Braga is not only the third most populated city in Portugal, but it is also the oldest. It was founded during the Megalithic era, and like many other cities of the country, suffered the invasions. Because of the wealth left behind by its architecture, Braga is also known as the Portuguese Rome. Among other styles, the Baroque, the Gothic and the Roman stand out in buildings like churches, palaces or gardens. Worth mentioning is the university, the oldest in Portugal.
Best time to go: Semana Santa Bracarense is one of the most spectacular in the country, so it is the best excuse to discover the city
What to do in the city:
To start your route in Braga, what better way to spend the morning visiting the Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary, a fascinating construction with lots of fountains and a zigzag staircase. It is located about 6 km from the city so it is best to go early so you can spend the afternoon to other things.
Being the oldest city in Portugal, its old city is one of its greatest attractions. The eleventh century Catralal Se and the oldest of the country, or the Ancient Episcopal Palaco, whose gardens stand out, are just a few examples, but if you let yourself go you can discover many other architectural jewels. To get some rest, have a coffee in Vienna Cafe, the oldest in Braga, located in Praca da Republic, the heart of the city.
What to do at night:
Being a university city, the nightlife of Braga is one of the best in Portugal. For dinner, do not forget to try some of the braganese specialties such as frying pans, a kind of salad puff pastry, or roasted kid, always accompanied by green wine. For cocktails, our recommendation is the Slip Bar, and the Lagars Club, for partying.