Braga, a city steeped in over two millennia of history, captivates visitors with its profound religious significance, magnificent Baroque architecture, and beautifully preserved gardens. It offers an authentic Portuguese experience, combining ancient traditions with a youthful, dynamic atmosphere.
The historic city center, particularly near the Sé Cathedral and Praça da República, forms the core of Braga's social life. This area, bustling with a thriving student population, hosts a variety of bars and restaurants, providing ample opportunities to socialize into the evening.
Top 6 Things to do in Braga
Exploring Braga involves visiting significant religious sites, wandering through beautiful gardens, delving into local history, and savoring traditional Portuguese cuisine.
1. Bom Jesus do Monte
This UNESCO World Heritage site invites visitors to ascend a monumental Baroque staircase, adorned with chapels, fountains, and statues, leading to a majestic basilica at the top. The panoramic views over Braga are breathtaking, and the serene gardens offer a peaceful retreat. For those preferring not to climb the 577 steps, a historic water-powered funicular provides an alternative ascent, offering a unique experience.
Cost: Access to the sanctuary and its grounds is free. A ride on the funicular costs approximately €2 for a one-way trip and €3 for a round trip.
Transport: The sanctuary is located just outside the city center. Local bus #2 (or sometimes #88) can be taken from central Braga, with a one-way ticket costing around €1.65 to €2 and the journey taking about 20-24 minutes. Taxis are also available for approximately €7-€10, with an 8-10 minute travel time.
2. Sé de Braga (Braga Cathedral)
As Portugal's oldest cathedral, the Sé de Braga presents a fascinating journey through various architectural styles, including Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque. Exploring the main nave is a captivating experience, revealing centuries of religious history. Visitors can also choose to delve deeper into its past by visiting the Treasury, which houses valuable religious artifacts, and the intricately designed chapels and high choir.
Cost: Admission to the cathedral's nave is free. A small fee of approximately €3 is charged to enter the Treasury, and an additional €2 grants access to the adjacent chapels and the Coro Alto (high choir).
Transport: The cathedral is centrally located within Braga's historic center and is easily accessible on foot from most central accommodations.
3. Sanctuary of Our Lady of Sameiro
This significant Marian pilgrimage site offers a grand white-domed basilica and expansive grounds that provide some of the most spectacular panoramic views across the region. It is an ideal place for quiet reflection, enjoying the surrounding gardens, and witnessing beautiful sunsets.
Cost: Entry to the sanctuary and its grounds is free.
Transport: The sanctuary is about 7-9 km from Braga's city center. Bus #88 (weekdays) or #42/23 (check local schedule) can take you there from stops like João Paulo II or Rua do Raio, costing approximately €1-€3 for a one-way ticket and taking about 17-40 minutes. Taxis are also an option, costing around €9-€12 for a 12-minute journey.
4. Jardim de Santa Bárbara (Santa Barbara Garden)
Nestled beside the medieval Archbishop's Palace, this charming public garden is a vibrant oasis in the city center. It features meticulously designed flower beds that burst with color, along with ancient ruins and a central fountain graced by a statue of Saint Barbara. It is a perfect spot to relax, enjoy the seasonal blooms, and capture picturesque photographs.
Cost: Admission to the garden is free.
Transport: The Santa Barbara Garden is situated in the heart of Braga and is easily reached on foot from anywhere in the city center.
5. Palácio dos Biscainhos Museum
Step into the aristocratic past of Braga by visiting this exquisite 17th-century Baroque mansion. The museum offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of Portuguese nobility through its well-preserved rooms and extensive collection of decorative arts, including furniture, ceramics, and textiles. The palace is also renowned for its beautifully maintained Baroque gardens, featuring terraces, fountains, and traditional azulejo tiles.
Cost: While specific costs vary, the museum is often free to enter from Tuesday to Saturday. It is advisable to check current opening hours and admission policies locally upon arrival.
Transport: The museum is located within walking distance of Braga's city center.
6. Braga Food Tour / Local Culinary Experience
Immerse yourself in Braga's vibrant food scene by exploring its traditional eateries and discovering local specialties. From the hearty 'Bacalhau à Braga' (codfish dish) to the regional 'Francesinha' (a unique sandwich with a rich sauce) and delicate pastries like 'Tíbias e Fidalguinhos', the city offers an authentic taste of Northern Portuguese cuisine. Consider joining a local food tour to uncover hidden culinary gems and learn about the cultural significance of each dish.
Cost: The cost of individual dishes varies by restaurant. Guided food tours typically range from approximately $77 to $94 per person, often including multiple tastings and drinks.
Transport: Most food establishments and tour meeting points are located within the walkable historic city center.
At TFA Travel we believe in travel for all. Our mission is to enable people to explore the world as easily as possible without having to pay a travel agent a huge commission.
Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
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