Braga’s old centre is a pleasure simply to walk. Enter by the Arco da Porta Nova, the 18th-century gate once used to welcome visiting archbishops, and follow the lanes to the cathedral. Continue along Rua do Souto, the main shopping street, to the arcades and fountain of Praça da República, the city’s living room.
Along the way, you pass the wing of the old archbishops’ palace and the flower beds of the Jardim de Santa Bárbara. A short walk to the south lies Palácio do Raio, a rococo gem clad in blue azulejos, attributed to the architect André Soares. Nearby stands the old Hospital de São Marcos, while the Theatro Circo, opened in 1915, is one of the finest theatres in the country.
Top things to do: Historic Centre
Stop for coffee on Praça da República
Café Vianna and A Brasileira are the historic places to sit and watch the city.
Photograph Palácio do Raio
Its façade is one of the most photographed in Braga.
Relax in Santa Bárbara
The garden is at its best in spring, against the medieval walls.
See a show
Check the Theatro Circo programme for concerts and performances.
How to get to Historic Centre
- Everything here is on foot. Braga’s train station is about ten minutes’ walk west of the Porta Nova.
Insider tips
- A short guided walk on your first morning makes the rest of the city easier to read.
- Many shops close on Sunday, but cafés stay busy.
Best tours for Historic Centre
These experiences are the easiest way to see Historic Centre:
Guided walk from €29 Braga: Historic Center Walking Tour
A short guided walk around the heart of the city, with the choice of a group or private option.
- The main streets and squares
- History from the Romans onwards
- Group and private options
Food tour from €40 Braga Food Tour: Guided Tour with Tastings & Wine
A guided walk through the city’s food, with tastings and wine along the way.
- Local tastings
- Wine included
- Stories behind the dishes
Small group from €59 Braga Small-Group Walking Tour & Bom Jesus
A half-day introduction that covers both halves of Braga: the old streets and the sanctuary on the hill.
- The historic centre with a local guide
- Bom Jesus do Monte
- A small group
