Bragança: The Complete Guide

Situated in the far northeast of Portugal, Bragança is a city whose old castle still maintains a mediaeval urban core within its walls.
The town of Bragança, situated in the northeastern part of Portugal, was once under the protection of the House of Bragança, who governed Portugal from 1640 until the beginning of the 20th century. The town is located on a hilltop and is surrounded by a well-preserved fortified wall, making it the most well-maintained medieval town in Portugal. The wall overlooks the modern town from a height of 600 meters (1,968 feet) above sea level in the Serra da Nogueira region.
Table of Contents
- History of Bragança
- arly History of Bragança
- Roman and Visigothic Periods in Bragança
- Bragança During the Moorish Occupation
- The Reconquista and the Formation of the Bragança House
- Medieval and Renaissance Bragança
- Bragança in the Modern Era
- Bragança Today
- 8 Best places to See in Bragança
- Sé Velha de Bragança
- Centro de Arte Contemporânea Graça Morais
- Museu do Abade de Baçal
- Igreja de São Vicente (Bragança)
- Domus Municipalis (Bragança)
- Igreja de Santa Maria (Bragança)
- Castelo de Bragança
- Castro de Avelãs Monastery
- Where to Stay in Bragança
- Best Time to Visit Bragança
- Visiting Bragança in Spring
- Visiting Bragança in Summer
- Visiting Bragança in Autumn
- Visiting Bragança in Winter
- How to get to Bragança
History of Bragança
arly History of Bragança
Bragança, located in the northeastern region of Portugal, has ancient origins dating back to pre-Roman times. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was inhabited by the Zoelae, a Celtic tribe. The town’s strategic location made it an important settlement for trade and defense.
Roman and Visigothic Periods in Bragança
During the Roman era, Bragança became part of the Roman province of Lusitania. The Romans constructed roads and fortifications, contributing to the town’s development. After the fall of the Roman Empire, Bragança was occupied by the Visigoths, who maintained its importance as a regional center.
Bragança During the Moorish Occupation
In the 8th century, Bragança fell under Moorish control following the Islamic conquest of the Iberian Peninsula. The Moors fortified the town further and integrated it into their administrative and military networks. Bragança remained under Moorish rule until the Christian Reconquista.
The Reconquista and the Formation of the Bragança House
The town was reconquered by Christian forces in the 11th century. In 1187, King Sancho I of Portugal granted Bragança a charter, recognizing its importance and encouraging settlement. The House of Bragança, one of Portugal’s most influential noble families, traces its origins to this period. The family played a crucial role in Portuguese history, eventually ascending to the throne in 1640.
Medieval and Renaissance Bragança
During the medieval period, Bragança flourished as a regional hub. The construction of the Castle of Bragança in the 12th century marked the town’s growing significance. The castle, with its imposing keep and defensive walls, became a symbol of the town’s strength. In the Renaissance era, Bragança continued to prosper, with the establishment of religious and civic buildings that enriched its cultural heritage.
Bragança in the Modern Era
The 17th and 18th centuries saw Bragança playing a pivotal role in Portuguese politics and military affairs. The town supported the Bragança dynasty’s claim to the throne and was a stronghold during various conflicts, including the Restoration War against Spanish rule. In the 19th century, Bragança faced challenges during the Peninsular War and subsequent civil conflicts but managed to retain its strategic importance.
Bragança Today
Today, Bragança is a vibrant town that celebrates its rich history and cultural heritage. The well-preserved medieval castle, historic churches, and charming old town attract visitors from around the world. The town is also known for its traditional festivals, local cuisine, and beautiful natural surroundings, making it a unique and attractive destination in Portugal.
Visiting Bragança for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Bragança on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!
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8 Best places to See in Bragança
This complete guide to Bragança not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.
This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Bragança and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!
Sé Velha de Bragança

Location: Igreja de São João Baptista (antiga Sé de Bragança), Rua Alexandre Herculano, Bragança, Portugal | Distance: 0.0km
Visiting Sé Velha de Bragança
Centro de Arte Contemporânea Graça Morais

Location: Centro de Arte Contemporânea Graça Morais, Rua Abílio Beça, Bragança, Portugal | Hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 am - 6:30 pm. Closed weekly on Monday.| Price: €2.29 per person | Website | Distance: 0.1km
Visiting Centro de Arte Contemporânea Graça Morais
Museu do Abade de Baçal

Location: Museu do Abade de Baçal, Rua Abílio Beça, Bragança, Portugal | Hours: 9h30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. | 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Closed: Mondays, 1 January, Easter Sunday, 1 May, 25 December. | Website | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Museu do Abade de Baçal
Igreja de São Vicente (Bragança)

Location: Igreja de São Vicente, Rua Combatentes da Grande Guerra, Bragança, Portugal | Distance: 0.4km
Visiting Igreja de São Vicente (Bragança)
Domus Municipalis (Bragança)

Location: Domus Municipalis, Rua da Cidadela, Bragança, Portugal | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Domus Municipalis (Bragança)
Igreja de Santa Maria (Bragança)

Location: Igreja de Santa Maria, Rua da Cidadela, Bragança, Portugal | Hours: Open every day from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm. | Website | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Igreja de Santa Maria (Bragança)
Castelo de Bragança

Location: Castelo de Bragança, Rua Dom João V, Bragança, Portugal | Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 a.m. | 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Closed on Mondays and national holidays. In August it does not close during lunch time | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Castelo de Bragança
Castro de Avelãs Monastery

Location: Castro de Avelãs Monastery, Castro de Avelãs, Portugal | Website | Distance: 4.0km
Visiting Castro de Avelãs Monastery
Where to Stay in Bragança
The best area to stay is near the medieval castle, where charming hotels provide easy access to the old town and historical landmarks. For a nature-focused stay, hotels near Montesinho Natural Park offer a more rural experience.
Bragança can be explored in 1 to 2 days, with time to see the castle, museums, and traditional restaurants. A 3-day stay is ideal for those wanting to hike or explore the scenic Trás-os-Montes region.
Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Bragança. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.
Bragança Accommodation Map
Best Time to Visit Bragança
Visiting Bragança in Spring
Spring is an ideal time to visit Bragança. The weather is mild and pleasant, perfect for exploring the town’s historic sites and enjoying outdoor activities. The blooming flowers and greenery add a vibrant touch to the already picturesque surroundings.
Visiting Bragança in Summer
Summer in Bragança offers warm temperatures and long sunny days, making it a great season for sightseeing and participating in local festivals. The lively atmosphere and clear skies provide an excellent backdrop for outdoor adventures and cultural experiences.
Visiting Bragança in Autumn
Autumn brings cooler temperatures and stunning foliage to Bragança. The changing colors of the leaves create a beautiful setting for exploring the town and its natural surroundings. This season is perfect for those who enjoy a quieter and more relaxed visit.
Visiting Bragança in Winter
Winter in Bragança is characterized by cooler weather and occasional snowfall, giving the town a charming, serene ambiance. It’s an excellent time to explore indoor attractions, enjoy the local cuisine, and experience the town’s festive decorations and holiday events.
Annual Weather Overview
- January 9°C 52°F
- February 12°C 57°F
- March 14°C 61°F
- April 19°C 69°F
- May 23°C 77°F
- June 26°C 83°F
- July 30°C 95°F
- August 31°C 91°F
- September 26°C 83°F
- October 21°C 74°F
- November 13°C 59°F
- December 10°C 53°F
How to get to Bragança
By Air to Bragança
To reach Bragança by air, fly into Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport in Porto, which is the nearest major airport. From Porto, you can take a regional flight directly to Bragança or opt for ground transportation to complete your journey.
By Train to Bragança
Although Bragança itself does not have a train station, you can take a train to a nearby town such as Mirandela or Macedo de Cavaleiros. From there, you can easily reach Bragança by bus or taxi.
By Bus to Bragança
Several bus companies operate routes to Bragança from major Portuguese cities such as Lisbon, Porto, and Coimbra. Buses provide a comfortable and affordable way to travel, with the main bus station conveniently located in the town center.
By Car to Bragança
Driving to Bragança is a convenient option if you prefer to travel at your own pace. The town is well-connected by road, and you can easily reach it via the A4 motorway from Porto. Renting a car allows you to explore Bragança and its beautiful surroundings with flexibility.