2 day itinerary for Braga

Itinerary

Day 1:

Good morning! Welcome to Braga, a charming city in Portugal known for its rich history and beautiful architecture. Let's start our first day with a visit to the iconic Bom Jesus do Monte, a stunning sanctuary located on a hilltop just outside the city. You can either take a leisurely walk up the grand staircase or hop on the funicular for a scenic ride to the top. Once there, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding countryside.

After descending from Bom Jesus, let's head back into the city center and explore the historic heart of Braga. Start by visiting the Braga Cathedral, one of the oldest in Portugal. Take your time to admire the intricate details of the architecture and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Nearby, you'll find the Archbishop's Palace, a beautiful building that houses the Braga Municipal Museum. It's a great place to learn more about the city's history and culture.

For lunch, I recommend trying some traditional Portuguese cuisine at one of the local restaurants. Don't miss the opportunity to taste the famous Bacalhau à Braga, a delicious codfish dish that is a specialty of the region.

In the afternoon, take a stroll through the charming streets of Braga's historic center. Explore the narrow alleys, admire the colorful buildings, and discover hidden gems like the Raio Palace, a unique 18th-century building covered in beautiful azulejos (traditional Portuguese tiles).

To end the day, head to the Jardim de Santa Barbara, a lovely park located near the city center. Relax on a bench, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, and maybe even have a picnic. If you're lucky, you might catch a live music performance or a cultural event taking place in the park.

Day 2:

Good morning! Ready for another exciting day in Braga? Let's start by visiting the Sanctuary of Sameiro, another important religious site in the city. This sanctuary is dedicated to Our Lady of Sameiro and offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside. Take your time to explore the beautiful gardens and visit the basilica, which is known for its impressive architecture.

Afterward, let's head to the Braga Municipal Stadium, home to Sporting Clube de Braga, one of Portugal's top football teams. Even if you're not a football fan, it's worth taking a guided tour of the stadium to learn about its history and get a behind-the-scenes look at the facilities.

For lunch, I recommend trying some local street food at the Mercado Municipal de Braga. Here, you'll find a variety of stalls selling delicious snacks like bifanas (pork sandwiches), francesinhas (a hearty sandwich with layers of meat and cheese), and pastéis de nata (traditional Portuguese custard tarts).

In the afternoon, let's explore the beautiful gardens of the Palácio do Raio. This 18th-century palace is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city. Take a leisurely walk through the gardens, admire the fountains, and maybe even have a picnic.

To end our two-day adventure in Braga, let's visit the Museu dos Biscainhos, a fascinating museum housed in a beautiful 17th-century palace. Here, you can learn about the history of the region through a collection of art, furniture, and decorative objects. Don't forget to take a stroll through the palace gardens, which are known for their beautiful sculptures and flower beds.

I hope you enjoy your time in Braga! Safe travels!