Braga

Braga is one of Portugal's oldest cities and a place that often gets overlooked by tourists heading to Porto or Lisbon. Located in the northern part of the country, it's known as the 'Rome of Portugal' because of its impressive religious buildings and rich Catholic heritage.

The city center is full of history dating back over 2,000 years, with influences from Celtic tribes, Romans, and Moors. Walking through the narrow streets, you'll find a mix of baroque churches, medieval buildings, and modern cafes. The Braga Cathedral is the oldest in Portugal, started in the 11th century, and the Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary with its famous zigzag stairway is definitely worth checking out.

Braga has a younger vibe than you might expect from such an old city. With the University of Minho nearby, there's a good student population that keeps things lively. The food scene is great too - try some bacalhau (salted cod) or a francesinha sandwich if you want to eat like a local.

Spring is an especially nice time to visit, as Braga's Holy Week celebrations (Semana Santa) are some of the most impressive in Portugal. The city lights up with processions, ceremonies, and decorations that showcase the deep religious traditions that still play a big part in local culture.