Braga is a city of duality – and is just as well known for its phenomenal concentration of religious buildings as it is for its buzzing nightlife.
The Portuguese city is also quickly gaining traction with tourists, recently bagging the impressive title of Europe’s Leading Emerging Tourism Destination at a glittering World Travel Awards in Berlin earlier this week.
Dubbed the “Portuguese Rome” Braga is an ancient town in northwest Portugal.
Its history and livelihood are closely associated with Christianity dating all the way back to the 3rd century, with the city’s 12th-century Sé cathedral being one of its star attractions.
It also has a vibrant feel as it’s a university city packed with students who love its fun bars, clubs and restaurants. Braga has a higher percentage of young people than the rest of Portugal (11.8 percent compared to the nationwide 10.7 percent, according to the 2021 Census).
And if it’s a bit of sun you’re after then Braga also ticks all the boxes – as even in April it has a warm average temperature of 17C despite being a quick two hours plane hop from the UK.
Travel blogger Alice – who runs website High Heels & a Back Pack – says that despite the recent praise for Braga, it’s not yet jam packed with tourists.
She said: “Braga, Portugal is a charming historic city in the northern part of the country. This is Portugal’s third-largest settlement.
“However, the ambiance here is far from that of a crowded metropolis.”
She added: “The quaint narrow passageways, the cobbled streets, and the charming cervejarias (breweries) of Braga exude more of a small-town feel.”
Another top thing to do in the city is to take a ride on the Bom Jesus do Monte Funicular which connects the upper-town of Braga with the shrine on which it gets its name.
Recent visitors were also keen to share their thoughts on the up and coming destination on travel review site Tripadvisor.
One said: “Extraordinary architecture, overwhelming design and location. Historically impressive.
“A steep climb if you’re enthusiastic or a taxi and then walk down! And then visit Braga.”
Another said: “Awesome experience with spectacular views.”