Braga

Nicknamed the “Rome of Portugal”, due to its connection to the Catholic Church since the Dark Ages, Braga has a vibrant and charming old town, perfect to spend a few hours.
Just an hour's distance from Porto by car, this old Roman town has many iconic religious sites that will take you back to the 12th century like its oldest cathedral in the country. A monument that indeed was built in the Middle Ages, but according to archaeological diggings, this church was built upon Roman ruins. Lose yourself throughout the picturesque town of Braga and its cobblestones, where Baroque churches, famous theaters, and many buildings dating back to the 1600s can be uncovered.

Outside of Braga’s downtown, rent an Uber or use a tuk-tuk to take you to one of the greatest sightseeing areas, the viewpoint of the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus. A building from the 14th century that poses a challenge to climb all the way to the top, visit its interior, and enjoy the grandeur of Braga’s old town from atop.

For the food enthusiasts, Braga shares many gastronomical wonders. The Braga Codfish (Bacalhau à Braga) is a delicious cod cooked with garlic, onions, potatoes, and parsley. Like in the Minho region, you also have Arroz de Sarrabulho, made with rice, pork meat, sausages, and a variety of spices. Amongst others, Braga is also known as well for its pastry, the Abade de Priscos Pudding is a must try, especially when it’s soaked with a Tawny Port Wine.

The coffee scene is also quite prominent. Many locals alongside travelers enjoy a good expresso with a Pastel de Nata in the historical cafe A Brasileira, by the Rua do Souto, the fancy shopping promenade for the locals.

#Travel.AcrossPortugal