The 10 BEST Free Walking Tours in Braga
Introduction
Braga is a city situated in the north of Portugal and it is a city with a long history that is vivid to this date. Strolling, which is a walking tour allows you to explore the city and its attractions, learn more about history and embrace the contemporary time. Read on for brief reviews of some of the top walking tours in Braga to make your experience highly fruitful.
1. Historic Center Tour
Historical Center tour is the best way to travel through the streets of Braga and explore its unique attractions and buildings dating back to the history time. To begin with, the first point is Braga known for its stunning Romanesque cathedral that was erected in the 11th century. From there, stroll through rather small medieval streets, pass through rather historic squares equipped with cafes and shops. The visitors should also visit the Archbishop’s Palace and the Raio Palace, which are the examples of the architectural magnificence of the city.
Two bridges are visible while walking; one of them is the Arco do Carvalho, and the other one is the Arco de São Bento. A few popular sightseeing points include such pieces of architecture as the Church of Santa Cruz and the Church of São Marcos. Do not hesitate to look at their exquisite interiors and find out more about their purpose. This tour also takes the tourists through the medieval city gate, Porta Nova; and the busy shopping area better referred to as Rua do Souto.
2. Bom Jesus do Monte
It is mandatory to visit Bom Jesus do Monte, a beautiful sanctuary which is in fact in close proximity to Braga. You will also be guided through a round of hiking on the hill to reach the sanctuary that will offer picturesque views of Braga.
If you would like to begin at the lowest grounds of the vineyard hill, you will come across a beautiful baroque staircase which is 577 steps long. Following the staircase there is a set of stairs, every step of which is between other beautiful small chapels, dedicated to each of the stations of the cross. This is also an excellent piece, use your time looking at the small details and you will see the religious elements.
On top, you will also find the Church of Bom Jesus do Monte, a famous foreign traveler site. Take a walk in the church compound and around the compound to view the museum and also go round the social amenities within the church’s compound and have a time of reflection in the compound bearing beautiful flowers. Finally, do not leave Braga without following a great scenic view of the entire city and then descend.
3. City Park and D. Diogo de Sousa Museum
The City Park is an excellent choice for nature lovers and those interested in the history of Portugals history – D. Diogo de Sousa Museum tour also works fine for this purpose. Your tour should begin at the City Park where there is an ample green area with several lakes thereby offering good ground for a walk. The air is great, the bushes and trees are colorful and you can have your lunch there if you wish.
Next, proceed to visit, D. Diogo de Sousa Museum, which was the museum of archaeology and history of Braga and its surroundings. Explore the broad collections referred to exhibiting artifacts from the pre-historic period to the contemporary culture. They offer you the brief historical over view of the city starting from its roman era all the way to the medevil period and the current post-modern world.
Tips for a Successful Walking Tour
- Wear comfortable shoes – most of the touring is done on foot, so suitable shoes should be worn for quite a distance.
- Take a water bottle – not just to practice the banal advice of ‘drink water’, but water is crucial important especially in the summer. If you require water during the walk, it is advisable to bring your own refillable water bottle as you get one from the store.
- Carry a map – this may be useful to navigate although the path of the tours are easy enough to follow without a map.
- With such points of interest, joining a guided tour is also a good idea If you prefer straying in large groups with guides that will help you discover new places and tell interesting facts.
Conclusion
Here are the walking tours of Braga; you will learn all about the culture, the architectural designs of the city and the natural scenery. The Historic Center Tour is different from the ascent to Bom Jesus do Monte and the exploration of City Park and D. Diogo de Sousa Museum. Therefore, please, get your walking shoes and be prepared to be charmed by the enchantments of Braga.
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