air conditioning, cable television and free Wi-Fi connection. Apart from that, all the rooms have a bathroom with hairdryer, bathtub and free toiletries.

Located on the first floor, this restaurant’s hotel serves regional and traditional dishes. You can also have a drink at the bar located on the last floor and enjoy the panoramic views over the city and gaze the sanctuaries of Bom Jesus do Monte and Sameiro.

Hospedaria Convento de Tibães  ***  

Located at Tibães Monastery, this hotel has nine rooms with air conditioning, bathroom, cable television and a modern decoration.

The biggest advantage of this accommodation is that you can spend the night at a century-old location and, at the same time, you can imagine how was the life of monks living here.

Ibis Budget Braga Centro  **  

Located just 500 metres away from the historic centre, this hotel gives the possibility to spend a pleasant night in Braga at a very affordable price and with all the comfort one could ask.

You’ll have at your disposal rooms with air conditioning, a television and a desk as well as a private bathroom.

Cozinha da Sé

One of the gastronomical references in Braga, the restaurant Cozinha da Sé is located in the historic centre of the city. The host, Ricardo Pereira, is known to be a very welcoming person and serves dishes like no one. The cuisine is essentially traditional but it also prepares some dishes of international gastronomy and serves wines from various parts of the country.

This vegetarian restaurant offers a gastronomy inspired by the diversity of flavours vegetarian cuisine has. The restaurant Anjo Verde is a place not only to eat but also a place of culture, a place where you can admire some exhibitions and enjoy classical music once a month.

Gosto Superior

Located just 500 metres away from Arcada da Lapa (historic centre), the restaurant Gosto Superior was the biggest surprise during my visit to Braga! Here, you can enjoy delicious vegetarian dishes at very affordable prices (around 8 € per person).

Hint: preferably, go to the restaurant when it opens so that you won’t have to wait for a free table!

Other restaurants you can try during your visit to Braga:

Velhos Tempos

Colher d’Pau Taberna

Restaurante O Jacó

Casa de Pasto das Carvalheiras

Traditions and Festivities in Braga

Holy Week – Easter

This is the religious event that attracts more visitors to the city. Wednesday is the procession Procissão da Burrinha , Thursday the procession Procissão Ecce Homo   and Friday the procession Procissão do Enterro do Senhor . Saturday is the day before Easter and, on Easter Sunday, groups of priests and acolytes leave the churches and visit Christian houses that want to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus, kissing an ornate cross.

Saint John Festivity

This is the biggest festivity in the region and celebrates the birth of Saint John the Baptist. The highlight of this festivity is during the night of the 23rd to the 24th of June.

Braga Romana

Every year, in the end of May and beginning of June ( check dates here ), Braga relives, for a few days, the times when it was part of the Roman Empire.

You can walk along the beautiful streets and admire a Roman market where several artists will make you feel like you were in those times. You can also admire handicrafts and the arrival of Emperor Augustus to Braga.

Are you going to visit Braga? Then don’t hesitate to book your hotel room, your car or the best activities by clicking the links below . This way you are helping me in the development of my blog and I’ll be able to offer you free tips and travel guides so that you can better prepare your visit to Portugal . Thank you !

• 7-Day travel guide to visit Porto and Minho (Guimarães, Braga, Ponte de Lima, Viana do Castelo)
• Top 10 of the places to visit in Northern Portugal
• Top 20 Things to do in Viana do Castelo
• Top of the places to visit in Ponte de Lima
• Things to do in Guimarães, the birthplace of Portugal
• Top of the places to visit in Peneda-Gerês National Park

About The Author

18 Top Tourist Attractions in Braga & Easy Day Trips

Written by Paul Bernhardt Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Braga is Portugal's religious capital. Located in the northern Minho region, the city is also one of the country's oldest, most likely founded by Bracari Celts and known in Roman times as Bracara Augusta. In the 12th century, Braga became the seat of Portugal's archbishops and remains the nation's most important religious center. Pious and brooding, Braga's ecclesiastical clout is underpinned by a rich collection of churches, chapels, and monasteries, so many in fact that it's often referred to as the "Portuguese Rome."

The old town features a number of splendid 18th-century mansions fashioned out of granite in an imposing architectural style representative of the city. Some of these noble buildings house excellent museums that further enhance the sightseeing experience. In keeping with its devout and saintly character, Braga hosts one of the most colorful religious festivals in Portugal , the annual Semana Santa (Holy Week).

Venturing outside the city, visitors will be further rewarded with a selection of equally impressive religious buildings and sanctuaries, and one or two idyllic market towns set on the River Lima. For more ideas on the best places to visit in and near the city, see our list of the top attractions in Braga.

See also: Where to Stay in Braga

1. Sé (Cathedral)

2. museu de arte sacra (museum of sacred art), 3. antigo paço episcopal, 4. bom jesus do monte, 5. museu dos biscainhos (museu etnográfico e artístico), 6. museu de arqueologia dom diogo de sousa (dom diogo de sousa archaeology museum), 7. museu pio xii (pio xii museum), 8. fonte do ídolo (idol fountain), 9. semana santa, 10. capela são frutuoso de montélios, day trips from braga, 11. peneda-gerês national park, 12. caldas do gerês, 13. lindoso, 15. ponte da barca, 16. bravães, 17. arcos de valdevez, 18. ponte de lima, where to stay in braga for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions in braga & easy day trips, braga, portugal - climate chart.

Work began on Braga's imposing cathedral in 1070 and wasn't completed until the following century. It was built on the site of an earlier Romanesque church that was destroyed in the 16th century.

Greatly enlarged in later centuries, the building's rather haphazard architectural style reflects the many changes the cathedral has undergone. Its additions are exemplified by the ornate Manueline towers and the graceful 15th-century galilee (porch) - a sightseeing highlight.

Inside, the chapel houses the tomb of the infant Dom Afonso, the first-born son of João I. Other outstanding features include a number of Gothic chapels accessible from the cloister, one of which, the showpiece Capela dos Reis , contains the tombs of Henry of Burgundy and Dona Teresa, the parents of the first king of Portugal, Afonso Henriques.

Visitors should also note the upper choir with its fine 15th-century carved wooden stalls and magnificent gilded Baroque organ cases.

Address: Rua Dom Paio Mendes, Braga

The Museum of Sacred Art is housed in the cathedral's Treasury and brims with a rich collection of religious artworks and other ecclesiastical treasures. Ancient statues, filigree carvings, and beautiful 17th and 18th-century azulejo tiles number among the permanent exhibits. The museum is reached by an exit on the north side of the nave that leads to the cloister. From here, a flight of steps leads up to the Treasury.

Near the Sé is another of Braga's landmark buildings, the former archbishop's palace. Fronting a landscaped 17th-century garden - Jardim de Santa Bárbara - the palace itself dates from the 14th century and was enlarged in the 17th and 18th centuries. The premises are now home to university offices and the municipal library and archives where more than 300,000 volumes and 10,000 valuable manuscripts are stored.

The palace is not open to the public, but tourists can glimpse the splendid azulejo tiles lining the stairway by peeping into the main entrance.

Address: Praça Municipal, Braga

The most impressive religious sanctuary in Portugal, Bom Jesus do Monte lies six kilometers east of Braga in a verdant park draped over the western slopes of Monte Espinho and remains one of Portugal's most compelling visitor attractions.

Connecting the entrance portico with the hilltop church of Bom Jesus is the extraordinary 18th-century Baroque Escadaria, a monumental staircase built of granite and interconnected by a series of chapels showing the 14 Stations of the Cross. Wall fountains and statues of biblical figures embellish the stairway's mid-section, while the final stretch, the much-photographed allegorical Staircase of the Three Virtues, is accentuated by zigzagging whitewashed walls.

A site of worship for pilgrims from around the world, the shrine at the summit can be reached via the hydraulically operated funicular railway or on foot by climbing the steep stairs. The effort of the climb is rewarded by a spectacular panoramic view.

Location: 6 kilometers east of Braga

The engaging Museum dos Biscainhos is set in the Palácio dos Biscainhos, a fine example of an 18th-century nobleman's mansion, the foundations of which date from the 16th century. Actually, the official name of the museum is the Museu Etnográfico e Artístico (Ethnography and Arts Museum) and displays Roman relics, 17th-to-19th-century foreign and Portuguese furniture, pottery, and other domestic artifacts.

The palace building itself is reason enough to visit. Its aristocratic Baroque legacy is still evident, with polychrome, chestnut-paneled ceilings, and polished azulejo tiles that lend the building a refined character. The oratory, games room, music room, and the grand dining room are all standout features, as is the grand country kitchen.

The ground floor features ribbed flagstones that surround the old coach stables, designed to allow carriages inside the palace to deposit guests and other VIPs.

Address: Rua dos Biscainhos, Braga

Founded in 1918, the Dom Diogo de Sousa Archaeology Museum was created ostensibly to support regional archaeological investigation and is incorporated into the Institute of Museums and Conservation under the auspices of the Ministry for Culture.

The building houses a carefully designed exhibition that showcases Braga's earliest days. With only four rooms earmarked to display artifacts, the permanent collection is modest in scope but manages to cover the Palaeolithic period, the days of Roman rule and on up to the times ruled by the Suevi-Visigoth (5th through 7th centuries).

The museum's public areas extend to an auditorium, temporary exhibition space, café and gift shop, and an attractive garden.

Address: Rua dos Bombeiros Voluntários, Braga

Exploring the multifaceted Pio XII Museum is among the most interesting things to do in Braga. The museum works on several levels. The collection of archaeological exhibits introduces the visitor to the city's illustrious past, with artifacts dating from the distant Palaeolithic era. Arguably, the most interesting works are the displays of jewelry, ceramics, sculpture, and textiles from the medieval period.

The museum also has a portfolio of paintings by the 20th-century artist Henrique Medina de Barros, one of Portugal's most respected portrait painters.

The highlight of a museum tour is access to the Nossa Senhora da Torre , the Medieval Tower where, throughout its five floors, the colorful history of the Braga is narrated right up until the present day. The top of the tower affords glorious views of the city and surrounding countryside.

Address: Largo de Santiago 47, Braga

Located rather incongruously in the town center, the Idol Fountain is an unusual Roman-era monument possibly dating from the 1st century BC. Set above a spring that, during its time, was an essential community water source, the fountain was originally commissioned by one Celico Fronto, an immigrant from the city-state of Arcobriga. An inscription carved into the granite outcrop from which the fountain was created says as much.

Near that dedication is a sculptured figure adorned in a toga, which archaeologists believe represents the same man. In fact there are several carved figures placed around the fountain, as well as traces of foundations that indicate that the sanctuary might have been part of a much larger temple complex.

A visitor center screens an introductory video explaining the history behind the ruins.

Address: Rua do Raio, Braga

Braga's Holy Week festivities are regarded as the most authentic and devout in Portugal and celebrate the most important tourist and religious event in the city. Held annually at Easter, the weeklong series of solemn street processions begins on the Saturday before Palm Sunday, with Maundy Thursday's eerily silent Ecce Homo torchlit parade the most dramatic, featuring hooded penitents marking Christ's Passion.

The Sé (cathedral) plays an important role in the proceedings, hosting vigils and mass throughout.

Location: Braga Old Town

Official site: http://www.semanasantabraga.com

Tucked away in the sleepy suburb of São Jerónimo Real, three kilometers northwest of Braga city center, is one of the oldest surviving Christian buildings in Portugal, the São Frutuoso de Montélios chapel. Originally constructed around the 7th century, it was destroyed by the Moors and rebuilt in the 10th century.

The chapel is one of the few remaining examples of pre-Romanesque architecture in the country; parts of the structure show Byzantine influences - an unusual feature in Portugal. Actually, the simple interior, which features a fine carved pulpit, reflects a number of styles, including Visigoth and Lombard building techniques.

Against the rear of the chapel is the sarcophagus of São Frutuoso; the saint's remains are now in the adjoining church of the former Franciscan convent in which the chapel was incorporated in the 18th century.

Address: Avenida São Frutuoso, São Jerónimo Real

A leisurely 40-minute drive northeast of Braga is one of Portugal's greatest natural attractions, Peneda-Gerês National Park.

Extending over 720 square kilometers, the park's wild and windswept environment provides a dramatic backdrop for numerous granite-built villages, one or two crumbling medieval castles and monasteries, and remnants of a Roman road that ran from Braga to Asorga in Spain.

But it's perhaps the grandeur of nature that truly catches the imagination. Peneda-Gerês is spread across four mountain ranges - Peneda, Soajo, Amarela, and Gerês - geography resplendent with majestic, towering peaks; yawning valleys of oak, pine, and yew; deep, echoing ravines; and crystalline reservoirs, rivers, and waterfalls.

The park's abundant wildlife includes sprightly roe deer (the park's symbol), the elusive Iberian wolf, wild sure-footed Garrano ponies, and long-horned Barrosã cattle. Above, short-toed eagles share the air with rock swallows and red-backed shrikes, among other dazzling bird species.

Outdoor enthusiasts and adventure tourists are drawn to the park's wealth of recreation options. The rugged terrain is embroidered with numerous trails that are best followed as part of a guided walk. You can also have great fun kayaking translucent lakes, rappelling down sheer rock faces, and sliding down waterfalls while canyoning.

There are five main entrances to the park: Lamas de Mouro Gate, Mezio Gate, Lindoso Gate, Campo do Gerês Gate, and Montalegre Gate. Campo do Gerês Gate is the closest entry point to Braga. Each entrance has a visitor reception where tourist information, including accommodation options, is available. The park's head office, meanwhile, is located in Braga, on Avenida António Macedo.

An ideal base from which to explore Peneda-Gerês National Park is Caldas do Gerês. Spectacularly set in a wide, verdant valley, this venerable spa town is the park's main resort.

Renowned for the mineral-rich spring waters that bubble up from deep within the park's belly, Caldas do Gerês is a popular destination for those seeking a spot of pampering at the contemporary Águas do Gerês hotel and spa complex.

The town is also endowed with the Parque das Termas, a tranquil tree-shaded park that provides tempting picnic opportunities, set as it is either side of a babbling stream. Swimming and rowboat hire is possible during the summer months.

Location: Peneda-Gerês National Park, Minho

The ruins of an ancient castle peer down on once-remote Lindoso. But this quaint village is better known for its extraordinary collection of tomb-like espigueiros - stone granaries.

Resembling elaborate coffins, these grain stores are raised off the ground on granite legs and have slots in the sidewalls, a design which keeps the grain and maize away from hungry vermin and allows dry air to circulate. Each is topped with an ornamental cross.

Around 50 of these weathered 19th-century silos are spread out on the slopes beneath the castles walls.

The small mountain village of Peneda straddles the northern reaches of the Peneda-Gerês National Park boundary. It's a fair drive from Braga but worth the effort, not least to cast eyes on the soaring 1,258-meter summit of Penameda.

This imposing granite monolith looms large over the decorative Sanctuário da Nossa Senhora de Peneda. The elaborate sanctuary is a miniature version of Braga's church of Bom Jesus, and is visited in early September by pilgrims from all over the region.

Otherwise, this remote destination is little explored by outsiders, and therein lies its charm: Peneda is not much more than a few shops and cafés clustered around the square, but the idyllic seclusion and sense of local tradition is palpable.

Ponte da Barca is a picturesque market town 30 kilometers north of Braga and a popular excursion destination. Named after the graceful 15th-century bridge that spans the River Lima , it is also a useful base from which to explore the beautiful Peneda-Gerês National Park .

Tourists are drawn to this quiet backwater for all sorts of reasons, not least the tranquil town center, the focus of which is the handsome 15th-century parish church. The nearby pillory dates from the 16th century and is crowned with a sphere and pyramid. In fact, the historical center's architectural veneer is exemplified by rows of solid granite mansions and townhouses, most of which date from the 16th and 17th centuries.

The peaceful Jardim dos Poetas (Poets' Garden) and the parks dotted along the riverfront are ideal for picnics, while the daily flea market attracts bargain hunters from across the region.

Location: 30 kilometers north of Braga

Bravães is a Romanesque gateway. The village, about five kilometers west of Ponte da Barca, is known for its tiny 13th-century Igreja de São Salvador and the treasures therein. Some of Portugal's finest Romanesque carvings grace the walls of this diminutive parish church. Elaborately sculptured oxen, monkeys, and falcons decorate the arched columns of its main portal; the carved relief on the tympanum is of Christ flanked by two angels. The interior is also embellished with rich relief decoration and carved friezes, and the remains of some 14th-century frescoes.

Location: 5 kilometers west of Ponte da Barca

Straddling the banks of the River Vez, five kilometers north of Ponte da Barca is the attractive market town of Arcos de Valdevez. Tourists are lured here because of its proximity to the Peneda-Gerês National Park . But an interesting diversion within the town itself is the Baroque Nossa Senhora da Lapa . The church, built in 1767, is remarkable for its octagon-shaped interior.

Other architectural attractions worth seeing are the finely sculptured Manueline pillory standing in the town center, and the ancient bridge.

Location: 5 kilometer north of Ponte da Barca

Rivaling Ponte da Barca in the beauty stakes is Ponte de Lima, another riverside gem situated 15 kilometers west of Bravães . Its name is derived from the Roman bridge that spans the River Lima. The 15th-century church of Santo António stands at one end of the bridge, its tapered belltower often reflected in the still waters.

The church houses the interesting Museu dos Terceiros , a museum of sacred art. The remains of medieval fortifications and a maze of cobbled streets lined with 16th-century houses heighten the old town's rustic charm. A huge traditional market with its origins in the early 12th century enlivens the riverfront near the bridge.

Location: 15 kilometers west of Bravães

We recommend these great hotels with easy access to Braga's cathedral and excellent museums:

• Melia Braga Hotel & Spa : luxury high-rise, outskirts of town, contemporary design, large windows, multiple pools, spa and fitness center.
• Villa Garden Braga : 4-star villa, 19th-century building, great-value, modern guestrooms, outdoor pool, breakfast included.
• Mercure Braga Centro : mid-range pricing, walk to old town, modern decor, seasonal rooftop pool, small gym.
• Ibis Braga : budget hotel, central location, great-value, multilingual staff.

More on Portugal

HELPING YOU PLAN YOUR PERFECT TRIP TO PORTUGAL

Why you should visit braga: 12 cool things to do.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see my full disclosure policy  for further information.

With so many fun things to do in Braga, it’s well worth incorporating into your Northern Portugal itinerary. The former Roman city of Bracara Augusta is now the capital of Northern Portugal’s Minho region and is well and truly steeped in history and architectural treasures.

Top Picks For Things To Do In Braga

Take a half day Braga city tour. LEARN MORE Enjoy this half-day guided city walking tour of Braga. LEARN MORE Discover culture on this full-day tour to Guimarães and Braga from Porto. LEARN MORE Explore Braga by tuk-tuk. LEARN MORE

Try to allocate at least a day to visit Braga – better still, spend a few nights and use it as a base from which to explore the surrounding area.

If you’re looking for car hire Discovercars.com and Booking.com car rental will help you choose the right car for you.

If you’re pushed for time, there are day trips from Porto that take you to see the highlights of both Braga and Guimarães in one day, like this one . 

If you have the luxury of staying overnight or a few days then check out my suggestions for the best places to stay in Braga.

1. Visit Braga Cathedral, including its choir and chapels

The oldest in Portugal, Braga Cathedral is a real mish-mash of architectural styles including Romanesque, Gothic, Manueline and Baroque.

It’s well worth visiting although the organisation could learn a thing or two from other such institutions when it comes to providing information – unlike other cathedrals I have visited, there is no audio guide to explain the features within the main church and it’s not entirely obvious where you should go to buy tickets or how to enter the cathedral.

Tip:  Insist on purchasing the full visit ticket, which includes not only the cathedral but also side chapels that are kept under lock and key, the upper choir and the museum. The woman who served us seemed to only want to sell the €2 ticket for the main church. The full visit is €5.

Since we had purchased the full route, the staff rustled up an English-speaking volunteer who used a set of enormous and ancient keys to unlock the gates to various side chapels. One contains the mummified body of Dom Lourenço Vicente who lost his eye in the Battle of Aljubarrota in 1385 . The Chapel of Glory is decorated with 14th century geometric Islamic patterns and hosts the tomb of Archbishop Geraldo.

Another highlight of the visit is the Upper Choir, a masterpiece of Baroque design with beautifully carved seats and fascinating views of the 2 gigantic organs.

Braga cathedral is open for visits every day (in theory, barring services and events*) from 09:30 to 12:30 and 14:30 to 17:30 (18:30  in summer months).

*Note: We had intended to visit on a Saturday afternoon but luckily, we popped in to make enquiries in the morning and learned that it would be closed for back to back wedding ceremonies all afternoon so we decided to rearrange our schedule and do the visit there and then.

2. Get a glimpse of noble lifestyles at the Biscainhos Museum

The Biscainhos museum is inside a palace which shares a name with the street it’s on. The Biscainhos were the Basque stonemasons who were brought to Braga to work on the new Gothic tower of the nearby cathedral in the 16th century. Since they all lived on the same street, it became known as Rua dos Biscainhos.

The palace was originally built in the 16th century but many of the architectural and decorative features were added in the 18th century by the family who were keen to display the wealth they had accumulated from coffee and tobacco plantations in Brazil.

They even had one of the uncles, a Jesuit priest, incorporated into the decorative oil painting on the ceiling of the Sala Nobre (Noble Room).

Visits to the Museu dos Biscainhos are guided, although there is extra printed information about the furniture and features at the entrance to each room.

The guide certainly helped me get a better appreciation of the lifestyle of the palace’s inhabitants. When I commented on the tiny beds in the master’s bedroom, he explained that because the noblemen used to gorge themselves on rich food in the evenings, they had to sleep upright, supported by cushions so long beds weren’t necessary!

The rooms are filled with furniture which matches both the period in which each one was decorated and the intended use of the space, enabling me to imagine small groups of ladies and gentlemen playing cards at small tables and the nobles being served at the dinner table.

After touring the house and the cloisters, we headed to the kitchens, which are separate from the main house. This was a sensible safety precaution since its fires burned constantly and could easily have set fire to the palace.

Biscainhos Palace gardens

I loved the house but was equally impressed with the well-tended gardens. The terracing allows each of the three different gardens to be seen when you enter through the grand gateway, a popular feature in Baroque gardens of that period.

The first section is carefully manicured formal gardens with flower beds, fountains and sculptures separated by hedges and tiled walls. A fabulous circular viewing room is built into one of the walls and decorated with blue and yellow azulejos .

The middle space is devoted to lawns and fruit trees while the last area is a vegetable garden. Biscainhos Museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 12:15 and 2 to 5.30 pm except for major public holidays.

3. Climb the medieval watchtower at the Image Museum

An ingenious architect has made excellent use of the 14th century medieval tower, turning it into a small but interesting museum over several floors.

The photography exhibits change periodically so even if you’ve been before, it merits a revisit if you’re in the area.

Campo das Hortas 35-37 and open Tuesday to Friday from 11 am to 6:30 pm and Saturday to Sunday from 2.30 to 6 pm.

4. Be dazzled by the colourful Santa Barbara Gardens

It comes as no surprise that these gorgeous gardens are one of Braga’s most popular sights. Not only do the flowerbeds contain a riot of colour, the backdrop is an ancient stone palace, once home to the Archbishop.

A beautiful respite from the hustle and bustle in the daytime, with the orange glow of streetlights, Santa Barbara Garden is a romantic spot at night, too.

5. Shop till you drop in Braga city centre

As city centres go, Braga’s is spacious and attractive with swathes of flowers adding colour to streets like Avenida da Liberdade.

One of the most interesting shopping streets is Rua do Souto, which morphs into Rua Dom Diogo da Sousa after Largo do Paço and ends at the triumphal archway known as Arco da Porto Nova. There are lots of intriguing independent shops to explore on this main thoroughfare and the surrounding side streets.

You’ll notice some fairly unusual sculptures as you wander around, too.

6. Browse for books in an 18th century house

Centésima Página is a delightful bookshop housed in Casa Rolão, an 18th century Baroque style house on Avenida Central. It sells a wide selection of books, including some English language volumes and good quality gift and souvenir items. At the back of the bookstore, you’ll find a café with indoor and garden seating.

Various attempts have been made to turn the upper floors of Casa Rolão into some kind of concept store but last time I visited, that seemed to be dying a death.

7. See decorative arts and gardens at the Nogueira da Silva Museum

This is my most recent gem of a discovery in Braga city centre. You could easily walk straight past the relatively unassuming facade without ever knowing what treasures lie inside. I urge you not to.

The building was the former residence of António Augusto Nogueira da Silva, the man responsible for creating Casa da Sorte, the Portuguese lottery, in 1933. Inside, you’ll find relatively rare modernist interior architecture and incredible collections of ceramics, furniture, ornaments and paintings, all explained via audio guide.

The best part, however, is the gardens. Here you’ll find some wonderful tile panels and lots of statues dotted amongst the rose gardens and fountains. It’s a gorgeous place in which to escape from the city for a while, especially if the tea garden happens to be open.

Avenida Central 61, Braga. Open Tuesday to Friday from 9 am to 6 pm.

8. Photograph the tiles at Raio Palace

Even if you don’t go inside, you’ll be impressed by the blue tile work and late Baroque/Rococco exterior of this mid-18th century palace.

Inside, there are hand painted tile panels lining the staircase and walls as well as intricately decorated ceilings, although photography is not permitted inside the building.

The rooms contain exhibitions relating to the hospital that used to be here and works by the Holy House of Mercy.

Rua do Raio. Open Tuesday to Saturday 10 am to 1 pm and 2:30 to 6:30 pm.

9. Discover Braga’s Roman heritage at the Braga Romana festival

Every May, Braga pays homage to when Bracara Augusta was one the Roman Empire’s key cities. During the 6-day festival, the city centre streets and squares are filled with stalls selling all manner of produce, crafts, beverages and food.

Each main square has a programme of entertainment with concerts, theatrical productions and games, all free to watch.

Costumed professionals roam the streets to add to the festive atmosphere and join forces for a massive parade down one of the major shopping streets. There are also guided visits to the various sites of Roman heritage dotted around the city.

Check the website for the current programme .

Read about other festivals in Portugal

10. Learn more about Roman heritage at the Diogo de Sousa Museum

This is one archaeology museum I have yet to get to but is definitely on my list for my next Braga visit. As well as spoils from all over Northern Portugal, there are numerous models to help you to visualise what life was like back in the 1st and 2nd centuries AD.

The archaeological exhibits date back to Paleolithic times and cover the period from then until the Middle Ages.

11. Have coffee at the iconic Café A Brasileira

This sister café to the original Café A Brasileira in Lisbon has been a popular spot for Braga locals since it opened as a coffee shop in 1907. The original owner would offer a free cup of coffee to clients who purchased a kilo of coffee.

Largo Barão de São Martinho, Braga.

12. See the monumental staircase of Bom Jesus de Braga sanctuary

The hilltop sanctuary of Bom Jesus is just outside the city centre so you’ll need some form of transport to get there ( see this post for full details ).

What you’ll find is a monumental staircase leading up to the church, which is surrounded by forest, ponds and grottoes. The views from up here are quite spectacular and its a popular weekend picnic spot.

There are half day Braga tours that include the cathedral and Bom Jesus as well as the city centre highlights. Check out this private walking tour

Tours that go from Porto to Braga

You can be picked up from Porto, Guimarães or Braga city for this full day historical tour with lunch and transport , which includes visits to Bom Jesus and the amazing Tibães Monastery.

Alternatively, if you only want to allocate half a day for Braga sightseeing, try this half day tour from Porto .

HANDY TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR TRIP TO PORTUGAL

Use these quick links to make your dream trip a reality: Fully managed Portugal itineraries designed by Julie Portugal accommodation guides Browse Portugal travel guides and itineraries in my shop Reserve a room on Booking.com Get a great car rental deal with Discovercars.com Get a quote for travel insurance with Yonder

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Pin these for later

17 Comments

The original cafe A Brasileira is actually the one in Porto

Hi Julie! I was in Portugal in 2014. My husband & I went to Lisbon, Sintra, Evora, Coimbra, Fatima & Porto . From Porto, we went to Bom Jesus and we loved the place. There is another church in Lamego that is similar to Bom Jesus. We wanted to visit but i couldn’t get hold of any information on public transport from Porto. Could you give me info on that ? Thanks.

Hi Theresa, you can get there by bus or a combination of bus and train: https://www.rome2rio.com/s/Porto/Lamego

Hey Julie, We have been checking out your blog and we must say that we are very impressed. It’s really great.

We have particularly been following your posts about Braga as we visited there too. We have even written a guide, which you can check out here: http://hitchhikershandbook.com/country-guides/portugal/braga/ . We would love your feedback and any tips, information, advice that you might have would be warmly appreciated.

Keep up the good work!

Ania & Jon

Hi Julie! Acho que posso escrever em português . Estou bem ligada a Braga embora viva no Porto. Temos casa a 5 Km de Braga e passamos lá o Natal (família grande!) A Páscoa, fins de semana e alguns dias no verão. O Museu da SÉ foi remodelado e visitámo-lo em Novembro passado. Há ainda o Bom Jesus para visitar que é muito agradável. Para comer recomendo Os Silvas que têm um estabelecimento perto do café A Basileira, digno também de uma visita – foi remodelado recentemente. Os Silvas têm outro estabelecimento mais abaixo,no shopping de S. Lázaro, junto ao velho hospital e da Casa do Raio (digna de se ver, infelizmente só por fora), perto da Fonte do ídolo, já rfeerida num comentário anterior. Junto do café Brasileira há a Casa dos Crivos, pertencente ao Municipio e que tem exposições temporárias. Ainda me lembro de muitas casa como aquelas que desapareceram completamente de Braga. Fico por aqui, mas há muito mais a ver. E Guimarães? EStá linda! AS duas cidades são “rivais” o que acho um grande disparate! Seja sempre benvinda ao Norte. Já conheçe os espigueiro do Soejo?? únicos! Um abraço e bem-haja pela divulgação. Atualmento o meu ramo é mais a divulgação dos bordados portugueses e de certo modo a sua revitalização!

Thanks for all your tips and recommendations. I will definitely check out the restaurant you mentioned, as well as the Casa dos Crivos. I think Braga is a lovely city and well worth revisiting. I’ve spent more time in Guimarães so far and I’m equally impressed with it, although they are totally different cities.

I went to Soajo during my brief trip to Peneda Gerês National Park and saw the espigueiros. Here’s the post I wrote about it: https://juliedawnfox.com/exploring-peneda-geres-national-park/

Hi Julie Sorry I haven’t yet time enough to read all your blog! Se ou quando voltar ao norte a Braga terei muito prazer em a receber, minha mãe nasceu em Braga e, por mera coincidência, meu marido também. Vivemos no Porto há muitos anos. A minha filha vive no Douro e para já tem uma casa de turismo para alugar, em breve haverá mais três, penso eu, na mesma Quinta

Se puder ser útil em mais alguma coisa é só dizer méri

Hi Julie! Excellent blog 🙂 I am a portuguese travel blogger and I live near Braga (50km). Another cool spots to visit: Cividade and Fonte do Idolo (roman ruins), Museu Pio XII, Museu D. Diogo de Sousa, a nice place to eat “O Palhotas” and for good coffee break “Caffe Vianna” Best regards Pedro

Hi Pedro, Thanks for stopping by. It’s nice to *meet* another blogger, especially one from the area I’ve just written about! I really appreciate your tips. I’ve saved them for future reference for next time I’m up north. Happy blogging!

Last time I was in Braga (June 2013) I also met the very stern-faced man… I was in shock, actually, as I had been there before and taken photos without any problem. I’m not sure if you know, but the cathedral was built on what used to be a temple to Isis and, before the construction of Santiago de Compostela, the Braga cathedral was the most important religious building of the Iberian Peninsula. Also, as a side note: when visiting the Bom Jesus try to go there on a weekday if you can. Weekends, Sundays in particular, are when all the locals seem to flock there for a bit of green and fresh air. So weekdays are a lot more ‘peaceful’.

At least he’s consistent! I was quite shocked, too. And disappointed as there are so many wonderful architectural features I’d have loved to photograph.

I didn’t know that about the cathedral’s history or regional significance so thanks for sharing, and for the tip about visiting Bom Jesus. I think we went at the weekend and it was teeming with families having picnics in the woods. And who can blame them? It’s a lovely spot.

I’ll echo Sami’s recommendation. We enjoyed Bom Jesus do Monte so much, and the views are incredible. Thanks for the tips on other things to see in Braga. Like you, we only had a short time and we couldn’t see as much as we’d have liked to.

I agree, Linda. The views are spectacular – I love your photos, by the way!

Braga is on my list for when I return to the north, Julie. Your recommendations all look very promising. 🙂 Merry Christmas to you! Out with friends? However you celebrate, enjoy, and very best wishes for 2014.

Merry Christmas to you, too Jo!

Braga is a beautiful city Julie. Next time visit the “Bom Jesus de Braga” a beautiful church and marvellous gardens on top of a hill with views over the city. http://sami-colourfulworld.blogspot.com.au/2012/06/braga-portuguese-roma.html

Hi Sami. Thanks for the tip. I visited the sanctuary and gardens a couple of years ago and you’re right, they’re well worth going to.

Over to you. Please share your thoughts in a comment. Cancel reply

Content copyright © Julie Dawn Fox, 2010-2024 | Privacy Policy | Disclaimer & Disclosure | Advertising & Media | Terms & Conditions | Shipping, Refund & Returns Policy | Contact | Camino Português | Sustainability Policy

Jetsetting Fools

Travel Far. Discover More. Spend Less.

28 Best Things To Do in Braga, Portugal

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

Braga, Portugal is a charming and welcoming city that invites visitors to enjoy its outstanding architecture, colorful gardens and opulent churches. We were positively smitten on our quick visit to the area – and are sharing with you our list of the Best Things To Do in Braga!

Often considered the religious center of Portugal, Braga features an astounding number of extravagant churches. While religion is tightly intertwined with the city, Braga has a long history that dates to Roman times. Braga is an intriguing and culturally rich destination – but with two universities, it also exudes a youthful vibe.

Braga, Portugal FAQs

Before we get to our list of what to do in Braga, we want to answer a few frequently asked questions about visiting Braga, Portugal.

Where is Braga, Portugal?

Located in the Minho region in Northern Portugal, Braga is just 35 miles (55km) north of Porto. Our Braga, Portugal map (which you will find below) pinpoints the location and our recommended sights.

We outline how to get to Braga later in the article, under the Braga Travel Tips section.

What are the Top Things To Do in Braga?

Braga boasts an array of appealing activities and attractions. The hilltop Bom Jesus do Monte Church is certainly the top thing to see in Braga. However, touring the museums and gardens and visiting the many other churches also rank as best things to do in Braga City Center.

Is Braga Worth Visiting?

Travelers often wonder, Is Braga, Portugal worth visiting? – and we absolutely think that it is! Situated slightly inland and surrounded by rolling hills, Braga is distinctly different from Lisbon and Porto.

How Many Days in Braga, Portugal?

Determining how many days to spend in Braga will depend on your interests and overall Portugal trip plan. Many travelers opt to devote just one day in Braga – often planning a day trip to Braga from Porto (like we did) or even from Lisbon.

That said, those enthralled by historic churches, ornate architecture and ancient history could easily spend two or three days in Braga. Furthermore, Braga makes a good base for travelers who want to explore the most northern reaches of Portugal – as the city is well connected with transportation options.

In addition to our list of the Best Braga, Portugal Things To Do, we also share ideas for nearby attractions and destinations.

How To Plan a Trip to Braga, Portugal

Planning a trip to Braga from major Portugal destinations, like Porto and Lisbon, is fairly straightforward. We offer advice in the How To Get There section below – as well as info regarding the top rated hotels in Braga for travelers planning to spend a few days in the city.

Planning Day Trips to Braga from Porto

Taking a day trip to Braga is a popular option from Porto – and it’s actually quite simple to plan the journey on your own using the trains.

Alternatively, travelers planning a day trip from Porto to Braga can leave the details to someone else and join a tour. On an organized Porto to Braga Day Trip, participants not only tour Braga, but also visit the town of Guimaraes. We highlight a few of the top-rated tours later in the article.

Portugal Trip Planning

As Braga is rarely the only Portugal travel destination for tourists, we have more detailed articles that might help you prepare for your vacation.

• The Best 10-Day Portugal Itinerary
• Porto Walking Tour and Porto Food Guide
• Free Things To Do in Lisbon
• Day Trip from Lisbon to Sintra
• A Madeira Island Itinerary
• Best Things To Do in Aveiro
• Top Tips for Planning a Europe Vacation

Organize Your Braga Trip

As you plan your Braga and Portugal holiday, organization is key! Stay on top of all the details with our Printable Travel Planner – so that nothing gets missed.

28 Things To Do in Braga, Portugal

Now that we have the basics covered, let’s get to our list of the Top Braga Things To See!

Save, Pin or Bookmark this Braga Travel Guide to plan your trip to Portugal!

#1 Climb the Stairs to Bom Jesus do Monte Braga

We are kicking off our list with a must-see Braga attraction: Santuario do Bom Jesus do Monte. The UNESCO World Heritage Site has been a pilgrimage destination since the 14th century and the complex – complete with a striking staircase – took more than 600 years to complete.

Climbing the 577-steps to the hill-topping Igreja do Bom Jesus do Monte de Braga Church is, without a doubt, one of the top Braga things to do. The ornate flight of stairs features an elaborate zigzag design – and there are statues, fountains and chapels that adorn the route.

An alternative to the steep climb is riding the historic funicular, which dates to 1882. Operating with a counterbalance water-weight system, it’s a unique way up the hill, but we think the stairs are much more interesting!

At the summit, visitors can tour the church, take in the panoramic views with a coffee or ice cream and even relax on the lake in a row boat!

Tips for Visiting Bom Jesus do Monte in Braga

The complex is located to the east of the Braga city center and is best reached by car, bus or taxi. We recommend that day trippers go directly to Bom Jesus do Monte on arrival in Braga. From the train station, catch the #2 Bus that terminates at the funicular near the bottom of the stairs.

Note that Bom Jesus do Monte is the only site on our list that is outside of the city center. All other attractions can be reached on foot.

#2 Walk under Arco da Porto Nova

An ornamental gate in Braga City, Arco da Porta Nova dates to the early 1500s. At that time, Braga was encircled by defensive walls – and the gate provided the western entrance to one of the main thoroughfares.

In the 18th century, the gate was renovated into a triumphal arch that features a Baroque design on the western façade, while the east-facing side is Neoclassical.

#3 Taste a Famous Braga Pastry

Getting a taste of the local fare is one of the best Braga, Portugal things to do. We recommend trying the signature pastry – Tibias de Braga – at the namesake bakery.

Created in a convent and named for the tibia bone (which the pastry slightly resembles), indulging in a Tibias de Braga is a delicious way to begin your Braga tour. The sweet confection is comprised of a crispy fried dough that is filled with cream and sprinkled with powdered sugar.

#4 Tour Palacio dos Biscainhos and Gardens

An elegant 18th century residence of a noble family, Palacio dos Biscinhos Museum and Gardens offers visitors a glimpse into Braga’s sophisticated past. For those interested in history, the palace is one of the top things to see in Braga.

Guests can join a guided tour to learn more about the artwork, furniture and ceramics on display, as well as the daily lives of the family who lived there.

Not to be missed are the gorgeous Baroque gardens, complete with fountains, statues and the biggest tulip tree in Portugal!

There is a small fee to tour the mansion, but the gardens are open to the public for free.

#5 Visit Igreja do Populo Church

Igreja do Populo is the first of many churches that we feature on our list of Things To Do Braga – and, in our opinion, it’s one of the best. The sumptuous interior is highlighted by gilded Baroque design and the walls are sheathed in typical Portuguese azulejo tiles.

The structure dates to the 16th century, but the façade was refurbished in the 18th century with an enhanced Neoclassical style. The adjoining building was a convent, but is now used by the local government.

#6 Peruse Produce at Mercado Municipal de Braga

A feast for the senses (and the stomach), the Braga Mercado Municipal is a fascinating place to visit during a trip to Braga. Fresh markets have been held in Braga for more than 2000 years, but the current market hall is a distinctive blend of old and new.

The traditional market square – complete with a central fountain – sits under the roof of a modern building. Farmers, butchers and fishmongers all sell their goods just as they have for centuries. Meanwhile, shoppers can sample local fare at the contemporary food court – and dine on an elevated, outdoor terrace.

#7 Admire the Architecture in Praca do Municipio

Centered on the Pelicano Fountain and ringed with grandiose architecture, Praca do Municipio is, perhaps, the most beautiful square in the city of Braga.

The area was originally developed in the late 16th century as a bullfighting ring. Then in the 18th century, the Archbishop’s Palace (now the public library) and the Camara Municipal (Town Hall) were built on opposite sides of the square – and the center was used as a marketplace.

#8 See the Se Cathedral Braga

The cathedral – called the Se de Braga – ranks as the oldest cathedral in all of Portugal. The history of the church can be traced to the year 1089, but the edifice has been modified over time. The façade was constructed in the 1400s and the Baroque embellishments were added in 1723. 

Designated as a National Monument in 1910, the Se Cathedral is a must-see Braga sight. A small fee is required to enter the church – and a combination ticket allows access into adjoining chapels, the sacristy and Treasury Museum.

Note that the Igreja da Misericordia de Braga, which faces Rua do Souto, is a separate church from the Se Cathedral. This 16th century church is notable for its sculptures and fine Baroque details, but unfortunately, it was closed during our visit.

#9 Strut down Rua do Souto, Braga

A main thoroughfare in Old Town Braga, Portugal, Rua do Souto Street is the city’s original shopping lane. The path, which connects Arco da Porta Nova to Avenida Central, was established in 1466 as a route through town to Braga Castle. Merchants moved in to capitalize on the foot traffic and shops line the street to this day.

Largo do Paco – a spacious square on the north side of Rua do Souto – is framed by the former Bishop’s Palace (Paco Episcopal de Braga). An 18th century fountain, Chafariz do Castelo, stands in the center of the square. Get an up-close look at the fountain…and then take in the view of the colorful buildings along Rua do Souto.

It’s interesting to note that while Rua do Souto is now pedestrian-only, Braga Tram #1 used to rattle down tracks along the street from the early 1900s until 1963.

#10 Partake in a Quirky Braga Tradition

Take a break while sightseeing Braga to partake in a rather unusual tradition in Braga: Muscatel wine and a banana at Casa das Bananas.

Christmas Eve is the official day of the big banana-and-wine event, when thousands of people descend on Casa das Bananas for the experience. Theories abound about how exactly the Braga Bananeiro ritual began, but somewhere along the way it was noted that fortified muscatel wine goes quite well with a ripe banana.

While the shop garners the most attention during the month of December, guests can order a glass of muscatel along with a banana at Casa das Bananas year-round.

#11 Smell the Flowers in Jardim de Santa Barbara

A breathtaking garden in the middle of the city, Jardim de Santa Barbara is an urban oasis – and one of the best things to see in Braga, Portugal.

The garden itself, with manicured landscapes, cedar topiaries and a multitude of flower beds, is a beautiful sight, but its location heightens the appeal. The Santa Barbara Garden sits just outside of the crenellated walls of the Paco Episcopal de Braga Medieval Palace – along with arched ruins.

At the center of the garden is a fountain topped with a statue of Saint Barbara, for whom the garden is named.

#12 Look Up at the Braga Tower

Beginning in the 14th century, Old Town Braga was enclosed by protective walls – and a series of lookout towers were built to keep intruders at bay. Although most of the walls, gates and towers have been demolished, the Keep Tower of Braga Castle remains.

Standing alone at a height of nearly 100 feet, the Braga Tower offers visitors a glimpse of what the city may have looked like during Medieval times. The north side of the façade still bears the original Royal Coat of Arms.

#13 Stop for a Coffee at a Classic Braga Café

Stopping for a coffee at a historic café is one of the fun things to see and do in Braga, Portugal – and there are two iconic cafes that are just steps apart.

Café Vianna, housed in the Arcada Building that fronts Republic Square, is the oldest café in the city, dating to 1871. Featuring a majestic interior, the café is a meeting point for locals and tourists.

Nearby, on a corner of Largo Barao de Sao Martinho Square, Café A Brasileira stands as another time-old Braga café. Opened in 1907 as a franchise of the original Lisbon outpost, Café A Brasileira is known for its drip coffee and exceptional desserts – and they serve full meals in the upstairs dining room.

#14 Stroll through Jardim da Avenida Central

The beautifully landscaped Avenida Central Gardens stretch out from the arched Arcade building and fountain in Praca da Republica. The pretty park was once just a rural route to St. Victor Church – and by the 17th century, the path was lined with churches, convents and regal residences, most of which survive in some form today.

Jardim da Avenida Central was formally transformed into a public green space in the mid-1800s. Complete with a bandstand, monumental statues and flowering trees, the pretty park is a highlight of Braga sightseeing.

#15 Enjoy Art and Gardens at Museu Nogueira da Silva

A Braga born philanthropist, Antonio Nogueira da Silva donated much of his fortune – including his residence – to the city. His home has been renovated into a museum exhibiting fine Portuguese and international artworks, such as paintings, porcelain, sculptures, azulejos and silver. A ticket is required to see the main exhibits at the museum.

Concealed at the back of the property is a gorgeous, French-inspired garden featuring roses, flower beds, fountains, sculptures and lovely blue-and-white tiles (which are interestingly not Portuguese azulejos, but Delft Tiles from a palace in the Netherlands). There is no charge to enter the gardens; making it one of the best places to visit in Braga, Portugal for free!

#16 Sit in Solitude at Praca do Campo Novo Square

Campo Novo Square – also called Praca Mouzinho de Albuquerque Square – is one of the Braga hidden gems. It sits just north of the busy Av. Central and visitors who seek it out often find solitude and gorgeous flowers in the pretty square.

Established in 1725, Praca do Campo Novo features ornamental flower beds – along with an elaborate fountain and staircase. Behind the stairs is the 19th century Palacete dos Condes de Carcavelos.

#17 Appreciate the Unusual Capela de Guadalupe

Sitting atop Santa Margarida Hill, Capela de Guadalupe is one of the lesser visited Braga sights. The church, which features an unusual circular design, was built in 1725 and is now considered a Cultural Heritage Monument.

While not as generously decorated as other churches in Braga, its uniqueness makes it worth seeking out.

#18 Soak in the Beauty of Jardim da Senhora a Branca

Situated at the east end of Avenida Central Gardens and surrounded by picturesque architecture is the splendid Jardim da Senhora a Branca. The small triangular garden hosts rose bushes, orange trees, flower beds, arched trellises and a monumental cross.

Taking a moment in the garden to savor the scents and scenery is one of the relaxing things to do in Braga.

#19 Browse the Books at Livraria Centesima Pagina

Browsing the books at Livraria 100 Pagina is one of the pleasant things to do in Braga City Center. The independently owned bookshop, which is housed in a historic dwelling, sells everything from classic novels to children’s books to locally made artworks and souvenirs.

Guests are invited to sit and read – or enjoy cake and coffee in the café in the back.

#20 View the Basilica dos Congregados

The Basilica dos Congregados is an exceptional Braga sight – and visiting is one of the free Braga things to do.

Built in the 18th century (although not completely finished until the 1960s), the church is fine example of the luxuriant Baroque architectural style. Featuring double bell towers, ornately carved statues and glittering alters, the Basilica dos Congregados is impossible to ignore!

#21 Buy Cheese at an Old-Fashioned Cheese Store

When visiting Braga in Portugal, don’t miss Queijaria Central – a specialty cheese monger that opened in 1952. The old-fashioned shop sells regional goods, classic candies, Fidalguinhos cookies and fresh baked pastries – but their signature product is the local cheese, Serra da Estrela.

#22 Join the Shoppers on Avenida da Liberdade

The absolute best street for shopping in Braga, Portugal is Avenida da Liberdade. The wide, pedestrian-only thoroughfare is home to name brand stores and shops selling the latest fashions.

That said, the area is not only for shopping, but also for strolling. The lane is lined with an array of interesting architecture, including the Art Deco Teatro Circo. 

#23 Stand in Awe of Palacio do Raio

The blue tiled façade of Palacio do Raio is a must-see in Braga, Portugal. The grandiose palace was built in the 18th century for a wealthy Braga merchant – and the exterior Baroque ornamentation is simply exquisite.

Since 2015, the palace has housed a museum with exhibits pertaining to religion and the history of Braga. There is a small fee to enter.

#24 Snap a Photo by the Braga Sign

Snapping a photo with the large letters spelling out the city’s name is one of the fun things to do in Braga!

The letters stand in front of the 17th century Fountain of Largo Carlos Amarante. In the background of the sign is the stately Hospital de Sao Marcos. Dating to 1508 and drastically enhanced over the years, the building functioned as a hospital from its inception all the way up to 2011.

#25 Gaze at the Gilded Igreja de Santa Cruz

Hailed as one of the most beautiful attractions in Braga, Igreja de Santa Cruz (or the Holy Cross Church) is magnificent – both inside and out.

Built in the 17th century, the façade features Doric columns and majestic carvings. Inside, gold detailing emphasizes the carvings – especially on the organ and altar. A small fee is required to enter.

#26 Stare Up at the Tower of Santiago

The Medieval Santiago Tower stands as part of the original 14th century defensive system; it served as both a watchtower and a Braga city gate.

Now part of the Pius XII Museum, the tower allows visitors to immerse themselves in the history of Braga by climbing up the five-story keep. On the third floor is the Nossa Senhora da Torre Chapel, which was built by famous Braga architect, Andre Soares, to show gratitude for sparing the city from Portugal’s massive earthquake in 1755. At the top, visitors can see the 18th century bells and enjoy the view.

#27 Sip a Local Libation at the Best Bars in Braga

Northern Portugal is a well-known wine region – and those who want to get a taste of locally produced wine in Braga will have no trouble finding a bar, café or restaurant to imbibe. That said, we do recommend tasting Vinho Verde. The name translates to Green Wine – which refers to the fact that the wine is consumed ‘young’ (not the color!).

Craft beer is also pouring in Braga. One of the top producers of Portuguese craft beer, Cerveja Letra, hails from Vila Verde, just to the north. The best bars in Braga, Portugal to get a taste are Letraria Craft Beer Library (a city center taproom of Letra Brewery) and Mal Amado (where they pour craft brew from several Portuguese brewers).

Visitors looking for Braga bars serving excellent cocktails should check out SETRA or Tosga.

#28 Eat at a Local Braga Restaurant

There are numerous restaurants in Braga that will appeal to a variety of tastes – so we are just highlighting a few of the eateries that were recommended to us by locals.

Cozinha da Se Restaurant Braga

One of the best restaurants in Braga for regional cuisine, Cozinha da Se serves big portions of meaty favorites and fish specialties (the cod dishes get rave reviews!). Diners can enjoy the meal inside the cozy restaurant or al fresco.

Bira dos Namorados

Featuring a bright and colorful interior, Bira dos Namorados offers a diverse menu of international fare infused with local flavor. The burgers on traditional Madeira bread (one of our favorite Madeira Foods ) hit the spot!

Retrokitchen Braga

Earning high marks for offering homestyle meals at affordable prices, the Retrokitchen menu (a 3-course offering at a flat rate) changes daily. Retrokitchen consistently gets high marks for being one of the best restaurants in Braga.

Map of Braga, Portugal

Use this link to Google for an interactive version of our Braga Map. Visitors can also pick up a Braga tourist map at the TI. 

More Braga Things To Do

We highlighted our top picks in our Braga To Do list, but there are a few more sights that fellow travelers might want to add to their itinerary.

More Churches in Braga

In our list of Braga, Portugal attractions, we featured several spectacular churches in the city center as well as the sensational Bom Jesus do Monte, just east of town. However, there are more than 30 Braga churches – and those who are enthralled by the elaborately decorated churches might want to seek out a few more.

Igreja de Sao Vicente Braga

St. Vincente is an exquisite Baroque church featuring detailed carvings on the facade and azulejos tiles covering the interior walls. Igreja de Sao Vicente is just a five-minute walk north of Praca do Campo Novo.

Igreja de Sao Victor

The Church of Saint Victor features a demure exterior, but inside is clad with blue-and-white tiles and a glittering altar. It’s a five-minute walk from Jardim da Senhora a Branca.

Igreja do Carmo

Not quite as over-the-top as some of the Braga churches, the Carmo Church and convent conveys numerous architectural styles and boasts an elegant interior. Igreja do Carmo is located just east of Mercado Municipal.

More Braga Museums

We have already mentioned a few of the museums in Braga, but travelers curious about ancient history or interested in art might want to visit one of the city’s archaeological museums.

Museu de Arqueologia D Diogo de Sousa

Established in the early 1900s, the D. Diogo de Sousa Archaeology Museum exhibits recovered Roman artifacts, including an unearthed mosaic floor. A small fee is required to enter.

Roman Thermae of Maximinus

The Roman Thermae of Maximinus, a National Monument, is the excavated ruins of 1st century BC Roman baths in Alto da Cividade. Visitors can enter the site for a small fee.

Museu Pio XII

We previously mentioned the Pio XII Museum – as it maintains the Tower of Santiago – but there is much more to see. The museum displays centuries of religious artifacts, paintings and archaeological discoveries. Tickets are required to enter.

Fonte do Idolo

The Fonte do Idolo – or Fountain of the Idol – is a 1 st century AD fountain with carved stone. A small fee to enter and tours are available to better explain the history of the place.

Braga Image Museum

The Image Museum is a modern photography museum uniquely housed in an old watchtower. It is free to visit, however, it was closed for renovations during our visit (and appears to have been closed for some time).

SC Braga Football

Sporting Clube de Braga – or Sporting Braga FC – is the local soccer team that plays in the top flight of Portuguese Football, Primeira Liga . For those interested in catching a live game, home matches are held at Estadio Municipal de Braga, which is north of the Old Town.

Braga Festivals

Visitors can plan their trip to Braga to coincide with one of the city’s best festivals.

Holy Week, called Semana Santa, is one of the biggest events in Braga and is celebrated at numerous churches and with processions through the streets. The June festival of Sao Joao (St. John the Baptist) is another religious festival in Braga.

Braga Romana – or the Roman Braga Festival – honors the city’s roots that can be traced back to the Roman town of Bracara Augustus. The festivities include a Roman market and costumed parades.

Numerous musical events and the fun Braga Beer Fest are other popular celebrations in the city.

Things To Do Near Braga, Portugal

In addition to the city center activities, there are many things to do around Braga, too. We are highlighting a few of the best regional attractions that can be visited on day trips from Braga.

Considered to be one of the best day trips from Braga, Guimaraes is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guimaraes is known for its cultural institutions, including the Castle, Alberto Sampaio Museum and art museums.

The simplest way to get from Braga to Guimaraes is by bus. Those who want to see both Guimaraes and Braga in one day should join an organized Porto to Guimaraes and Braga tour. Get the details here!

A quaint town with just a handful of attractions, Barcelos is an easy day trip from Braga. The town is best known for the Rooster of Barcelos, which serves as a national symbol of Portugal. 

Trains and buses can be used to get from Braga to Barcelos. Also note that there are full-day organized tours visit Braga, Guimaraes and Barcelos. Find out more!

Peneda Geres National Park

Surprisingly the only national park in Portugal, Peneda Geres NP is a mountainous wonderland that boasts diverse flora and fauna and several hiking trails.

While it is ideal to visit by car, there are small group tours from Porto that include both Peneda Geres NP, Braga and Bom Jesus do Monte. Get the specifics of this tour!

Monastery of St Martin of Tibaes

Travelers intrigued by the churches in Braga can add one more to the list: the Monastery of Sao Martinho de Tibaes. Located to the west of Braga, the religious site dates to the 6th century – but was completely rebuilt in the 1700s. Buses are the ideal mode of transit to get from Braga to the monastery. 

Travel Tips for Braga, Portugal

We have outlined the best things to see in and around Braga, Portugal – but we have a few more tips to help make your trip enjoyable.

Best Time to Go to Braga

There are pros and cons to visiting Braga in every season. That said, due to the city’s fondness for ornamental gardens, we think the best time to visit Braga is in the spring or early summer, when the flowers are in bloom.

Walking Tours in Braga

Although Braga ranks as the third-largest city in Portugal, it is simpler to navigate than Lisbon and Porto. On our trip to Braga, we easily routed our way on foot to the top sights and discovered a few hidden gems along the way!

You can actually follow in our footsteps by starting with #2 and making a Self-Guided Braga Walking Tour to the attractions that follow.

Of course, there are many guided Braga walking tours where local guides lead the way, as well as a tip-based Free Walking Tour Braga. Alternatively, hire a driver for an outstanding Braga Tuk Tuk Tour .

Organized Braga Day Trips

Joining an organized tour from Porto is a hassle-free way to experience the Minho region. The premier excursions feature comfortable transport from Porto and include all the top sights.

This highly-rated tour offers an affordable option – while fellow travelers rave about this small-group, all-inclusive tour .

How To Get to Braga, Portugal

The best way to reach Braga is by car, train or bus. Travelers can rent a car for the day (use our Car Rental Tips ) – but those only visiting Braga and Bom Jesus do Monte can easily complete the trip with public transportation.

The Braga Train Station is located just west side of the Old Town. The main bus station in Braga sits slightly to the north, near Braga Mercado Municipal.

If you’re looking for flights to Braga, Portugal, you won’t find any – as the closest airport is in Porto. However, you can travel directly from the Porto Airport to Braga via an inexpensive, 50-minute bus ride.

How To Get from Porto to Braga

The Porto to Braga distance is about 35 miles – and you can choose a car, train or bus to make the journey. In our opinion, the train is the best mode of transport for getting to Braga from Porto.  

The Urbano (U) is a Porto to Braga train that departs from Sao Bento Station in Porto City Center. The ride takes about 1.5 hours and costs less than 5 euros. Faster and more expensive trains depart from Campanha Station, which is east of the Porto center.

Travelers can also take a bus from Porto to Braga. The Porto-Braga Bus takes about 2 hours and costs a little less than the Urbano train.

Driving from Porto to Braga by car allows for the most flexibility, however, it will cost much more than taking the Porto to Braga bus or train. In Braga, there is both paid and, if you’re lucky, free parking near the city center.

From Lisbon to Braga

The best way to travel to Braga from Lisbon is by train. The Lisbon to Braga Train takes about 3.5 hours. In our opinion, the distance between Lisbon and Braga is too far for an enjoyable day trip.

Where To Stay in Braga

There are plenty of options for accommodation in Braga, Portugal that will fit a range of budgets. For short stays of 3 days or less, we recommend booking a hotel (rather than an Airbnb ) and we are highlighting a few of the top-rated places to stay in Braga.

Vila Gale Collection Hotel in Braga, Portugal

Rated as one of the Best Hotels in Braga, Vila Gale is housed in a historic building, yet features all the modern conveniences. Guests give it high ratings for the superb staff, delicious breakfast and spacious rooms. Check rates and availability for your stay!

Hotel Senhora a Branca

Offering an excellent value for money, Hotel Senhora a Branca is one of the better hotels in Braga, Portugal for budget travelers. Located on the east side of the Old Town and featuring clean (but somewhat outdated) rooms, a buffet breakfast is also included. Check rates for your stay!

InBraga Hostel

Situated near the historic center and not far from the train station, InBraga Hostel has dorm beds, shared kitchen facilities and an outdoor green space…all at a fair price. Check availability!

What To Pack for Braga

Our last tips for your Braga trip are all about what to pack (or wear). You can find all of our hacks on our Travel Packing Page . First, grab your Free Packing Checklist !

Comfortable Shoes

While Braga is fairly flat for Portugal, it is still best to wear comfortable walking shoes. Sneakers  or trail shoes are both great for sightseeing in Braga. Read our reviews as we break down our favorite  Travel Shoes .

Travel Camera

Braga sights are nothing short of spectacular! Capture the beauty of the city with a real travel camera ; we use a Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens . It takes high quality photos and is consistently rated as one of the Best Cameras on a Budget .

Portugal Weather Gear

Make sure you are prepared for the elements! Spring and summer visitors to Portugal will want to bring sunscreen and a good hat . Those visiting Portugal in autumn or winter will need a packable raincoat  or a travel umbrella .

Whether on a Braga day trip or staying a week, you will want a zippered day pack for your everyday travel items . We use small backpacks – but share tips in our article, The Best Day Packs for Travelers . 

Portugal Trip Insurance

Regardless of how well you plan, luggage can get lost , flights will be delayed and illness may occur . Travel insurance could help. Check the rates and coverage at World Nomads .

Europe Travel Docs and Planner

Of course, don’t forget your most important travel documents – like pre-purchased tickets, hotel confirmations, vouchers for activities and your Travel Planner . We recommend keeping everything zipped up in a Travel Organizer . 

Start planning your trip to Portugal ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more advice – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

More Portugal Travel Guides

• Perfect Porto Itinerary
• Best Craft Beer Bars in Porto
• How To Spend 3 Days in Lisbon
• Visiting Beautiful Belem from Lisbon
• Seeing Cristo Rei in Lisbon
• The Best Viewpoints and Churches in Lisbon
• Sightseeing in Funchal, Madeira

Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board .

Share This Story!

• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)

Peneda-Geres National Park

Best Things to Do

Foods to Try

Most Beautiful Beaches

Top Road Trips

Things to Do with Kids

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

One-Week Itinerary

Driving Tips

Places to Visit

Islands to Visit

Douro Valley

The Top 6 Things to Do in Braga, Portugal

No trip to northern Portugal is complete without a visit to Braga. Founded two thousand years ago by the Roman emperor Augustus, the third-largest city in the country has a long cultural and religious history, which is reflected in its grand architecture and pious reputation.

While it’s possible to see most of Braga’s main attractions in a day trip from nearby Porto , it’s equally possible to spend a night or two exploring the city and surrounding areas. Here are the top things to do while you’re in town.

Go Inside Braga Cathedral

Braga’s cathedral dominates the downtown area, and you’ll find yourself walking past its various facades several times as you explore the compact old city. Parts date back as far as the 11 th century, and it's likely the oldest surviving church in the country.

It definitely doesn’t look the same as it did back then, however. The cathedral has been restored and added to several times over the years, and Baroque, Gothic, Romanesque, and several other architectural styles are clearly evident.

Don’t just take photos of the outside, though. Pick up a ticket at the entrance, where for four euros you’ll gain access to the impressive interior, along with the cathedral’s small museum full of religious art.

Once inside, be sure to gaze up at the pair of impressive gilt wood organs. Heavily decorated, they were carved in the 1730’s, and dominate that section of the cathedral. Also be sure to check out the cloisters while you’re there, along with the three adjacent chapels.  

Climb the Steps to Bom Jesus do Monte

On the outskirts of the city lies Braga’s biggest attraction, the Bom Jesus do Monte basilica—and the 630 zig-zagging steps it takes to reach it. Unless the day is particularly hot, don’t be overly concerned about the climb, as it’s not as difficult as it looks. If it does seem too daunting, there’s a water-powered funicular—the oldest of its type in the world—that can take you to and from the top for a few euros instead.

Intricate fountains line the steps, based around the five senses. Water pours from an orifice of each the human-shaped carvings, and they’re an attraction in their own right.

While the neoclassical church at the summit is the goal of the climb, the expansive views over the city and surrounding area are equally impressive. A nearby terrace cafe serves welcome cold drinks and snacks, and there are paths and gardens to explore if you haven’t had your fill of walking yet.

Bom Jesus do Monte is easy to get to by car or taxi, or just catch the number 2 bus from any one of a number of downtown stops. The bus takes about 20 minutes, and runs every half hour Monday through Saturday, less often on Sundays.

Drink Vinho Verde in Praça da República

Northern Portugal is renowned for the production of vinho verde . Literally translated as “green wine,” this refreshing, slightly-effervescent wine is the perfect summer beverage.

Head to Praça da República, find an outside table at one of the many restaurants, and enjoy a leisurely glass or bottle with friends. Vinho verde comes in red, rose, and most commonly, white varieties—the “green” in this case means “young,” as it’s traditionally consumed soon after bottling.

When you’re done, take a few minutes to explore the rest of the large plaza. With grand architecture surrounding a central fountain, including the Congregados church and what’s left of the keep of Braga’s castle, and plenty of opportunity to people-watch day and night, it’s very much a place to linger. 

Relax in Santa Barbara Garden

Lying along the eastern edge of the impressive former archbishop’s palace, the manicured Jardim de Santa Bárbara is a haven for visiting birds and humans alike. Arranged around a statue of the saint of the same name, the design is a modern reinterpretation of gardens that have sat on this spot since the 1600’s.

The colorful flower beds are at their best in spring, but the garden is worth a visit at any time of year. It’s relatively small—10 or 15 minutes is enough to see everything—but is a great spot to linger with a pastry or ice-cream on a sunny day. Be sure to check out the remains of the medieval arches while you’re there!

Explore the Chapels and Churches

Given its long religious history, it’s no surprise that Braga is full of churches. You could spend days exploring them all, but should include at least one or two on your itinerary even if you’re only in town a few hours.

Alongside the cathedral sits Braga’s Misericórdia church , and if ornately-decorated churches are your thing, you definitely need to pay it a visit. Construction started in the mid-1500’s, but it’s the Baroque interior from a century later that remains to this day. The area behind the altar is remarkable, covered floor to ceiling with intricate golden arches, statues, murals, and much more. There’s no entry fee, although donations are always welcomed.

The São Frutuoso chapel lies in the north of the city, not far from the football stadium. The 18 th -century Baroque church is interesting enough in its own right, but it’s the small chapel inside that’s the real attraction. Shaped like a Greek cross, it dates back to the Visigoths more than a millennium earlier and has been classified as a Portuguese national monument.

It’s open to the public, but you’ll need to time your visit carefully—the chapel is closed on Mondays, Tuesday mornings, weekends, and a few public holidays.

Experience Noble Life at the Biscaínhos Museum

Braga has a wealth of museums, on a wide-ranging set of subjects. One of the most popular is the Biscaínhos Museum , the home of a local noble family for several generations. The residential palace was at its peak in the 17 th and 18 th centuries, and most of the decoration and artifacts inside date to that period.

While the furniture, textiles, and ceramics (including a hall dedicated to Portugal’s famous blue azulejo tiles) are impressive, it's the large grounds that steal the show. The terraced lawns and flower beds are considered one of the best remaining examples of a Baroque-period garden, and are highly worth a visit even if you don’t have time to explore the museum itself.

Entry to the grounds is free, and a ticket to the museum costs a very reasonable two euros. It’s closed on Mondays.

Best Day Trips From Porto

The Top 15 Things to Do in Bordeaux, France

20 Best Things to Do in Florence, Italy

20 Best Things to Do in Portugal

Top 10 Things to Do in Porto, Portugal

The Best UNESCO Sites in Germany

The 14 Best Day Trips from Rome

18 Best Free Things to Do in Paris

20 Best Things to Do in Dublin

The Top 9 Attractions in Lisbon's Alfama Neighborhood

The 7 Most Beautiful Buildings in Porto

One Week in Portugal: The Perfect Itinerary

The Best Things to Do in Savannah, Georgia

Vienna's St. Stephen's Cathedral: The Complete Guide

20 Best Things to Do in Barcelona

Top 12 Things to Do in the Douro Valley, Portugal

• Braga Guide Minho

Portugal Guides

• Estremadura
• Viana do Castelo
• Vila do Conde
• More Guides »
• Portugal A-Z
• Portuguese Food
• Gay Portugal
• Restaurants
• Famous Portuguese
• More Culture »
• Hotels in Portugal
• Hotels in Algarve
• Hotels in Lisbon
• Hotels in Porto
• Portugal Hostels
• Spain Hostels
• Banks & Money
• Exchange Rates
• Facts & Figures
• Portuguese Phrases
• Word of the Day
• Portugal Books

Portugal City Guides

• Castelo Branco
• Praia da Rocha
• Vila Real de Santo Antonio
• Caldas da Rainha
• Figueira da Foz
• Monte Gordo
• Ponte de Lima
• Porto Santo
• Póvoa de Varzim
• Santiago do Cacém
• Vila Nova de Gaia
• Vila Viçosa
• Accommodation
• Entertainment
• Internet Cafes

Map of Braga

Portugal city travel guide: braga.

• Population 111,000.
• The "Rome of Portugal."
• Famous pilgrimage site of Bom Jesus do Monte.
• Portugal's ancient religious capital.
• Relaxing town of palaces, churches and historic mansions.
• Convenient base for exploring the southern Minho region.
• Portugal's 5th largest city.

Often referred to as Portugal's 'Rome', Braga dates back to Celtic times and was an important Roman settlement from 20 BCE onwards. The ecclesiastical feel is emphasized by the town's main sites: The ornate Baroque church of Bom Jesus do Monte , 5 km outside the center is still an important pilgrimage site; the sprawling Sé (Tel: 253 263 317) in the historic center of town is the oldest cathedral in Portugal; the huge, elaborate, medieval Archbishop's Palace , now the city's main library and archives. There's another pilgrimage staircase and shrine at Santuário do Sameiro , less than 2 km from Bom Jesus. This 19th century sanctuary is the second largest Marian devotional shrine in Portugal after Fátima . Altogether, there are over 30 churches in Braga.

A number of historic mansions are scattered around the town often serving as museums, such as the Palácio dos Biscaínhos , which houses a fine art collection.

Braga has been modernizing in recent years as it grows as a commercial and fashion center and there is concern over the balance between conservation of Braga's unique heritage and the need for further economic development.

At Easter the town plays host to eerie religious processions and the colorful Festas de São João (June 23-24) and the festival of gigantones - giant carnival figures - (June 18-20) adds excitement for visitors at this time.

Braga is not without good bars, restaurants and clubs. There are some historic cafes in Praça da República and lots of places to eat along Rua D. Diogo de Sousa.

Within easy reach of the city is the pleasant coastal resort of Viana do Castelo and the beautiful Minho valley.

A good point of reference for visitors is the tranquil Praça da República with its fountain and the turismo in its south west corner and a useful shopping center to the north.

Braga's main attraction is the spectacular Sé de Braga (Braga Cathedral) which dates from the 11th century when the Romanesque church was begun with later additions in Gothic and Manueline style. The splendid interior has a beautiful carved altar and blue and white azulejos relating the story of the cathedral's early history . The cathedral includes the Cathedral Treasure museum with a collection of religious artifacts - azulejos, statues, caskets, chalices and clothing including the original iron cross used to celebrate the very first mass held in Brazil.

Opposite the cathedral is the Bishop's Palace (Antigo Paço Episcopal) consisting of three wings in different architectural styles. The oldest is the Gothic East Wing begun in the 14th century, the Baroque West Wing and the South Wing made up of buildings with various styles. The Palace contains the city library and faces the delightful Jardim de Santa Barbara square.

Braga's other main sights include The Museu Dom Diogo De Sousa (Tel: 253 273 706; Rua dos Bombeiros Voluntários), a modern archaeological museum opened in 2007 and displaying the accumulated archaeological riches of the area with emphasis on the Roman settlement of Bracara Augusta.

The Museu Dos Biscainhos (Tel: 253 204 650), an 18th century palace and gardens with rich displays of azulejos, ceramics, furniture, glassware, paintings and historic timepieces. The ornate Arco Da Porta Nova is a surviving gate of the city's wall dating from 1773 near the Antigo Paço Episcopal.

Opposite is the interesting Museu da Imagem which occupies a 19th century building with a 14th century tower that was once part of the city's wall. The museum displays a collection of historic cameras and photographs. The museum also holds temporary exhibitions especially during the summer tourist season.

A few kilometers out of town by bus is the superb Mosteiro de Tibães , the oldest Benedictine monastery in Portugal, set in verdant, fertile grounds with an unbelievably ornate chapel. Highlights are the beautiful cloisters, azulejos, gardens and the monk's quarters.

Read more about Braga's museums and attractions .

Festivals in Braga

Braga's main festivals are: the famous Semana Santa (Holy Week) celebrations over Easter with hooded penitents shaking large wooden rattles and religious effigies carried through the streets and the more light-hearted pre-Christian Festas de Sao Joao on June 23-24 with folk plays, dancing and lots of basil.

Braga Roman is a celebration of Braga's Roman past when the city was known as Bracara Augusta. Held over 5 days in late May the festival recreates the daily life of Bracara Augusta with circus arts, dances, triumphal processions, dramatic performances, and guided visits to various museums and the city's Roman sights. For further information visit: bragaromana.cm-braga.pt

NoiteBrancaBraga (White Nights Braga) where people dress in white clothes and party until dawn in the first week of September. The festival includes pop concerts, a contemporary circus, performances, street food and special exhibitions. The city sets up five or six sound stages around the downtown area with concerts and performances at each one from early evening to way into the morning. The performances highlight prominent Portuguese performers. There are street performances as well and food trucks for street food, and local delicacies. The energy and the crowds are incredible. For further information visit: noitebrancabraga.com

Braga is also home to the Theatro Circo on Avenida da Liberdade, which is an incredibly grand and picturesque performance space, the third most significant in Portugal. It hosts performances of theatre, music, and dance throughout the year. For further information visit:  theatrocirco.com

Braga Tourist Office

Corner of Praça da República/Avenida da Liberdade (tel. 253 262 550)

Getting to Braga

Porto's Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport, 20 km north west of Porto is the nearest airport to Braga. There are direct buses taking about 50 minutes from Porto Airport to both Braga Bus Station and Guimaraes with Getbus . Tickets can be bought online, at the airport service desk or with the driver directly.

There are departures from Porto Airport at 5 am, 8.30 am, 9.30 am, 10.30 am, 11.30 am, 12.45 pm, 2.15 pm, 3.30 pm, 5.45 pm, 8.30 pm, 10.30 pm and 12.45 am. The fare is 8 Euros one-way or 14 Euros return. The 9.30 am, 11.30 am and 2.15 pm departures do not run on weekends and public holidays. The 10.30 pm departure does not run on Saturday, Tuesday or Wednesday.

From Braga Bus Station there are departures to Porto Airport at 4 am, 6 am, 8 am, 9.30 am, 10.30 am, 11.30 am, 1 pm, 2 pm, 4.30 pm, 6.45 pm, 8.30 pm, 9.30 pm and 11.15 am. The 8 am, 11.30 am and 1 pm departures do not run on weekends and public holidays. The 9.30 pm departure does not run on Saturday, Tuesday or Wednesday.

Porto Metro Line E connects to Porto Airport from Campanhã Station from where there are frequent trains to Braga.

Train Travel in Portugal

11-14 trains daily make the 1 hour run between Braga Station and Porto. To go north to Barcelos and Viana do Castelo change at Nine; 8-11 trains daily on the 3-hour 20 minute run from Lisbon to Braga. The IC train to Lisbon takes 4 hours.

Car Travel in Portugal

Around an hour by car from Porto on the A3/IP1 Auto-Estrada.

Bus Travel in Portugal

Braga Bus Station is 500 metres north of Praça da República on Av. General Norton de Matos close to the Mercado Municipal. Fairly frequent buses a day make the 2 hours 40 minute journey between Braga and Coimbra. Buses to Porto are every 30 minutes and take 60-70 minutes. There are 8-11 buses daily to Lisbon (approx. 4 hours 30 mins.) There are also bus connections to Viana do Castelo (90 minutes), Guimaraes (50 minutes), Viseu (3 hours) and Barcelos (1 hour). If coming from Chaves and Bragança in Trás-os-Montes, change in Guimaraes.

Read more about bus travel to and in Braga .

Portugal Hotel & Hostel Accommodation

Featured Hotel

Basic Braga Hotel, Braga, 3 Star hotel, close to Braga Station, satellite TV, en suite bath.

Book the Basic Braga Hotel

Book Hotel Accommodation in Braga

Elevador Hotel

Hotel do Parque

Hotels in Portugal - Booking.com

Hotels in Portugal - Agoda

Hotels in Spain - Agoda

A Ceia Rua do Raoi 331 Locals' favorite with steaks & roast chicken Tel. 253 263 932, closed Monday.

Café Astória Praça da República Genteel old coffee house; unrelated disco upstairs.

List your restaurant/bar/hotel contact Advertising

Internet Cafe

Baba de Camelo Rua Cónego Rafael Álvares da Costa, 26 - 1 10 pm-2 am.

Almost all of the restaurants, cafes, and pastelarias in Braga have some kind of accessible wi-fi including Café Vianna, in Praça da República.

Users with MEO phone service can also access the MEO wireless network (MEO-WIFI) throughout Braga. It is secure and one must sign up on their website to use it.

Local football team

Sporting Clube de Braga Stadium name: Braga Municipal Stadium seats 30,000 and was newly constructed for Euro2004. Tours of the stadium are offered of this amazing ground which appears to have been carved out of the local hills.

Weather in Braga

The average high June temperatures for Portugal is between 22 degrees Centigrade and 26 degrees Centigrade. Get more weather information for Portugal

Visit our partner sites:

• Britain All Over - Britain Close Up
• Britain Visitor - Guide to UK
• Iran Visitor - Guide to Iran
• Beijing Visitor - Guide to China

Portugal Tourist Info. Copyright © 2024 All rights reserved.

Terms of Use | RSS

Web Design by Web Choice UK

Worldwide Walkers

Top 10 Things to do in Braga – Portugal’s Most Charming City

Braga is undoubtedly one of Portugal’s most charming cities! We immediately fell head over heels for Braga – and we were pleased to discover that there are a lot of great things to do here.

In Braga, you’ll find many old and historical buildings, so it’s almost like entering a city from another time. Yet, Braga’s population has grown a lot in size over the last couple of years, and it’s now one of the biggest and most modern cities in Northern Portugal. But the great thing is, it doesn’t feel big.

Braga is definitely one of the most charming cities in the country – so of course, we needed to dedicate a post for it.

In this blog post, we’ll share what we think are the top 10 best things to do in Braga. We’ll give you information about prices, opening hours, and historical facts of all the best attractions in Braga. And in the end, share our 3 favorite things to do in Braga – followed by a FAQ, which you can use to prepare yourself for your next trip.

AFFILIATE LINKS DISCLOSURE: Dear Reader, this blog post contains affiliate links. If you click on them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more here .

Top 10 things to do & best attractions in Braga

Here are the top 10 attractions and things to do in Braga. You’ll need to stay a couple of days in the city if you want to visit all of them, so just pick a couple of attractions if you’re only in Braga on a day trip.

We would (obviously!) advice you to stay a night or two in Braga because it’s such a lovely city.

1. Arco da Porta Nova

There’s a good chance that your first stop in Braga will be at Arco da Porta Nova, also known as the Arch of the New Gate. As you can imagine, it’s an arch that marks the official entrance into the old city of Braga.

It was originally built in the 16th century as a triumphal arch, which was part of the old medieval wall of Braga. It was then reconstructed in the 18th century in a beautiful baroque design.

Today the arch is one of Braga’s important historical attractions, which you must see during your visit. It’s located close to the train station, and it’s always open and free to walk under. So why not begin your exploration of Braga by walking into the old town through Arco da Porta Nova?

2. Braga Cathedral

One of the most important things to do in Braga is to visit the cathedral. Why? Because not only is it Portugal’s oldest cathedral, the cathedral itself is older than the Kingdom of Portugal! Read more about Sé de Braga here .

The cathedral is located in the middle of the city center – you won’t miss it.

Beneath, you’ll find the ticket prices and opening hours of Braga Cathedral in 2023 (notice ‘I couldn’t find the official ticket prices for this year, so they are subject to change):

3. Braga Cathedral Square

Now that we’re in the area, I want to recommend a great lunch, dinner, and drink spot for you – the Square by Braga Cathedral.

The Cathedral Square is full of bars and restaurants. We visited a restaurant named Dona Petisca (twice!) during our stay in Braga, and we had some of the most beautifully made- and most delicious tapas we’ve ever had!

We loved this square so much that we decided to but it on the TOP 10 list of things to do in Braga… What can I say? The bars and restaurants rocked! We even booked our accommodation here, so we basically lived and breathed on this square in Braga. Check out Sé Guesthouse – one of the best places we stayed in all of Portugal.

4. Jardim de Santa Barbara

The Santa Barbara Garden is situated in the middle of the city center of Braga, and it’s one of the best things to see if you love a good city garden.

It’s a garden full of colorful flowers located right next to the historical Archiepiscopal Palace of Braga. While the garden itself isn’t that big, it’s still a nice little place to go for a stroll as it feels like you’ve been taken back to another time.

There are a couple of other gardens in Braga, but we found this one to be the cutest one – and the one that’s mostly worth a visit.

5. Get lost in the old city

One of the best things to do in Braga is to get lost in the old medieval city center. If you’ve seen the Santa Barbara Garden and the Cathedral, then you’re already wandering around in here!

However, there are much more to see in the old city center of Braga. There are SO many beautiful churches, which you can visit for free, a handful of interesting museums, incredible architectural buildings like Raio Palace, a lot of cozy squares with bars and cafés, and many bits and pieces from another time.

For example, you have the Torre de Menagem in the middle of the city, which is hundreds of years old and used to be part of a castle! Today it’s a national monument of Portugal, and it’s possible to visit with an appointment. We would never have bumped into this piece of history if we didn’t wander around the city aimlessly. Sometimes it’s great to get lost.

If you want to know more about the history, the landmarks, and the old medieval city center of Braga, then you can go on a tour and get lost while learning! Check out this tuk tuk city tour that looks like fun if you need inspiration.

6. Shopping in Braga Parque

Why on earth are we putting a mall on the list of the top things to do in Braga? Excellent question!

Well if there is one thing we’ve learned from traveling, it’s that you can always spent time in the mall. Braga Parque is the biggest mall in town, and it has so much to offer!

So if you’re in Braga for a long time and you need some leisure, then we can really recommend Braga Parque. It’s full of great shopping options, it has a really good cinema (tested and tried by us), and there is a food court full of good stuff!

We spent half a day here going to the cinema, eating in daTerra, and buying some new walking shoes for our travels. So we can definitely recommend it on a rainy day.

7. Sunset at Monte Picoto

Watching the sunset at Monte Picoto is definitely one of the best things to do in Braga!

Monte Picoto is a hill that’s located a couple of kilometers South of Braga, and it’s one of the best places to get a viewpoint over the city and watch the sunset.

Glenn and I wanted to hike here, but we ran a bit late. So we grabbed an Uber from the city center to the top of Monte Picoto for just €5. Then we watched a lovely sunset and walked back down the hill and into the city center of Braga.

It was such a nice evening! And we can 100% recommend you to visit this place for a great view over Braga.

8. UNESCO Sancutary of Bom Jesus

There is one attraction in Braga which you MUST VISIT on your trip – the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte.

This incredible sanctuary is mostly famous for its extraordinary Baroque staircase, which leads up to a beautiful church. There are also several chapels and fountains on the way – and the further up you get, the better the view!

When you reach the top of the stairs, you can discover all the glorious viewpoints over Braga city, visit the beautiful church, or take a stroll in the Sanctuary’s garden.

The Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019 due to its outstanding cultural value – the sanctuary was developed over a period of 600 years, and its construction is so prominent, that it creates a cultural landscape on the hill, which can be seen from afar.

While we think that walking up the stairs was the most special part of the place, it shouldn’t hold you back from visiting in case you have bad knees or other injuries. You can easily ride the funicular up and down the hill for just €2,5 / roundtrip. It’s also possible to stay a night in the 4-star Hotel do Parque , where you get to enjoy the sanctuary 24/7.

If you prefer to visit the sanctuary on a tour (and actually learn something!), then there are several tours, which includes a visit to the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus de Monte – check out this full day trip to historical Braga and Guimarães from Porto .

• Related blog post: Bom Jesus do Monte – Visit Braga’s Beautiful Sanctuary

9. Viewpoint and Sanctuary of Sameiro

While you’re in the area of Sanctuary Bom Jesus do Monte, why not walk the extra 2 kilometers to the Sanctuary of Sameiro? Not many people know this, but there is actually another sanctuary located on an even higher hill right next to Bom Jesus do Monte.

While the Sanctuary of Sameiro doesn’t have the same long history and charm as Bom Jesus, it does have an incredible viewpoint and beautiful church.

We honestly didn’t expect much at the Sanctuary of Sameiro, but we were pleasantly surprised with the grand viewpoint and the not-a-single-tourist-in-sight atmosphere.

If you’re in a car or with public transportation, then make sure to visit this sanctuary. Glenn and I took the bus from Braga to the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus, then we walked the 2 kilometers to the Sanctuary of Sameiro where we took the bus back to Braga. And I’m so happy we did – it definitely deserves a spot on this list of top 10 things to do in Braga.

10. Monastery of São Martinho de Tibães

One of our favorite things to do in Braga (maybe even the most interesting place we visited in Braga) was the Monastery of São Martinho de Tibães.

Just like you, I was scrolling through the internet to find things to do in Braga and finally fell over somebody mentioning the Monastery of São Martinho de Tibães. From what we could find online, it didn’t really seem that exciting, but it somehow had EXCELLENT google reviews? Hmm… we just had to go see it for ourselves.

The Monastery of São Martinho de Tibães turned out to be one of our all-time favorite experiences in Braga. The bus to the monastery from Braga set us back around €2 per person / each way. Entrance to the monastery itself cost €4 per person.

So for just €16, we spent hours exploring an incredible monastery and its gardens all by ourselves . We literally didn’t meet another single tourist.

The monastery and its gardens are just massive and full of history. When you buy your tickets, you get a map over the trails in the garden and a map over the rooms in the monastery. With this comes a whole explanation about what the rooms were used for, who lived there, when it was built etc. Just incredible! It’s kind of like a DIY-history tour.

Here are the opening hours and prices of Monastery São Martinho de Tibães in 2023:

Our 3 favorite things to do in Braga

Now that we’ve shared the 10 best things to do in Braga – we’re going to share our personal favorites.

Normally we find this section of the blog post pretty easy to write, but not this time around… We absolutely loved our time in Braga, and it’s very hard for us to narrow this list down to just 3 things.

But we’ll give it a go:

• Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte : Let’s be honest, there is a reason why this sanctuary is inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. It’s just incredible. The unique architecture, history, viewpoints, and general feel to the place creates an absolutely unique experience. This is without a doubt a MUST VISIT on your trip to Braga. We even dedicated a full blog post to the place here: Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary in Braga
• Get lost in the old city : The old city center of Braga is full of history. It’s such a pretty city that has a great medieval feel to it – that’s why we’ve deemed it Portugal’s most charming city! So our advice to you is to just walk around and explore as much as possible in the old city center. It’s not that big, so you should be able to cover a lot of ground with just one full day.
• Monastery of São Martinho de Tibães : We contemplated whether to recommend this monastery or the Monte Picoto hill for sunset, but eventually decided that the monastery just has to be on our list of favorites. If you follow the map given to you at the entrance and read the history of the place – like really surrender to the experience – then the Monastery of São Martinho de Tibães is an excellent place to spend a day in Braga, and it’ll quickly cement in your memory.

Things to know before visiting Braga

We stayed in a really nice place named Sé Guesthouse , which was located right on the cathedral square for just €38 a night. Big spacious and modern rooms, cozy common areas, and clean bathrooms. Perfect little spot in Braga! If you want a more classic hotel, then you have several options on Booking.com , or if you want cheaper options, then check out hostelworld.com

There are 2 ways to get from Porto to Braga – you can either take the bus or the train. Both ways are super fast and affordable. The bus takes 1 hour and costs between €2-€10 depending on the company – book your tickets on busbud . The train takes 1 hour and 10 minutes and costs €3,25 – book your tickets directly at São Bento train station.

1. Braga Tuk Tuk City Tour (Explore the city center by tut-tuk for just €15 / person – for those who wants to have a taste of Braga) 2. Braga Half-day City Tour (Visit Bom Jesus Sanctuary and Braga’s historical center for just €55 / person – for those wanting to explore the main attractions in Braga) 3. Braga and Guimarães Full Day Tour from Porto (Visit two amazing cities in one day for just €90 / person – for those with limited time, who wants to see as much as possible)

Braga is an affordable destination in Portugal. We spent 6 days in Braga – exploring all the things listed here with an average spending of €105 per day for two people. This includes: Accommodation, breakfast, lunch, dinner, groceries, drinks, transportation, entrance fees, and much more!

We hope you enjoyed our Top 10 things to do in Braga blog post. I really mean it with all of my heart when I say that I enjoyed my time in Braga, and Glenn and I think it’s one of Portugal’s most charming cities.

If you have any questions about Braga, then feel free to drop them in the comments below, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. We hope you’ll enjoy beautiful Braga! Thanks for reading and happy travels!

Read our other travel guides from Portugal:

• Day trips from Porto
• Things to do in Guimarães
• Things to do in Aveiro
• Weekend trip to Lisbon
• Where to stay in Algarve?
• Things Portugal is famous for

Hi, I'm Cecilie! And I'm the writer behind our travel blog. I only write about places that we've personally been to and want to recommend to you. I'm passionate about creating truthful travel guides, which can help you plan your own trip. When I'm not traveling or writing, you'll find me on a hiking trail, in a coffee shop, or in a shoe store around Copenhagen.

Similar Posts

Best things to do in Kep – Cambodia’s Chill Beach Town

Despite being a small beach town, you’ll find there are many things to do on a trip to Kep in Cambodia. We never heard of Kep before, and we only…

13 Things to do in Alfama – Lisbon’s Charming Old Town

Lisbon’s old town Alfama will always have a special place in my heart. During the dreadful year of 2020, Glenn and I lived in Alfama for 3 months, which gave…

10 Things to do in Ghent on a day trip

Ghent is our favorite city in Belgium. It really has it all – beautiful buildings, intertwining canals, a great food scene, and friendly locals. It’s no wonder, we chose to…

The Best Things to do in Sidemen – Amazing Authentic Bali

Sidemen is the best place to stay in Bali if you’re looking for an authentic Balinese experience filled with stunning rice terraces, incredible views of the Mount Agung volcano, and…

16 Things to do in Namur – Belgium’s most Underrated City

We went on a day trip to Namur and found that there are so many things to do in this beautiful city in Belgium. So why is nobody talking about…

24 Things to do in Beautiful Bruges in 2024

Bruges is not to be missed. Known for its intertwining canals, its Medieval buildings, and its cobblestone streets, Bruges is without a doubt one of Belgium’s most beautiful cities. But…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

• Grand Canyon
• Gold Country
• California Coast
• Los Angeles
• Mammoth Lakes
• death valley
• Lassen Volcanic
• Sequoia & Kings Canyon Park
• Yosemite Park
• napa valley
• step Robles
• Santa Cruz Mountains
• Santa Ynez Valley
• Sonoma Valley
• San Francisco
• Silicon Valley
• Shasta & surroundings
• Valley of Fire Park
• Philadelphia
• Monument Valley
• Washington DC
• London outskirts
• Bournemouth
• Deal & surroundings
• Hastings & surroundings
• Salisbury & Stonehenge
• Sandringham
• Sheffield & surroundings
• Southampton
• Stratford-Upon-Avon
• Niagara Falls
• Ottawa & Gatineau
• Québec City
• Trois-Rivières
• Easter Island
• Krabi & Phi Phi Islands
• Oberammergau
• Romantic Route
• Knokke-Heist
• Zaanse Schans
• Northern Ireland countryside
• Cinque Terre
• San Gimignano
• NEW ZEALAND
• HOTEL RESERVATION
• TICKETS AND EXCURSIONS
• TICKETS AND TOURS
• SPORTS EVENTS TICKETS
• AIRPORT TRANSFER
• INTERNATIONAL SIM CARD
• BAGGAGE SHIPPING
• TRAVEL INSURANCE
• TOURIST VISAS
• PURCHASE FOREIGN CURRENCY
• INTERNATIONAL PREPAID CARD

• TERMS OF USE

Portugal: What to do in Braga – 1 day itinerary

Last updated: 09/19/2022

Discover Braga, the third largest city in Portugal and the oldest in the country, full of attractions, lots of history, art and culture.

THE CITY OF BRAGA

Founded in the year 16 BC by the Roman Emperor Otávio Augusto with the name of Bracara Augusta, Braga and the oldest city in Portugal . with about 200 thousand inhabitants , Braga is called by several names: Portuguese Rome, Roman City, Baroque City, Capital of Minho, among others. It is a city with a huge cultural heritage, including a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte .

Its economy is very dynamic and focused on commerce, services, civil construction, information technology, technology, tourism, industry and handicrafts. The city of Braga is considered by many as the “Portuguese Silicon Valley”, as it is home to several companies related to software. The city is also home to Minho's university , an institution founded in 1973 that stands out for its innovation, creativity and technology. In 2021, Braga was elected the best European destination of the year .

A LITTLE OF HISTORY…

Traces of human presence in the region date back thousands of years. In the Iron Age, the so-called “castros” were developed, archaeological ruins of the Brácaros, the indigenous people who occupied the region. During the 2nd century BC the region was dominated by the Romans, who founded the city of Bracara Augusta in 16 BC Subsequently, the city became the capital of the province of Galecia. After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, the city became the capital of the Swabian Kingdom (the ancient Kingdom of Galicia). Later, with the decline of the Swabian Kingdom, the city was dominated by the Visigoths for 130 years. In 715, the Moors took Braga, causing great destruction in the city.

The name “Braga” probably only appeared in the 11th century, the same time when the city wall and the cathedral began to be built. Braga was offered as a dowry, by Alfonso VI of León and Castile, to his daughter D. Teresa, in her marriage with D. Henrique de Borgonha. The latter were lords of the city from 1096 to 1112, when it was donated to the city's archbishops. Under the reign of D. Dinis, between 1279 and 1325, the wall was renovated and a keep was built.

Subsequently, nine quadrangular towers were added to the wall, also completing the Braga Castle around the existing keep. From the 16th to the 18th century, through various archbishops, the medieval-style buildings were replaced by others of religious architecture of the time. At the end of the 19th century, the city center leaves the Sé de Braga area and moves to Avenida Central, and in the 20th century, the city's infrastructure was improved and Braga began to undergo a rapid pace of development.

WHEN TO VISIT BRAGA

Braga is a great place to visit any time of year. Braga's climate is temperate, with four well-defined seasons. Winters and autumns are mild, rainy and with moderate winds, with temperatures ranging between 15ºC and 5ºC. Summers are short, warm and with gentle winds, with temperatures between 27ºC and 14ºC. Thus, the best months to visit Braga in terms of climate are the between may and september . The months hottest are July, August and September and the coldest are January and February . The months rainiest are january, february, october and december . You can also adjust your trip according to events happening in the city throughout the year. The main ones are:

• Holy Week (April): This week, there are several processions, processions, pilgrimages, cultural exhibitions, theatrical performances and musical concerts. The city's schools and universities take a break and the city's streets are decked out.
• Braga Romana (May or June): An event that has been taking place since 2003 in which city residents take to the streets to recreate the period of Braga from the Roman Empire period. The event involves several shows and festivities, including a Roman market, circus arts, theatrical performances, musical performances, Roman processions, among others.
• Feast of Saint John of Braga (June): It is the oldest and most traditional feast of São João in the country, with a variety of attractions, handicraft fairs, cultural presentations, parades, processions, processions, among other attractions.
• White Night (September): It's a good way to say goodbye to summer, with everyone dressed in white (the only requirement to enter). The White Night is 48 hours straight of cultural events and many free attractions for all ages, including musical concerts, theater plays, artistic performances, among others. Museums and theaters have free admission during the period.

HOW TO GET THERE AND GET AROUND BRAGA

Being in Braga, the best way to get around is on foot. The historic center of the city is not very big and super pleasant to walk around. Check below which are the main options to get to the city of Braga.

• CAR: A good option is to take a trip with a rented car to Guimarães, so you can stay as long as you want.
• TRAIN: Another option is to take the train (train in Portugal) and get off at Braga Railway Station, located about a 10-minute walk from the historic center. The journey from Porto to São Bento takes about 1h15 minutes and the ticket costs €3.25. See information about timetables and prices at official site Trains from Portugal.
• EXCURSIONS: One of the most popular ways to get to the city is by joining a tour from the city of Porto, which also includes the city of Braga. It is an excellent option for those who want to explore several places in one day without having to worry about public transport or renting a car. Check out some options below and click for more information.

WHAT TO DO IN BRAGA

To facilitate the organization of your trip to Braga, all attractions have been placed on the interactive map below. At attractions   are in blue, restaurants and shops in red and in black several other points of interest in black (parking lots, train station, bus station, accommodation tips, among others).

1. SANCTUARY OF BOM JESUS DO MONTE

The Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary is a monastery located about 10 minutes by car from the center of Braga that consists of a complex that houses a basilica , one religious goods store ( House of Prints ), a huge staircase (your registered trademark), parks and gardens , a funicular ( Bom Jesus Elevator ) and some hotels and restaurants. Since 2019, the Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary is listed as UNESCO World Heritage .

There is evidence of occupation on the site since the 14th century, but construction of the church as it can be seen today began in 1784 and was completed in 1811. With a Latin cross plan and two towers, the basilica is one of the first buildings in neoclassical style in Portugal. The outer courtyard has eight statues that represent important characters in the condemnation, passion and death of Christ.

As the name says, the church is on top of a hill (116 meters of difference in level), and to get there you have to take a funicular or climb the 573 steps  steep steps, actually 3 staircases, or staircase as spoken in Portugal. Are they: Portico Staircase (with 376 steps, built in 1723, where the first of the 17 chapels on the Via Sacra do Bom Jesus are located); Staircase of the Five Senses (104 steps spread over 5 flights of stairs with allegorical sources representing Sight, Hearing, Smell, Taste and Touch); it's the Staircase of the Three Virtues (with 93 steps, built in 1837, it houses 3 fountains dedicated to the theological virtues Faith, Hope and Charity).

• Address:  Estrada do Bom Jesus, 4715-056 Tenões, Portugal
• Basilica: Summer: from 8 am to 7 pm | Winter: 8 am to 6 pm
• Entrance: free to the monastery

Read more:   Portugal: Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary in Braga

2. SEE OF BRAGA

Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the Sé de Braga is the city's Cathedral that began to be built at the end of the 11th century and finished in the 13th century. She is the first Portuguese Cathedral to be built and is full of history, enormous artistic wealth and liturgy.

The building mixes different architectural and artistic styles, including Romanesque and Baroque, with two bell towers and three naves. Next to the Cathedral are two other attractions: the Church of Mercy and the Chapel of St. Gerard .

Among the highlights of the Cathedral of Braga is the tomb of Infante D. Afonso of Portugal , first son of D. João I and Philippa of Lancaster, and also the tombs of Henry of Burgundy , Count of Portucale and his wife, Teresa of Leon , parents of D. Afonso Henriques ; in addition to the baptismal font made of limestone in the Gothic-Manueline style of the 16th century.

Additionally, you can visit:

• Treasure of the See: Collection of sacred art collections that include goldsmithery, sculpture, painting, textiles, furniture, ceramics and objects of Catholic worship with more than 200 pieces.
• Chapels and High Choir: Visit includes the chapels of the Kings, S. Geraldo, Glória, Coro Alto and the Cathedral Organs. This visit is accompanied by a guide from the Cathedral.

• Address:  R. Dom Paio Mendes, 4700-424 Braga, Portugal
• Visits: from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm and from 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm (6:30 pm in summer)
• Route 2: Chapels and High Choir  – €2
• Route 3: Cathedral  – €2
• Route 1+2+3 ( Treasure-Museum  +  chapels and choir  +  Cathedral ): €5
• Route 1 + 2 ( Treasure-Museum  +  chapels and choir ): €4
• Route 1 + 3 ( Treasure-Museum  +  Cathedral ): €4
• Route 2 + 3 ( chapels and choir  +  Cathedral ): €4
• Forbidden to make tourist visits during worship hours
• Photos only without flash
• No photography inside the Treasure-Museum

3. CHAPEL AND HOUSE OF COIMBRAS

At the Largo de Santa Cruz , is the palace of Coimbras, built in the 16th century as a residence for ecclesiastics. Later, it was acquired by D. João de Coimbra who built a private chapel that became known as Capela dos Coimbras, also known as Capela de Nossa Senhora da Conceição. She is the oldest private chapel in town, belonging to the Lancaster family and was built in the form of a quadrangular tower. Its walls have images of Genesis drawn on tiles. In 1906, the Coimbras mansion was demolished and, in 1924, the building was rebuilt on the opposite side of the street, right next to the chapel. This new building is known as Casa dos Coimbras and preserves some of the windows and doors of the old palace. Currently, Casa dos Coimbras houses a museum, a garden and a Café.

• Address:  Largo de Santa Cruz 23, 4700-308 Braga, Portugal
• Schedules:  Thursday to Tuesday from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm | closed on wednesdays
• Entrance:  free

4. CHURCH OF SÃO MARCOS & LETREIRO DE BRAGA

O sign with the name of the city of Braga  is in front of the beautiful 16th century fountain in Largo Carlos Amarante with the beautiful Hotel Vila Gale Collection Braga and the church of San Marcos in the background.

Also known as Hospital Church (Address: R. de São Bentinho 21, 4700-327 Braga, Portugal), it was built in the 18th century and has in the center of the façade the statue of Saint Mark, patron of the church, whose relics are found inside the church. The other statues on the facade represent: Saint Simon, Saint Bartholomew, Saint James Minor, Saint John the Evangelist, Saint Andrew, Saint Peter, Saint Paul, Saint James Major, Saint Thomas, Saint Philip, Saint Matias and Saint Luke.

Leaning against the west facade of the building, is the Chapel of S. Bentinho (Address: R. de São Bentinho 23-27, 4700-327 Braga, Portugal). Closer to the sign is another church, the Santa Cruz Church (Address: Largo Carlos Amarante 11, 4700-308 Braga, Portugal), built in the 17th century, with a beautiful interior of gilded carvings, highlighted in the organ and pulpits that make the visit worthwhile.

5. PALÁCIO DO RAIO & SURROUNDINGS

The Palácio do Raio, also known as Casa do Mexicano, is a beautiful two-story Joanine Baroque-style building. Built between 1752 and 1755, its facade impresses with its beauty and decoration in blue tiles with ornate yellow details and 11 white windows. In 1883, it was sold to Santa Casa de Misericórdia, which installed some services at the Hospital de São Marcos. In 2015, the building was restored to house a museum, the Interpretive Center of the Memories of Mercy of Braga consisting of ten themed rooms. Its collection includes machines and devices used in medical care, as well as other utensils from old hospitals. The collection of the permanent exhibition is presented in an interactive and dynamic way, with videos and other elements that allow you to contemplate all the architectural and artistic beauty of the building, in addition to displaying items of sacred art, painting, sculpture, ceramics, jewelry, hospital and pharmaceutical items. and documents.

• Address:  Braga Norte 920, 4700-327 Braga, Portugal
• Schedules: Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 to 13:00 and from 14:30 to 18:30
• Entrance: free

In front of the church, there is still the Costume Museum Dr. Gonçalo Sampaio (Address: Rua do Raio, nº2, 4710-925 Braga, Portugal | Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday from 2:39 pm to 5:30 pm | Admission: €2), an ethnographic museum with traditional costumes and musical instruments) and the Idol Fountain (Address: R. do Raio 379, 4700-921 Braga, Portugal | Hours: Monday to Friday from 9:30 am to 1 pm and from 2 pm to 5:30 pm and Saturday from 11 am to 5:30 pm | Admission: €1.90), which is the remaining an ancient Roman sanctuary.

6. PRAÇA DA REPÚBLICA & BASÍLICA DOS CONGREGADOS

The Arcade, as the Republic square de Braga is a historic square that was first built during the Middle Ages. Since the end of the 16th century, it was the place where most of the items that supplied the city were concentrated. In the mid-nineteenth century, the large space was transformed into a garden, the Central Avenue Garden . The place only gained the name of Praça da República, after the establishment of the republic in Portugal in 1910. In 1995, a beautiful fountain, known as Republic Square fountain, practically in front of Lapa Church (Praça da República 27, 4710-305 Braga, Portugal).

The square gives access to the Basilica of the Congregates (Address: Av. Central 98, 4710-229 Braga, Portugal | Hours: Monday to Friday from 8 am to 6 pm, Saturday from 8 am to 11 pm, Sunday from 8 am to 1 pm), built in the 18th century and completely completed only in the 20th century , which is located in the former Convento dos Congregados. There are two statues on the façade that represent São Felipe Néri and São Martinho de Dume. In addition, the church has two bell towers on the sides that have clocks on the facade. The ceiling of the presbytery is the only rococo stucco that Braga still preserves.

Next door, on one of the most important avenues in the city, the Liberty avenue , is the Braga Tourist Office (Av. da Liberdade 1, 4710-251 Braga, Portugal), offering help to visitors through maps, information and tour tips. Avenida is also the address of a historic theater, the Circus Theater , located in a building of imposing architecture.

7. NOGUEIRA DA SILVA MUSEUM

Opposite the Basilica dos Congregados, across the square, is the Nogueira da Silva Museum, a museum founded in 1975 by the philanthropist Antonio Augusto Nogueira da Silva. The museum's collection includes European paintings, sculptures and decorative arts, as well as houses French-inspired gardens that feature statues and a fountain. The permanent exhibition includes an important collection of porcelain, pieces of furniture, paintings, silver and ivory items and some tapestries and tiles.

• Address:  Av. Central 61, 4710-308 Braga, Portugal
• Galleries and Cafeteria: Tuesday to Friday from 10 am to 12.30 pm and from 2 pm to 6.30 pm | Saturday from 2pm to 6.30pm | closed on Mondays, Sundays and holidays
• Entrance:  €2 over 14 years old

8. OLD CASTLE OF BRAGA & HOUSE TOWER 

The Keep is the main surviving structure of the old Castle of Braga, whose construction took place after invasions in 1369, in the period of D. Dinis, although the history of the walls of Braga is much earlier (end of the 3rd century during the Roman occupation ). During the 14th and 15th centuries, once the castle was completed, attention was focused on the walls. It is in this context that numerous towers of quadrangular plan appear.

With about 12 meters of base and 30 meters of height, the Keep  it is made of granite and has 3 floors. It is the only one of the five or six towers that served as watchtowers on the ancient medieval walls that surrounded the city. On one of the facades there is a stone of arms of Dom Dinis. The castle area was demolished in 1906, after having been used as a prison for a few years. Currently, the Keep is used as an art gallery.

• Address: R. do Castelo 19, 4700-328 Braga, Portugal
• Schedules: Tuesday to Saturday from 14:00 to 17:30

Also on Rua do Castelo, close to the Torre de Menagem and the Largo San Francisco , is at Church of the Third or Church of the Third Order of San Francisco , built around 1690 in Baroque style, beautiful facade and interior decorated with white and blue tiles depicting biblical scenes.

9. FORMER ARCHIEPISCOPAL PACE & SURROUNDINGS

In the past, the Archbishop's Palace was the palace of the Archbishops of Braga, constituting a very beautiful architectural complex. In front of the oldest building is the Santa Barbara Garden , known as Paço Medieval de Braga. It was built during the Middle Ages, between the 14th and 15th centuries. In the center of the garden is a fountain from the 17th century, with a statue of Santa Bárbara, which gives the garden its name.

At the entrance to the garden, dragon fountain , with a beautiful dragon statue on a boardwalk surrounded by buildings and some restaurants and cafes.

Other buildings in the complex surround the Largo do Paço , a square that houses in the center the  Castle Fountain , built in 1723 in Largo Paço. At the top, there is a female figure that symbolizes the city. These buildings house the offices of the rectory of the University of Minho .

There is also another building in the complex that faces the Town Hall Square and was built at the beginning of the 18th century, in Baroque style. It currently houses the Braga Public Library . On the opposite side, in this same square, are the City Hall of Braga , seat of the city council (city hall). Built between 1753 and 1865, the building is “considered one of the most exemplary of Baroque architecture in the Iberian Peninsula”. Ahead is the pelican fountain .

10. PORTA NOVA ARCH

The old Braga Castle also had 8 entrance gates in the walls. O Porta Nova Arch (Address: R. Dom Diogo de Sousa 127, 4700-424 Braga, Portugal), in Baroque style, built in 1512 and renovated in 1773 can still be seen. You will need to walk through R. do Souto , a super charming pedestrian street in the center of the city.

Next to Arco da Porta Nova, there is a hidden medieval tower , belonging to the wall, whose entrance is made by the Image Museum (Address: Campo das Hortas 35, 4700-421 Braga, Portugal | Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday from 11 am to 7 pm, Saturdays and Sundays from 2:30 pm to 6 pm | Admission: free).

Enjoy and give the Field of Vegetable Gardens , which houses a beautiful garden nearby.

11. BISCAINHOS MUSEUM

The Biscainhos Museum is located in a baroque mansion located on the street of the same name which is a reference to artisans from Biscay (province in northern Spain where the city of Bilbao is located) who settled in the city in the 16th century. Construction began in the 17th century and the house has been modified over the centuries. In 1963, it was donated to the municipality. With large halls with luxurious ceilings, the Biscainhos Museum displays a decorative arts collection with glass objects, jewellery, ceramics, furniture, textiles and watches.

Built in 1750, the garden of the property is one of the most important of the Baroque period in Portugal , and has a formal garden, orchard and vegetable gardens, among other spaces decorated with Baroque fountains and sculptures. Renovations are planned to take place in early 2023 and extend into 2024. 

• Address:  R. dos Biscainhos s/n, 4700-415 Braga, Portugal
• Schedules: Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 1 pm and from 2 pm to 5.30 pm | closed on mondays
• Entrance:  €2 | free for the gardens

A few meters from the museum is Populo Church (Address: Praça Conselheiro Torres Almeida 113, 4700-435), built between the 16th and 19th centuries.

12. PIO XII MUSEUM

located in Santiago Square , the Pius XII Museum is a museum dedicated to archeology and sacred art. Located in the building that houses the Conciliar Seminary of Santiago, the Pio XII Museum houses three visitation areas, in addition to a room for temporary exhibitions. The collection has paintings and statues related to religious art, as well as sarcophagi, gargoyles and crosses from archaeological excavations.

It is still possible to visit Medina Gallery , which exhibits the largest collection of painter Henrique Medina, with 76 works and a medieval tower .

• Address: Largo de Santiago 47, 4700-039 Braga, Portugal
• Schedules:  from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm and from 2:30 pm to 6:00 pm | closed on mondays
• Entrance:  Exhibition “One Museum, One History”: 2 € | Henrique Medina Gallery: 2 | Medieval Tower: 2 € | All spaces/cores: 4 €

13. LARGO DE SÃO PAULO

In the late 1990s, archaeological excavations were carried out that discovered the presence of several walls from the Roman era. Currently, with a monument in honor of Frei Bartolomeu dos Mártires, Archbishop of Braga, Largo de São Paulo stands out for the presence of the following attractions:

• St Paul's Church: Installed in the São Pedro and São Paulo Seminary and integrated into the Pio II Museum, it was inaugurated in 1589. Among its highlights are: the grand chapel's altarpiece, the beautiful rococo-style altar, two tile panels in the chapel- main and statues of the four evangelists.
• Chapel of Our Lady of the Tower and Torre de Santiago: Built next to one of the entrances to the old city wall in one of the surviving medieval towers. The tower is also part of the Pius XII Museum, where you can buy tickets to visit it.

• Church of São Tiago da Ctividade: Built in the 17th century, with Mannerist, Baroque and Neoclassical features. It has only one nave, with a side chapel and a chancel. Inside, the Mannerist baptismal font and the national Baroque altarpiece in the side chapel stand out.
• Port of Santiago: One of the gates of the old walls of Braga, which housed one of the medieval lookout points and one of the entrances to the city.

14. ROMAN SPA HIGH CIVITY

The Roman Baths of Alto da Ctividade, also known as the Roman Baths of Maximinos, were revealed in archaeological excavations carried out in the late 1970s. , sauna and sports) from the city of Ancient Rome that existed before Braga, called Bracara Augusta. Probably, the baths were built at the end of the 1st century and, at the end of the 4th century, the building began to undergo a major remodeling, having its surface altered. Currently, it is possible to see in the archaeological site some columns and compartments that supported the chambers of the thermal baths.

• Address:  R. Dr. Rocha Peixoto 13, 4700-043 Braga, Portugal
• Schedules:  Monday to Friday from 9:30 am to 1 pm and from 2 pm to 5:30 pm

15. D. DIOGO DE SOUSA ARCHEOLOGY MUSEUM

Opened in 1918, the name of this archeology museum is a tribute to the Archbishop of Braga, between 1505 and 1532, for being one of the pioneers in preserving the heritage of the ancient city of Bracara Augusta. The collection has archeology collections from the north of Portugal, from the Paleolithic period to the Medieval period and has best collection of milestones from all over Europe . Miliarios were rectangular-based columns up to 2 meters high and weighing up to 2 tons that were used as distance markers along the roads of the Roman Empire (1 Roman mile ∼1480 meters).

• Address:  R. dos Firefighters s/n, 4700-025 Braga, Portugal
• Schedules:  Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 5:30 pm | closed on mondays
• D. Diogo de Sousa Museum and Biscainhos Museum: 4€
• D. Diogo de Sousa Museum, Biscainhos Museum and SM Monastery of Tibães: 7€

WHERE TO EAT IN BRAGA

Braga has many restaurant options and you can be sure that you will have several interesting options, especially in the area of Avenida da Liberdade and around the Chafariz da Praça da República. Below are some suggestions:

• Natal Lisbon   (coffee shop)
• hibiscus (vegetarian and vegan buffet)
• green angel (vegetarian and vegan options)
• Soul – Healthy and Good Food (Coffee, healthy, contemporary food)
• Seed – Art, Coffee & Plant Based Food (European, healthy food and health food store)
• Lettuce (European, Portuguese, vegetarian options)
• Superior Taste Vegetarian Restaurant (vegetarian, healthy)
• Sale&Dolce (Italian food) |   see our experience here

• BRAC (Portuguese food, vegetarian options)
• The Brazilian (Coffee, Portuguese food)
• Café Vianna (bar, cafe, mediterranean food)
• Café Astoria (bar, Cafe, European food)
• Vegan Details (vegan food)
• Cantinho Fryers (Coffee, Portuguese, European food)
• Belgian Tavern (Portuguese food | one of the best Francesinhas)

WHERE TO BUY IN BRAGA

• Walkway House (household goods store)
• BragaShopping (shopping center)
• new arcade (shopping center)
• Minho Center Shopping Center (shopping center)
• R. do Souto, R. Francisco Sanches and surroundings (streets full of different shops)

WHERE TO STAY IN BRAGA

Below, you will find some well located and highly rated hotels in Braga that are divided by stars:

• ibis Braga Center
• Dora Residential Hotel
• Hotel Dona Sofia
• Hotel Senhora A Branca
• Urban Hotel Estação
• Burgus Tribute & Design Hotel (we have already stayed! – check it out here )
• Vila Gale Collection Braga
• Hotel Moon & Sun Braga
• Hotel Bracara Augusta
• Braga Heritage Lofts (apartment hotel)

Save these tips to Pinterest!

Read more about Portugal:

• Portugal: What to do in Porto – 2 or 3 days itinerary
• Portugal: How to get from Porto Airport to the center
• Port: Hotel One Shot Aliados Goldsmith 12
• Portugal: Guided Tour of the beautiful Palácio da Bolsa in Porto
• Restaurante Onze: Haute cuisine in Porto
• Porto: Restaurant Francesinhas Al Forno da Baixa
• Cálem: Tour in the most visited cellar in Port Wine
• Vices at the Table – Bad Habits: Pizza and culture in Porto
• Porto.CARD: Savings tip in the city of Porto
• Porto: Lello Bookstore, the most beautiful bookstore in the world
• Portugal: Ribeira Square Restaurant in Porto
• Kind Kitchen: Casual Vegan Food in Porto
• Portugal: Curiosities and Tours on the 6 Bridges of Porto
• Lisbon accommodation tip: Brown's Downtown Hotel
• Portugal: What to do in Lisbon – 3 days itinerary
• Portugal: Guide to where to eat in Lisbon (with map!)
• Lisbon: Dinner with Fado performances at Adega Machado
• Lisbon Card: Savings tip in the Portuguese capital
• Portugal: The historic Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon
• Portugal: How to visit São Jorge Castle in Lisbon
• Portugal: Visiting the Belém Tower in Lisbon
• Portugal: How to get from Lisbon Airport to the center
• Portugal: Discover the National Pantheon in Lisbon

ARE YOU GOING TO TRAVEL? SCHEDULE YOUR TRIP HERE!

  hotel reservation :  use the  booking.com to book your accommodation,   car rental : get a quote at  rentcars   and check the price at the main rental companies in the world,   tickets & tours :  buy tickets to the world's top attractions online with get your guide ,   tickets & tours :  buy tickets for tours and guided tours online at civitatis ,   sports events tickets :  buy tickets to major us sporting events online with hellotickets ,   travel insurance :  quote with the  promo insurance  for different plans and destinations. use code "viajonarios5" to guarantee 5% off,   train in europe :  buy your train tickets at the best prices at  trainline ,   international cell phone chip  with the easysim4u  and leave with the chip working  before travelling,   purchase of foreign currency with the best exchange rates with exchange now , related articles more from the author.

Germany: How to get from Berlin airport to the center

England: Accommodation at Blakemore Hyde Park in London

Portugal: 10 free tours in Porto

Leave your comment cancel comment.

Save my name, email and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

An Epic Day Trip from Porto to Braga: Is Braga Worth Visiting?

A day trip from Porto to Braga is a wonderful way to get to know this fascinating ancient city with nearly 2,000 years of history.

If you are asking yourself “ Is Braga worth visiting ?”, the short answer is yes. This old-world city is packed full of so much historical significance that you shouldn’t pass it up on a trip to northern Portugal.

To plan an amazing getaway in the country’s Minho region, follow along this guide for the best things to do in Braga, Portugal , how to get to Braga, and the best hotels in Braga if you want to stay overnight.

Table of Contents

Where is Braga, Portugal?

Braga is located in northern Portugal, about 34 miles (55 kilometers) north of Porto. Admired for its religious heritage and picturesque architecture the city is considered one of the oldest in Portugal – and one of the world’s oldest Christian cities.

Many of Braga’s origins date back over 2,000 years. That’s because it was founded by the Romans and was first called Bracara Augusta. 

The city served as a religious center during their rule, and you’ll even come across Portugal’s oldest cathedral here.

Today, Braga attracts visitors to Portugal for its well-preserved historic center, home to old-world cobblestone streets, ornate churches, and beautiful plazas. 

The city is also known for its lively atmosphere, with local markets, cozy cafes, and unique festivals throughout the year.

How to Plan a Day Trip From Porto to Braga

If you want to enjoy the best Braga travel experiences, plan a trip from nearby Porto. Here’s how to get Braga from Porto.

1. Rent a Car and Drive From Porto to Braga

After   moving to Portugal , my biggest advice to travelers is to rent a car in Portugal.

The roads are terrific, you can get a great deal from  Discover Cars , and you’ll have a chance to see the real Portugal. 

I’ve visited Portugal with and without a car, and there is no question that you are missing out if you are relying on public transportation solely.

Enjoy the benefits of traveling through the Minho region at your own pace, and also be able to soak up the charm of the nearby  Douro Valley  and its numerous wineries.

It’s also a great idea to  rent a car in Porto  if you want to see the birthplace of Portugal, Guimarães – another one of the best day trips from Porto. 

By car, it takes about 45 minutes to get from Porto to Braga on the A3 toll road.

Book your rental car now!

2. Take a Braga and Guimarães Full-Day Tour from Porto

If you want to sit back and worry less about planning and transportation, this   Braga and Guimarães Full-Day Tour  is the way to go. A professional tour guide takes you out of Porto through the lovely Minho region toward Braga’s most historic spots.

Your first stop will be the famous Bom Jesus do Monte, which translates to Good Jesus of the Mount in English. It’s one of the most stunning Catholic shrines we’ve seen and it’s a gem to see in person. 

You’ll also get to explore the center of Braga, with some free time, and see the Braga Cathedral.

What we like about this tour is that it also brings you to Guimarães, considered the birthplace of Portugal and the first Portuguese king. There’s a medieval castle built to defend the monastery from attacks in the 10th century.

The tour to both cities lasts 9 hours and includes all entry fees to visit attractions. There is an option to have lunch included in your reservation.

Book a Braga and Guimarães Full-Day Tour now!

3. Porto Train to Braga

For a fast and efficient way to visit Braga take an  Alfa Pendular train . There are about ten trains a day to Braga, departing from two main Porto train stations: Campanha Station and the beautiful São Bento Station.

The earliest train usually departs just before 8 AM and arrives at the Braga train station just before 9 AM.

Return trains run well past 10 PM, so you could spend the entire day in Braga if you wanted to. During peak hours the trains are available every 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Campanha Station has a fast train that takes around 38 minutes; otherwise, the journey is usually 1 hour.

Buy tickets online, at the stations, or through the CP app (Comboios de Portugal). Tickets will usually be cheapest at the station and on the app.

4. Braga Bus Station

The bus is the cheapest and also a fast option. Buses run all day and night, with numerous different carriers. The journey is 45 minutes.

The main choices are Renex, Rede Express, Alsa, and Flixbus. The price is usually slightly cheaper than the train, with single tickets starting at €3.  Check the bus schedule here .

Is Braga worth visiting?

Absolutely! Braga is definitely worth visiting as a day trip if you love old historic places, picturesque old towns, and local markets. It’s one of Portugal’s oldest cities, and its Roman Catholic roots make it a really interesting place to visit.

It’s full of historical sites like ancient churches, picturesque squares, and well-preserved landmarks like the Bom Jesus do Monte with its Baroque architecture and hilltop views overlooking the region.

As the city is relatively small, you can see the highlights on a half-day trip from Porto.

If you are looking for a full day trip from Porto, Braga is worth visiting if you also add a visit to nearby Guimarães, a UNESCO World Heritage Site full of Portuguese history. 

Braga vs Porto

Braga and Porto are both incredible destinations in northern Portugal, but they are quite different in terms of travel experiences.

Braga is steeped in history and religious importance with stunning churches, ancient landmarks, and a rich cultural heritage that dates back 2,000 years.

Its picturesque squares, narrow cobblestone streets, annual festivals, and lively atmosphere make it a delightful medium-sized city to explore for a day or two during a trip to Portugal.

On the other hand, Porto is Portugal’s second-largest city and is famous for its stunning riverside location, historic architecture, and vibrant wine and port scene.

From the Dom Luís I Bridge crossing the Douro River to the city’s charming old town, Porto is a very charming city that serves as an excellent base for exploring more of Portugal.

While Braga is smaller and offers a more intimate and traditional Portuguese experience, Porto is larger and more bustling, with a dynamic urban energy and a wide range of attractions, including museums, galleries, and trendy restaurants and bars.

To sum it up, Braga is an amazing day trip or overnight destination and Porto is where you would want to base your trip because it has a lot more to do and a better public transport hub for seeing more of the country.

Best Things to Do in Braga, Portugal

Start planning an memorable day trip from Porto to Braga with this guide on the best Braga, Portugal things to do.

Bom Jesus do Monte

A stunning hilltop sanctuary offering wonderful views of Braga, Bom Jesus do Monte, meaning Good Jesus of the Mount, is famous for its monumental stairway and Baroque architecture.

It was built in the 1700s as a Portuguese Catholic Shrine, and is a must-see when visiting Braga.

Take a hefty stroll up the stairs – there are 577 of them in total – or ride the funicular for a picturesque experience. You’ll definitely want to take some photos – the views overlooking the city are stunning.

Keep in mind that Bom Jesus do Monte is technically in Tenões just outside of Braga. If you book the day tour from Porto, you will conveniently stop here before heading into the center of the city.

Otherwise, you can drive if you’re renting a car or take the No. 2 bus from the Rotunda Estação just outside the Estação de Braga. The bus takes a little more than 30 minutes.

And unless you are taking the funicular, which costs a few euros, visiting the shrine at Bom Jesus do Monte is completely free of charge.

Raio Palace

If you want to see a picture-perfect palace, Raio Palace (Casa do Raio) is one of the most beautiful Braga attractions.

Even if you don’t take a tour of the interior, you’ll still have a lot to take in from the outside. The exterior is filled with intricate blue tilework and Baroque/Rococo details that make for a very Portugal backdrop for Instagram photos.

However, the inside is really nice to see as well. It’s a historical place turned into a museum. The rooms are full of creative expression, with hand painted tiles, frescoes on the ceiling, paintings and statues, and elegantly designed rooms that you’d expect from an 18th century palace.

It’s also completely free to enter, so if you have time to stop in, we recommend it.

The palace is open every day from 10 AM to 5:30 PM. However, there is a siesta from 12:30 until 2:30 PM, so it will be closed during those hours.

Braga Cathedral (Sé de Braga)

Dating back to the 11th century, Braga Cathedral is a magnificent example of old-world religious architecture. It’s unique because it pulls from Gothic, Baroque, Romanesque, and even Moorish styles. 

When it comes to what to do in Braga, you’ll want to step inside to admire its nave, altarpiece, and all of its intricate carvings.

A basic ticket, which is €2, includes entry only to the cathedral. But if you get a full visit ticket for €5, you’ll get access to the chapels as well as the museum and upper choir.

It’s worth it to pay a few euros extra to see the other parts of the cathedral. 

With the full ticket, a guide will unlock the chapel and show you around and take you to the mummified body of Dom Lourenço Vicente, an archbishop who lost his eye in the Battle of Aljubarrota in 1385.

The upper chapel is also stunning with hand carved seats and oversized organs.

The cathedral is open to the public every day from 8 AM to 7 PM, aside from when services are in session or events are being held.

Santa Barbara Garden (Jardim de Santa Bárbara)

In the middle of the city, Jardim de Santa Bárbara is a cozy place to see one day in Braga.

The garden is well maintained with a central fountain, pristine bushes, and a selection of vibrant flowers that are changed seasonally to keep color in the garden through the year.

What we really loved about the garden is how it’s partially surrounded by the remains of a medieval arcade. Behind that is a 14th century palace, but it’s part of the university and not open to the public.

There are a lot of cafes near the garden, so you might like to stop by for coffee and traditional Portuguese pastry along the way. You could also get some pastries pra levar – or for takeaway.

The Arch of the New Gate (Arco da Porta Nova)

Another one of the many remnants of Braga’s rich history can be found at the west end of the historic center.

Arco da Porta Nova, meaning the Arch of the New Gate, is an ornamental gateway that leads pedestrians into the most historic part of Braga from the west.

It’s set on Rua do D. Diogo de Sousa, which is a great street for shopping and looking for souvenirs.

What’s cool is that the arch, standing tall above the roof of the surrounding buildings, is different on both sides. So, be sure to take a look from both perspectives.

Biscaínhos Museum

For a look at what Baroque society was like for nobles in Braga, visit the Biscaínhos Museum set in a 16th century mansion.

It was home to noblemen who got their wealth from tobacco and coffee plantations in Brazil and came to display it in Braga when taking on roles as stonemasons.

It’s an interesting place to see for a historical perspective during one day in Braga. The majority of the palace has retained the same furniture, architecture, artwork, and household appliances used during that time in history.

There’s a grand oil painting on the ceiling, lavish ceramics, luxurious Baroque furniture, and other clear flauntings of this family’s wealth.

A formal garden also separates the main house from the kitchens. The walk through the garden is lovely, as it’s so well maintained with perfectly trimmed hedges and fruit trees.

The museum is closed on Mondays and is open the rest of the week from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM with a siesta between 12:30 to 2:30 PM.

Explore Braga’s City Center

Easily one of the best things to do in Braga, Portugal is to just wander around its historic center.

You’ll come across a lot of colorful facades with Portuguses tiles, boutique shops, and cozy cafes and stylish restaurants that line its old-world, picturesque streets.

While exploring, we recommend stopping by some of the local markets to sample some traditional Portuguese treats like viúvas custard tarts and Abade de Priscos crème caramel pudding.

The center of Braga is also an amazing place for flower lovers. Pedestrian streets are filled with grassy medians that are filled with flowers. We’re sure the bees must love Braga.

Eat Delicious Vegetarian and Vegan Cuisine

Braga may be known for its traditional Portuguese cuisine, so we were surprised to find so many delicious plant-based restaurants. 

We had a friend of ours move to Braga and she turned us on to two healthy restaurants in Braga. One is Cafetaria Semente, which is a really hip coffee shop with plant-based brunch and lunch options,

The other is called Gosto Superior. They focus on organic ingredients to make vegetarian alternatives to Portuguese and Mediterranean dishes.

On the other hand, if you love Portuguese cuisine or want to try common dishes in Braga – like francesinha (a bread, meat, cheese, and sauce sandwich-like dish) or bacalhau (salted codfish), have a traditional meal at Tia Isabel or Taberna do Migaitas.

See the UNESCO World Heritage Guimarães on a Braga Day Trip

One of the best parts of taking a day tour from Porto to Braga is that it doesn’t only show you the best of Braga but also the nearby medieval town of Guimarães.

To do it all, and see Bom Jesus do Monte right outside of Braga, in one day can be tricky and tiresome as you’ll waste a lot of time waiting for public transport.

Instead, the tour simplifies everything, fills you with details on the history (with lots of fun facts) of each place you visit, and helps you really get a sense of both Braga and Guimarães.

Best Things to Do in Guimarães

As the birthplace of Portugal and the home of its first king, Guimarães has great historical importance and that’s part of why it’s so nice to visit.

Its incredibly well-preserved medieval architecture and cobblestone streets transport you back in time, and, of course, the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

One of the must-visit attractions in Guimarães is the Guimarães Castle , a medieval fortress that offers amazing views of the city and region’s landscape.

The historic center of Guimarães, known as Largo da Oliveira , is another highlight, featuring picturesque streets lined with quaint cafes, shops, and historic buildings.

The Palace of the Dukes of Braganza is known for its incredible medieval architecture that has a truly storybook feel. Plus, the palace provides insight into the noble history of the region and a tour takes you to beautifully preserved rooms and artifacts from centuries past.

Weather and Best Time to Visit Braga, Portugal

The weather in Braga is typically mild and pleasant throughout most of the year, so it can be ideal to visit anytime.

Summers are warm and sunny and it doesn’t typically get unbearably hot. It hovers around mid-60s to low 80s Fahrenheit (around 18-28°C). This is the peak tourist season, so the city is full of life with festivals, outdoor dining, and loads of flowers.

Spring and autumn in Braga are also lovely seasons to visit. The temperatures are a little cooler but still very comfortable. Plus, late May or early June is when the Braga Romana festival is and the weather is generally very nice this time of year.

The least popular time to visit Braga is winter when the city sees the most rain. It can also be chilly in winter.

The best time to visit is typically May through July when the weather is excellent and there are a lot of festivals going on.

Braga Festivals

Braga is one of the best places to visit in Portugal for cultural festivals, so if you happen to be visiting around the time of one of them, you’re in luck!

• Semana Santa festivities take place during Easter. Since this city is deeply rooted in religious history, it’s a big celebration. Expect  processions, reenactments of the Passion of Christ, and elaborate religious ceremonies held in the Braga Cathedral and other churches throughout the city.
• Braga Romana takes place in late May or early June. Residents are proud of their city’s heritage, and this 4-day festival is like a homage to the past when Braga was the Roman city of Bracara Augusta some 2,000 years ago. Locals embrace all things Roman, and some people call it “the world’s biggest toga  party.” It’s a fun time to visit Braga.
• Feast of Saint John ( São João de Braga ) typically includes colorful processions featuring traditional costumes, music, street parties, fireworks, and bonfires that people jump over to purify themselves. It’s an even bigger party in Porto.
• Braga White Night (Noite Branca) is an annual nighttime arts festival with concerts, dance, art installations, street art, and museum and gallery exhibits. During the festival, the streets of Braga come alive with a magical ambiance.
• Bananeiro – We tried to go to this wacky Christmas Eve tradition of eating bananas and chasing them with a shot of Moscatel when we were living in Portugal but it was rained out. It’s supposed to be a blast.

Where to Stay in Braga or Guimarães Overnight 

If you want to see the most Braga attractions, staying one night in Braga or Guimarães will give you the extra time you need to see everything. Here are some of the best places to stay in either city.

• Vila Gale Collection Braga   (8.8): Set in a lavish medieval building just minutes from the Braga Cathedral, the suites feel luxurious with original details and modern bathrooms. 
• Pousada Mosteiro de Guimarães  (9.1): This 5-star hotel in Guimarães is set in a 12th-century monastery and offers a unique stay in Portugal, including an outdoor pool and formal garden.
• Burgus Tribute & Design Hotel  (9.1): Located on a Braga cobbled street, this sophisticated hotel has neutral-toned rooms, a nice bar, and great city views.
• Hotel Moon & Sun Braga  (8.7) This hotel is right by the Jardim de Santa Barbara and has a more modern feel, a diverse breakfast menu, and a rooftop terrace.
• Eurostars Santa Luzia  (8.6): A more modern option in Guimarães is this boutique hotel with an outdoor and indoor pool with spa and dining options.
• B&B HOTEL Guimarães  (8.8): This is one of the best budget places to stay. The rooms are simple but have lovely wood floors, big windows, and a continental breakfast served daily.

Are You Still Wondering if Braga is Worth Visiting? Our Final Thoughts on a Day Trip to Braga From Porto

If we haven’t convinced you yet that Braga is worth it, what you will get on a day trip from Porto to Braga is a chance to see the oldest city in Portugal, which is a charming blend of medieval and modern influences.

While Porto has a vibrant urban atmosphere, historic landmarks, and the beautiful Douro River, Braga offers a different Portugal experience in a more tranquil setting, filled with flowers and ornate churches.

Save this Day Trip From Porto to Braga post for later? Pin it!

About Jenifer

You might also like....

Hiking in Madeira: 5 Best Hikes & Levada Walks in Madeira

12 Best Hotels in the Douro Valley Portugal

Foz Do Arelho, Portugal: A Hidden Gem on the Silver Coast

No comments, leave a reply cancel reply.

Copyright 2024 - The Evolista | All Rights Reserved | Disclosure

• Visit Liverpool
• Visit The U.K.
• Other Destinations
• Ella In The Media
• Work With Me!

How to Visit Braga and Guimarães in One Day – The EASY Way!

• April 2, 2023

There is a good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you! As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. As ever, all opinions are my own.

Braga and Guimarães are two of the most popular day trips from Porto, but most visitors only spend a weekend in Porto and don’t have enough time on their trip to go on two separate day trips. Instead, lots of visitors consider visiting both Braga and Guimarães in one day.

If you’re wondering whether it’s even possible to visit Braga and Guimarães in one day, the answer is yes! It’ll be a really jam-packed day, but it’s definitely possible .

To see both Braga and Guimaraes in one day, you have two options: taking this guided tour for the day (the easy option ) or visiting them independently on public transport.

On my trip to Porto, I spent a long time scouring the internet trying to work out how to visit both Guimarães and Braga in one day. It was a challenge! I didn’t want all that research to go to waste, so I decided it would be a great idea to share my insider knowledge and top tips here.

Table of Contents

Option 1: Visiting Braga and Guimarães in One Day with a Tour

Ahhhh, the easy option. Life’s so much better when it’s easy.

Although later in this post I’ll try my best to make visiting Guimarães and Braga in one day by yourself as easy as possible, the reality is you’d need to catch no less than five different buses throughout the day.

By waiting for and taking public transport, you’ll lose out on a ton of valuable sightseeing time!

That’s why, if I was to combine the two cities into one day trip, I’d take a tour . 

No doubt about it. 

It’s easy, it gives you more sightseeing time , and it’s not even that expensive. 

When it comes to tours to Braga and Guimarães from Porto, this is the best value tour out there. It costs €60 for the day, including your transportation, entry to all the essential monuments and palaces AND lunch.

For that price, it’s definitely worth taking a tour for the day to avoid any hassle or public transport stress!

Click here to check departure times and latest availability!

Option 2: Visiting Braga and Guimarães in One Day with Public Transport

Although technically possible, given the amount of time you’ll spend on public transport to visit these two cities on a day trip from Porto, it will be a very long day! If you’re adamant that you’re visiting both cities in one day by yourself, here’s how to do it.

I recommend heading to Braga first since it gets slightly busier than Guimarães. You can get to Braga from Porto either by train or bus.

How to Get From Porto to Braga

You have two options to get from Porto to Braga by public transport – the train, or the bus.

Train : The train from São Bento station to Braga takes 55 minutes , and costs €3.25. Although you can buy tickets on the day, it’s better to book online in advance to be as organised as possible. 

Bus: The bus from Porto to Braga takes around 1 hour , and is operated by FlixBus . It departs from Camelias bus station in Porto, and arrives at the Braga Transport Centre (Centro Coordenador de Transportes de Braga). You definitely should book your tickets in advance for the bus, as the earlier you book the cheaper they’ll be.

Whichever option you choose, aim to take the earliest departure you can to maximise the amount of time you’ll have exploring the two cities!

Things to Do in Braga

Once you’re in Braga, spend the morning exploring the city. There are a ton of gorgeous churches to visit in the city, as well as the tranquil Garden of Santa Barbara. If you’ve come all this way, though, chances are you want to visit the Bom Jesus do Monte , the world-famous pilgrimage site.

To get to the Bom Jesus from Braga, it’s unfortunately another journey on public transport. You can hop on bus number 2 or bus number 88, which takes around 20 minutes each way .

Your best option is to purchase the 1-day tourist ticket from the bus driver for €3.35, which will cover your return journey.

Bom Jesus do Monte

The Bom Jesus is the reason most people go on a day trip to Braga from Porto, as it’s one of the most recognisable monuments in Portugal . That said, visiting it does take up quite a bit of your limited time in Braga during this day trip!

I recommend allocating no more than 45 minutes at the Bom Jesus before returning to central Braga because it’s time to move on to the next destination!

How to Get From Braga to Guimarães

You only have one option when it comes to getting from Braga to Guimarães – you’ll need to catch the bus. There are two providers.

The Arriva Bus takes 50 minutes , and the Flix Bus takes 25 minutes . Obviously, this means the Flix Bus is the one to aim for, but it’s way less frequent. If you’re travelling with FlixBus, you’ll need to book your tickets in advance.

Things to Do in Guimarães

Finally, you’re in the fairytale city of Guimarães, and it’s time to explore! I have a full guide on the best things to do in Guimarães, but first it’s time for a late lunch!

You can’t get a heartier or more affordable lunch anywhere in Guimarães better than at Cantinho do Sabores . It’s a restaurant for locals, so a bit of Portuguese will come in handy, but if not, Google Translate will do the trick.

After lunch, head straight to the Castle of Guimarães and the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza , the two top tourist attractions in the city. If you still have time afterwards, catch the cable car up to the mountain-top retreat of Penha for the sunset.

How to Get From Guimarães to Porto

To get from Guimarães to Porto, you can either catch the bus or the train, but the bus, at 50 minutes , is 25 minutes faster than the train. 5 different bus providers operate on this route, so it’s worth choosing the one that works best for you by checking the departure times here . 

On arrival back in Porto, it’s time to give yourself a huge round of applause, because you’ll be absolutely exhausted ! As you can see, visiting Braga and Guimarães in one day is definitely possible, even though it is definitely not simple or relaxing!

Braga or Guimarães?

If you’ve decided to slow down and visit just one of these cities, you’re probably wondering which is better – Braga or Guimarães? In my personal experience, Guimarães is better . You can easily spend a full day in Guimarães .

Most of the things to do and see in Braga are focused on religion. Guimarães, on the other hand, has a wider range of attractions and activities so you don’t just spend the whole day visiting churches and religious monuments.

If you’re into your religious sites, though, you will prefer Braga to Guimarães!

Is Braga Worth Visiting?

If you want to visit one of the most popular destinations in northern Portugal and you’re into religious sites, Braga is definitely worth visiting. It’s home to some of the most beautiful churches in Portugal, as well as the impressive Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary.

With that said, if you’re very pushed for time and are wondering if Braga is worth visiting instead of, for example, the Douro Valley or Guimarães, I would say you can definitely get away with skipping it. Especially if you’re not into religious sightseeing.

Is Guimarães Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! Guimarães is an absolutely charming day trip from Porto, and there’s something there for everyone – from the wonderful Guimarães Castle to the lovely hilltop village of Penha. It’s the perfect bite-sized place to see in one day. Guimarães is worth visiting!

How to Visit Braga and Guimarães in One Day From Porto

So, as you can see, it’s totally doable to visit both of these fabulous Portuguese cities in one day.

Do I recommend it, however? 

It depends!

If you’re desperate to visit both Braga and Guimarães, couldn’t possibly choose just one, and simply don’t have the time to allocate whole days to each of them, then, yes, you should definitely visit them both in one day!

The tour is the ideal way to take all the planning and stress out of the trip, too.

And hey, I’m not judging you. I’m no stranger to rocketing around a city at breakneck speed and trying to cram in as many attractions as possible. We gotta work with the time we have!

If, however, you have enough time to see both on separate days, or would rather immerse yourself in the destinations, then I really recommend spending a full day in each of these cities.

Ella Moore is the founder of Many More Maps. Growing up just 45 minutes away from Liverpool, Ella has spent years exploring the city inside out. In her teenage years, she was introduced to the music of The Beatles, and the rest, they say, is history! Today, she stands as a leading authority on Beatles tourism in Liverpool, helping over 40,000 people a month to plan their dream trip to the city.

You May Also Like

Big Waves in Nazare, Portugal – Ultimate 2024 Visitors Guide

• September 7, 2023

48 Hours in Porto: The Ultimate Weekend in Porto Itinerary

• August 2, 2023

Explore Pena Palace, Sintra: Your Complete 2023 Visitor’s Guide

• July 1, 2023

Epic Cascais Day Trip from Lisbon: What to Do & See (2024)

• May 1, 2023

Is Taking a Douro Valley Tour From Porto Worth It in 2024?

• April 7, 2023

Queluz National Palace: How to Visit From Lisbon (2024)!

• February 22, 2023

Experience Fado in Porto: Top Shows & Where to Watch (2024)

• February 19, 2023

Silves, Portugal – The Ultimate Travel Guide (+ Best Things to Do!)

• January 31, 2023

Input your search keywords and press Enter.

• Braga Tourism
• Braga Hotels
• Braga Bed and Breakfast
• Braga Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Braga
• Braga Restaurants
• Things to Do in Braga
• Braga Travel Forum
• Braga Photos
• All Braga Hotels
• Braga Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Braga
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Braga v Guimaraes - Braga Forum

• Europe    
• Portugal    
• Northern Portugal    
• Braga District    
• Braga    

Braga v Guimaraes

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• Braga District forums
• Braga forum

Hi friends. I'm looking for the pros and cons of staying over night in Braga vs. Guimaraes.

Guimarães is, to my mind, the more attractive of the two. Search for some pictures.

• Braga v Guimaraes 4:16 am
• Bom Jesus do Monte Buses (#2 and 88?) Feb 02, 2024
• Braga daily ticket Nov 18, 2023
• Braga tickets Sep 02, 2023
• Is Braga worth a visit and for how long? Aug 18, 2023
• Travelling for Premiera Match Jul 10, 2023
• Apartment on rent for one month in Braga May 12, 2023
• Fun activities in Braga May 09, 2023
• Tain or bus to Vigo Mar 13, 2023
• Nations League match Sep 09, 2022
• Braga free parking Aug 30, 2022
• Coastal town close to Braga/Guimaraes. May 15, 2022
• football info Apr 15, 2022
• January 1 Dec 10, 2021
• Travel direct from Porto airport to Braga? 7 replies
• Taxi Porto to Braga 13 replies
• Braga to Vigo 2 replies
• Porto airport to Braga transport 2 replies
• Braga to Porto 6 replies
• Questions about parking 5 replies
• Porto-Vigo 6 replies
• Fly into oporto for a week-then where? 4 replies
• Braga by night 4 replies
• Semana Santa in Braga 6 replies

Braga Hotels and Places to Stay

• Busses to Gerês

Experience Rome without the tourists by visiting this Portuguese dupe

With an average of 7 to 10 million visitors flocking to the ancient city each year, Rome receives its fair share of tourism.

But in the summer months, in particular, it becomes so flooded with people that it can become difficult to enjoy – not to mention the stifling temperatures of up to 31C.

However, there are ways to experience an essence of Rome without subjecting yourself to these conditions – and that’s in Portugal , where the country’s third city has been dubbed the ‘Portuguese Rome.’

Ever heard of Braga? A smaller city in the north of Portugal, northeast of Porto, Braga is the less touristy sister of Lisbon and Porto, which rack up between 6 and 3.7 million tourists each year respectively.

Earlier this year, the prestigious World Travel Awards named Braga in Portugal as Europe’s next emerging destination.

A mainstay of the Roman empire, Braga has had much significance in Portugal’s history. The city is home to beautiful architecture, ancient buildings and ruins, making it a great place to visit if you fancy yourself a bit of a culture vulture.

Things to do in Braga

Famous for its religious heritage, Braga is inundated with beautiful buildings to marvel at.

Portugal’s most photographed church, Bom Jesus do Monte, is located in Tenoes, just outside Braga, but it has an impressive Baroque stairway leading up a hilltop.

The hill is a staggering 116 metres high with around 580 steps, zigzagging to the top for a panoramic view of this 1700s beauty.

Braga Cathedral is even older, built between 1070 and 1093 atop the remains of a Roman temple. Incorporating Gothic, Baroque, Manueline and Renaissance styles, this architectural feat has a museum inside filled with local relics.

Elsewhere, the Chapel of São Frutuoso was constructed in the sixth century AD, making it one of the oldest buildings in the entirety of Portugal.

According to tradition, the chapel was built to replace an ancient Roman temple dedicated to Asclepius, AKA, the god of medicine and good health.

AD FEATURE: WIN the ultimate three-night VIP break with Butlin's Big Weekenders

Win the ultimate VIP weekend away! Butlin's is giving Metro readers the chance to party hard on a three-night  Butlin’s Big Weekender , exclusively for adults. These adult-only weekends span all your favourite decades and genres, with live performances from headline artists and world-class DJs. 

The lucky winner will bag a Butlin’s Big Weekender break for them and three pals at Minehead, Bognor Regis or Skegness. The prize includes three nights of accommodation in a gold apartment or hotel (Bognor only), plus premium dining, VIP passes to unforgettable events, and even American-style brekkie favourites and unlimited bubbles or beers at Bottomless Brunch.

To enter, simply head  here   and fill out your details. It’s going to be huge!

Competition closes midnight 26 April 2024.  Terms and conditions apply .

Then there’s the Santa Barbara Garden, which is attached to the 14 th century Archbishop’s Palace, one of the city’s most important historic structures composed of three separate buildings.

The oldest is medieval, built in a Gothic style, while the other two wings date back to the 16 th , 17 th and 18 th centuries.

For those who going on holiday hungry, Braga has an incredible foodie scene too.

There are plenty of regional dishes to try, from bacalhau (salted cod) and caldo verde (soup with potatoes, kale and chorizo) to pastel de nata (the famous custard tarts) and bife à Bragança (a traditional steak dish).

What to do in Braga

• Visit the creative centre of Braga, GNRation, which is located inside an old police headquarters. Here you’ll find galleries, concerts, film screenings, workshops and theatre performances.
• Braga is home to amazing bars and restaurants, with a lively atmosphere. Tripadvisor recommends checking out the Sardinha Biba nightclub if you fancy a dance.
• If you’re less of a dancer and more of a drinker, bars Tosga, 7Haus and Estudio 22 also come highly recommended.
• For food, Braga has an impressive nine Michelin restaurants . Portuguese joint Charme Restaruante comes highly recommended by The Fork .

How to get to Braga

The easiest way to get to Braga is to fly, with return flights starting from around £74.

If you’re travelling from the Big Smoke, there are flights available from London Gatwick to Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport to nearby Porto, but sadly, Braga doesn’t have its own airport.

However, Porto is only 40km away, accessible via bus, which takes around 40 minutes. If you’re looking to drive, it’ll take around 36 minutes.

If you’re coming from up north, there are flights to Porto Airport for around £100 return, but the route is more convoluted. Since there isn’t a direct route between Manchester and Porto, you’ll need to stop off either via Barcelona El Prat or Amsterdam.

When to visit Braga

If you’re in search of heat, the best time to visit Braga is undoubtedly the summer.

In June, temperatures reach balmy highs of 23C, while in July and August the mercury can reach 24C and 25C.

If the sun isn’t your thing (but equally, you don’t want to freeze), then the rest of the year temperatures don’t typically dip much below 10C.

In January and February, these can reach highs of 14C and 15C, while in November it remains a pleasant 17C.

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing [email protected] .

For even more unmissable travel news, features and inspiration in your inbox each week, sign up to Metro's The Getaway newsletter

The Church and Democracy

By Deborah Castellano Lubov

The Church and democracy, and how citizens, especially Catholics, can mobilize together in favour of the common good,  was at the heart of a recent high-level conference organized by the Portuguese Embassy to the Holy See and the Sovereign Military Order of Malta at the Ambassador's residence to celebrate the 50-year anniversary of the nation's democracy 

The Portuguese Ambassador to the Holy See, Domingos Fezas Vital, welcomed the distinguished guests to the dialogue, on "this day in which we celebrate together democracy."

The Portuguese diplomat highlighted how the nation powerfully transitioned from being under regime to being a model for democracy, and how this revolution has inspired this encounter to reflect on the theme, 'The Church, the Democracy and the case of Portugal.'

Church's support of democracy

Portuguese political expert and Professor Manuel Braga da Cruz, who served as the Dean of Portugal's prestigious Catholic University from 2002 to 2012, offered reflections on the topic before engaging in a lively Q & A, with Andrea Tornielli, the Editorial Director of Vatican Media.

In his remarks, Professor Braga da Cruz recalled the Church's reflections on democracy. He emphasized, in particular, the words of Pope St. John Paul II in his 1991 Encyclical Centesimus Annus , that commemorated the 100-year anniversary of Pope Leo XIII's groundbreaking Encyclical  Rerum Novarum , which spoke about the Church's "favour" toward democracy, and its commitment to protect and promote rights, especially those promoting human dignity.

The former Rector of Portugal's Catholic University drew inspiration from the contributions of Popes Leo XIII, St. John Paul II and Pius XII, as he highlighted the developing Catholic understanding of democracy, as well as Vatican II, which likewise, he suggested, enhanced the democratic process. He also applauded when democracy upholds fundamental values that had been highlighted by Pope St. John Paul II and his Prefect of the Vatican's then-Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger.

Even as the scholar described Portugal's challenging journey toward democracy over the course of two centuries, he more broadly focused on the Church and its rapport with democracy on a larger scale. 

People's participation to avert wars

The Vatican's Editorial Director, Andrea Tornielli, highlighted how wisdom from the past can be applied to the present, especially as, he lamented, "democracy," despite what seems to be so many advances globally, "seems to be suffering" and requires changing course.

"Pope Pius XII delivered memorable reflections on democracy ," observed Tornielli, highlighting that the late Pope who led the Church during the Second World War, "explained that true participation of peoples is needed to avert wars."

In particular, he recalled Pius XII's strong radio message on Christmas eve in 1944, right before the end of the war, and how Pius recognized that the brutal experience of wars under dictatorial regimes, caused disgust among citizens, and fueled their call "for a system of government more in keeping with the dignity and liberty of the citizens." In that message, the late Pope also described opportunities and challenges inherent to democracy.

"Today we are witnessing a crisis, and an emptying out of western democracies, caused by populisms, as well as the power of bureaucracies and finance."  "This is why," he argued, "the magisterium of the Popes and what Pope Francis tells us, is important."

Money for arms, but not for combatting hunger

During the dialogue he made several observations, including the notable contradiction that our very advanced world, amid wars, can find limitless sums to use for continued arms expenditures, but yet can instead never manage to find that same financing for combatting hunger, poverty, or other basic pressing needs.

Tornielli also recalled that the Vatican's Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith published on 8 April its latest declaration Dignitas Infinita  in which it reaffirms the intrinsic and inalienable dignity of all people, and lists various violations against this dignity, and how a society that promotes such values, contributes to a response to wide-spread polarization.

Catholic 'orphans' at voting booth

Acknowledging that many Catholics feel like 'orphans' when it comes time to vote, not identifying entirely with very conservative or liberal candidates, the Vatican's Editorial Director asked the Portuguese scholar how to address this dilemma.

Not only did Professor Manuel Braga da Cruz recognize that this reality leads to 'fluid' voters who easily change their vote according to what issues feel most important to them at that moment, and because voters are experiencing a lack of trust with their politicians, the scholar also partially blamed Catholic's lack of organizing themselves effectively, but even more so "their feeling discouraged from engaging in politics, due to corruption and dishonesty."

During the dialogue, the Portuguese expert expressed his concern for "instrumentalized" and "exploited" citizens, and instead called for systems where citizens are free to keep a check on their politicians and rulers, and where they can "contribute to the common good and to peace."

Dictatorship to democracy

Catholicism still has a strong influence in certain areas of Portuguese society and culture, especially in education and healthcare. However, the Church no longer has the influence of a time ago.

During the long-lasting dictatorial regime, rooted in corporatism and traditional values, of António de Oliveira Salazar, who was appointed Prime Minister in 1932, the Church was one of the most powerful institutions in the country.

After the 40-year dictatorship collapsed in 1974, the dynamic would change forever, especially when the Constitution enacted in 1976 would, despite the Church's strong role, separate Church and State, and reign in the era of democracy.

Thank you for reading our article. You can keep up-to-date by subscribing to our daily newsletter. Just click here

More upcoming events:

Listen to our podcasts

Subscribe to our newsletters

To get the latest news

Papal audiences

Daily readings

Saint of the day