Nestled in the northwest part of Portugal is the fascinating city of Braga, the religious center of Portugal. With its perfect mix of history, culture and natural beauty, Braga is a popular location for those who are considering a move to Portugal. Whether you’re a retiree looking for a relaxed and affordable lifestyle, a sun-seeker craving a Vitamin D boost, a nature lover looking for a location close to bright green landscapes, or a family in search of adventure, the city provides a refreshing escape from the usual hustle and bustle of big city life.
In this guide, we explore Braga’s undeniable charm and what makes it stand out. Read on if you’re interested in visiting or relocating to Portugal’s third-largest city.
Where is Braga, Portugal?
With a population of nearly 200,000, Braga is a vibrant hub bursting with energy and rich cultural heritage. The city is situated approximately 33 miles south of Porto and 81 miles north of Vigo, Spain.
This city is easily accessible by train or car, making it a great destination for both domestic and international travelers.
What is Braga like?
Braga is situated in the lush green hills of the Minho province, which provide a stunning backdrop for the city. The landscape is characterized by rolling hills, pristine rivers and verdant forests, creating a breathtaking natural setting.
The city itself is situated on a plateau, with steep narrow streets and beautiful public squares dotted throughout. From the towering cathedral in the heart of the old town to the impressive Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary overlooking the city, Braga’s architecture is a fascinating blend of different styles, from Roman to Baroque.
The city’s location near the coast also means that visitors can easily access the nearby beaches and enjoy the sun, sand and sea.
What’s the weather like in Braga, Portugal?
Braga enjoys a temperate climate with warm summers and mild winters. In the summer months from June to August, temperatures typically range from 68°F to 86°F (20°C to 30°C) with plenty of sunny days. The region experiences some precipitation during this time, but it is usually limited to short-lived showers in the late afternoon or evening.
In the winter months from December to February, temperatures can drop to around 50°F (10°C) and the region receives more rain. However, even during the winter months, the city still experiences sunny days and milder temperatures than many other parts of Europe. Spring and autumn are perhaps the best times to visit Braga, with comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds.
How to get to Braga, Portugal
Braga is easily accessible by train, with frequent services connecting the city to Porto and other major cities in Portugal. The city’s train station is located in the heart of the city center.
For those arriving by air, Porto’s Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport is the nearest airport, located approximately 30 miles away. The airport has good connections to major cities in Europe and beyond, with several airlines offering direct flights. From the airport, visitors can take a shuttle bus or taxi to Porto’s Campanhã station, where they can catch a train to Braga.
Education in Braga
Braga is home to several prestigious universities, including the University of Minho, which is ranked among the top 50 young universities in the world. The university has campuses in Braga and nearby Guimarães, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as engineering, business, and humanities.
Braga also has several schools, including the International School of Braga, which offers an international curriculum for students from preschool through high school. The school has a diverse student body and a rigorous academic program, preparing students for success in higher education and beyond.
An overview of the cost of living in Braga, Portugal
Compared to other major locations in Portugal, Braga is generally more affordable. According to the Numbeo cost of living comparison calculator, the cost of living in Braga is approximately 29% lower than in Lisbon and 20% lower than in Porto.
Housing, food, and transportation are particularly affordable in Braga, making it an attractive destination for budget-conscious families and retirees.
A look at the real estate market in Braga
Braga’s real estate market has been steadily growing in recent years, with demand increasing for both residential and commercial properties. As it’s gaining in popularity among expats, Braga is becoming less and less affordable, as real estate prices have jumped up by 25% in the past year.
The city offers a wide range of properties, from traditional townhouses and apartments to modern villas and luxury homes. The city’s architecture is a blend of historic and modern styles, with many properties featuring traditional Portuguese tiles, balconies, and wrought-iron balconies.
Prices vary depending on the location, size and condition of the property, but in general, real estate in Braga is a relative bargain compared to other major cities in Portugal. The average price per square meter for a property in Braga is $177, compared to $536 in Lisbon and $344 in Porto. You can buy a 1,000-square-foot apartment in Braga for well under $200,000, and an average-sized single-family home for around $350,000, about half the price of Porto real estate and one third of Lisbon prices.
The price per square meter in euro for homes for sale in Braga sits around €1,700, about half of what you will find in Porto, where real estate sells for over €3,300 per sqm, on average, and a third of what you can buy in Lisbon, where the average price per square meter is around €5,200.
Things to do in Braga, Portugal
Braga is known for its religious heritage, but it also boasts a vibrant entertainment scene with many attractions for visitors of all ages. There are some wonderful sights to see and things to do in and around Braga that can be best experienced with a guide or organized tour.
- Visit the Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning baroque architecture and a panoramic view of the city.
- Explore the historic city center, with its charming plazas, narrow streets and medieval buildings.
- Attend the Semana Santa (Holy Week) celebrations, a religious festival featuring processions, music and traditional costumes.
- Enjoy local cuisine, such as cozido (a hearty stew), francesinha (a sandwich with meat, cheese, and sauce), and vinho verde (a refreshing white wine).
- Attend the Braga International Tuning Motor Show, a major car show featuring customized cars, motorcycles and other vehicles.
- Visit the Theatro Circo, a historic theater with a rich cultural program, including theater, dance, music and film.
- Explore the nearby Peneda-Gerês National Park, a stunning natural reserve with hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife.
Lesser known facts about Braga
Braga is a city full of surprises, with many lesser-known facts, hidden gems and unique traditions.
- Braga is known as the “Rome of Portugal” because of its many churches and religious traditions.
- The city is home to the oldest archbishopric in Portugal, dating back to the 4th century.
- Braga has a strong football (soccer) tradition, with its team, Sporting Clube de Braga, competing in the top tier of Portuguese football.
- The city has a lively student population, with several universities and a vibrant nightlife scene.
- Braga is famous for its pottery, particularly the colorful Barcelos rooster, a symbol of Portuguese folklore.
- The city is also known for its sweets, such as pudim abade de priscos (a rich custard dessert) and toucinho do céu (a sweet almond cake).
- Braga has a unique tradition of hanging laundry in the streets, creating a colorful and picturesque scene.
- Braga is located in the famous Alto Douro wine region, a must-visit for wine lovers.
Why move to Braga, Portugal?
If you’re considering a move to Portugal, Braga is a city worth considering. Here’s why:
- Relaxed lifestyle and friendly locals: Braga is known for its laid-back and welcoming atmosphere, with locals who are happy to chat and make visitors feel at home. The pace of life in Braga is slower than in cities like Cascais or Coimbra , which can be a refreshing change for those looking to escape the rat race.
- Rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes: The city is steeped in history, with many fascinating buildings and monuments to explore, including the famous Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary. The city is also surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including mountains, forests, and rivers, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Lively student population and growing economy: Braga is home to several universities and a growing number of startups, making it a hub for innovation and creativity.
- Low crime rate and good healthcare system: Braga is considered one of the safest cities in Portugal, with low levels of crime and a strong sense of community. The city also has a good healthcare system, with modern hospitals and medical facilities.
- Affordable cost of living compared to other European cities: While Braga may not be the cheapest city in Portugal, it is still much more affordable than many other European destinations. The cost of living in Braga is significantly lower than in major cities like London, Paris or Berlin, making it an attractive option for those on a budget.
- Great food and wine culture, including local specialties: Portugal is known for its delicious cuisine, and Braga is no exception. The city has a thriving food and wine scene, with plenty of restaurants and bars serving up local specialties.
The downsides of living in Braga, Portugal
While Braga has many advantages, there are also some downsides to living in the city. It’s important to keep these points in mind when considering a move:
- Job market can be competitive, especially for non-Portuguese speakers: Braga’s growing economy is a double-edged sword, as it means there are more job opportunities, but also more competition for those jobs. Non-Portuguese speakers may find it harder to secure employment in certain sectors.
- Some areas can be noisy due to traffic or nightlife: While Braga is generally a quiet and peaceful city, there are some areas that can be noisy, particularly at night. Areas close to bars or nightclubs may experience more noise pollution than others.
- Public transportation can be limited: While Braga is relatively easy to navigate by car or foot, public transportation can be limited at times. While there are bus and train connections to other major cities in Portugal, the frequency of these services may not be as high as in larger metropolitan areas.
Braga, Portugal: Your new home awaits
From its stunning architecture and religious heritage to its lively cultural scene and natural surroundings, there are many reasons to consider Braga as your new home. With a growing economy and a welcoming community, Braga is a great place to live, work or simply enjoy life to the fullest. Whether you are looking for a change of scenery, a new job or a fresh start, Braga should definitely be on your shortlist as your next destination.
Explore more wonderful places to live in Portugal:
- Guide to Cascais
- Guide to Faro
- Guide to Aveiro
- Guide to Lagos
- Guide to Coimbra
- Guide to Nazare
- Guide to Evora
