Up in the north of Portugal, Braga is the third largest city in the country, but it retains a cozy vibe and peaceful atmosphere that charm all tourists. Just a short ride away from Porto and Ponferrada, there’s no excuse not to join Free Walking Tours in Braga and enjoy a wonderful day of sightseeing. There are several walks with local guides available here, but we recommend joining the Essential Braga City Tour first. This experience will allow you to visit the best highlights in the historic center (both inside and outside the ancient city walls), learn why Braga has the highest number of religious buildings in Portugal, and take amazing group pictures with your small group of fellow travelers. If you are traveling in summer and prefer to avoid the heat, then join the Free Braga by Night Tour. Here you will discover the city under a magical light and hear many fascinating anecdotes.

If you want to make the most of your time in the north of Portugal, then welcome to the Free Tours in Braga. These entertaining walks by professional guides will let you visit the most important highlights in the city, including, of course, the Braga Cathedral, the first cathedral of the country. The original building was erected in the 11th century, and even today it’s steeped in legends. The much-photographed Biscainhos Museum’s gardens and the lively Republica Square are the other two must-visit landmarks in Braga. Strolling down the charming Souto Street, tourists will cross the Arch of the New Gate; this will be the perfect spot to learn about the ancient walls that once protected the city. In fact, the current Braga Tower is the last remaining of the medieval fortified castle that once watched over the area. Additionally, the Church of Saint Victor is a must-see masterpiece covered in traditional Portuguese tiles.

Braga is certainly an old city with an important religious past, but it’s also a bustling university town boasting many entertainment options. The Praça Market is the perfect place where travelers can find typical food (Braga’s cod dishes are reputedly the best in the country), white wines, souvenirs or simply chill out while enjoying a delicious cup of coffee. After exploring the old town with Braga Free Walking Tours, travelers can’t miss the opportunity to take a car to the outskirts and visit the Bom Jesus do Monte. Apart from spectacular views, the wooded hillside gardens are perfect for a peaceful stroll. But the highlight is the stunning baroque stairway leading pilgrims to the church at the top, a metaphor of the ascension into heaven. The other must-go day excursion in Braga is a tour around the massive Castle of Guimaraes, built in the 11th century to defend the monastery from attacks by the Moors and the Norsemen.