Bragança - Discovering Portugal

Travelling to Bragança

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Bragança, a pretty good destination in Portugal (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Bragança and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Bragança, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Portugal, here's everything to know about Bragança for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Bragança

Bragança is a city and municipality in northeastern Portugal, located in the Bragança district. It is about 20 kilometers from the border with Spain and has a population of around 35,000 people. Bragança is known for its rich history that dates back to medieval times, which is reflected in the architecture of the city's ancient castle and numerous other historic buildings. The city also boasts a number of natural parks and outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Overall, Bragança offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

What to visit in Bragança

Sure, here are some of the popular tourist attractions of Bragança, Portugal: 1. Bragança Castle - This medieval castle dominates the skyline of Bragança and is a top tourist attraction. It was built in the 12th century and has undergone several renovations over the years. Visitors can explore the castle walls, towers, and battlements and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
2. Domus Municipalis - This is a unique Romanesque building that dates back to the 12th century. It is known as one of the most unusual buildings in Portugal because it served as a Gothic Council house. Visitors can admire the beauty of the building and imagine how it was used many centuries ago.
3. Iberian Wolf Recovery Centre - Located just outside of Bragança, this center focuses on preserving the Iberian Wolf. Visitors can learn about the biology and behavior of the wolves, as well as the conservation efforts to protect this endangered species. Guided tours are available to get up close with the wolves.
4. Fernão de Magalhães Museum - This museum is dedicated to the life and achievements of Fernão de Magalhães, who was a Portuguese explorer and sailor. Visitors can learn about his epic voyage around the world, as well as his role in discovering the Spice Islands. The museum's exhibits include maps, models, and artifacts from the 16th century.
5. Montesinho Natural Park - Bragança is located in the heart of the Montesinho Natural Park, which is one of the largest protected areas in Portugal. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and birdwatching. Visitors can also explore traditional villages and sample local cuisine.
6. Domus Municipalis Archaeological Site - The ruins of this historical site were discovered in 1991 during excavations carried out in front of the Bragança castle. Visitors can explore the remains of the 12th-century building and learn about its fascinating history.
Overall, Bragança has many cultural and natural attractions to offer visitors, and these are just a few of the highlights.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Portugal, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Bragança.

When to go on holiday to Bragança

The best time to visit Bragança, Portugal is during the months of May, June, September, and October when the weather is pleasantly warm but not too hot, and the crowds are smaller. July and August, however, are the high season months when the city can be crowded and the temperature can get quite hot. If you prefer cooler weather and don't mind the crowds and higher prices, December and January are good times to visit for the Christmas and New Year festivities.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Bragança

There are several ways to get to Bragança, Portugal. Here are some options: 1. By car: If you have your own vehicle, you can drive to Bragança by taking the A4 highway from Porto. The journey takes around 2.5 hours depending on the traffic.
2. By bus: There are several daily buses from Porto to Bragança operated by the bus company Rede Expressos. The journey takes around 3 hours.
3. By train: There is a train station in Bragança, but there are no direct trains from Porto. You can take a train from Porto to Mirandela or Pocinho and then change to a connecting train to Bragança. The journey takes around 4 hours.
4. By air: The nearest airport to Bragança is Porto Airport. From there, you can rent a car or take a bus to Bragança. The journey takes around 2.5 hours by car and 3 hours by bus.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Bragança, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Bragança

Sure, here are some typical foods from Bragança, Portugal: 1. Posta à Mirandesa - This is a grilled steak made from the meat of the mirandesa cow, which is a native breed raised in the region. The steak is usually served with potatoes and vegetables.
2. Folar de Chaves - This is a sweet bread made with eggs, sugar, and cinnamon, and sometimes filled with ham or chorizo. It is traditionally eaten during Easter celebrations.
3. Alheira de Mirandela - This is a sausage made with bread, poultry, and spices. It is typically served fried with french fries, rice, or vegetables.
4. Bola de Carne - This is a savory meat pastry made with dough and filled with a mix of ground beef, pork, and spices. It is a popular snack or appetizer.
5. Azeite de Trás-os-Montes - This is an olive oil that is produced in the Trás-os-Montes region, which includes Bragança. It has a distinctive flavor and is often used in local dishes.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
You can find general info about typical foods in Portugal here.

Is Bragança an expensive destination for tourists?

Bragança is generally considered an affordable destination for tourists, compared to many other European destinations. However, prices can vary depending on the season and type of accommodation you choose. In general, accommodations, dining, and activities tend to be reasonably priced in Bragança. It's worth noting that the cost of living is generally lower in northern Portugal than in many other parts of the country. So, while there may be some expensive options available, with a bit of planning, it's certainly possible to enjoy a visit to Bragança without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Bragança

The best areas to find accommodation in Bragança are: 1) Bragança city center: This area offers easy access to historical landmarks and cultural attractions such as Bragança Castle, Domus Municipalis, and the Iberian Museum.
2) São Bartolomeu: A charming neighborhood situated to the west of Bragança, offering beautiful views of the city and its surroundings.
3) Quintanilha: A peaceful village located to the south of Bragança, offering a tranquil stay close to nature.
4) Macedo de Cavaleiros: A city situated a little further from Bragança, but still a good option for accommodation to visit the Natural Park of Montesinho. Overall, it is recommended to choose accommodation in the city center for easy access to amenities and attractions.
You can check hotel prices at Bragança here:
Booking.com

Is Bragança a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Bragança is generally considered a safe place for tourists. Portugal is a relatively safe country overall with low levels of crime. However, as with any destination, it's always wise to exercise good judgement and take precautions to stay safe. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and keep your valuables secure. If you're exploring the city at night, stick to well-lit areas and travel with a companion if possible.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Portugal here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Bragança.

What type of travelers will enjoy Bragança the most?

Bragança is a charming and peaceful city in Portugal that offers various activities to visitors. It is an ideal destination for those who want to experience a quieter, more rural side of Portugal. Couples will enjoy Bragança's romantic ambiance and the picturesque scenery, especially during the cherry blossom season in the summer. They can visit the Bragança Castle and the Domus Municipalis, stroll around the town center, and enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the local restaurants.
Families will appreciate the city's cultural attractions, such as the Museu do Abade de Baçal and the Archaeological Museum, which showcase the history and traditions of Bragança. They can also enjoy outdoor activities like hiking in the nearby Montesinho Natural Park or swimming in the Azibo Reservoir.
Young people looking for fun and nightlife might not find Bragança as lively as other Portuguese cities like Lisbon or Porto. However, there are bars and cafes in the town center, and they can enjoy the local cuisine and wine.
Overall, Bragança is a wonderful destination for travelers of all ages and interests, but it will be especially appreciated by those who are seeking a peaceful and authentic Portuguese experience.

How to get around Bragança

To move around Bragança, you can use public transportation, such as buses or taxis. You can also rent a car or a bike to explore the city and the nearby areas. Additionally, walking is a great way to get around Bragança, as the city is relatively compact and easy to navigate on foot.

What to see around Bragança

Certainly! Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Bragança: 1. Montesinho Natural Park - This is a beautiful natural reserve with a wide variety of fauna and flora species. You can go for a hiking or biking adventure through the park or just enjoy the views and relax in the fresh air.
2. Miranda do Douro - This charming town located in the northeastern corner of Portugal is known for its unique language, Mirandese, and its location on the border with Spain. You can explore the town's narrow streets and visit the castle or the cathedral.
3. Vinhais - Another town near Bragança, Vinhais is famous for its delicious smoked meats, particularly its smoked ham. You can visit the local markets and try some of the traditional products.
4. Chaves - This is a lovely historic town known for its thermal baths and Roman ruins. You can visit the castle or take a dip in the natural hot springs.
5. Puebla de Sanabria - Located just across the border in Spain, this town is known for its impressive castle that dates back to the 9th century. You can explore the town's winding streets and admire the medieval architecture.
I hope this helps you plan a wonderful day trip from Bragança!
For every travel information about Portugal you can click here.

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