Braga is located in the north of Portugal and is known for its stunning architecture, lively nightlife, and rich history. The city has something to offer everyone, whether you’re looking to explore its many museums and churches or simply enjoy a meal in one of its many restaurants.
Wondering if Braga is worth visiting? If you have limited time in Portugal, you might wonder if Braga is worth visiting. Is it worth your time? Is it worth the money? Or should you focus on more popular cities instead?
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By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to decide why Braga should be (or shouldn’t be) on your Portugal bucket list.
We’ll discuss the pros and cons of visiting Braga so that you can see if it’s the right destination for you.
The Pros Of Visiting Braga: Reasons To Visit
There are many reasons why people love Braga, but it’s not a well-known destination among tourists.
Let’s take a look at the main reasons why you should visit Braga.
There’s A Lot To See In Braga
Braga is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a city with plenty to see and do. The city is packed with historical landmarks, museums, churches, and other attractions.
You could easily spend days exploring all that Braga has to offer. And if you get tired of sightseeing, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes to relax in.
The Architecture Is Stunning
One of the best things about Braga is its architecture. The city is filled with beautiful buildings, from its many churches to its splendid palaces.
Wandering around the streets of Braga, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. And if you’re a fan of photography, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take some fantastic shots.
It’s A Great City For Foodies
If you love food, you’ll be in heaven in Braga. The city is packed with restaurants, cafes, and bars, serving up everything from traditional Portuguese cuisine to international dishes.
For example, you can find delicious seafood at one of the city’s many seafood restaurants. Or, if you’re in the mood for something sweet, you can try some of the region’s famous custard tarts.
Braga Is A Great Value Destination
If you’re on a budget, Braga is a great choice. The city is relatively cheap compared to other places in Portugal.
You can find affordable accommodation, food, and activities in Braga. And, if you’re smart about it, you can visit the city on a shoestring budget.
The Cons Of Visiting Braga: Reasons To Skip
Now that we’ve looked at the pros of visiting Braga, let’s consider the cons.
It’s Not A Well-Known Tourist Destination
One of the most significant downsides of Braga is that it’s not a well-known tourist destination. If you’re looking to visit somewhere famous, you might want to skip Braga in favor of places like Lisbon or Porto.
However, if you’re looking for a hidden gem, Braga could be the perfect place for you.
It Could Be Boring If You Prefer Outdoor Activities
If you’re the type of person who loves hiking, swimming, and other outdoor activities, Braga might not be the best choice for you.
The city is filled with historical landmarks and museums, but there aren’t many opportunities for outdoor activities. If you prefer to be active on vacation, you might want to go somewhere else.
It’s Off The Beaten Path
Braga is located in the northwestern part of Portugal, far from the popular tourist destinations in the south. If you’re looking for a city that’s easy to get to, you might want to skip Braga.
However, Braga is definitely worth visiting if you don’t mind a little extra travel. For example, if you’re in Porto, it’s not so far.
Going off the beaten path can be interesting for some travelers, but if you have a limited time in Portugal, it might not be the most exciting destination.
The Final Verdict: So Is Braga Worth Visiting?
Is Braga worth visiting? It mostly depends on your interests. The city has a lot to offer if you love religious buildings, monuments, stunning architecture, and delicious food.
However, it’s not for everyone. If you’re looking for a well-known tourist destination, you might want to skip Braga and head somewhere more exciting like Porto, Lisbon, or the Algarve.
I visited Braga during my first trip to Portugal as I was in the country for three months. It wasn’t amongst my highlights. If you’d like to go off the beaten path, I recommend Guimaraes. It’s a cute city with more exciting things to do in my opinion.
Traveling to Portugal soon? Read one of the following guides:
