Braga is a charming city located about 360 km north of Lisbon, combining rich history with a lively modern atmosphere. With over 2,000 years of heritage, you can explore stunning sites like the Bom Jesus do Monte and the oldest cathedral in Portugal. As you walk through its picturesque streets, you’ll find a mix of ancient Roman architecture and beautiful 18th-century houses, all surrounded by lush parks. Known as the “Portuguese Rome,” Braga offers rich culture and delicious local food. To truly enjoy the city, plan for at least two days to enjoy the sights and relax in the friendly atmosphere. Plus, it’s a perfect base for exploring the stunning Gerês region and the beautiful north of Portugal!
Day Trip from Lisbon to Braga: History, Cathedrals & Travel Tips
If you’re planning to travel from Lisbon to Braga, there are several convenient options to suit different preferences and budgets. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the best one.
Travelling from Lisbon to Braga is easy, with several transportation options. The most popular is by train, with regular departures from Lisbon’s Santa Apolónia or Oriente stations. The journey takes around 3.5 to 4 hours and is a comfortable way to travel.
You can also take a bus from Lisbon’s Sete Rios or Oriente bus stations, with a similar travel time.
For more flexibility, renting a car allows you to drive at your own pace, with a trip of around 3.5 hours.
Alternatively, you can fly from Lisbon to Porto (about 1 hour) and then take a train or bus from Porto to Braga.
For a more personalized experience, booking a private tour from Lisbon to Braga is another great option.
Best Things to Do and See in Braga
Visit the oldest cathedral in Portugal
The Sé de Braga is the oldest cathedral in Portugal and a must-see for anyone visiting the city. Dating back to the 12th century, it is a beautiful mix of Romanesque, Gothic, Manueline, and Baroque styles. Inside, visitors will find stunning altars and intricate details, including a silver altar that is a highlight of Baroque art. There is also a small museum with religious relics worth exploring. Although the layout can be a bit confusing, the cathedral’s rich history and unique architecture make it a must-visit in Braga.
Climb the stunning Bom Jesus do Monte
Bom Jesus do Monte, just 6 km from Braga, is one of Portugal’s most famous religious sites. Its stunning Baroque staircase, with over 580 steps, leads to a hilltop church, passing chapels, fountains, and statues along the way. You can also take the funicular, a historic cable railway, for an easier ascent. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Braga and peaceful gardens to explore. Whether climbing or riding, Bom Jesus is a must-visit for its beauty and tranquility.
Discover the charm of Braga's Old Town
Exploring the Old Town of Braga is a wonderful way to step back in time. Rua do Souto, the city’s original shopping street from 1466, is filled with charming shops and lively activity, connecting Arco da Porta Nova to Avenida Central. Just off this street, Largo do Paço features the former Bishop’s Palace and the beautiful 18th-century fountain, Chafariz do Castelo. As you wander around, you’ll find stunning churches, interesting museums, and impressive buildings like Raio Palace. Be sure to visit Torre de Menagem, a historic tower that’s now a national monument.
Visit the vibrant gardens of Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara Garden in Braga is a peaceful oasis in the city centre. Located next to the medieval Archbishop’s Palace, it’s a beautifully landscaped space with vibrant flower beds, neatly cut hedges, and a charming fountain featuring a statue of Saint Barbara. The garden’s romantic design incorporates historic arches and stone details from the palace, creating a unique fusion of nature and history. As you walk through the pathways, you’ll be surrounded by colourful flowers and lush greenery, making it an ideal spot to admire the beauty of Braga’s historic heart.
Explore the Tibães Monastery
The Monastery of São Martinho de Tibães, just 6 km from Braga’s center, is a must-visit for anyone exploring the area. Originally founded in the 11th century, it was beautifully rebuilt in the 17th century and served as the main house of the Benedictine order in Portugal and Brazil. The highlight is its stunning chapel, featuring detailed baroque and rococo wood carvings covered in gold. Surrounding the monastery are peaceful gardens with lush greenery, stone staircases, and fountains, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon. Easily reachable by bus, it’s a true gem of Braga.
Admire the views at the Image Museum
The Image Museum in Braga is a hidden gem located in a beautifully restored 14th-century medieval tower. This unique museum showcases a collection of over 200,000 photographs from both classic and contemporary photographers. As you explore the different floors, you’ll find interesting displays of vintage cameras and a library filled with photography books. The exhibits change regularly, so there’s always something new to see, making it worth a return visit. Don’t forget to climb to the top of the tower for breathtaking views of the city.
Explore Braga's noble heritage
The Museu dos Biscainhos, located in an 18th-century palace in Braga, offers a fascinating look into the life of Portugal’s nobility. Inside, you’ll find beautifully preserved rooms filled with antique furniture, ceramics, and everyday items from the 17th to 19th centuries. The palace itself is a stunning example of Baroque architecture, with its ornate ceilings, azulejo tiles, and grand rooms like the dining hall and music room. Don’t miss the beautiful landscaped gardens, which are perfect for a peaceful nature walk.
Enjoy a night out in Braga
Braga has a charming nightlife scene that’s perfect for chilling after a day of sightseeing. Start your evening at Tosga with a delicious cocktail, their Moscow Mule is a top pick! Next, head to Pelle, a lively pub where you can socialize with locals and enjoy a friendly atmosphere. If you’re ready to dance, Juno is the spot for upbeat electronic music and a fun vibe. To finish your night, check out Lustre, Braga’s only real disco, where you can dance until dawn.
Where to Stay in Braga
We have curated a diverse range of accommodation options that cater to every budget and preference, from charming hotels to cozy apartments and enchanting guest houses. Our selection process involved considering the location of the accommodations, reliable reviews from our partner Booking.com, and the opinions of the members of our Facebook group, Lisbon Travel, which has 40 thousand enthusiastic members. These options have been selected carefully to make sure that your stay in Braga is truly memorable.
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Transportation in Braga
Braga’s transport system makes it easy to explore the city’s rich history and attractions. The main train station connects Braga to Porto and other major cities, making it a convenient starting point for visitors. Within Braga, buses are the most common way to get around, with routes covering key sights like the Bom Jesus do Monte and the Cathedral.
For a more flexible and comfortable ride, taxis and ride-sharing services are widely available. If you prefer walking, the city center is compact and ideal for exploring on foot, with many pedestrian-friendly streets leading to historic sites, shops, and cafés.
Best Restaurants in Braga
We have curated a list of the best restaurants in Braga, inspired by the region’s rich culinary and cultural traditions. To create this list, we used trusted TripAdvisor reviews and insider tips from our amazing Lisbon Friends Facebook group, where over 40,000 members share their favourite recommendations.
INATO Bistrô
Mediterranean, European, $$ – $$$
Restaurante Esperança Verde
European, Portuguese, $$ – $$$
Tasquinha do Fujacal
Mediterranean, Portuguese, $
O Filho da Mãe
Latin, Fusion, $$ – $$$
Best Tours in Braga
We have selected a diverse range of tour options to suit all budgets and preferences. Our selection was based on the reliable reviews of our partner GetYourGuide and the opinions of the members of our Facebook group, Lisbon Travel, with 40,000 passionate members. These options have been carefully selected to ensure that your stay in Braga is truly memorable.
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