Visitors to northern Portugal should be sure to stop in Braga, the oldest city in Portugal. Located in the northwestern corner of the country, Braga was established in 27 BC by the Romans. It is one of the oldest Christian cities in the world and has been the country’s religious capital since Roman times.
The Cathedral of Braga is Portugal’s oldest church. It was built in the 12th C. by the parents of the first king, Henry of Burgundy and Teresa, who are entombed in the chapel.
An important pilgrimage site in Braga is Bom Jesús do Monte (Good Jesus of the Mount), which was begun in 1722 and is located just 5 km east of the city center. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019. This hilltop site can be reached by car, by ascending the monumental stairway on foot, or by old-fashioned funicular.
Braga is also the capital of the Minho region, a region best known for its colorful festivals, baroque churches, well-preserved cities and lush vegetation. The city’s young population, attractive historic center, and lively streets make Braga an excellent base from which to explore this beautiful area. For more information on the city, click here.
If you decide to spend a night or two in the area there are some special Pousadas to choose from in the nearby towns of Guimarães and Amares. The Pousada Mosteiro Guimarães is a 12th C. former Augustinian monastery that is one of the most impressive hotels in the Pousadas group. For more information and reservations, click here. The Pousada Mosteiro de Amares, Santa Maria do Bouro is a 12th C. former monastery located in the picturesque town of Amares. For more information and reservations, click here.
Book a private tour! You may want to consider booking a private tour with an English-speaking guide, if you want to visit Braga as a day trip from Porto. Your personal guide can provide you with information on the city and its historic sites. For more information on our Porto Day Trip that includes Braga, click here, and for information on all of our Porto & Porto Day Trip tours, click here.
Photo credit: Rui Chicória, License CC BY 3.0 / Photo of Praça da República
For assistance with your travel plans, including hotel and private tour reservations, click here.