Braga, located in the northern part of Portugal, is a city that holds an old-world charm mixed with modern vibrancy. I had the chance to explore it recently, and the experience was nothing short of magical. While it’s often overshadowed by larger cities like Porto or Lisbon, Braga offers an authenticity that makes it one of the most unique destinations I’ve visited. From historical sites to stunning views, Braga is a place where every street, every corner, and every monument seems to tell its own story.
1. The Arrival
I arrived in Braga by train, and as soon as I stepped off at the station, I was greeted with a pleasant mixture of history and modernity. The city’s compact size makes it easy to get around, and the welcoming atmosphere was evident from the start. As I walked through the streets, I noticed the blend of traditional Portuguese architecture and contemporary shops, cafes, and boutiques that make Braga such an attractive place to visit.
2. The Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary
One of the first places I visited was the Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary, which is just outside the city. This iconic landmark is a pilgrimage site, and it’s easy to see why it draws so many visitors. The sanctuary itself is beautiful, perched on a hilltop offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The Baroque-style church at the top of the hill is stunning, and the staircase leading up to it is a masterpiece in itself. The climb was challenging but incredibly rewarding. Each of the 581 steps offers a new angle of the surrounding valley and the intricate details of the fountains, statues, and chapels that line the stairway.
If you’re not up for the climb, there’s a funicular that takes you to the top, but I would recommend walking if you can—there’s something special about experiencing the entire ascent, and the views along the way are simply incredible. Once at the top, the views of Braga and the surrounding hills are magnificent, and the sense of calm that envelops the place is something I’ll never forget.
3. Braga Cathedral (Sé de Braga)
Back in the city, I made my way to the Sé de Braga, or Braga Cathedral, one of the oldest cathedrals in Portugal. It’s a testament to the city’s historical significance, dating back to the 12th century. As I walked inside, the vastness of the cathedral struck me. The sheer scale of the building, with its high ceilings and intricate designs, immediately transports you back in time.
The cathedral has a mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque elements, reflecting the various stages of its construction. One of the highlights for me was the Chapel of São Geraldo, which contains the tomb of the city’s patron saint. There’s a real sense of reverence here, and even though the cathedral is a major tourist attraction, it still maintains an air of solemnity that makes it feel like a living, breathing place of worship.
Don’t forget to check out the cathedral’s cloisters and the museum attached to it. The museum houses a collection of religious artifacts, paintings, and sculptures, all of which offer insight into Braga’s long religious and cultural history.
4. The Historic Centre: A Walk Through Time
One of the joys of Braga is simply wandering around its historic center. The cobbled streets, with their charming buildings and small shops, invite you to get lost in their maze. As I strolled through the central squares, I noticed how the city still maintains its old-world charm, with quiet plazas surrounded by cafes where locals sip coffee, read newspapers, and chat.
One of my favorite spots was the Praça da República, a lovely square at the heart of the city. It’s the perfect place to pause and watch the world go by. On one side of the square is the beautiful 18th-century fountain, and surrounding it are a number of cafes and shops. The square is often filled with people—tourists and locals alike—making it a great place to soak in the atmosphere of Braga.
The narrow streets leading from the square are lined with various historical buildings, such as the beautiful Igreja de Santa Cruz. This church is relatively small compared to the cathedral, but it’s a gem in its own right. Its simple façade hides a richly decorated interior, with delicate carvings and intricate paintings that are typical of Portuguese Baroque style.
5. The Arco da Porta Nova
As I continued my exploration, I came across the Arco da Porta Nova, one of the most iconic landmarks in Braga. This archway is a remnant of the old city walls and once served as one of the main gates into the city. The arch, built in the 18th century, is a stunning example of neoclassical architecture, and its clean lines contrast beautifully with the older buildings that surround it. Standing under it, I couldn’t help but imagine what the city might have looked like centuries ago when this gate was a bustling entry point for travelers and merchants.
From here, I wandered through the nearby streets and came across several other smaller churches and historic buildings, each one offering its own slice of Braga’s rich past. It’s easy to see why the city is often referred to as the “Rome of Portugal” due to its religious history and the number of churches and religious sites it boasts.
6. The Garden of Santa Barbara
After a few hours of exploring the city center, I took a break at the Jardim de Santa Bárbara, a lovely garden located near the city’s main square. This garden is a quiet haven, with perfectly manicured lawns, flowerbeds, and ornamental fountains. It’s a great spot to relax, take a moment to recharge, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. I found a bench and sat for a while, just enjoying the tranquility of the place.
The garden also offers great views of the nearby Castelo de Braga, or Braga Castle. Though not as famous as other castles in Portugal, it’s still worth a visit, especially if you enjoy exploring historic fortifications. The castle dates back to the 12th century and once served as a royal residence. Today, it houses a museum with exhibitions on the city’s medieval past.
7. The Museum of Archaeology
If you’re into history and archaeology, a visit to the Museu de Arqueologia de Braga is a must. Located in the city center, this museum is home to a fascinating collection of artifacts that tell the story of Braga’s past, from Roman times to the present day. The museum is housed in a beautiful building, with displays of ancient pottery, sculptures, and coins that were uncovered during archaeological excavations in the region. One of the standout pieces is a Roman-era stone sarcophagus, which is both imposing and beautifully detailed.
It was clear to me that Braga’s historical roots run deep, and this museum is an excellent place to gain a better understanding of the city’s evolution over the centuries.
8. Exploring the Food Scene
No visit to Braga would be complete without indulging in its culinary delights. The city is known for its traditional Portuguese dishes, and I had the pleasure of trying several during my time here.
One of the highlights was the local dish, bacalhau à Braga. Bacalhau, or salted cod, is a staple in Portuguese cuisine, and in Braga, it’s often prepared with onions, olives, and potatoes. It’s a hearty, flavorful dish that was perfect for a cold evening. Another dish I highly recommend trying is rojões, a traditional pork dish served with rice and beans. The flavors are rich and comforting, and it’s the kind of food that makes you feel at home, even when you’re far from it.
For dessert, I couldn’t resist trying torta de maçã, a traditional apple cake that’s both sweet and light, with a perfectly spiced flavor. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee, which is a favorite local pastime. I found that most cafes in Braga serve excellent coffee, so be sure to sit down and enjoy a leisurely break while watching the world go by.
9. The Nightlife
Braga’s nightlife may not be as buzzing as Lisbon or Porto, but it has a cozy, laid-back charm. There are a number of bars and pubs scattered throughout the city, offering a more intimate experience. I spent one evening at a small wine bar in the city center, sampling some local wines and chatting with the friendly bartender. The wine scene in Braga is excellent, with many local producers offering fantastic wines that are well worth trying.
10. Final Thoughts on Braga
Braga is a city that invites you to slow down and really experience its charm. It’s a place where you can explore centuries of history, enjoy delicious food, and immerse yourself in the beauty of its streets, gardens, and churches. Although it may not be as well-known as some of Portugal’s larger cities, Braga holds a special place in my heart for its authenticity and warmth. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, food, or simply enjoying the atmosphere of a small yet vibrant city, Braga is a destination that should not be overlooked.
