This year, the travel portal European Destinations recognized the Portuguese city of Braga as the best city in Europe for travel. In this regard, we responsibly declare that it is impossible to describe all the best places in Braga in one article. However, we will try to do it for you.
Historical value
Braga is recognized as the oldest Christian place on Earth and the oldest city in Portugal. It is overflowing with churches, and the most emblematic sound of the city is the ringing bells.
Accordingly, the main historical attraction of the city is the Sé Cathedral. It is older than the Notre-Dame in Paris! Inside and out, the Sé Cathedral combines many architectural styles. It is worth paying attention to the intricate wood carvings on the ceiling. This was painstaking and long-term work from the Portuguese people.
At noon, the shadows disappear, giving the Cathedral a gloomy look. The atmosphere inside becomes truly spiritually elevated.
Pilgrimage
An important place for pilgrims from all over the world is the Bom Jesus do Monte church. This landscape complex inspires not only religious believers but also architects.
By the 14th century, a cross and a chapel were erected on the Monte Espinho hill. Hundreds of pilgrims began to flock to this place. Thus, the construction of new chapels and landscaping began. First, winding paths and grottoes appeared, and later a staircase with a height of 116 meters was erected. Climbing up this staircase means atonement for sins.
The hill offers stunning views of the surroundings. This is the best observation deck in Braga.
Funicular
Yes, for those who are not ready to leave all their energy on the stairs, there is an easier way to climb the Monte Espinho hill. In the 19th century a funicular was built.
It was difficult with electricity in those days, so the funicular works due to water traction. Until now, in order for the funicular to move, water is poured into it.
The ascent will take no more than a minute. However, this is a very interesting experience. Greenery is raging around, the air is very clean. And before departure, the funicular emits a funny beep.
Square
The main square of Braga is the Praça da República (Republic Square). It connects the old and the new city. Of course, the old part of the city is of great interest to the traveler.
It is obvious that Braga Square is the starting point for walking along the pedestrian streets of the city between buildings in the ancient Gothic style. Furthermore, all important buildings of Braga are located in close proximity to Republic Square.
In the center of the square there is a huge round fountain and many cafes, churches and a municipal Park. In addition, city festivals and events are often held in the square.
Gastronomy
We all know that Portuguese cuisine is special and popular. In particular, the city of Braga is famous for an abundance of wines and the best varieties of port.
Several dozen grape varieties are grown in the vicinity of Braga. Many families have been producing wine for centuries, passing on their skills from generation to generation. Therefore, during a tour of the suburban areas of Braga, you can come across the luxurious estate of the “wine” barons.
Despite the abundance of cafes and restaurants in Braga, gourmets prefer to go for lunch in the monastery bakeries. They say that the delicacies prepared in the monasteries are fantastic. Moreover, the names of the dishes are assigned “heavenly”, which makes them even more original.
Festivals
One of the most popular festivals in Braga is the Semibreve Festival. This event is dedicated to electronic music. Music genres such as techno and trance can be heard at the festival. In addition to the headliners of these directions, new musicians who have not yet reached fame will perform at the festival.
The second most popular event in Braga is the Organ Festival (Festival de Órgão de Braga), which takes place at the end of April in many of the city’s churches. This event is interesting even for those who are not interested in this type of music. The fact is that the festival is international in nature. Thus, it aims to attract interest in organ music and preserve traditions not only nationally, but also globally.
At the end of May, International Dance Festival is held in Braga. It is basically a dance film competition focused on the Contemporary style. In addition, spectators come from all over the world, and the organizers of the festival try to surprise everyone. The motto of the festival is – no one should be bored!
Green Zone
Relax in the Santa Bárbara gardens. The gardens are sprawled along the Bishop’s Palace, covered in lush greenery. The trees – cedar and boxwood – are trimmed in geometric shapes. Flowerbeds have a strict geometric shape, and in the center of the park is the fountain of St. Barbara.
By the way, landscaping was done by an Italian who was a fan of the Renaissance style. Therefore, the gardens look luxurious, where you can feel like a member of the royal family and arrange a romantic walk.
Canyoning
In our opinion, we left the most interesting and sweet at the end of the list. It’s a great idea to take advantage of an adventure like Canyoning around Braga. A group with equipment provided by a travel company goes to the Peneda Gerês National Park.
Cliff descents, swimming in water, hiking trails, teamwork, lunch in the bosom of nature will leave no one indifferent. This tour will only take one day. In addition, the tour organizers provide a shuttle service.
Braga is very interesting and authentic. However, for a variety of impressions and greater contrast, you definitely need to get out into the nature in Peneda Gerês and breathe in the fresh Portuguese air!
Conclusion
As you can see, it is not for nothing that Braga has become the leader among the best cities to travel. There are entertainment and activities to suit all the interests of the visitors. Moreover, you can learn Portuguese in Braga. For this, we opened our school there! Welcome to Braga!