General Information
Braga, one of Portugal’s oldest cities, is a captivating blend of history, culture, and religious heritage. Known as the “Rome of Portugal”, Braga is home to stunning Baroque churches, ancient Roman ruins, and a vibrant student scene. With its charming old town, delicious local cuisine, and proximity to nature, Braga is a must-visit destination for history lovers and travelers looking for an authentic Portuguese experience.
Location
Braga is located in northern Portugal, around 55 km north of Porto. It is surrounded by lush green landscapes and is close to Peneda-Gerês National Park, Portugal’s only national park.
Distances from Major Cities:
- Porto: 55 km (45-minute drive or train ride)
- Lisbon: 360 km (3.5-hour drive or 4-hour train ride)
- Guimarães: 25 km (30-minute drive)
How to Get There
- By Air:
- The nearest airport is Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) in Porto, about 50 km away.
- By Train:
- Regular Alfa Pendular and Intercidades trains from Lisbon and Porto connect to Braga.
- By Bus:
- Rede Expressos and FlixBus offer routes from Porto, Lisbon, and other cities.
- By Car:
- Braga is easily accessible via the A3 highway from Porto and the A11 from Guimarães.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March – May): Best for sightseeing with mild temperatures and blooming flowers.
- Summer (June – August): Warm and lively, perfect for exploring Braga’s festivals.
- Autumn (September – November): Fewer tourists, pleasant weather, and wine harvest season.
- Winter (December – February): Cooler but still a great time to visit Braga’s historic sites.
Key Festivals & Events:
- Holy Week (Semana Santa) – March/April: Portugal’s most famous religious festival, with grand processions and ceremonies.
- São João Festival (June 23-24): Traditional music, parades, and fireworks.
- Braga Romana (May): A historical festival celebrating Braga’s Roman heritage.
Where to Stay
- Luxury:
- Vila Galé Collection Braga: A luxurious hotel in a historic convent.
- Hotel do Parque: A beautiful spa hotel near Bom Jesus do Monte.
- Mid-range:
- Hotel Moon & Sun Braga: A stylish, central hotel with modern comforts.
- Burgus Tribute & Design Hotel: A boutique hotel with unique Portuguese décor.
- Budget:
- Collector’s Hostel: A cozy, well-rated hostel in the heart of the city.
- InBraga Hostel: Affordable and located near the train station.
Top Attractions
- Bom Jesus do Monte: A magnificent sanctuary with a famous zigzag stairway and breathtaking views.
- Sanctuary of Our Lady of Sameiro: A stunning religious site with panoramic views.
- Braga Cathedral (Sé de Braga): The oldest cathedral in Portugal, dating back to the 11th century.
- Arco da Porta Nova: A famous archway marking the entrance to Braga’s historic center.
- Palácio do Raio: A beautiful 18th-century palace with ornate blue tilework.
- Roman Ruins of Braga (Bracara Augusta): Explore remnants of Braga’s ancient Roman past.
- Santa Barbara Garden: A charming, colorful garden next to the Archbishop’s Palace.
- Avenida da Liberdade: Braga’s main avenue, lined with shops, cafés, and historical buildings.
Getting Around
- Walking: Braga’s historic center is compact, making it easy to explore on foot.
- Buses: TUB (Transportes Urbanos de Braga) operates an efficient bus network.
- Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Uber and Bolt are available for convenient travel.
- Car Rentals: Ideal for day trips to Guimarães, Gerês National Park, and the Douro Valley.
Local Cuisine
Braga’s food scene is deeply rooted in Portuguese traditions, with rich flavors and hearty dishes.
- Bacalhau à Braga: A delicious fried cod dish with onions and potatoes.
- Papas de Sarrabulho: A unique, thick pork and blood soup, a local favorite.
- Francesinha à Braga: A variation of Porto’s famous Francesinha sandwich.
- Tíbias de Braga: A delicious pastry filled with custard cream.
- Vinho Verde: The region is famous for this light, refreshing green wine.
Best Restaurants & Food Spots:
- Taberna Belga: Famous for its Francesinha.
- Restaurante Dona Júlia: A great place for traditional Portuguese dishes.
- Tia Isabel: Known for authentic local cuisine and warm hospitality.
- Café Vianna: A historic café in Praça da República, perfect for coffee and pastries.
Shopping
- Rua do Souto: Braga’s main shopping street, lined with boutiques and local stores.
- Braga Parque: A large modern shopping mall with international brands.
- Mercado Municipal de Braga: A traditional market for fresh produce, cheeses, and souvenirs.
- Local Handicrafts: Look for hand-painted ceramics, lace, and religious artifacts.
Nightlife
Braga’s nightlife is lively yet relaxed, with trendy bars, student pubs, and cultural venues.
- Spirito Cupcakes & Coffee: A cozy spot for cocktails and desserts.
- GNRation: A cultural space hosting live music and art events.
- Letraria Craft Beer Garden: A must-visit for craft beer lovers.
- Barhaus: A stylish bar with a rooftop terrace.
- Sé La Vie: A bar with great ambiance and occasional live music.
Day Trips from Braga
- Guimarães (25 km): The “Birthplace of Portugal”, with a well-preserved medieval castle.
- Peneda-Gerês National Park (40 km): Portugal’s only national park, ideal for hiking and nature lovers.
- Viana do Castelo (60 km): A beautiful coastal town with sandy beaches.
- Douro Valley (100 km): A UNESCO-listed region known for its wine vineyards and river cruises.
