Portugal is a part of the Iberian Peninsula that sits along the Atlantic Ocean. There is so much to explore in this beautiful country, including the cities of Lisbon (Portugal’s capital) and Porto (the second largest city). While both of these areas are amazing to discover (see my recommendations for Porto here), the smaller towns of Portugal can be equally enchanting and much less crowded.

Approximately 34 miles (55 km) north of Porto lies Portugal’s oldest city, Braga. Also known as one of the most religious places in Portugal, Braga is a city over 2,000 years old.

Arriving in Braga

Whether you travel by car or by high-speed train, Braga is about a 40-minute trip from Porto. Deciding whether to rent a car or not depends on your plans for Braga. There are many beautiful sites within walking distance of the Braga train station, such as the Sé de Braga (the oldest cathedral in Portugal), the Praça da República, and the Jardim de Santa Bárbara.

Portuguese Azulejos

You can make a day of exploring the city on foot. Take in the beauty of the impressive architecture of the city while seeing an abundance of azulejos- Portugal’s famous tiles found on houses, buildings, and streets.

Bom Jesus do Monte

A must-see when visiting Braga is the Bom Jesus do Monte- a Catholic shrine with a grand Baroque staircase that is a Unesco World Heritage site. With an impressive 577 stairs, the view from the bottom of the sanctuary is just as impressive as the view from the top.

Not up for a big stair climb? Take the world’s oldest water-powered funicular to the top! Getting to Bom Jesus do Monte will require some planning since it is not walkable from the city of Braga. You can get there via bus, Uber/taxi, or, of course, by rental car.

Ready to discover must-try foods while exploring Portugal? Read here!

Published: June 16, 2024 - Updated August 27, 2025

Braga, Portugal

Arriving in Braga

Portuguese Azulejos

Bom Jesus do Monte

Ogunquit, Maine: Cozy Coastal Vibes

Menorca: Spain’s Quaint Balearic Island