What to see in Braga Portugal so you don’t miss anything
Discovering what to see in Braga Portugal is discovering the oldest city in the country, founded by the Romans back in 16 BC and which, centuries later, during the Middle Ages, became an important place of religious worship. Two great historical eras that left a unique mark on Braga, making it an essential destination if you travel to northern Portugal.
Archaeological remains that reveal the ancient seniority of Bracara Augusta, a multitude of churches—up to 40, many of them Baroque, which have earned it the title of city of the archbishops—and a prominent sanctuary, Bom Jesus, accessed via a monumental and iconic white staircase, are the hallmarks of Braga.
However, Braga is also modern and vibrant. This is thanks to the young students from its two prominent universities who walk its streets, gather in its squares, and give this city its atmosphere.
Set aside at least one full day to visit Braga at your leisure, stroll through its charming pedestrian old town, visit its churches, explore its museums and taste its delicious gastronomy. However, if you have the opportunity, spend at least one night there to explore in depth everything there is to do in Braga, enjoy its corners without so many tourists once the sun goes down and take this night tour of Braga to see it illuminated and learn its history.
Take note, here are the best places to see in Braga Portugal, as well as more practical information to organize your stay in the city, where to sleep or what to eat.
Must-sees in Braga Portugal
As you have seen, Braga promises a long list of attractions that will make your visit worthwhile. Here are the most prominent ones in detail, along with practical information for visiting Braga.
Braga Cathedral, The Sé
Founded in the 11th century, the Sé has witnessed the history of Braga, reflecting the importance of the city as an ecclesiastical center. The oldest cathedral in Portugal is a compendium of architectural styles, from Romanesque to Baroque, including Gothic and Manueline.
Inside, several chapels such as San Geraldo, Our Lady of Glory, and the Kings’ chapel await you, each with its own style. In the latter, the tombs of Don Enrique and Doña Teresa, parents of the first king of Portugal, are located.
You can also peek into its cloister, admire an incredible 18th-century organ, and visit the outstanding collection of sacred art that makes up the permanent exhibition of the Braga Cathedral Treasury-Museum. Look into its cloister and discover how this temple has survived two major earthquakes, although in the one in the 12th century, the original towers suffered serious damage and it was necessary to wait until the 16th century to restore them.
Visiting hours: from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm and from 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm (until 6:30 pm during the summer months).
Prices: If you only want to visit the interior of the Cathedral it is €2, but I recommend paying for the combined ticket to also see the Treasury-Museum, the chapels and the Choir, which costs €5. Children under 12 enter for free.
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Bom Jesus Sanctuary, the must-see in Braga Portugal
Before continuing to break down the places of interest in the old town, it’s time to focus five kilometers from the center, on a hill where the most prominent monument is located to see in Braga: the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus.
This incredible place, named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, should take up a large part of your visit to Braga. From my experience, I recommend visiting it at sunset when it has a magical light that highlights the white of its monumental staircase even more. Plus, once at the top, watching the sun set over Braga will be an unforgettable memory.
The Sanctuary of Bom Jesus is one of the most important pilgrimage centers in Portugal, but what will really catch your attention is its Baroque staircase that zigzags up to the top of the hill where the church awaits you.
Whether on the way up or down, it would be a sin to return from Braga without having climbed its 500 steps because it is much more than a staircase. Along the way, you will find up to 17 landings with all kinds of decoration, fountains, statues, and small chapels, some dedicated to themes like the Stations of the Cross. Believe me, it’s worth it. If you can, I recommend booking this free tour of the Bom Jesus Sanctuary to better understand the stories and symbolism of this incredible staircase known as the Five Senses.
Not everyone goes beyond the staircases and the basilica; however, the natural grounds where the sanctuary is located offer much more, such as gardens, the Casa do Estampas, bandstands, a grotto, and even a lake with boats where you can ride for €2 for fifteen minutes.
A good idea to avoid getting too tired is to walk down the staircase but go up in the historic funicular which saves you the 300-meter climb. This 1882 funicular, the first installed in Portugal, is a very special piece of engineering because it operates with a hydraulic system. The trip costs €2, or €3 if you take a round trip. In summer, it operates from 9 am to 8 pm, but in winter.
To get to the sanctuary from the center of Braga, you can do it by car (there are designated parking areas) or by taking bus number 2, which leaves from Avenida de Liberdade.
Another option to reach the sanctuary is with this tuk tuk tour through Braga which will also take you through the historic center and, if you book the longer tour, you will even visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Sameiro. You will be accompanied by a guide who will make the experience even more special.
If you want to see another sanctuary with a very similar staircase, I recommend visiting Lamego, an hour and a half south of Braga, where the Santuario Nossa Senhora dos Remedios is located.
Prices: basilica entrance is free. Climb to the towers: €1
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Arco da Porta Nova
Back to the things to see in the center of Braga, Portugal, I recommend starting by entering the old town through the Arco da Porta Nova. This beautiful gateway to the center of Braga was once one of its medieval entrances, although the current arch is in Baroque style with neoclassical details, as it was renovated in the 18th century.
If you look closely, you can see the coat of arms of Archbishop José de Braganza. The arch, surrounded by beautiful facades with colorful tiles, gives access to Rua do Souto, the start of the historic center where some of the best things to see in Braga are concentrated.
If you continue walking down this street, you will find more points of interest in Braga such as Largo Do Paco, the square that hosts the old Episcopal Palace, today the headquarters of the offices of the University of Minho. This small square surrounded by columns has the Chafariz do Castelo in the middle, an old ornate fountain from the 18th century.
Santa Bárbara Garden
Behind the Episcopal Palace, one of the jewels to see in Braga is hidden: the Santa Bárbara Garden. This public garden, open without fixed hours, is a tiny oasis full of charm in the center of the historic district,
Take the opportunity to sit and rest in this most bucolic corner, which is usually bursting with flowers and featuring the water of the ornamental fountain crowned by a stone image of the saint who gives the park its name.
Largo Carlos Amarante Square
If you are looking for an iconic photo to take in Braga, I recommend heading to Largo Carlos Amarante square where you will have the giant letters with the city’s name at your camera lens’s disposal.
In the background, you will see the ensemble of the San Marcos church and the old hospital acting as the perfect backdrop to enhance the photo even more. The white marble facade of this temple was designed by the architect who gives the square its name, Carlos Amarante.
On the other side of the square, you will find another of the more than 40 churches to see in Braga, the Church of Santa Cruz, which is less aesthetically striking than its competitor in the square but with a curious legend. It says that if you find the three stone roosters sculpted on its facade you can get married, but are there really three? These types of details are what they will tell you if you visit the city with this guided tour of Braga.
Casa do Raio, a must-see in Braga
Right next to Carlos Amarante square, just a few steps down Rua de Sao Lazaro, you will see the beautiful facade of Casa do Raio. A lovely design of blue tiles decorates the building of the Casa do Mexicano and combines with the blue-painted doors.
This 18th-century Rococo palace, the work of architect André Soares, is perfect for taking some of the most Instagrammable photos.
Currently, it is the headquarters of the Santa Casa do Misericórdia of Braga. It is possible to visit the interior filled with paintings, sculptures, clothing, and even objects from the hospital that was inside until 2012.
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Capela dos Coimbras
The Capela dos Coimbras or Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Conceição is another small treasure to see in Braga, Portugal. This small Manueline-style chapel has been there since the 16th century and can be visited inside. You will also see the attached former residence, its garden, and you can have a drink in its cozy café-restaurant.
Today, this chapel, also known as the Chapel of the Dead Lord (Senhor Muerto), has become a benchmark for cultural life in Braga where fado shows are even held.
Republic Square, the epicenter of Braga in Portugal
This large square with a long garden walk is undoubtedly the liveliest place in Braga. This neuralgic point of the city, where Avenida Liberdade and Avenida Central meet, is perfect for sitting down to rest and watch Portuguese life go by. There are many cafés and restaurants to choose from, some as emblematic as café Vianna or Astoria.
Also pay attention to one of the most famous corners to see in Braga, the Arcada da Lapa whose origin dates back to 1715 when it was built by the wish of Archbishop Diego de Sousa. It is a set of buildings joined by 19 arches that hides behind it the remains of the Keep (Torre de Menagem) of the ancient Braga Castle, which serves as a reminder that Braga was a fortified city with walls back in the Middle Ages.
While you are in the square, take a look at the former Convent of the Congregados and the church of Nossa Senhora da Lapa nestled among the classic Braga facades with colored tiles. Not far away, on Avenida Liberdade, you will find the Theatro Circo.
If you need more detailed information on what to see in Braga, take advantage of being in this square and visit the Braga Tourist Office, at number 1 Avenida Liberdade.
Museums to see in Braga Portugal
Pius XII Museum and its unique collection
The visit to the Pio XII Museum is a mandatory stop to understand the archaeological and artistic richness of Braga. This museum houses an impressive collection ranging from prehistoric artifacts to pieces of sacred art.
The Nogueira da Silva Museum and its business legacy
The Nogueira da Silva Museum is another of the tourist sites to see in Braga that offers a unique experience. This museum was the home of the entrepreneur and collector António Nogueira da Silva, whose passion for art and history is reflected in every room. The collection includes antique furniture, paintings, and sculptures, creating an atmosphere that transports visitors to a time of splendor and refinement.
Casa dos Crivos
Although it is currently closed, the architectural rarity and historical value of this building make it well worth passing by. The Casa dos Crivos was a very common type of building in 17th-century Braga where, to preserve interior privacy while ensuring ventilation, panels of latticework were installed. Today, the one at R. de São Marcos 37 is the only one of this typology that remains standing and therefore a very special corner to see in Braga.
Where to stay in Braga
If you have the chance, I recommend staying in Braga for at least one night to be able to see everything more calmly. There are many options when choosing where to sleep in Braga, so you won’t have any trouble finding what best fits your budget.
In the heart of the historic center, right next to the cathedral—so close that you could almost touch a room with a balcony facing its facade—I suggest staying at Braga Bells Guesthouse
If you are traveling with children or want more space than a room provides, a good option is the modern apartments with kitchens at Lux Housing Século XXI
For those who are traveling with a car and prefer to be a bit further away, sleeping in the middle of nature, take a look at Quinta de Chousas – Braga – Agroturismo, which will be ideal especially in summer to be able to enjoy its pool.
What to see near Braga
As I was saying, your visit to Braga, Portugal, can extend far beyond a single day, as there is also much to explore in the surroundings.
– I suggest, for example, heading over to visit Guimarães, a World Heritage city according to UNESCO, with a beautiful castle and a medieval center that is well worth a stroll. By car, it will only take you half an hour to get there, so you can do a round-trip day excursion.
– Another very interesting and different place to visit from Braga is the Peneda-Gerês National Park. Here, among forests, valleys, and mountains, there are numerous hiking trails and, in summer, natural pools and even a waterfall where you can take a dip. A good way to get to know this Biosphere Reserve is with this excursion to Peneda-Gerês from Braga where you will only have to worry about enjoying yourself.
– Also take note of another of the charming towns in Portugal such as Amarante, about 40 minutes by car from Braga, in the heart of the Marão mountains. It is small, can be seen in half a day, and is very beautiful.
– If you are going in a group, an interesting option is to take one of these private excursions from Braga.
– Keep in mind that less than an hour’s drive from Braga is Porto where instead of a day trip, you should spend several days. I got to know both places during this 15-day road trip through Portugal by car.
Where to eat in Braga
Visiting the best places to see in Braga is great, but don’t forget to also savor the gastronomy of this beautiful Portuguese city.
With the permission of the famous and omnipresent cod, and besides the classic francesinha, there are two dishes that stand out especially if you feel like trying them:
-Caldo Verde, a hearty hot cabbage soup with potatoes and chorizo.
–Arroz de Pato, with bacon and chorizo, usually accompanied by a slice of citrus on top.
Being so touristy, you will find plenty of restaurants to choose from. I can recommend the only one I tried, Dona Petisca (Rua Dom Paio Mendes, 59) where you can eat on the terrace with views of the cathedral facade. We tried the duck rice and a taboleira, a varied board of cured meats, empanadas, and fritters or cod pataniscas which was very delicious.
Although I couldn’t go, the following have a great reputation for trying typical Braga dishes like cod prepared in different ways: the Taberna do Levre (Rua de Covas, 61) and the tavern Velhos Tempos (Rua do Carmo,7).
When to visit Braga
1This Portuguese destination is a great idea at any time of year. I personally visited during the Christmas season and loved it. In summer, although you will find more tourism, it won’t be excessively hot, so it is also a good option.
If you want to time your visit to Braga, Portugal with special moments, you might consider doing so during Holy Week when the city experiences very intense days as it is one of the most famous places in the country to see the processions.
Another special time to go to Braga is in May when Braga Romana is celebrated, an important festival that recreates the city’s Roman past with all kinds of performances, markets and events for the whole family. In addition to feeling like you’re in the ancient Roman Empire, you can visit the Roman Baths in Alto da Cividade. However, book your hotel in Braga well in advance because it gets very crowded. The 2025 dates are already confirmed from May 22nd to 25th.
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