Praça da República, Braga

Square in Braga

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Gerd Eichmann

Praça da República, often called the “Arcada,” is the beating heart of Braga - a lively and elegant square that perfectly captures the spirit of this northern Portuguese city. Framed by arcaded buildings, historic cafés, and graceful fountains, it serves as both a social hub and a gateway between Braga's ancient and modern quarters. Whether you're sipping coffee at a century-old café or admiring the surrounding architecture, this spot is one of the best places to visit in Braga and a great place to visit on a walking tour of Braga to experience the city's rhythm and charm.

Lined with shops, banks, and beautiful civic buildings, the square blends history with everyday life. It’s a place where locals gather for conversation and visitors pause to take in the scenery before heading toward Braga’s cathedral or the busy Avenida da Liberdade nearby.

History and Significance of Praça da República
Things to See and Do in Praça da República
How to Get There
Practical Tips on Visiting Praça da República
Is Praça da República Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting Praça da República
Nearby Attractions to Praça da República

History and Significance of Praça da República

Praça da República has long been a focal point of Braga's social and commercial life. The square's origins date back to the 18th century when it developed as part of a major urban expansion designed to connect the historic core with newer residential areas. Over time, it evolved into a symbol of civic pride and modernity.

Among its most notable landmarks is the Church of Lapa, a charming 18th-century church that adds architectural harmony to the square’s ensemble. The surrounding arcades gave rise to the affectionate nickname “Arcada,” which remains commonly used by locals today. The square also became a gathering place for intellectuals and artists, thanks in part to two emblematic cafés - Café Vianna and Café Astória - both of which have served as cultural meeting points for more than a century.

In the early 20th century, Praça da República gained further prestige with the construction of the Banco de Portugal building in 1921, designed by architect Moura Coutinho on the former site of the São Geraldo Theatre. Its elegant façade reflects the prosperity and optimism of that period. Adjacent to it once stood the Banco do Minho headquarters, which went bankrupt in 1939. The structure was demolished in the 1940s, and the site is now occupied by Caixa Geral de Depósitos, continuing the square's long association with finance and commerce.

Things to See and Do in Praça da República

Start your visit at the centre of the square, where a modern fountain adds a dynamic contrast to the historic surroundings. The arcaded buildings lining the square provide shade and atmosphere, especially in the warmer months, while the cafés invite you to linger over a coffee and watch the world go by.

Café Vianna, founded in 1858, and Café Astória, established in 1928, are both Braga institutions - elegant, timeless spaces that have hosted generations of artists, writers, and politicians. Sitting at one of their terraces remains one of the top attractions in Braga for those who enjoy soaking up the city's character.

The nearby Church of Lapa, with its neoclassical façade, provides a quiet place for reflection before you return to the buzz of the square. As evening falls, Praça da República glows with warm light and lively conversation, offering the perfect snapshot of everyday life in Braga.

How to Get There

Praça da República is located in the heart of Braga, within walking distance of most major attractions, including the Cathedral (Sé de Braga) and Jardim de Santa Bárbara. For those arriving by train, Braga’s central station is about a 15-minute walk away. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio. Travelers arriving by car can use one of the nearby public car parks in the city centre, such as those near Avenida da Liberdade or Campo da Vinha. If you are looking to rent a car in Portugal I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting Praça da República

Best time to visit Praça da República: Late morning or sunset, when the cafés are at their liveliest and the light is perfect for photos.
Entrance fee in Euros: Free public space.
Opening hours: Always open.
Official website: www.cm-braga.pt
How long to spend: 30-60 minutes; longer if stopping for coffee or a meal.
Accessibility: Fully accessible, flat terrain.
Facilities: Cafés, restaurants, banks, restrooms, and benches.
Photography tip: Capture reflections of the arcades and fountain in the early evening light.
Guided tours: Often included in cultural or architectural walking tours of Braga.
Nearby food options: Café Vianna and Café Astória for local pastries, or nearby restaurants along Avenida da Liberdade.

Is Praça da República Worth Visiting?

Definitely. Praça da República is one of the must-see places in Braga - a lively square that combines elegance, history, and the city's welcoming energy. Whether you're stopping for coffee, admiring the architecture, or simply watching Braga go about its day, the square offers a perfect introduction to the city's charm and culture.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.8 (34)

Praça da Republica sits at the heart of Braga’s historic center, a beautifully kept main square with manicured gardens, surrounded by historic buildings, cafés and lively terraces where people stroll, relax, enjoy ice cream, listen to music or meet friends; it hosts city events (including festive Christmas lights), offers shaded garden respite on hot days, and has underground parking directly below for easy access.

Nuno Castilho

2 years ago

"Beautiful gardens in the main square in the center of Braga."

Nicole Aliev

2 years ago

"A gorgeously maintained space in the historic center of Braga, where people come to stroll, see and be seen, enjoy an ice cream, listen to music orsit and chat with friends...."

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javier feg

2 months ago

"Praça da República is the heart of Braga and one of its most pleasant places to stroll. It's filled with perfectly manicured flowers and surroundedby historic buildings, cafés, and lively terraces. During our visit, it was filled with posters and decorations celebrating Sporting Braga's participation in the Europa League, adding a special, very local touch to the surroundings. It's a beautiful and lively square that perfectly reflects the spirit of the city...."

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FAQs for Visiting Praça da República

Because of the beautiful arcades that line the buildings around the square.

The Church of Lapa, Café Vianna, Café Astória, and the Banco de Portugal building.

Yes, the square is mostly pedestrianized and easy to explore.

It’s still used as a bank, but the exterior is a fine example of early 20th-century architecture.

Yes, cultural festivals, concerts, and public celebrations often take place in the square.

Nearby Attractions to Praça da República

Avenida da Liberdade - A tree-lined boulevard filled with shops, cafés, and historic buildings.
Cathedral of Braga (Sé de Braga) - Portugal's oldest cathedral, a masterpiece of faith and architecture.
Jardim de Santa Bárbara - A picturesque Renaissance-style garden just a short stroll away.
Arco da Porta Nova - The iconic stone gateway marking the entrance to the old city.
Biscainhos Museum - A Baroque palace showcasing art and historic furnishings.

The Praça da República appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Braga!

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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