From Oporto: Braga Half-Day City Tour

Braga, known as the "Portuguese Rome," beckons visitors to explore its rich history and stunning architecture. This half-day tour from Oporto allows you to discover the city’s highlights, including the Braga Cathedral – the oldest in Portugal – and the impressive Sanctuary of Bom Jesus Do Monte. With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, you’ll have the chance to learn about Braga’s cultural heritage. But what secrets lie beyond the cathedral’s Baroque and Gothic façade?

Key Points

• This half-day tour departs from Oporto and takes visitors to explore the historic city of Braga, known as the "Portuguese Rome".
• The tour includes a guided visit to the stunning Braga Cathedral, the oldest in Portugal, and its Baroque and Romanesque architectural highlights.
• Participants can also visit the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, a Baroque hilltop sanctuary with a grand staircase and panoramic views.
• The tour provides an opportunity to discover Braga’s rich history, blend of historical and modern elements, and scenic surroundings.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, entry tickets, and guided tours, but excludes food, drinks, and tips.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Braga Half-Day City Tour is a popular sightseeing experience that allows visitors to explore the historic city of Braga, often referred to as the "Portuguese Rome."

This tour lasts for half a day and departs from Oporto in northern Portugal. Priced from $60.07 per person, it’s likely to sell out, so it’s best to check availability and starting times.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a guided tour of Braga Cathedral, and free time for shopping and self-guided exploration.

Participants can expect scenic views during the journey to Braga.

Exploring Braga Cathedral

A highlight of the Braga Half-Day City Tour is the guided visit to Braga Cathedral. This cathedral, the oldest in Portugal, boasts a stunning Baroque façade and an impressive interior.

Visitors can explore:

1. The Cathedral’s magnificent baroque main altar, adorned with intricate gold carvings.

2. The Gothic-style choir stalls, dating back to the 15th century, featuring elaborately carved wooden panels.

3. The cathedral’s archaeological museum, which showcases Roman and medieval artifacts discovered on the site.

The guided tour provides valuable insights into the cathedral’s rich history and architectural significance, making it a must-see during the Braga Half-Day City Tour.

Sanctuary of Bom Jesus Do Monte

Another highlight of the Braga Half-Day City Tour is the visit to the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte.

This 18th-century Baroque hilltop sanctuary features a grand staircase with 116 steps, divided into 5 sections representing the 5 senses and the 5 wounds of Christ. Visitors can climb the scenic staircase for panoramic views over Braga.

The sanctuary also boasts a church, chapels, and gardens. The tour includes a 1-hour guided tour, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the historical and religious significance of this iconic Portuguese landmark.

Discovering the "Portuguese Rome"

One of the highlights of the Braga Half-Day City Tour is the opportunity to discover Braga, a city often referred to as the "Portuguese Rome."

During the tour, travelers enjoy the rich history and architectural wonders that have earned Braga this distinguished nickname.

The tour includes:

1. A visit to the Braga Cathedral, the oldest church in Portugal, where visitors can admire its ornate Baroque and Romanesque design.

2. Exploring the city’s mix of historical and modern elements, from quaint cobblestone streets to contemporary shops and cafes.

3. Taking in the scenic views during the journey to Braga, which offer a glimpse of the city’s picturesque surroundings.

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Scenic Journey to Braga

As visitors embark on the Braga Half-Day City Tour, they’re treated to a scenic journey that offers a glimpse of the picturesque surroundings that have earned Braga its reputation as the "Portuguese Rome."

The drive winds through the lush, rolling hills of Northern Portugal, providing travelers with ample opportunities to admire the breathtaking landscapes that frame the historic city.

Towering pine forests, verdant vineyards, and quaint villages dot the countryside, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere that sets the stage for the exploration of Braga’s rich cultural heritage.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The Braga Half-Day City Tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as entry tickets to the Braga Cathedral.

However, the tour doesn’t cover food, drinks, or tips. Travelers are advised to bring comfortable clothes.

Plus, pets, food in the vehicle, alcohol, and drugs aren’t allowed on the tour.

The key inclusions are:

1. Hotel pickup and drop-off

2. Entry tickets to Braga Cathedral

3. Guided tours of Bom Jesus do Monte and Braga Cathedral

The tour isn’t suitable for individuals over 95 years old.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

The Braga Half-Day City Tour has received high praise from past participants, earning an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars based on 22 reviews.

Travelers highlight the knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides, who provide insightful tours of the Braga Cathedral and Bom Jesus do Monte. Scenic views during the journey to Braga are also noted as a tour highlight.

While a few reviewers mentioned technical issues with equipment, such as a defective microphone, the majority of feedback is overwhelmingly positive.

The tour appeals to a range of traveler types, including couples, groups, solo travelers, and families.

Getting the Most Out of the Tour

How can travelers make the most of the Braga Half-Day City Tour? To begin, arrive on time to maximize the tour’s value.

Next, come prepared by wearing comfortable shoes and bringing water to stay hydrated.

Finally, engage with the guide – ask questions and soak in the insights on the city’s rich history and architecture.

With these tips, visitors can enjoy the tour’s highlights, from the awe-inspiring Bom Jesus do Monte to the captivating Braga Cathedral.

The Sum Up

This half-day tour offers an immersive experience of Braga’s rich history and architectural wonders. Visitors can explore the renowned Braga Cathedral, marvel at the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus Do Monte, and discover the city’s cultural heritage, known as the "Portuguese Rome." With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, this guided tour provides an enriching and efficient way to experience the highlights of Braga from Oporto.

You can check availability for your dates here: