2025 Braga Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

#DecemberTravelSupportEvent I visited many cities while living in Porto for a month, and among them, I'd like to introduce you to a city called Braga, which was really great! The city itself was pretty, perhaps because it was full of high-teen material. For those traveling to Portugal, I recommend a day trip at least once..🫶🏽 🚊How to get to Braga from Porto Use the Siga card (for CP trains only), issue or recharge the card at the ticket machine at São Bento Station! (When taking the train, the station staff will scan the Siga card and confirm the ticket while you are on the way) Braga can be reached in about 1 hour and 15 minutes by taking the CP train from Porto São Bento Station! (Train intervals are about 20 minutes) 📍Places to visit in Braga 1. Congregados Basilica / 16th-century cathedral located right in front of Park Avenida Central 2. Bom Jesus do Monte / There is a funicular, but be sure to walk up and see the sanctuaries located on the stairs! 3. Letreiro de Braga / Where the Braga sign is 4. Chafariz da Praça da República / Take a break at the large fountain in front of the square 5. Tasquinha Dom Ferreira / A great place to eat bacalhau and duck rice! I was able to fully experience the charm of Braga even on a day trip🫶🏽 📍Braga, Portugal #Europe #European travel #European sensibility #European travel destination #Portugal #Portugal travel #Braga travel #braga #portugal

#freehotelstay Bom Jesus do Monte is a notable sanctuary and pilgrimage site situated on a hill in the outskirts of Braga, a historic city in northern Portugal. Inscribed in 2019 as a UNESCO world heritage site, the sanctuary is completely accessible to the public and does not charge any entrance fee. The most iconic feature of the sanctuary is the monumental Baroque stairway leading to the Church of Bom Jesus do Monte. We took a taxi which send us to the church directly we so skipped climbing up the 577 steps on the 116-metre stairway. Instead we walked down the stairway after visiting the sanctuary complex. An alternative way to reach the church is by taking the water-powered funicular. The fee is 2 euros for a one-way journey and 3 euros for a round trip. 📍Estrada do Bom Jesus, 4715-056 Tenões, Portugal #vacation #portugal #braga #jesus #sanctuary #fenicular #stairway #church #tripblazers #unesco #worldheritage

Some places are ready for a new life, some historic buildings when have a new life become pet of the daily lives for those who live and visit the city of Braga. This is the beautiful McDonald’s 🍔 of Braga city, in the heart of the town, is stunning design and characteristics calls our attention and is quite nice to watch it during the day or at night. 📸 some pictures of The Historic building turned into McDonald’s 1. 🍔 McDonald’s Braga city center Address 📍 Avenida Central 38 / 4710-229 Braga, Portugal Highlights 🏙️ the surroundings are full of points of interest like: Braga City Center, Historic Square, Avenida Central Garden, São Marcos Church, Braga Castle. Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 2. ⛪️ Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte • Address📍Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte Largo do Santuario do Bom Jesus, 4715 Braga, Portugal • Highlights ⛪️ Bom Jesus do Monte is a Portuguese sanctuary in Tenões, outside the city of Braga, in northern Portugal. Its name means Good Jesus of the Mount. The Sanctuary is a notable example of pilgrimage site with a monumental, Baroque stairway that climbs 116 meters (381 feet). It is an important tourist attraction of Braga. • Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3. 🎭 Theater Circo Address📍Avenida da Liberdade 697 / 4710-251 Braga, Portugal Highlights 🍽️ The Theatre Circo is a 20th-century, Portuguese revivalist theatre, in the civil parish of São João do Souto, municipality of Braga. Designed by the architect João de Moura Coutinho, it was first inaugurated on 21 April 1915 with a performance of Ruggero Leoncavallo's operetta La reginetta delle rose. Following a storied history that included the first talking films, operas and public performances, the building was restored by the municipal council of Braga, and reopened in 2006. Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ #2023travelwish #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #foodie #awesomepic #passionpassport #wintergetaway #portugal #braga #mcdonalds

Casa na Caniçada is located in a densely wooded area next to the Caniçada reservoir, in Vieira do Minho. The volumetry of the existing building was the starting point for the definition of the new volume consisting of three floors and where a traditional single-family housing program is distributed. The most intimate program is located on the highest floor, while the social program is spread over the remaining two. On the lower floor, the house “opens up” to the site, as an invitation to enjoy the surrounding nature. But it is on the middle floor that the house takes on greater expression through two large openings in opposite facades - one ensures the entrance to the house and the other “frames” the landscape facing the reservoir. Together, they ensure a greater sense of continuity between the exterior and the interior and the visual permeability between the arrival path - through the densely wooded hillside — and the Caniçada reservoir. Outside, the intervention was minimized in order to preserve the density of the vegetation. #themepark#zoo#nationalpark#lakes#beaches

The terraced gardens, small lake, colonnades, and fountains along the staircase create a serene and spiritual atmosphere. Upon reaching the summit, you are rewarded with a panoramic view of Braga city. It is approximately a 6km (over 1 hour) walk from Braga's old town. Alternatively, you can easily access it via bus, taxi, car, or funicular from the city center. Admission: The sanctuary is open to the public for free. However, the funicular costs approximately €2 for a one-way trip and €3 for a round trip.

Bom Jesus do Monte is not just a monastery but a landmark in Braga that blends Baroque art, nature, and spirituality. The site features a total of 583 steps, harmoniously combining the 'Stairway of the Five Senses' and the 'Theological Virtues Stairway,' visually representing the pilgrimage journey. Each step is adorned with fountains and sculptures, allowing visitors to experience symbolic stages of faith.

This site began as a small chapel in the 14th century and evolved into a place of faith. Starting in 1722, the current Baroque staircase and religious art structures were constructed. The church, built from 1784, is a prime example of early Neoclassical architecture in Portugal and is the work of renowned architect Carlos Amarante. In 2015, it was designated as a 'Minor Basilica' by the Vatican. Inside, it houses artworks and symbolic sculptures depicting the Passion of Christ.

Braga is a city close enough to Porto for a day trip, yet it offers a completely different sense of tranquility and historical atmosphere. The old town of Braga is not just a tourist destination but a city where life and history intertwine. Walking through it is not merely about moving from one place to another; it's an experience of savoring the old buildings, quiet squares, the gaze of the people, and even the scent of the air. On streets lined with small shops, charming cafes, and antique stores, you might pause for a moment and enjoy a cup of coffee like a local.

Located in the heart of Braga's old town, Praça do Município, or the Town Hall Square, serves as the administrative center of the city and a harmonious space where classical and modern elements converge. At the center of the square stands the elegant Fonte do Pelicano, a sculpted fountain that transforms this administrative square into a beautiful place for relaxation. The 'Pelican Fountain,' crafted in the 18th-century Baroque style, features a delicate sculpture of a pelican at its center, with gentle streams of water flowing outward. This pelican, considered a symbolic bird of Braga, is inspired by a legendary image of a pelican tearing its own flesh to feed its young, embodying themes of sacrifice and love.

Braga Cathedral (Se de Braga) is a symbolic site marking the beginning of Catholicism in Portugal and is the oldest cathedral in the country. Construction began around 1070, and over the centuries, it underwent expansions and renovations, showcasing a unique blend of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architectural styles. The exterior retains its medieval grandeur, while the interior greets visitors with a dazzling golden altar and Baroque-style choir stalls. The cathedral is adorned with statues, paintings of saints, and ancient tombs of clergy, making it feel more like a historical artifact than just a religious building.

Braga Cathedral (Se de Braga) is the oldest cathedral in Portugal, with construction beginning in the late 11th century and evolving over several centuries to incorporate various architectural styles. More than just a cathedral, it is considered the heart of Portuguese Catholicism and a key space that shaped the country's religious identity. The cathedral harmoniously blends Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance styles, making it a living textbook of architectural history. Its exterior retains the robust character of the medieval era, while the interior captivates visitors with intricate ceiling decorations, stained glass windows, and ornate chapels.

Braga is a city located in northern Portugal, about an hour north of Porto. It boasts a long history dating back to Roman times and a deep religious tradition. Often referred to as the "Rome of Portugal," the city is home to numerous historic churches and ancient ruins. It has served as a Catholic center for over a thousand years, housing Portugal's oldest archbishopric. Throughout the city, Baroque-style churches, beautiful fountains, and gardens harmonize to create a charming and historic atmosphere. Particularly notable is the Braga Cathedral (Sé de Braga), the oldest cathedral in Portugal, which preserves the medieval spirit of faith and architectural beauty.

As you stroll through Braga, you'll encounter churches at every turn, with the Braga Cathedral at the heart of it all. This serene and solemn landmark quietly watches over the city center. The gardens and fountains that stretch across the city, the Portuguese flags and tiled signs adorning old walls, all convey that Braga is not a city stuck in the past but a vibrant space that continues to thrive today. The entire old town is pedestrian-friendly, making it perfect for walking tours. Along the way, you can take breaks at charming cafes or traditional bakeries, enjoying a leisurely and emotional journey.

#postandearn 📍 Jardim de Santa Bárbara, Rua Dr. Justino Cruz, Braga, Northern Portugal — beside the medieval wing of the Archiepiscopal Palace The Garden of Santa Barbara feels like a soft breath at the heart of Braga — a place where manicured flowerbeds bloom around ancient stone, and every petal seems to echo the city’s quiet elegance. Bright seasonal flowers trace geometric paths, while medieval ruins rise behind them, worn and beautiful like pages from an old book. It’s not large, but it doesn’t need to be. This is a garden for quiet pauses, thoughtful glances, and the hush that comes with well-tended beauty. With the sound of fountains and the scent of roses in the air, it offers peace in the middle of motion. 🧭 Tips for Visitors: • Visit in spring or early summer to see the garden in full bloom • Ideal for slow wanderers, artists, and couples seeking stillness • Sit on a bench with a pastry from a nearby bakery — the perfect pause • Combine with a walk through Braga’s Old Town or visit the nearby Sé Cathedral • Early morning or golden hour brings soft light and fewer people #JardimDeSantaBarbara #BragaPortugal #SecretGardenPortugal #MedievalCharm #SlowTravelPortugal #HistoricBraga #FloralEscape #HiddenGemEurope#familytrip #localguides #海岛游

A paradise in the middle of nature 🌴🌴 Trust me when I say that's worth the visit! Here you will find beautiful animals, a river beach and plenty of areas to chill, relax, to have some food and drinks. The place is stunning! This park is located not far from Braga (just 20min drive) and nor far from Porto (40min drive) More details here: Address - Bamboo & Coconut Park & Bar, Amares - Braga 🥥 Ambiance/Facilities - Bar, Restaurant, River Beach, Sunset Lounge, Games, Family & kids area, and animals Highlights - Breakfast & Brunch Avg. Price per Person - 5€ pp entrance but can be used to spend on food/drinks Rating - 5* #BambooCoconut #park #nature #Braga #Porto #Portugal #gem #hiddengem #brunch

| A hidden gem of charm and wonder. Braga in Portugal truly amazed me with its beauty! Today, I’ll share a super-detailed travel guide for Braga, especially focusing on three must-visit attractions: Guimarães Castle, Braga Cathedral, and the Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary 😍. 🏰 Guimarães Castle History & Features: Built in the 10th century, Guimarães Castle is one of Portugal’s oldest castles and the birthplace of the country’s first king. It witnessed pivotal moments in Portugal’s history and is often called the "Cradle of the Portuguese Nation." The castle has a shield-like layout, surrounded by towers, with the central keep standing 27 meters tall, constructed from granite—truly magnificent. Travel Tips: Stroll through the castle to admire its ancient walls, towers, and fortifications, soaking in the weight of history. Inside, you’ll find exhibits showcasing artifacts like household items and weapons from the era, offering deeper insights. From the castle’s heights, enjoy panoramic views of Guimarães’ old town, where red-roofed, white-walled buildings create a picturesque scene. 🏰 Braga Cathedral History & Features: Built in the 12th century, Braga Cathedral is Portugal’s first cathedral, blending Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architectural styles. Highlights include the Romanesque Sun Gate, the main portal, the apse of the St. Amaro Cloister, a Manueline-style baptismal font, and niches outside the main chapel. The interior’s gilded wood carvings are exquisite. Travel Tips: Explore the cathedral’s interior to admire its stunning frescoes, sculptures, and religious artifacts, immersing yourself in its spiritual ambiance. Don’t miss the Treasury Museum, home to historically significant relics like the cross used in Brazil’s first Mass. The square outside the cathedral is also perfect for photos, capturing its grandeur. 🏰 Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary History & Features: Perched on the slopes of Mount Espinho overlooking Braga, this sanctuary was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019. Its architecture, shaped over 600 years, is primarily Baroque, featuring a 116-meter zigzagging staircase divided into the "Stairway of the Five Senses" and the "Stairway of the Virtues," adorned with sculptures and fountains to guide spiritual reflection. Travel Tips: Hike up the staircase to appreciate the Baroque artistry of the sculptures and fountains, or take a taxi to the top and walk down for an easier route. At the summit, visit the viewpoint for breathtaking panoramas of Braga, where red roofs and white walls blend with lush fields—absolutely stunning.

#summerbudgettrip Dreaming of cobbled streets, baroque churches, and sunny plazas — without the Lisbon price tag? Head to Braga, one of Portugal’s oldest (and most affordable) cities. Rich in charm, light on your wallet, and ideal for a budget summer getaway. ⸻ 🏛️ Why Braga Is the Perfect Budget Destination 💫 Historic & Cultural Without the Crowds Braga is packed with free or super cheap attractions: • Bom Jesus do Monte – walk up the baroque staircase for free panoramic views • Braga Cathedral (Sé de Braga) – Portugal’s oldest cathedral, entry just €2–3 • Arco da Porta Nova – Instagrammable arch and old city charm, free to explore 🌿 Chill Outdoor Vibes Relax in Jardim de Santa Bárbara, picnic in the City Park, or wander the Roman ruins — all completely free. ⸻ 💰 Top Money-Saving Tips in Braga 🚆 Get There for Less • Take a train from Porto for just €4–5 (1-hour ride). Way cheaper than renting a car! • Use comboios de Portugal’s website for advance discounts. 🛏️ Stay Cheap & Central • Boutique guesthouses and hostels start at €25–€40/night • Budget stays around Praça da República give you walkable access to major sights • Bonus: Many offer free breakfast 🍽️ Eat Like a Local (For Under €10!) • Look for “prato do dia” menus at traditional restaurants — starter, main & drink for €7–9 • Grab pastéis de nata and strong espresso at local cafés for under €2 • Visit Mercado Municipal de Braga to stock up on fruit, snacks & picnic supplies ⸻ 🎟️ More Free & Cheap Things to Do • 📸 Climb Bom Jesus’ 577 steps for stunning city views (free if you walk, €2 if you take the funicular) • 🖼️ Check out Braga’s free art exhibitions in city-run galleries • ⛪ Explore ornate churches like Igreja de Santa Cruz or Igreja de São Marcos — all free to enter • 🎶 Catch a free summer concert in the square or at the gardens (check local listings!)

A full-day trip to Braga and Guimarães? YES PLEASE! 🎒🌍 These two cities are packed with history, culture, and charm, so buckle up because you’re about to explore some of the most beautiful and iconic places in Northern Portugal. #Braga #BragaHistory #DiscoverBraga #BragaViews #BragaTravel #BragaAdventure #BragaCulture #BragaCity #Guimaraes #VisitGuimaraes #GuimaraesHistory #GuimaraesOldTown #GuimaraesVibes #GuimaraesTravel #GuimaraesAdventures #DiscoverGuimaraes #GuimaraesCulture

The oldest street in Braga is Avenida Liberdade. 📍Location (Fountain): Chafariz da Praça da República It is the most central area, with many restaurants and cafes in the area. Local people gather at the fountain in the evening, and you can see them talking and sometimes dancing! Christmas season (November to mid-January) A large Christmas tree is erected on top of the fountain. Cute original Braga songs are played and the city is lit up🎄 In addition, stalls selling Christmas goods and food and stages are set up, and students, local groups, and circus members entertain you during the New Year holidays🔔 #Portugal #Braga #Portugal

A church worth visiting! ! Located on Mount Braga Although you have to climb many stairs to go up the mountain But after climbing up, you will feel wow~ I saw Jesus 🤣 Transportation: Braga Train Station Take bus number 2 to Bom Jesus Tickets €1.55 (change available) 🚌Walk about 30 minutes from where you get off the bus The sanctuary of mercy, far away yet so close, has arrived

#JanuaryGoodPlaces2025 Braga is the third largest city in Portugal and has a history of more than 2,000 years. The city is famous for its religious center and has the most beautiful church in Portugal (Figure 1), attracting countless tourists. Located in the suburbs about 55 kilometers north of Porto, the city's founding can be traced back to the ancient Roman period in the 2nd century BC. It experienced the rule of the Moors and was incorporated into the territory of the Kingdom of Portugal after the 12th century.

🎉A trip to Braga, Portugal with a good friend🎉 ✨Recently, I went to Braga, Portugal with a good friend. It was really an amazing travel experience! I can't help but share it with you 😉 🌆【City Impression】 Braga is a city full of historical charm in northern Portugal, known as the "Rome of Portugal". Walking on the streets, it seems as if you can travel through time and space and feel the glory of ancient Rome. 🕌【Must-visit attractions】 - Braga Cathedral: This cathedral built in the 12th century is the first cathedral in Portugal. The church combines a variety of architectural styles, with the Baroque style being the most prominent. The parents of Portugal's first king are buried there, and the Treasury Museum also houses precious artifacts, such as the cross used when the first mass was held in Brazil. - Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte: It is an iconic attraction of Braga. Located on the slopes of Mount Espino, the main building is in Baroque style. The "Via Dolorosa" and the famous "Five Senses Steps" leading to the church are composed of walls, stairs, fountains, sculptures, etc., as if telling religious stories. - Sameiro Sanctuary: This is an important place for worshiping the Virgin Mary. From here you can see a panoramic view of the whole city. The architectural style is unique and the surrounding environment is very peaceful and tranquil. 🍽【Food Experience】 - Narcisa-style or Minho-style cod: As one of the famous Portuguese dishes, Braga's cod has a unique flavor, tender meat, and a variety of cooking methods. - Roasted lamb: The lamb is roasted to a crispy outside and tender inside, with a strong aroma. Paired with local vegetables, the taste is simply amazing. - Abbot of Brisegus Pudding: The combination of caramel pudding and bacon is very novel, with a sweet and salty interweaving and a rich taste. 💃【Nightlife】 The University of Minho brings vitality to the city. In the evening, I went to experience the nightlife of the university town with my good friends. The bars and clubs were full of laughter, and the various music and dances made people immersed in it. 📸【Travel Tips】 - You can learn some history and culture knowledge of Braga online in advance, so that you will gain more when visiting the attractions. - When tasting delicious food, don’t miss the local specialty restaurants. Although they may not be very eye-catching, the taste is absolutely authentic. - Braga's public transportation is quite convenient. If you want to go to distant attractions, you can choose to take a bus or cable car. All in all, the trip to Braga with good friends was full of surprises and touching moments💕. The history, culture, food and beautiful scenery here are unforgettable. I strongly recommend everyone to come to Braga to experience its unique charm! 🎉

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#travellerswonderland💰Average Price per Person:#historicallandmarks #localguides

#aug_trip It was designed by Andre Soares and built in the Baroque style over 55 years from 1752. A beautiful palace with blue and white azulejos on a stone building 🥹 I trembled when I saw it 🫨 lol Portugal has many buildings that are a mix of cuteness and beauty and have an impact that you will never forget once you see them. It was closed when we visited so we couldn't go inside, but it seems that there are paintings, sculptures, pottery, etc. on display. #aug_trip🕰️Opening hours: : 📍Location: 📍Location #Portugal #Portugal trip #Europe trip

Leave the itinerary booking task to trip.com and enjoy your trip with peace of mind. I really like trip.com's 24-hour Internet phone function and manual customer service, which can handle some emergency situations in a timely manner!

#June2024 Braga Cathedral This Gothic and Baroque cathedral was built in the 11th century and is the oldest surviving cathedral in Portugal. Its architecture combines a variety of historical styles and has become a landmark in the northern city of Braga. There are many historic cafes and Portuguese restaurants near the church, where you can taste authentic northern Portuguese cuisine, such as Milad roasted whole chicken and pig blood sausage.

#springblossom The Garden of Santa Barbara is located in the historic center of Braga, near the iconic Braga Cathedral and the Archbishop Palace. It is a public park for everyone. The garden has a geometric layouts with flowerbeds, greenery, fountains, statues and pathways. There are chairs for you to sit and relax and enjoy the garden. In the middle of the garden, there’s a notable landmark which is the Fountain of the Pelican. You should visit the Garden of Santa Barbara if you are in Braga. Address: R. Dr Justin Cruz 129, 4700-317 Braga, Portugal Reasons to Recommend: is free and picturesque garden