TOURS

Braga Free Tour

Homepage
>
Destinations
>
Braga
>
Braga Free Tour

Braga Free Tour

Discover the Portuguese Rome

With the Braga free walking tour you experience 3.000 years of history. Local experts offer dozens of insider tips and things to do. Discover our authentic culture

Our Braga Free Tour invites you to discover the richness of a city was founded in 16BC. It’s not only older than Portugal itself but also stands as a testament to the nation’s deep-rooted history and evolving culture. Its welcoming culture is infectious and culinary aromas waft through the air. It has ancient roman architecture and a youthful population and emerging high tech industry.

This a city where ancient history and youthful vibrancy converge.

You will hear the myths and legends, and visit the baroque churches and monuments that reveal the amazing history of this magnificent city.

You’ll be guided by enthusiastic experts who will share secrets, stories, and suggestions, making the past come alive in the present.

Duration: Approximately 2hr 30min

Your Braga Free Tour meets at:

Look for our
beautiful Blue Umbrella!

Braga Free Walking Tour

Roman Roots and Baroque Beauty

Braga is often hailed as the Portuguese Rome, this city is full of history, culture, and architectural marvels. Our Braga Free Tour is the best way to see the best of Braga in one day. This journey through 3,000 years of history is packed with local insights and a host of things to do.

We begin at Campo das Hortas. As you pass through the Arco da Porta Nova, you'll be stepping into a world where Roman legacy intertwines with centuries of Catholic influence. Braga's nickname, "the city of the archbishops," reflects this rich religious heritage. You will walk the historical streets, passing landmarks like Braga City Hall and the Public Library, you'll feel the centuries of history around you.

The heartbeat of the city is the Arcada and Praça da República, You’ll experience the baroque splendor of the Convent of the Congregados. You'll be introduced to the work of André Soares, a self-taught architectural genius. His Rococo sculptures and bold towers left an indelible mark on Braga in the 18th century.

As we make our way down Avenida da Liberdade, admire the colorful, flower-lined sidewalks. This leads us to another Soares' masterpiece, the Palácio Raio.
We pass the Church of Santa Cruz and the quaint Frigideiras do Cantinho as we make our way to the Sé de Braga, enjoying secrets and legends along the way.

As we get closer to the Braga Cathedral, you'll understand why Braga is dubbed the Rome of Portugal. The cathedral, has its roots in the 3rd century and is a mosaic of architectural styles, housing treasures like a Roman tomb and the Brazil Cross which is significant in the country's religious history.

Standing before this monumental piece of history, you'll grasp the meaning of the phrase "older than the Sé de Braga.”

This free tour is, without a doubt, the best way to experience Braga.

We cover all the must-see spots share insider tips for exploring the Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary on your own.

Join our Braga Free Walking Tour, and take home memories that are as meaningful as they are unforgettable. Braga isn’t just a city; it’s a living, breathing story waiting to be explored. Let’s discover it together!

Highlights of Your Braga Free Walking Tour

Each Braga Free Walking Tour is a unique experience. The stops listed in the highlights may change due to the guide leading the tour and other conditions such as weather and local events. If you are particularly interested about a specific item please ask your guide before the beginning of the tour to confirm it is on the agenda.

Historic Campo das Hortas

This sets the stage for an immersive exploration of Braga's storied past and lively present.

Porta Nova Arch: Gateway to History

Feel the symbolic embrace of a city with its doors eternally open to visitors. This monument was a creation of André Soares and sponsored by Bishop D. Diogo de Sousa.

Violinha Street and the Medieval Era

Echoes of the Medieval period resonate through the city's architecture and ambiance.

Church of Pópulo and the Renaissance

Learn about the Portuguese Renaissance while you admire the architectural genius of Carlos Amarante.

Município Square: A Baroque Marvel

The grandeur of the City Hall and Public Library, showcase the exquisite baroque style of André Soares.

Campo das Vinhas and D. Diogo de Sousa

Discover the legacy of D. Diogo de Sousa, the former Archbishop and “new founder” of Braga, whose influence reshaped the city.

Republic Square and the Arcada Building

Hear the story of Portugal's Republic and take a closer look at the historic Arcada building.

Liberdade Avenue: A Tale of Revolution

Gain insights into the Dictatorship of Salazar and the transformative Carnation Revolution of 1974.

Theater Circo: A Century of Performing Arts

Experience the rich theatrical history of Braga at the Theater Circo, a cultural landmark with over a century of stories.

Raio Palace and Carlos Amarante Square

Admire the stunning Raio Palace before exploring Carlos Amarante Square, where tales of the three rooster legend and the Sephardic Jews in Portugal come to life.

Braga Cathedral: A Historical Treasure

At Braga Cathedral, uncover the layers of history, from its architectural styles to the crypts and the remnants of the old Jewish quarter.

Casa das Bananas and the Bananeiro Tradition

Embrace the unique Bananeiro tradition of Christmas Eve at Casa das Bananas, a testament to Braga's vibrant local customs.

Gardens of Santa Bárbara: A Story of Saints

In the Gardens of Santa Bárbara, discover the tale of Santa Bárbara and her legacy in Turkey.