Visit Braga in Portugal
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.
