The Celts called it Bracari, the Romans Bracara Oppidium Augusta, and the Portuguese call it Braga. The ancient town has been always been a significant spiritual center, at one point home to a bishop who was declared the leader of all faithful on the Iberian peninsula. Churches and monasteries remind the visitor of the important role the town once played, and Christians from all over the country still stream to the pilgrimage church Bom Jesus de Monte, just 4 miles outside the town. It is situated on a hill and some pilgrims cover the last few hundred yards, up heavily decorated stone stairs, on their hands and knees. If you prefer it slightly more comfortable you can just use the cable car which takes you up to the church. Do not forget to rent your rental car in Braga before leaving on vacation.
Another important religious building is the cathedral that harmonically combines different styles and eras. The treasure chamber displays the riches the bishops gathered over the centuries, where as the adjoined Museu del Arte has a fabulous collection of sacral art.
To complete your tour of church history, visit Santa Cruz, built in the 17th century, and Capela dos Coimbras, a Renaissance chapel. Enjoy this gorgeous landscape while driving your car rental in Braga.
Once you have had enough spiritual inspiration and hunger strikes, check into one of the numerous pubs and restaurants in the area. Those in search of self-sufficiency will be happy on the buzzing farmer’s market across from the old defense tower. Numerous local wineries sell their famous Vinho Verde and invite you to visit their vineyards, which is easily accomplished by rental car. With a car rental in Braga, enjoy your newly found freedom.
Minho Province was settled early by the Celts and all around Braga you can still find their mystical remains. South-east of Braga archeologists have discovered the ancient Celtic settlement of Citania de Briteiros, dating from the fourth century B.C., consisting of over 100 stone huts, drainage systems and defense walls. This discovery is well documented in the Museu Martins Sarmento in Guimaraes just south of here. Further to the east, around the small town of Mosteiro de Refojos, you will stumble across more Celtic relics in the fields and woods. This area is particularly nice for an afternoon walk and picnic, as is the Parque Natural do Alvao, a natural reserve protecting the streams and mountains of this region. In order to save you from any worries on-site, make sure you book your rental car in Braga well in advance.
Guimareas is the ideal destination for a day trip, a medieval town with a fortification, all perfectly preserved. If the castle seems familiar to you it is because Alfonso Henrique, the first king of Portugal, who was born here in the 12th century, had it put on the flag. Rent your car rental in Braga and discover this beautiful region.
West of Braga in the charming little town of Barcelos one of the most beautiful farmer’s markets in all of Portugal offers handy crafts, and delicious produce. Buy some fresh fruits and head further west to the Atlantic beaches of Costa Verde. The coast is lined with picturesque fishing villages and stunning walking trails. And if after all this tranquility you crave some action, check out Porto’s nightlife, just a few miles further south.
Choose the rental car in Braga option for memorable holidays and complete freedom.
