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Daily Mirror
18-06-2025
- Daily Mirror
Uncrowded European city two hours away where a glass of wine costs £1.70
The lesser-known city is rich in history and ideal for a quick break in Europe if you're travelling on a budget. Many of Europe's favourite holiday destinations have seen growing backlash to the unsustainable amount of tourists received each year. Not only is it unenjoyable for local residents, crowds and increased prices aren't all that fun for holidaymakers either. There's no shortage of European cities to explore, and while Paris, Barcelona or Venice might be hard to beat, that doesn't mean lesser-known destinations should be overlooked. Plus, venturing off the beaten track often means you get more for your money, and don't have to spend hours in queues waiting to visit attractions or sit down for a meal. Portugal, a country adored by many Brits and boasting some of the world's most stunning beaches and cities, welcomes an impressive influx of tourists each year and many flock to well-known cities like Lisbon and Porto. It's also the reason both cities are witnessing a growing backlash against tourism, and even the island of Madeira has recently addressed the issue. But Portugal is also home to a lesser-known city that was even named Europe's Emerging Tourism Destination at the World Travel Awards, often dubbed the Oscars of the tourism industry. Situated just an hour north of Porto, Braga is a historically rich city often described as the Rome of Portugal thanks to its religious roots. Originally a Roman city named Bracara Augusta, this underrated city welcomed just 639,000 visitors in 2024, but that doesn't mean it hasn't got plenty on offer for tourists. Home to the oldest cathedral in the country, Braga Cathedral, it's considered an important religious site that's also known as the City of Bells, with 30 churches located in the city. Its most famous site, the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte is a listed UNESCO World Heritage site, complete with an elaborate baroque stairway and view overlooking the city. In a piece for The Independent, Matt Dennis revealed that during his recent visit to Braga, he enjoyed a glass of Vinho Verde, a wine native to northwest Portugal, for a mere £1.70. Braga offers a refreshing, and affordable, escape from the throngs of tourists that flock to Lisbon and Porto, both of which welcomed over 5 million visitors last year. The walkable city centre, steeped in rich history including Roman ruins, is dotted with Baroque palaces and charming plazas, perfect for leisurely exploration on foot. Reaching Braga is straightforward - fly into Porto from most UK airports with Ryanair, easyJet or British Airways offering direct flights. A return flight in September can be as cheap as £21, with the weather still comfortably warm at around 20C. For those who prefer not to drive, a transfer from Porto to Braga costs approximately £6 and takes about 40 minutes, with several bus operators providing direct services from the airport.
Metro
02-05-2025
- Metro
The 'Rome of Portugal' is a lesser-visited gem that's 20°C in May
With tens of millions of tourists flocking to its ancient streets every year, Rome can feel suffocating. In the summer it becomes so flooded with people it can be difficult to enjoy – not to mention the sweltering heat. And this year is set to attract more crowds than ever: the Italian capital is celebrating its Jubilee Year 2025, and the death of Pope Francis has already brought droves of pilgrims to the Vatican. But there are ways to enjoy a Roman holiday without stepping foot in the Eternal City. One of them is across the continent in Portugal, where the country's third city has been dubbed the 'Portuguese Rome.' Braga, a small city in the far north of Portugal, is the less touristy sister of Lisbon and Porto. In 2024, it was named Europe's next emerging destination in the prestigious World Travel Awards. Fuel your wanderlust with our curated newsletter of travel deals, guides and inspiration. Sign up here. A mainstay of the Roman empire, Braga has had much significance in Portugal's history. From ornate architecture to ancient buildings and a thriving culinary scene, the city has everything that Rome does, without the crowds. Often referred to as the heartland of Portugal, Braga is a historic city steeped in religious heritage. That can only mean it's home to a swathe of elaborate churches. Portugal's most photographed church, Bom Jesus do Monte, is located in Tenoes, just outside the city, with a Baroque stairway leading up a hilltop. Towering 116 metres high, the church captures a sweeping panorama of the surrounding region. Braga Cathedral is even older, built between 1070 and 1093 on the ruins of a Roman temple. Incorporating Gothic, Baroque, Manueline and Renaissance styles, the church has a museum filled with local relics. Elsewhere, the Chapel of São Frutuoso was constructed in the sixth century AD, making it one of the oldest buildings in the entirety of Portugal. According to tradition, it was built to replace an ancient Roman temple dedicated to Asclepius, AKA, the god of medicine and good health. There's also the Santa Barbara Garden, which is attached to the 14th century Archbishop's Palace, one of the city's most important historic structures. But enough about churches. Braga also has a charming city centre with tree-lined streets, fashion boutiques and beautiful gardens. It's cute but compact, definitely doable in one weekend. The city has a thriving food scene, and many regional delicacies to try. A good starting point is bacalhau (salted cod) and caldo verde (soup with potatoes, kale and chorizo), followed by bife à Bragança (a traditional steak dish) andpastel de nata (the famous custard tarts). The city is home to nine Michelin restaurants and myriad trendy bars. TripAdvisor reviewers recommend checking out the Sardinha Biba nightclub if you fancy a dance. The easiest way to get to Braga from the UK is to fly to nearby Porto. In May, one-way fares start from as little as £28 if you fly from London Stansted, or £58 flying from Manchester. From Porto, it's less than a 40-minute drive. Taxis typically cost around £50. For accommodation, the average cost of a hotel room in Braga during the summer season is between £75 and £90. The best time to visit Braga is undoubtedly the summer. More Trending In May, temperatures reach highs of 20°C, perfect walking weather. In July and August, the mercury can reach 25°C. If sun isn't your thing, temperatures for the rest of the year don't typically dip much below 10°C. In January and February, expect highs of 14°C, while in November it remains a pleasant 17°C. Do you have a story to share? Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@ MORE: Missed out on Glastonbury tickets? Here's 5 'hidden gem' festivals you've probably never heard of MORE: Woman dragged off Ryanair flight after 'on-board fight' diverts it to Italy MORE: Spanish 'mini Maldives' gets brand new TUI flight from UK airport
