A Diverse Destination in Portugal
Braga is a province located in the north of Portugal, known for its rich history, architecture, and cultural heritage. The region is home to the vibrant city of Braga and offers plenty of opportunities to relax in beautiful natural surroundings. Here, you can enjoy walking, cycling, fishing, and visiting cultural attractions such as museums, churches, and historic monuments. A holiday in Braga promises a varied travel experience, with plenty of activities to fill your days.
During your stay in this region, make sure to visit the city of Braga, one of the oldest cities in Portugal. Also known as ‘Roman Bracara Augusta’, Braga is steeped in history. Stroll through the charming streets of the city centre, discover traditional Portuguese architecture, and visit the Braga Museum for a deeper insight into local history. Braga is also the perfect starting point for exploring the region, thanks to its good public transport and several car rental companies. From Braga, it’s also easy to visit the neighbouring provinces of Porto and Viana do Castelo.
National Parks and Beautiful Beaches
Braga is a region famous for its stunning natural landscapes. One of the main attractions is Peneda-Gerês National Park, one of Portugal’s largest protected areas. The park offers spectacular scenery of mountains, rivers, forests, and waterfalls, and is home to wolves, otters, eagles, and vultures.
Visitors can walk and cycle along many trails throughout the park, including the well-known Ecovia do Vez cycling route. Beyond the national park, the region offers other natural attractions such as the Cávado River and the Fafião waterfalls. There are also many beautiful beaches nearby, perfect for those who want to relax in the sun or swim in the clear sea.
The Best Things to Do in Braga
Braga has a lot to offer. During your visit to this province, be sure not to miss the following:
Bom Jesus do Monte
Bom Jesus do Monte is a well-known pilgrimage site located in Tenões, just outside the city of Braga. The sanctuary is famous for its baroque staircase, offering an impressive panoramic view over the city and surrounding countryside. You can either walk to the top or take the historic funicular, one of the oldest water-powered lifts still in operation.
Braga Cathedral
The Braga Cathedral, also known as Sé de Braga, is the oldest religious building in Portugal and a major landmark in the city. The cathedral displays a blend of architectural styles, from Romanesque to Baroque, and houses an impressive collection of art and history. Visitors can explore the interior, admire the beautiful chapels and choir, or visit the treasury museum, which holds a rich array of religious artworks.
Peneda-Gerês National Park
Peneda-Gerês National Park, located north of Braga, is the only national park in Portugal. It’s a paradise for nature lovers, with breathtaking landscapes of mountains, forests, rivers, and waterfalls. Visitors can enjoy hiking, cycling, horse riding, or birdwatching, as well as discovering traditional villages and ancient Roman ruins scattered throughout the park.
Guimarães
Guimarães, a nearby city often considered the birthplace of the Portuguese nation, is also well worth a visit. This historic city, with its medieval architecture and cobbled streets, offers a wide range of sights, including the impressive Palace of the Dukes of Braganza and Guimarães Castle.
Experience Braga from Your Holiday Home
There’s no better way to immerse yourself in the Portuguese lifestyle during your holiday in Braga than by staying in a typical Portuguese holiday home. There are plenty of options available, from cosy cottages with countryside views to modern apartments in the centre of Braga.
At Holidayhome.com, you’ll find a wide selection of holiday homes in Braga, ranging from charming cottages for couples to spacious holiday villas for groups. Choose a holiday home near Braga city to enjoy urban attractions, or opt for a rural cottage to explore the natural beauty of the region. Book your holiday home in Braga now for an unforgettable holiday in this charming Portuguese province.
