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Braga, located in northern Portugal, is the country's third-largest city after Lisbon and Porto, and the capital of the Braga District. Home to its 12th-century cathedral, Braga is a popular pilgrimage site. Braga is an ancient city, and as a Portuguese proverb goes , "difficult as Greek philosophy and Chinese, old as Braga's churches." Here , visitors can experience the charm of tradition, history, and rich cultural atmosphere. Braga is also Portugal's religious center, known as the "Rome of Portugal."
Climate: Portugal enjoys a pleasant climate, with warm, humid winters and relatively dry summers. The northern part of the country has a temperate maritime broadleaf forest climate, while the southern part has a subtropical Mediterranean climate. Average temperatures range from 8-14°C in January and 17-28°C in August, with annual rainfall of 500-1000 mm.
Best time to travel: All seasons
Recommended places to visit:
Guimaraes
Guimarães is a historic city in the Braga district, known as the "Cradle of Portugal".
Braga Cathedral
Braga Cathedral is the cathedral of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Braga. It is one of the most important buildings in Portugal.
Braga Museum of Sacred Art
The Braga Museum of Sacred Art is a museum dedicated to the collection and exhibition of religious art.
Recommended play time: 2 days
Braga is one of the oldest cities in Portugal, dating back to Roman times. It is considered the religious center of the country, with a rich history that includes the creation of the Christian Diocese in the 3rd century. The city is known for its stunning churches, monasteries, and shrines, including the Bom Jesus do Monte and Sameiro Sanctuary, both of which hold religious significance.
Braga is located in the north of Portugal, approximately 55 kilometers from Porto. You can reach Braga by train, bus, or car. The city is well connected by public transportation, and taxis are readily available. Braga's historic center is best explored on foot.
The best times to visit Braga are during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and the city is less crowded. Most attractions are open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but it's best to check individual sites for specific opening hours.
The entrance fees for sites like the Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary and Braga Cathedral range from €3 to €5. Tickets can be purchased on-site at each attraction. Some sites offer discounts for students and senior citizens. It's also possible to buy tickets online for specific tours or events.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for most attractions, but it is recommended for guided tours or special events. Booking a few days in advance is sufficient for tours or popular times such as during the Holy Week or summer months.
To explore the main attractions of Braga, including the historical center, Bom Jesus do Monte, and Santa Barbara Garden, 1 to 2 days is recommended. If you're planning to visit nearby sites like the Sameiro Sanctuary or Castle of Braga, consider adding a day trip.
Guided tours are available in English, Portuguese, and Spanish. They can be arranged at most attractions. Audio guides are also available at popular sites like Braga Cathedral and Bom Jesus do Monte in various languages.
Start your visit by exploring the Braga Cathedral and the historical center, then head to the Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary, followed by a relaxing stroll through Santa Barbara Garden. End your day with a visit to the Sameiro Sanctuary or Castle of Braga for stunning views.
Some sites like Bom Jesus do Monte may be lit up in the evening, offering a beautiful view. Night tours are not common, but special events such as festivals or religious processions might occur during certain times of the year, particularly during Holy Week.
Braga can get crowded during the summer months and religious holidays like Easter. The best times to visit for fewer crowds are during the shoulder seasons (April, May, September, and October), particularly during weekdays.
Most attractions in Braga, including Bom Jesus do Monte and the city center, offer toilets, rest areas, and small cafes. There are also plenty of shops selling local souvenirs and products, particularly in the historic district.
Braga is relatively accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, but some sites, like Bom Jesus do Monte, involve steep stairs or uneven paths. However, the sanctuary is also accessible by a funicular railway, which is an easier option for those with limited mobility. Children will enjoy the parks and gardens, especially Santa Barbara Garden.
Credit cards and mobile payments are widely accepted in Braga, especially at hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it's always good to carry cash for small purchases, especially in rural areas or small shops that may not accept cards.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in many restaurants, especially in the city center. Halal options might be limited but can be found in some international restaurants.
Braga has a variety of souvenir shops offering traditional Portuguese products such as ceramic tiles, cork items, embroidered textiles, and local wines. Popular souvenirs include "Ginja," a Portuguese cherry liquor, and "Chocalho," a traditional bell-shaped item from Braga.
