Braga
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.
ratings
| Category | Rating | Your Rating |
|---|---|---|
| atmosphere |
|
|
| culture |
|
|
| food |
|
|
| nightlife |
|
|
| scenery |
|
|
| tourism |
|
|
Things to do in Braga
Top things to do in Braga by www.planetware.com
Where to stay in Braga
Best hotels in Braga:
-
Hotel Mercure (budget hotel)
Hotel Mercure Braga Centro is close to the main sights - you can easily walk to the cathedral and shopping areas in just a few minutes. The rooms are comfy and modern, with air conditioning and free WiFi.
One of the coolest things about this place is the rooftop pool and bar. You can take a dip while enjoying awesome views of the city. The breakfast buffet gets rave reviews too - lots of fresh options to fuel up for a day of exploring.
Location-wise, it's hard to beat. You're steps away from restaurants, bars and attractions, but the rooms are still nice and quiet. There's onsite parking if you have a car, which is really convenient in the city center. Overall, it's a solid choice if you want to be right in the middle of the action in Braga.
-
Lagos House (homestay)
Lagos House in Braga is a spacious and comfortable retreat with amazing mountain views. The recently renovated house features large rooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a beautiful outdoor pool - perfect for cooling off on hot Portuguese days.
The location strikes a nice balance between peaceful seclusion and convenience. It's just a short drive from Braga's historic center, but feels like a tranquil escape. Guests rave about the friendly owners, cleanliness, and excellent value for money.
With 6 bedrooms, it's ideal for groups or families looking to spread out. The ample common areas make it easy to socialize or find a quiet nook to relax. Overall, Lagos House offers a homey base to explore Braga and northern Portugal without breaking the bank.
-
Melia Braga Hotel & Spa (luxury hotel)
The Melia Braga Hotel & Spa is a sleek, modern hotel offering a luxurious stay in Braga. With both indoor and outdoor pools, a spa, and well-equipped gym, it's perfect for relaxation or staying active. The rooms are stylish and comfortable, with nice views of the city or garden.
Food-wise, you're in for a treat. The restaurant serves up tasty Portuguese and international dishes, and there's a bar for enjoying local wines. The breakfast buffet is especially good, with tons of options to start your day right.
Location-wise, it's a bit outside the city center, but still close enough to easily explore Braga's historic sights. The staff are super friendly and helpful too. Overall, it's a great choice if you want upscale accommodation with lots of amenities in Braga.
-
Burgus Tribute & Design (medium range hotel)
Burgus Tribute & Design Hotel is a steps away from the city's main sights like the Braga Cathedral. The rooms have a modern, chic vibe with comfy beds and nice touches like soundproofing for a quiet night's sleep.
The staff here really go above and beyond to make sure guests have a great stay. They're super friendly and helpful with local recommendations. The breakfast gets rave reviews too - lots of tasty options to fuel up before exploring the city.
While it's not a huge hotel, Burgus Tribute & Design has some nice extras like a garden area and lounge to relax in. Overall, it's a fantastic home base for wandering Braga's charming streets and soaking up the atmosphere of this beautiful Portuguese city. The combo of prime location, attentive service and well-designed rooms make it a top choice.
book now on booking.com
Best hostels in Braga:
-
Liber Guest House (hostel)
Liber Guest House have rooms that are modern and clean, with comfy beds and air conditioning to keep you cool. While there's no fancy reception desk, the staff are super helpful and quick to respond if you need anything.
The location can't be beat - you're just a short walk from Braga Cathedral and tons of great restaurants and shops. It's also close to bus stops, making it easy to explore the rest of the city. Some rooms even have balconies with nice views of the garden or city streets below.
Overall, Liber Guest House is a great affordable option if you want to be in the center of all the action in Braga. The rooms aren't huge, but they have everything you need for a comfortable stay. And with free WiFi throughout, it's easy to stay connected while you're there.