What to do on a day trip to Braga, Portugal

On my recent journey to Portugal, I found myself enchanted by the charm and history of Braga. Just an hour from Porto, it’s an easy day trip. Braga has a rich religious heritage and stunning architecture. I didn’t know much about Braga, before this trip, but what I discovered was a city full of surprises—from majestic churches and peaceful gardens to lively streets and cozy cafes. In this guide, I’ll share my personal experiences and tips on what to do in Braga, Portugal.

Find my full guide on Porto here.

What to do in Braga?

Visit Bom Jesus do Monte church

If you’re visiting Braga, visiting Bom Jesus church should be at the top of your list. Not visiting the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte would be like going to Rome , but skipping the Colosseum. The church and especially its famous stairs are stunning are a sight to take in. You’ll have to either climb up 600 steps or you can take the funicular up for a few euros. The first bit of the staircase leads you past some little chapels and after about 10 minutes you’ll reach the Baroque staircase. At the top you’ll find some beautiful gardens and a cafe where you can enjoy a drink with a view. Personally, I think climbing up the stairs is a better experience than the funicular. Not in the least, because the best photo is at the bottom of the baroque staircase. However, if you’d like to experience both, climb up and take the funicular down. This way you get that incredibly rewarding feeling of having accomplished the climb, but you save your knees on the way down.

How much time should you spend on visiting Bom Jesus do Monte?

Go early in the morning so you don’t have to climb the stairs in the heat. It should take around 30 minutes to get up to the church. Then spend around 30 minutes walking around exploring. I’d take 1,5 to 2 hours for the entire visit.

How to get to Bom Jesus Do Monte?

The famous church is located just outside of Braga. To get there, you can take bus number 2 from the city center. I’d recommend doing it in the morning and taking the bus straight from Braga’s train station. The bus stops right in front of it and has Bom Jesus displayed up front. You can buy your ticket inside the bus (it costs around €165). If you are staying in town, than you can catch the bus on Avenida da Liberdade.

Entrance fee: free

Santa Barbara Garden

This garden is one of the most beautiful spots in the historic center. The rotate the type of plants each season, so you’ll always find a different garden than before.

Saint Markus Church and the Braga letters

At square ‘largo Carlos Amarante’ you’ll find the big white Braga letters that provide a perfect photo opportunity. Saint Markus Church, or Igreja de São Marcos is a baroque church behind the letters give it that postcard feel This church is known for its intricate façade, with elaborate sculptures and carvings. The interior is also richly decorated with a gilded altar and beautiful religious art. On the other side of the square you’ll find a 17th century church.

Palacio do Raio

The facade of this building, may just be the prettiest in Braga. Even if you don’t go inside, you’ll be impressed by the blue tile work and late Baroque/Rococco exterior of this mid-18th century palace. Today, you’ll find a museum inside, that delves into the history of the city and the building itself. You get to explore its beautifully preserved interiors and learn more about Braga’s rich heritage.

Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday 10 am to 1 pm and 2:30 to 6:30 pm

Stroll down the Avenue da Liberdade

Avenida da Liberdade, decorated with beautiful flowerbeds, is Braga’s main artery through the city. It’s usually bustling with activity and lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. This wide, tree-lined avenue is perfect for a leisurely stroll. The avenue is also home to several important buildings and monuments, making it a key part of any visit to Braga. Whether you’re shopping, dining, or simply people-watching, Avenida da Liberdade is where you’ll feel the heart of the city.

Park Avenida Central

Avenida Central Park is located in the heart Braga. It’s a lovely green oasis in the middle of the city. This spacious park is lined with trees, and colorful flower beds. It’s popular among both locals and visitors. If you’re lucky you’ll find some local musicians entertaining a crowd of people with traditional music. When I visited, local people were showing of their dancing skills, while the musicians played their tunes.

Braga Cathedral

Braga Cathedral, also known as Sé de Braga, is the oldest cathedral in Portugal. The cathedral has a fusion of architectural styles including Roman, Gothic and Baroque.The mix of styles show the long history of the cathedral and the many changes that were added over the centuries. Inside you’ll find beautifully decorated chapels with the typical blue tile, an impressive organ and a museum with art and sacred artifacts.

Entrance fee: €2 for just the church and €5 for the full visit.

Arco Da Porta Nova

Stroll into the historic center, passing underneath the Arco Da Porta Nova. It was once the main entrance to Braga’s old town. This gate in the medieval wall of the city, was opened in 1512 already, but was rebuilt in the 18th century in Baroque style. The gate leads you into a street, part of the old center of Braga, lined with shops and café’s.

Visit Nogueira da Silva Museum and its gardens

The Nogueira da Silva Museum is a hidden gem in Braga. Its namesake, António Nogueira da Silva, was a prominent local businessman and art collector. They have a well kept collections, ranging from antique furnitures, porcelains, silverware and many other things. The arts inside the house are beautiful, but the real stars are the gardens and tea room. A perfect spot to relax after exploring the museum.

Best restaurants in Braga

NOKI Street Food Fusion: NOKI Street Food Fusion in Braga serves a blend of international street food flavors with a modern twist. The menu is a mix of Asian-inspired dishes from different countries.

Omakase: Omakase brings an authentic Japanese cuisine to Braga. You will enjoy expertly crafted sushi and sashimi. The restaurant’s intimate setting and the chef’s meticulous attention to detail create a memorable culinary journey through the best of Japanese cuisine.

Garden Braga Café | Brunch – Restaurant: The Garden Braga Café is a cozy spot known for its delicious brunch and relaxed vibe. The menu offers dishes from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. You can find all the brunch classics here.

Anjo Verde :Anjo Verde is a great vegetarian restaurant in Braga. They have a diverse menu of healthy and delicious dishes. They make creative use of fresh vegetables and plant-based ingredients. It’s a go-to spot for vegetarians and anyone looking for a wholesome meal.

Canté Food & Friends: Canté Food & Friends is a warm and welcoming restaurant in Braga that focuses on sharing plates and social dining. The menu features a variety of Portuguese and Mediterranean-inspired dishes, all made with fresh, seasonal ingredients, perfect for enjoying with friends and family.

Restaurante Mendoá: Simple brunch spot with bagels, croissants, pancakes, bowls and sandwiches.

Maria Luísa: Maria Luísa is a charming brunch restaurant with lovely staff. They serve a bunch of brunch classics like eggs Benedict and French toast, but also burgers and smoothie bowls.