BRAGA CITY OF FAITH-CITY AND SANCTUARIES FULL DAY TOUR

Braga, the oldest Catholic archdiocese in Portugal, is a city steeped in faith and history. The Braga City of Faith full-day tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the region’s religious heritage. From the majestic Braga Cathedral to the UNESCO-recognized Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, this captivating journey explores the intricate tapestry of beliefs and traditions that have shaped Braga over the centuries. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, travelers can expect to uncover the profound significance behind each sacred site, leaving them eager to delve deeper into this enchanting city.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Full-Day Tours In Porto.

Key Points

• Explore the religious and cultural heritage of Braga, known as the "City of Faith," on a full-day guided tour from Porto.
• Visit iconic landmarks like the Braga Cathedral, the old Jewish district, and the Bom Jesus do Monte and Sameiro Sanctuaries.
• Immerse in Braga’s rich history, from its Roman origins to its role as a significant religious center over the centuries.
• Enjoy a traditional Portuguese lunch and gain insights into the city’s diverse cultural and architectural influences.
• The tour includes pickup and drop-off within Porto, as well as admission tickets to the main attractions.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This full-day Braga City Tour provides visitors with a comprehensive exploration of the historic city and its renowned religious sanctuaries.

Priced from £314.05 per person, the tour lasts 8 hours and is offered in English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish. Guests will be picked up from any hotel or address in Porto, with drop-off either back in Porto or a transfer to Lisbon.

The itinerary features guided visits to the Braga Cathedral, the old Jewish district, the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, and the Sameiro Sanctuary, as well as a traditional Portuguese lunch.

This tour offers an immersive experience into Braga’s rich history and faith-based heritage.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a pickup in Porto, where you will travel by car to the historic city of Braga, just 30 minutes away.

Upon arrival, they’ll enjoy a guided tour of the magnificent Braga Cathedral, a religious landmark dating back to the Middle Ages.

Next, they’ll explore the city’s old Jewish district on a walking tour.

After a traditional Portuguese lunch, the group will visit the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, featuring an 18th-century hydraulic lift, a unique architectural marvel.

The final stop is the Sameiro Sanctuary, completed in the 20th century and visited by Pope John Paul II.

Historical Significance

Why is Braga known as the City of Faith?

Braga’s history as a significant religious site dates back to the Roman Empire, when it was known as Bracara Augusta. The city’s medieval cathedral, which is over a millennium old, is a testament to Braga’s longstanding religious importance.

Plus, Braga’s historical model for Jewish inclusion until the 16th century reconversion is an important aspect of its religious heritage.

The Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features an 18th-century hydraulic lift and is another focal point of Braga’s religious significance.

On top of that, the Sameiro Sanctuary, completed in the 20th century, was visited by Pope John Paul II, further cementing Braga’s status as a City of Faith.

Braga Cathedral

Braga Cathedral stands as a testament to the city’s longstanding religious significance, dating back to the Roman era when it was known as Bracara Augusta.

This majestic cathedral, a guided tour of which is included in the Braga City of Faith tour, boasts a blend of architectural styles, from Romanesque to Baroque.

Visitors will be captivated by the grand façade, the intricate carvings, and the stunning interiors that showcase the cathedral’s rich history and cultural heritage.

The tour provides an opportunity to explore Braga’s past, offering insights into the city’s role as a significant religious center throughout the centuries.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Walking Tour

After exploring the grandeur of Braga Cathedral, the tour moves on to uncover the city’s rich Jewish heritage during the walking tour.

Guests will stroll through the old Jewish district, learning about the historical model of Jewish inclusion that existed in Braga until the 16th century reconversion.

The guide will share captivating stories and insights, bringing the past to life as visitors navigate the charming streets and alleys.

This 30-minute walking tour offers a unique glimpse into Braga’s multicultural history, shedding light on a lesser-known aspect of the city’s religious and cultural tapestry.

Sanctuary of Bom Jesus Do Monte

Atop the verdant hills overlooking Braga, the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte stands as a testament to Portugal’s rich religious and architectural heritage. Featuring an 18th-century hydraulic lift, the sanctuary’s baroque grandeur is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can ascend the famous Stairway of the Five Senses, a symbolic journey that leads to the magnificent church at the summit. The sanctuary’s intricate design, with its fountains, statues, and chapels, offers a captivating blend of spiritual contemplation and artistic wonder.

Architectural Highlights	Spiritual Significance
18th-century hydraulic lift	Symbolic ascent of the Stairway of the Five Senses
Baroque-style church	Pilgrimage site visited by Pope John Paul II
Elaborate fountains, statues, and chapels	Blend of religious and artistic elements

Sameiro Sanctuary

The Sameiro Sanctuary, a 20th-century religious landmark, crowns the picturesque hills overlooking Braga.

Completed in the early 1900s, the sanctuary is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and attracts visitors from around the world.

Its grand neo-baroque architecture features an impressive façade and a sprawling staircase leading up to the main entrance.

The sanctuary’s interior boasts intricate decorations, including ornate altars and stained-glass windows.

The site holds significant religious and historical value, having been visited by Pope John Paul II in 1982.

Offering panoramic views of the city, the Sameiro Sanctuary is an integral part of Braga’s rich spiritual heritage and a must-see destination on the Braga city tour.

Inclusions and Important Information

The tour includes all necessary tickets for the visits to Braga Cathedral, the Bom Jesus Sanctuary, and the Sameiro Sanctuary. Lunch with drinks is also provided at a local restaurant. Pickup and drop-off service within Porto are included, and a certified guide leads the private group tours.

Inclusions	Cancellation Policy
All tickets for visits	Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
Lunch with drinks	Full refund

Important information to note is that the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users. Guests should bring water and wear comfortable clothes, and there are restrictions on smoking, food, and drinks in the vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Hotel Pickup and Drop-Off Locations Flexible?

The tour offers flexible pickup and drop-off locations. Customers can be picked up from any hotel or address in Porto, and the drop-off may vary, either within Porto or with a transfer to Lisbon.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Individual Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to accommodate individual preferences. The tour provider offers flexible pickup and drop-off locations within Porto, and the itinerary can be adjusted to suit the traveler’s interests and needs.

How Accessible Is the Tour for People With Disabilities?

Unfortunately, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users. The tour includes walking, stairs, and uneven terrain which may pose challenges for those with mobility limitations. However, the tour operator may be able to provide alternative arrangements upon request.

Can Dietary Restrictions Be Accommodated for the Included Lunch?

Yes, dietary restrictions can be accommodated for the included lunch. The tour provider is happy to cater to any special dietary needs with advance notice. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request.

Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available?

Discounts and package deals may be available for this tour. Customers should inquire with the tour provider about any special offers or combo packages that could provide savings. Pricing details are subject to change, so it’s best to check the latest information.

Recap

The Braga City of Faith tour offers an immersive cultural experience, exploring Portugal’s rich religious heritage. With guided visits to historic landmarks like the Braga Cathedral and the UNESCO-recognized Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary, this tour provides an unforgettable journey into the city’s diverse past. Complemented by a traditional Portuguese lunch, this comprehensive day trip is a must-do for anyone seeking to discover Braga’s profound spiritual legacy.

You can check if your dates are available here: