Top 10 Things to See and Do in Braga

Located in the northern part of Portugal, Braga sits gracefully between Vigo and Porto, making it a perfect destination for a quick getaway. Are you planning a trip to this enchanting city and wondering about its must-see attractions? In this article, we will explore 10 amazing things to see and do in Braga that are sure to surprise you.

With over 2000 years of captivating history, it’s no wonder that Braga holds the title of the oldest city in Portugal. Contrary to what one might expect, this ancient city has managed to maintain a youthful spirit, merging tradition and innovation seamlessly. Its rich heritage and stunning architecture await your discovery. Ready to dive into this remarkable northern Portuguese destination? Let’s go!

For a comprehensive experience, consider starting with a guided tour in Spanish. Join this free tour of Braga, where a local guide will unveil the history behind the city’s monuments and hidden gems.

Visiting the Cathedral of Braga (Sé de Braga)

Why does Braga resonate with the sound of bells? The city is home to over 40 Baroque churches, a testament to its deeply rooted spirituality, despite the lively cafes, bustling bars filled with university students, and exquisite restaurants. Naturally, we must begin our journey at the most significant of these sacred sites: The Sé, or Cathedral of Braga.

Dating back to the 11th century, this cathedral is so ancient that there exists a famous Portuguese saying, “mais velho que a Sé de Braga,” meaning “older than the Sé of Braga.” This reflects the cathedral's historical significance, having witnessed many chapters of Portuguese history, making a visit here absolutely essential.

Architecture enthusiasts will marvel at the blend of styles present in this monumental building, while guided tours provide invaluable insight into its rich heritage. Once considered one of Portugal’s most important cathedrals, it even competed with the renowned Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, a major pilgrimage site worldwide.

• Visiting Hours: 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM and 2:30 PM - 5:30 PM (6:30 PM in summer)
• Catedral Hours: 8:00 AM - 6:30 PM (October - March) / 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM (April - September)
• Prices: Treasure and Museum of Sé de Braga: €3.00 / Chapels and High Choir: €2.00 / Cathedral: €2.00. There are also combined tickets available.
• More info on their website

Exploring Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary

Next, we make a brief geographical leap without straying far from the theme of religious architecture. Our next stop is the most iconic image of Braga, the picturesque Bom Jesus do Monte. Located five kilometers east of the city center, it is gloriously perched atop a hill, adorned with spectacular staircases that lead visitors to its doors.

This site attracts thousands of pilgrims seeking spiritual solace, as well as tourists eager to capture the perfect photograph of this architectural gem. You can reach the sanctuary by hiking, symbolizing a spiritual ascent, driving for a quicker route, or riding the funicular, the first of its kind in Portugal (established in 1882) and the oldest in the world still in operation, which uses a water counterbalance system (€2 one way, €3 round trip).

From Braga, you can catch urban bus number 2, which will take you to the foot of the stairs, or hop on one of the tourist buses that include an audio guide and visit various points of interest along the way.

Guided tours of the temple are available through the Bom Jesus Brotherhood, offered in multiple languages, including Spanish. Prices vary depending on the tour length and group size, and advance booking is required; you can find more information here.

• Basilica Hours: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM (summer) / 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM (winter). Open daily.
• Entrance is free

Strolling through Santa Barbara Garden and the Old Episcopal Palace

Immerse yourself in a sea of flowers at the Santa Barbara Garden, a delightful gem in Braga that deserves a visit. Nestled in a 17th-century square in the city center, this garden creates a serene atmosphere, making it the perfect oasis for a relaxing break.

As warmer weather arrives, you’ll not only see vibrant colors but also enjoy the lively cafes bustling with life, street musicians, and the infectious excitement that comes with longer days.

At the back of the garden, a high wall adorned with battlements evokes the silhouette of a fairytale castle. This facade belongs to the Medieval Palace of Braga, which currently houses the public library and some offices of the University of Minho.

Admiring Câmara Municipal and Casa do Raio

What do the Casa do Raio (or Casa do Mexicano) and the Câmara Municipal of Braga have in common? Both stunning structures showcase the talent of the Baroque rococo architect André Ribeiro Soares da Silva.

The Câmara Municipal, located at Praça do Municipio, is considered one of the most notable examples of Baroque architecture on the Iberian Peninsula. Meanwhile, Casa do Raio, a remarkable example of palatial civil architecture, is hard to miss with its extravagant decoration and the eleven windows that grace its two floors.

The blue-tiled façade was added during a later phase of construction. In 2015, Casa do Raio opened its doors to visitors as the Centro Interpretativo das Memórias da Misericórdia de Braga (price: €2).

Pro Tip: Right across from Casa do Raio, you’ll find the Fonte do Ídolo, a must-visit spot for those interested in Braga’s Roman past (price: €2).

Relaxing at the Arcada (or Praça da República)

If there is one place in Braga that can be considered the heart of the city, it is undoubtedly the Praça da República, affectionately known as Arcada. This bustling plaza serves as a thoroughfare, a meeting point, and a place where locals and visitors alike converge.

On one side of the square, you'll find a building filled with arches (hence its nickname, “Arcada”). Historically, this was where goods were traded and exchanged, and today it houses some of Braga’s oldest cafes, such as the famous Café Vianna, established in 1871, and its neighbor Café Astoria, opened in 1928.

Before you leave the plaza and continue your exploration of Braga, take a moment to soak in the vibrant atmosphere and pay attention to other tourist attractions visible from the square, including the Torre de Menagem, the only remaining vestige of an ancient fortified medieval palace.

Visiting the Arco da Porta Nova

If you’re the type who often forgets to close the door, you might just hear a Portuguese person ask, “Are you from Braga?” You might wonder what this peculiar question has to do with the Arco da Porta Nova, one of Braga’s top attractions. Don’t worry; the explanation is on its way!

The “arch of the new door,” commissioned in 1512 by Archbishop Diego de Sousa, never actually had a door. The reason is simple: at that time, there were no imminent wars, and the city had already expanded beyond the confines of the walls, making a door unnecessary.

Thus, the residents of Braga became pioneers in leaving their doors wide open, showcasing their welcoming spirit through this grand arch, which remains a charming symbol of the city.

Exploring Museu dos Biscaínhos

This beautiful aristocratic palace, built by the Counts of Bertiandos in the 18th century, now houses Braga's municipal museum. Here, you can admire a remarkable collection of decorative arts, including Baroque furniture, Chinese porcelain, silverware, European glassware, textiles, and Portuguese paintings.

The building itself is worth the visit, featuring stunning chestnut wood ceilings and 18th-century tiles. It’s a beautiful example of Baroque civil architecture that perfectly illustrates the lifestyle of the nobility of that era.

Adding to its charm, the palace gardens are one of Braga’s best-kept secrets, and unlike the museum, entry is free.

• Palace Hours: Open Wednesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM and 2:00 PM - 5:30 PM
• Price: €2. Special discounts and combined tickets are available for other tourist attractions in the city.
• Garden Hours: 10:00 AM - 6:30 PM (June, July, August, and September) / 10:00 AM - 12:20 PM and 2:00 PM - 5:20 PM (from September to May)
• Closed: January 1, Easter Sunday, May 1, and December 25.

Diving into the Museum of Archaeology Don Diego de Sousa

As you explore the four rooms of the Don Diego de Sousa Museum, you’ll encounter fascinating fragments of history, journeying through the Paleolithic, Neolithic, Iron Age, and notable Roman era.

This engaging museum documents the history of the Northwest of Portugal, with a special focus on the Roman occupation of Bracara Augusta, known today as Braga.

If you finish your visit and crave more historical insights, you’re in luck! Just a short distance away, you can see the ruins of the Roman Baths of Alto Cividade, a grand bathing complex alongside an ancient theater dating back to the 2nd century AD.

• Hours: 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM, Wednesday to Sunday
• Price: €3
• *Free entry on Sundays and public holidays for residents of Portugal.
• **Combined tickets are available for the Museu dos Biscaínhos and the Monastery of São Martinho de Tibães.

Experiencing Theatro Circo

On one of the city’s main arteries lies one of the most beautiful performance halls in Portugal. The history of this theater is akin to a rollercoaster ride of successes and uncertainties.

Inaugurated in 1915, it experienced a prosperous inception that aligned with the glamour of the 1920s and 30s. The following decades solidified its position within the Portuguese cultural landscape, but the 60s and 70s brought the modern challenges of television, leading to a decline.

Rescued by the municipal government, the theater is now a vibrant venue for enjoying alternative cultural experiences during your visit to Braga. If you can’t attend a performance, but wish to explore the building, check the website for guided tour availability (3.50€).

Tasting Braga’s Gastronomy

We’ve reached the final point on our list, and we’re doing it in the most delicious way possible. Food lovers, rejoice! Our exploration of Braga wouldn’t be complete without mentioning its culinary delights. Some famous dishes from Braga that you must try include:

• Bacalao à Braga, locally known as Bacalhau à Narcisa, is the most famous dish in Braga and the Minho region, named after the restaurant Narcisa where it gained popularity.
• Papas de Sarrabuhlo are typical during the colder months, made with assorted meats, pig's blood, and bread, served in a hearty mix.
• Arroz de Pato à Braga is a typical dish with roots in Lusitanian cuisine that gained its name when a Braga native began preparing it in Brazil.
• Cabrito assado à Braga is slow-roasted goat served with potatoes and rice, often enjoyed during special occasions, particularly Easter, symbolizing religious rituals.
• Caldo verde is a traditional dish throughout Portugal, popular in winter festivals, made with finely chopped kale, potatoes, and chorizo. It’s believed to have originated in the Minho region around the 15th century.
• For those with a sweet tooth, don’t miss the Pudim Abade de Priscos, Tibias, Viúvas, and Fidalguinhos.

Additional Attractions and Activities in Braga

If you have extra time or coincide with special events, check out these other exciting plans in Braga that are sure to surprise you:

• Visit Braga during two of the country’s most famous celebrations: Holy Week in Braga, known for its pomp, and the São João Festival, which bursts with energy through its dances, bonfires, and fireworks on June 23rd and 24th.
• Explore the Monastery of Tibães.
• Discover the traditional Bracarense houses of the 17th and 18th centuries by admiring the stunning latticework of the Casa dos Crivos.
• Take a break while enjoying the lively atmosphere of Braga at the Café Brasileira.
• If you’re a football fan, try to catch a match of Sporting de Braga for a taste of local sports culture.

With these recommendations for an unforgettable visit to Braga, you’ll find that this city holds countless experiences waiting to be discovered. Have you been to this Portuguese city? What are your favorite plans to do in Braga and its must-see places?

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