A Budget-Friendly Day Trip from Porto to Braga

If you're looking for a quick getaway from Porto without breaking the bank, Braga is the perfect day trip. Located just 1 hour and 10 minutes away by FlixBus, Braga offers a rich blend of history, beautiful architecture, and a welcoming atmosphere. Even better, the return tickets are often under €10 — and if you book early, you can score an even better deal.

Often referred to as the "Rome of Portugal," Braga is one of the country’s oldest cities, with roots dating back over 2,000 years. It’s a place where ancient churches, charming squares, and peaceful gardens blend seamlessly with modern cafés and lively markets. Especially during the Christmas season — when I visited — the city lights up with festive decorations, music, and community spirit.

Braga is also a very walkable city. I spent the entire day on foot, easily exploring its main attractions, hidden alleys, and cozy spots. I was amazed at how much I could experience in just one day, all while sticking to a budget. Here’s how my day went:

Comfortable, Budget-Friendly Travel

The FlixBus ride was comfortable, with ample legroom and easy access to all the necessary amenities. For such a short distance, it was the ideal way to travel without the stress of driving or parking. As I sat back and relaxed, I couldn't help but feel excited to explore one of the oldest cities in Portugal, especially since it was Christmas holiday time, and the city was beautifully decked out in festive decor.

Igreja e Convento de Santa Maria del Popolo

My walk through Braga began with a visit to the Igreja e Convento de Santa Maria del Popolo. While I only had the chance to see it from the outside, it was a reminder of how rich in history Braga is. As you wander through the streets, you’ll notice that nearly every corner has its own church, each with a unique story to tell. Braga is a city where history is alive, and you can almost feel it in the air.

Fonte do Campo das Hortas

After taking in some of the city's history, I headed towards Fonte do Campo das Hortas. This charming fountain offered a peaceful break in the heart of Braga. Surrounded by greenery, it’s the perfect spot to pause and enjoy the calming atmosphere before continuing your exploration.

Arco da Porta Nova

Next, I found myself in front of one of Braga’s most iconic landmarks — the Arco da Porta Nova. This grand archway has greeted visitors to the historic center since the 18th century. Interestingly, it was never fitted with a door, symbolizing an open invitation into Braga’s rich history. It's an amazing spot for photos and marks the beginning of a delightful walk through Braga's beautiful streets.

Santa Maria de Braga Cathedral

No trip to Braga would be complete without a visit to the Santa Maria de Braga Cathedral, also known as the Sé de Braga. Though I didn’t go inside, the cathedral's grandeur from the outside was impressive enough. With clear entrance fees and visiting hours displayed outside, it’s easy to plan your visit. As one of the oldest and most significant churches in Portugal, the cathedral stands as a symbol of Braga’s deep religious history.

Municipal City Hall

After soaking in the cathedral, I headed towards Municipal City Hall. The building's architecture is a perfect blend of modernity and tradition, offering a great backdrop for photos. It’s also a venue for many local festivals and events throughout the year, making it a focal point for Braga’s vibrant cultural scene.

Tranquil Moments at Jardim de Santa Bárbara

Just a short walk from the City Hall, I arrived at Jardim de Santa Bárbara, a beautiful garden within the Archbishop’s Court (Paço Arquiepiscopal). The peaceful garden is filled with blooming roses, a central fountain, and statues, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy Braga’s natural beauty.

The Charm of Old and New Streets

As I continued my journey through Braga, I was struck by how seamlessly the old and new coexist. Narrow, historic alleys are lined with modern shops, cafés, and restaurants, making it a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. Braga’s streets have a unique charm that makes exploring the city an unforgettable experience.

Exploring Mercado Municipal de Braga

Next, I visited Mercado Municipal de Braga, a modern market where you can find fresh local produce, dried fruits, flowers, and so much more. Outside the market, I spotted Escultura I'll Be Your Mirror #1 (2018) by Joana Vasconcelos. This fascinating sculpture, featuring overlapping mirrors and baroque-style frames, makes a bold statement about identity and self-reflection. Inside the market, the lively atmosphere, filled with the colors of fruits and flowers, was a real highlight of my trip.

A Stroll to Campo Novo and Estátua de Dom Pedro V

After exploring the market, I headed to Campo Novo, where I found the impressive Estátua de Dom Pedro V, a bronze statue dedicated to King Pedro V of Portugal. The statue stands as a tribute to his contributions to the nation, and the surrounding park offers a peaceful place to relax, with flower beds and shaded paths to enjoy.

Monument to Pope John Paul II: A Moment of Reflection

On my way back towards the city center, I passed the Monument to Pope John Paul II. This statue, honoring his visit to Braga in 1982, offers a quiet place to reflect on his legacy and the deep religious history of the city.

A Festive City Center and Last-Minute Shopping

The city center was alive with energy, especially with the holiday season in full swing. Families were gathered in the streets, enjoying the decorations, taking photos, and savoring the festive atmosphere. Cafés were bustling with people enjoying a cup of coffee, and the streets were filled with laughter and joy.

I also stopped by Max 10, a local store with a great selection of affordable items. It was the perfect spot to pick up a souvenir or two without breaking the budget.

A Sweet Ending at Manteigaria

Before heading back, I couldn’t resist stopping by Manteigaria for a pastel de nata. If you haven’t tried this Portuguese custard tart, you’re in for a treat! The crispy pastry and smooth filling were the perfect way to end my day in Braga.

A Sweet Gesture and My Last-Minute Dash to the Bus

As my day came to an end, my phone died. I was a little stressed since I needed it for directions, but I found a kind lady in a shop knitting away. She graciously let me charge my phone, and I even bought a beautiful bracelet as a token of my time in Braga.

My bus back to Porto was the last one of the day, so I literally had to run to catch it! But the ride back was peaceful, and the scenic views along the way gave me a moment to reflect on my wonderful day in Braga.

Conclusion: A Memorable Day Trip to Braga

Braga is a city full of history, charm, and incredible spots to explore. From beautiful gardens and historic churches to modern art and festive streets, Braga offers something for everyone. And with the affordable FlixBus tickets, it’s a budget-friendly destination that I highly recommend. I had an amazing time and can’t wait to visit again!