28 Best Things To Do in Braga, Portugal

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy.

Braga, Portugal is a charming and welcoming city that invites visitors to enjoy its outstanding architecture, colorful gardens and opulent churches. We were positively smitten on our quick visit to the area – and are sharing with you our list of the Best Things To Do in Braga!

Often considered the religious center of Portugal, Braga features an astounding number of extravagant churches. While religion is tightly intertwined with the city, Braga has a long history that dates to Roman times. Braga is an intriguing and culturally rich destination – but with two universities, it also exudes a youthful vibe.

Braga, Portugal FAQs

Before we get to our list of what to do in Braga, we want to answer a few frequently asked questions about visiting Braga, Portugal.

Where is Braga, Portugal?

Located in the Minho region in Northern Portugal, Braga is just 35 miles (55km) north of Porto. Our Braga, Portugal map (which you will find below) pinpoints the location and our recommended sights.

We outline how to get to Braga later in the article, under the Braga Travel Tips section.

What are the Top Things To Do in Braga?

Braga boasts an array of appealing activities and attractions. The hilltop Bom Jesus do Monte Church is certainly the top thing to see in Braga. However, touring the museums and gardens and visiting the many other churches also rank as best things to do in Braga City Center.

Is Braga Worth Visiting?

Travelers often wonder, Is Braga, Portugal worth visiting? – and we absolutely think that it is! Situated slightly inland and surrounded by rolling hills, Braga is distinctly different from Lisbon and Porto.

How Many Days in Braga, Portugal?

Determining how many days to spend in Braga will depend on your interests and overall Portugal trip plan. Many travelers opt to devote just one day in Braga – often planning a day trip to Braga from Porto (like we did) or even from Lisbon.

That said, those enthralled by historic churches, ornate architecture and ancient history could easily spend two or three days in Braga. Furthermore, Braga makes a good base for travelers who want to explore the most northern reaches of Portugal – as the city is well connected with transportation options.

In addition to our list of the Best Braga, Portugal Things To Do, we also share ideas for nearby attractions and destinations.

How To Plan a Trip to Braga, Portugal

Planning a trip to Braga from major Portugal destinations, like Porto and Lisbon, is fairly straightforward. We offer advice in the How To Get There section below – as well as info regarding the top rated hotels in Braga for travelers planning to spend a few days in the city.

Planning Day Trips to Braga from Porto

Taking a day trip to Braga is a popular option from Porto – and it’s actually quite simple to plan the journey on your own using the trains.

Alternatively, travelers planning a day trip from Porto to Braga can leave the details to someone else and join a tour. On an organized Porto to Braga Day Trip, participants not only tour Braga, but also visit the town of Guimaraes. We highlight a few of the top-rated tours later in the article.

Portugal Trip Planning

As Braga is rarely the only Portugal travel destination for tourists, we have more detailed articles that might help you prepare for your vacation.

Organize Your Braga Trip

As you plan your Braga and Portugal holiday, organization is key! Stay on top of all the details with our Printable Travel Planner – so that nothing gets missed.

28 Things To Do in Braga, Portugal

Now that we have the basics covered, let’s get to our list of the Top Braga Things To See!

Save, Pin or Bookmark this Braga Travel Guide to plan your trip to Portugal!

#1 Climb the Stairs to Bom Jesus do Monte Braga

We are kicking off our list with a must-see Braga attraction: Santuario do Bom Jesus do Monte. The UNESCO World Heritage Site has been a pilgrimage destination since the 14th century and the complex – complete with a striking staircase – took more than 600 years to complete.

Climbing the 577-steps to the hill-topping Igreja do Bom Jesus do Monte de Braga Church is, without a doubt, one of the top Braga things to do. The ornate flight of stairs features an elaborate zigzag design – and there are statues, fountains and chapels that adorn the route.

An alternative to the steep climb is riding the historic funicular, which dates to 1882. Operating with a counterbalance water-weight system, it’s a unique way up the hill, but we think the stairs are much more interesting!

At the summit, visitors can tour the church, take in the panoramic views with a coffee or ice cream and even relax on the lake in a row boat!

Tips for Visiting Bom Jesus do Monte in Braga

The complex is located to the east of the Braga city center and is best reached by car, bus or taxi. We recommend that day trippers go directly to Bom Jesus do Monte on arrival in Braga. From the train station, catch the #2 Bus that terminates at the funicular near the bottom of the stairs.

Note that Bom Jesus do Monte is the only site on our list that is outside of the city center. All other attractions can be reached on foot.

#2 Walk under Arco da Porto Nova

An ornamental gate in Braga City, Arco da Porta Nova dates to the early 1500s. At that time, Braga was encircled by defensive walls – and the gate provided the western entrance to one of the main thoroughfares.

In the 18th century, the gate was renovated into a triumphal arch that features a Baroque design on the western façade, while the east-facing side is Neoclassical.

#3 Taste a Famous Braga Pastry

Getting a taste of the local fare is one of the best Braga, Portugal things to do. We recommend trying the signature pastry – Tibias de Braga – at the namesake bakery.

Created in a convent and named for the tibia bone (which the pastry slightly resembles), indulging in a Tibias de Braga is a delicious way to begin your Braga tour. The sweet confection is comprised of a crispy fried dough that is filled with cream and sprinkled with powdered sugar.

#4 Tour Palacio dos Biscainhos and Gardens

An elegant 18th century residence of a noble family, Palacio dos Biscinhos Museum and Gardens offers visitors a glimpse into Braga’s sophisticated past. For those interested in history, the palace is one of the top things to see in Braga.

Guests can join a guided tour to learn more about the artwork, furniture and ceramics on display, as well as the daily lives of the family who lived there.

Not to be missed are the gorgeous Baroque gardens, complete with fountains, statues and the biggest tulip tree in Portugal!

There is a small fee to tour the mansion, but the gardens are open to the public for free.

#5 Visit Igreja do Populo Church

Igreja do Populo is the first of many churches that we feature on our list of Things To Do Braga – and, in our opinion, it’s one of the best. The sumptuous interior is highlighted by gilded Baroque design and the walls are sheathed in typical Portuguese azulejo tiles.

The structure dates to the 16th century, but the façade was refurbished in the 18th century with an enhanced Neoclassical style. The adjoining building was a convent, but is now used by the local government.

#6 Peruse Produce at Mercado Municipal de Braga

A feast for the senses (and the stomach), the Braga Mercado Municipal is a fascinating place to visit during a trip to Braga. Fresh markets have been held in Braga for more than 2000 years, but the current market hall is a distinctive blend of old and new.

The traditional market square – complete with a central fountain – sits under the roof of a modern building. Farmers, butchers and fishmongers all sell their goods just as they have for centuries. Meanwhile, shoppers can sample local fare at the contemporary food court – and dine on an elevated, outdoor terrace.

#7 Admire the Architecture in Praca do Municipio

Centered on the Pelicano Fountain and ringed with grandiose architecture, Praca do Municipio is, perhaps, the most beautiful square in the city of Braga.

The area was originally developed in the late 16th century as a bullfighting ring. Then in the 18th century, the Archbishop’s Palace (now the public library) and the Camara Municipal (Town Hall) were built on opposite sides of the square – and the center was used as a marketplace.

#8 See the Se Cathedral Braga

The cathedral – called the Se de Braga – ranks as the oldest cathedral in all of Portugal. The history of the church can be traced to the year 1089, but the edifice has been modified over time. The façade was constructed in the 1400s and the Baroque embellishments were added in 1723.

Designated as a National Monument in 1910, the Se Cathedral is a must-see Braga sight. A small fee is required to enter the church – and a combination ticket allows access into adjoining chapels, the sacristy and Treasury Museum.

Note that the Igreja da Misericordia de Braga, which faces Rua do Souto, is a separate church from the Se Cathedral. This 16th century church is notable for its sculptures and fine Baroque details, but unfortunately, it was closed during our visit.

#9 Strut down Rua do Souto, Braga

A main thoroughfare in Old Town Braga, Portugal, Rua do Souto Street is the city’s original shopping lane. The path, which connects Arco da Porta Nova to Avenida Central, was established in 1466 as a route through town to Braga Castle. Merchants moved in to capitalize on the foot traffic and shops line the street to this day.

Largo do Paco – a spacious square on the north side of Rua do Souto – is framed by the former Bishop’s Palace (Paco Episcopal de Braga). An 18th century fountain, Chafariz do Castelo, stands in the center of the square. Get an up-close look at the fountain…and then take in the view of the colorful buildings along Rua do Souto.

It’s interesting to note that while Rua do Souto is now pedestrian-only, Braga Tram #1 used to rattle down tracks along the street from the early 1900s until 1963.

#10 Partake in a Quirky Braga Tradition

Take a break while sightseeing Braga to partake in a rather unusual tradition in Braga: Muscatel wine and a banana at Casa das Bananas.

Christmas Eve is the official day of the big banana-and-wine event, when thousands of people descend on Casa das Bananas for the experience. Theories abound about how exactly the Braga Bananeiro ritual began, but somewhere along the way it was noted that fortified muscatel wine goes quite well with a ripe banana.

While the shop garners the most attention during the month of December, guests can order a glass of muscatel along with a banana at Casa das Bananas year-round.

#11 Smell the Flowers in Jardim de Santa Barbara

A breathtaking garden in the middle of the city, Jardim de Santa Barbara is an urban oasis – and one of the best things to see in Braga, Portugal.

The garden itself, with manicured landscapes, cedar topiaries and a multitude of flower beds, is a beautiful sight, but its location heightens the appeal. The Santa Barbara Garden sits just outside of the crenellated walls of the Paco Episcopal de Braga Medieval Palace – along with arched ruins.

At the center of the garden is a fountain topped with a statue of Saint Barbara, for whom the garden is named.

#12 Look Up at the Braga Tower

Beginning in the 14th century, Old Town Braga was enclosed by protective walls – and a series of lookout towers were built to keep intruders at bay. Although most of the walls, gates and towers have been demolished, the Keep Tower of Braga Castle remains.

Standing alone at a height of nearly 100 feet, the Braga Tower offers visitors a glimpse of what the city may have looked like during Medieval times. The north side of the façade still bears the original Royal Coat of Arms.

#13 Stop for a Coffee at a Classic Braga Café

Stopping for a coffee at a historic café is one of the fun things to see and do in Braga, Portugal – and there are two iconic cafes that are just steps apart.

Café Vianna, housed in the Arcada Building that fronts Republic Square, is the oldest café in the city, dating to 1871. Featuring a majestic interior, the café is a meeting point for locals and tourists.

Nearby, on a corner of Largo Barao de Sao Martinho Square, Café A Brasileira stands as another time-old Braga café. Opened in 1907 as a franchise of the original Lisbon outpost, Café A Brasileira is known for its drip coffee and exceptional desserts – and they serve full meals in the upstairs dining room.

#14 Stroll through Jardim da Avenida Central

The beautifully landscaped Avenida Central Gardens stretch out from the arched Arcade building and fountain in Praca da Republica. The pretty park was once just a rural route to St. Victor Church – and by the 17th century, the path was lined with churches, convents and regal residences, most of which survive in some form today.

Jardim da Avenida Central was formally transformed into a public green space in the mid-1800s. Complete with a bandstand, monumental statues and flowering trees, the pretty park is a highlight of Braga sightseeing.

#15 Enjoy Art and Gardens at Museu Nogueira da Silva

A Braga born philanthropist, Antonio Nogueira da Silva donated much of his fortune – including his residence – to the city. His home has been renovated into a museum exhibiting fine Portuguese and international artworks, such as paintings, porcelain, sculptures, azulejos and silver. A ticket is required to see the main exhibits at the museum.

Concealed at the back of the property is a gorgeous, French-inspired garden featuring roses, flower beds, fountains, sculptures and lovely blue-and-white tiles (which are interestingly not Portuguese azulejos, but Delft Tiles from a palace in the Netherlands). There is no charge to enter the gardens; making it one of the best places to visit in Braga, Portugal for free!

#16 Sit in Solitude at Praca do Campo Novo Square

Campo Novo Square – also called Praca Mouzinho de Albuquerque Square – is one of the Braga hidden gems. It sits just north of the busy Av. Central and visitors who seek it out often find solitude and gorgeous flowers in the pretty square.

Established in 1725, Praca do Campo Novo features ornamental flower beds – along with an elaborate fountain and staircase. Behind the stairs is the 19th century Palacete dos Condes de Carcavelos.

#17 Appreciate the Unusual Capela de Guadalupe

Sitting atop Santa Margarida Hill, Capela de Guadalupe is one of the lesser visited Braga sights. The church, which features an unusual circular design, was built in 1725 and is now considered a Cultural Heritage Monument.

While not as generously decorated as other churches in Braga, its uniqueness makes it worth seeking out.

#18 Soak in the Beauty of Jardim da Senhora a Branca

Situated at the east end of Avenida Central Gardens and surrounded by picturesque architecture is the splendid Jardim da Senhora a Branca. The small triangular garden hosts rose bushes, orange trees, flower beds, arched trellises and a monumental cross.

Taking a moment in the garden to savor the scents and scenery is one of the relaxing things to do in Braga.

#19 Browse the Books at Livraria Centesima Pagina

Browsing the books at Livraria 100 Pagina is one of the pleasant things to do in Braga City Center. The independently owned bookshop, which is housed in a historic dwelling, sells everything from classic novels to children’s books to locally made artworks and souvenirs.

Guests are invited to sit and read – or enjoy cake and coffee in the café in the back.

#20 View the Basilica dos Congregados

The Basilica dos Congregados is an exceptional Braga sight – and visiting is one of the free Braga things to do.

Built in the 18th century (although not completely finished until the 1960s), the church is fine example of the luxuriant Baroque architectural style. Featuring double bell towers, ornately carved statues and glittering alters, the Basilica dos Congregados is impossible to ignore!

#21 Buy Cheese at an Old-Fashioned Cheese Store

When visiting Braga in Portugal, don’t miss Queijaria Central – a specialty cheese monger that opened in 1952. The old-fashioned shop sells regional goods, classic candies, Fidalguinhos cookies and fresh baked pastries – but their signature product is the local cheese, Serra da Estrela.

#22 Join the Shoppers on Avenida da Liberdade

The absolute best street for shopping in Braga, Portugal is Avenida da Liberdade. The wide, pedestrian-only thoroughfare is home to name brand stores and shops selling the latest fashions.

That said, the area is not only for shopping, but also for strolling. The lane is lined with an array of interesting architecture, including the Art Deco Teatro Circo.

#23 Stand in Awe of Palacio do Raio

The blue tiled façade of Palacio do Raio is a must-see in Braga, Portugal. The grandiose palace was built in the 18th century for a wealthy Braga merchant – and the exterior Baroque ornamentation is simply exquisite.

Since 2015, the palace has housed a museum with exhibits pertaining to religion and the history of Braga. There is a small fee to enter.

#24 Snap a Photo by the Braga Sign

Snapping a photo with the large letters spelling out the city’s name is one of the fun things to do in Braga!

The letters stand in front of the 17th century Fountain of Largo Carlos Amarante. In the background of the sign is the stately Hospital de Sao Marcos. Dating to 1508 and drastically enhanced over the years, the building functioned as a hospital from its inception all the way up to 2011.

#25 Gaze at the Gilded Igreja de Santa Cruz

Hailed as one of the most beautiful attractions in Braga, Igreja de Santa Cruz (or the Holy Cross Church) is magnificent – both inside and out.

Built in the 17th century, the façade features Doric columns and majestic carvings. Inside, gold detailing emphasizes the carvings – especially on the organ and altar. A small fee is required to enter.

#26 Stare Up at the Tower of Santiago

The Medieval Santiago Tower stands as part of the original 14th century defensive system; it served as both a watchtower and a Braga city gate.

Now part of the Pius XII Museum, the tower allows visitors to immerse themselves in the history of Braga by climbing up the five-story keep. On the third floor is the Nossa Senhora da Torre Chapel, which was built by famous Braga architect, Andre Soares, to show gratitude for sparing the city from Portugal’s massive earthquake in 1755. At the top, visitors can see the 18th century bells and enjoy the view.

#27 Sip a Local Libation at the Best Bars in Braga

Northern Portugal is a well-known wine region – and those who want to get a taste of locally produced wine in Braga will have no trouble finding a bar, café or restaurant to imbibe. That said, we do recommend tasting Vinho Verde. The name translates to Green Wine – which refers to the fact that the wine is consumed ‘young’ (not the color!).

Craft beer is also pouring in Braga. One of the top producers of Portuguese craft beer, Cerveja Letra, hails from Vila Verde, just to the north. The best bars in Braga, Portugal to get a taste are Letraria Craft Beer Library (a city center taproom of Letra Brewery) and Mal Amado (where they pour craft brew from several Portuguese brewers).

Visitors looking for Braga bars serving excellent cocktails should check out SETRA or Tosga.

#28 Eat at a Local Braga Restaurant

There are numerous restaurants in Braga that will appeal to a variety of tastes – so we are just highlighting a few of the eateries that were recommended to us by locals.

Cozinha da Se Restaurant Braga

One of the best restaurants in Braga for regional cuisine, Cozinha da Se serves big portions of meaty favorites and fish specialties (the cod dishes get rave reviews!). Diners can enjoy the meal inside the cozy restaurant or al fresco.

Bira dos Namorados

Featuring a bright and colorful interior, Bira dos Namorados offers a diverse menu of international fare infused with local flavor. The burgers on traditional Madeira bread (one of our favorite Madeira Foods) hit the spot!

Retrokitchen Braga

Earning high marks for offering homestyle meals at affordable prices, the Retrokitchen menu (a 3-course offering at a flat rate) changes daily. Retrokitchen consistently gets high marks for being one of the best restaurants in Braga.

Map of Braga, Portugal

Use this link to Google for an interactive version of our Braga Map. Visitors can also pick up a Braga tourist map at the TI.

More Braga Things To Do

We highlighted our top picks in our Braga To Do list, but there are a few more sights that fellow travelers might want to add to their itinerary.

More Churches in Braga

In our list of Braga, Portugal attractions, we featured several spectacular churches in the city center as well as the sensational Bom Jesus do Monte, just east of town. However, there are more than 30 Braga churches – and those who are enthralled by the elaborately decorated churches might want to seek out a few more.

Igreja de Sao Vicente Braga

St. Vincente is an exquisite Baroque church featuring detailed carvings on the facade and azulejos tiles covering the interior walls. Igreja de Sao Vicente is just a five-minute walk north of Praca do Campo Novo.

Igreja de Sao Victor

The Church of Saint Victor features a demure exterior, but inside is clad with blue-and-white tiles and a glittering altar. It’s a five-minute walk from Jardim da Senhora a Branca.

Igreja do Carmo

Not quite as over-the-top as some of the Braga churches, the Carmo Church and convent conveys numerous architectural styles and boasts an elegant interior. Igreja do Carmo is located just east of Mercado Municipal.

More Braga Museums

We have already mentioned a few of the museums in Braga, but travelers curious about ancient history or interested in art might want to visit one of the city’s archaeological museums.

Museu de Arqueologia D Diogo de Sousa

Established in the early 1900s, the D. Diogo de Sousa Archaeology Museum exhibits recovered Roman artifacts, including an unearthed mosaic floor. A small fee is required to enter.

Roman Thermae of Maximinus

The Roman Thermae of Maximinus, a National Monument, is the excavated ruins of 1st century BC Roman baths in Alto da Cividade. Visitors can enter the site for a small fee.

Museu Pio XII

We previously mentioned the Pio XII Museum – as it maintains the Tower of Santiago – but there is much more to see. The museum displays centuries of religious artifacts, paintings and archaeological discoveries. Tickets are required to enter.

Fonte do Idolo

The Fonte do Idolo – or Fountain of the Idol – is a 1^st century AD fountain with carved stone. A small fee to enter and tours are available to better explain the history of the place.

Braga Image Museum

The Image Museum is a modern photography museum uniquely housed in an old watchtower. It is free to visit, however, it was closed for renovations during our visit (and appears to have been closed for some time).

SC Braga Football

Sporting Clube de Braga – or Sporting Braga FC – is the local soccer team that plays in the top flight of Portuguese Football, Primeira Liga. For those interested in catching a live game, home matches are held at Estadio Municipal de Braga, which is north of the Old Town.

Braga Festivals

Visitors can plan their trip to Braga to coincide with one of the city’s best festivals.

Holy Week, called Semana Santa, is one of the biggest events in Braga and is celebrated at numerous churches and with processions through the streets. The June festival of Sao Joao (St. John the Baptist) is another religious festival in Braga.

Braga Romana – or the Roman Braga Festival – honors the city’s roots that can be traced back to the Roman town of Bracara Augustus. The festivities include a Roman market and costumed parades.

Numerous musical events and the fun Braga Beer Fest are other popular celebrations in the city.

Things To Do Near Braga, Portugal

In addition to the city center activities, there are many things to do around Braga, too. We are highlighting a few of the best regional attractions that can be visited on day trips from Braga.

Guimaraes

Considered to be one of the best day trips from Braga, Guimaraes is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guimaraes is known for its cultural institutions, including the Castle, Alberto Sampaio Museum and art museums.

The simplest way to get from Braga to Guimaraes is by bus. Those who want to see both Guimaraes and Braga in one day should join an organized Porto to Guimaraes and Braga tour. Get the details here!

Barcelos

A quaint town with just a handful of attractions, Barcelos is an easy day trip from Braga. The town is best known for the Rooster of Barcelos, which serves as a national symbol of Portugal.

Trains and buses can be used to get from Braga to Barcelos. Also note that there are full-day organized tours visit Braga, Guimaraes and Barcelos. Find out more!

Peneda Geres National Park

Surprisingly the only national park in Portugal, Peneda Geres NP is a mountainous wonderland that boasts diverse flora and fauna and several hiking trails.

While it is ideal to visit by car, there are small group tours from Porto that include both Peneda Geres NP, Braga and Bom Jesus do Monte. Get the specifics of this tour!

Monastery of St Martin of Tibaes

Travelers intrigued by the churches in Braga can add one more to the list: the Monastery of Sao Martinho de Tibaes. Located to the west of Braga, the religious site dates to the 6th century – but was completely rebuilt in the 1700s. Buses are the ideal mode of transit to get from Braga to the monastery.

Travel Tips for Braga, Portugal

We have outlined the best things to see in and around Braga, Portugal – but we have a few more tips to help make your trip enjoyable.

Best Time to Go to Braga

There are pros and cons to visiting Braga in every season. That said, due to the city’s fondness for ornamental gardens, we think the best time to visit Braga is in the spring or early summer, when the flowers are in bloom.

Walking Tours in Braga

Although Braga ranks as the third-largest city in Portugal, it is simpler to navigate than Lisbon and Porto. On our trip to Braga, we easily routed our way on foot to the top sights and discovered a few hidden gems along the way!

You can actually follow in our footsteps by starting with #2 and making a Self-Guided Braga Walking Tour to the attractions that follow.

Of course, there are many guided Braga walking tours where local guides lead the way, as well as a tip-based Free Walking Tour Braga. Alternatively, hire a driver for an outstanding Braga Tuk Tuk Tour.

Organized Braga Day Trips

Joining an organized tour from Porto is a hassle-free way to experience the Minho region. The premier excursions feature comfortable transport from Porto and include all the top sights.

This highly-rated tour offers an affordable option – while fellow travelers rave about this small-group, all-inclusive tour.

How To Get to Braga, Portugal

The best way to reach Braga is by car, train or bus. Travelers can rent a car for the day (use our Car Rental Tips) – but those only visiting Braga and Bom Jesus do Monte can easily complete the trip with public transportation.

The Braga Train Station is located just west side of the Old Town. The main bus station in Braga sits slightly to the north, near Braga Mercado Municipal.

If you’re looking for flights to Braga, Portugal, you won’t find any – as the closest airport is in Porto. However, you can travel directly from the Porto Airport to Braga via an inexpensive, 50-minute bus ride.

How To Get from Porto to Braga

The Porto to Braga distance is about 35 miles – and you can choose a car, train or bus to make the journey. In our opinion, the train is the best mode of transport for getting to Braga from Porto.

The Urbano (U) is a Porto to Braga train that departs from Sao Bento Station in Porto City Center. The ride takes about 1.5 hours and costs less than 5 euros. Faster and more expensive trains depart from Campanha Station, which is east of the Porto center.

Travelers can also take a bus from Porto to Braga. The Porto-Braga Bus takes about 2 hours and costs a little less than the Urbano train.

Driving from Porto to Braga by car allows for the most flexibility, however, it will cost much more than taking the Porto to Braga bus or train. In Braga, there is both paid and, if you’re lucky, free parking near the city center.

From Lisbon to Braga

The best way to travel to Braga from Lisbon is by train. The Lisbon to Braga Train takes about 3.5 hours. In our opinion, the distance between Lisbon and Braga is too far for an enjoyable day trip.

Where To Stay in Braga

There are plenty of options for accommodation in Braga, Portugal that will fit a range of budgets. For short stays of 3 days or less, we recommend booking a hotel (rather than an Airbnb) and we are highlighting a few of the top-rated places to stay in Braga.

Vila Gale Collection Hotel in Braga, Portugal

Rated as one of the Best Hotels in Braga, Vila Gale is housed in a historic building, yet features all the modern conveniences. Guests give it high ratings for the superb staff, delicious breakfast and spacious rooms. Check rates and availability for your stay!

Hotel Senhora a Branca

Offering an excellent value for money, Hotel Senhora a Branca is one of the better hotels in Braga, Portugal for budget travelers. Located on the east side of the Old Town and featuring clean (but somewhat outdated) rooms, a buffet breakfast is also included. Check rates for your stay!

InBraga Hostel

Situated near the historic center and not far from the train station, InBraga Hostel has dorm beds, shared kitchen facilities and an outdoor green space…all at a fair price. Check availability!

What To Pack for Braga

Our last tips for your Braga trip are all about what to pack (or wear). You can find all of our hacks on our Travel Packing Page. First, grab your Free Packing Checklist!

Comfortable Shoes

While Braga is fairly flat for Portugal, it is still best to wear comfortable walking shoes. Sneakers or trail shoes are both great for sightseeing in Braga. Read our reviews as we break down our favorite Travel Shoes.

Travel Camera

Braga sights are nothing short of spectacular! Capture the beauty of the city with a real travel camera; we use a Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens. It takes high quality photos and is consistently rated as one of the Best Cameras on a Budget.

Portugal Weather Gear

Make sure you are prepared for the elements! Spring and summer visitors to Portugal will want to bring sunscreen and a good hat. Those visiting Portugal in autumn or winter will need a packable raincoat or a travel umbrella.

Day Bag

Whether on a Braga day trip or staying a week, you will want a zippered day pack for your everyday travel items. We use small backpacks – but share tips in our article, The Best Day Packs for Travelers.

Portugal Trip Insurance

Regardless of how well you plan, luggage can get lost, flights will be delayed and illness may occur. Travel insurance could help. Check the rates and coverage at World Nomads.

Europe Travel Docs and Planner

Of course, don’t forget your most important travel documents – like pre-purchased tickets, hotel confirmations, vouchers for activities and your Travel Planner. We recommend keeping everything zipped up in a Travel Organizer.

Start planning your trip to Portugal! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more advice – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!

More Portugal Travel Guides

Perfect Porto Itinerary
Best Craft Beer Bars in Porto
How To Spend 3 Days in Lisbon
Visiting Beautiful Belem from Lisbon
Seeing Cristo Rei in Lisbon
The Best Viewpoints and Churches in Lisbon
Sightseeing in Funchal, Madeira

Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board.