The 11th-century cathedral is notable not only for its intricate masonry and ornate baroque organs, but also for the collection of artefacts held in its museum. It is an eccentrically organised exhibition that includes, amongst many other items, a pair of platform shoes used by a bishop who was too short to reach the altar unaided.

There is more to Braga than history, though, as the city is the commercial centre of northern Portugal, one of the more developed regions of the country. Thanks in part to the city’s university and the influx of young people it generates, Braga also has a thriving nightlife, with a broad selection of restaurants and bars, especially at the budget end of the scale.

WHAT TO SEE

Braga is surrounded by some of Portugal’s most scenic countryside, with wooded valleys and gently rolling hills, as well as numerous holy sanctuaries (see below). The Parque Nacional da Peneda-Gerês is difficult but rewarding to navigate independently, while organised pony trekking and walking tours can be arranged. The city’s many historic religious buildings are essential viewing.

Don’t miss: The Bom Jesús do Monte sanctuary just outside Braga – it is worth climbing the impressive granite staircase to reach the truly serene gardens of the holy site.

GETTING THERE

By air: See the Lisbon and Porto pages for details of flights to those cities.

By rail: It’s a long way up from Lisbon, but the 5hr 30min journey costs about £10 in second class. From Porto, the 1hr 45min journey costs about £4.

By car: Driving is usually the quickest way to get between Lisbon and Braga, taking between four and five hours. The trip from Porto takes about an hour.

By bus: Reaching Braga by bus takes about 5hr 30min from Lisbo and 1hr 15mins from Porto.

GETTING AROUND

Renting a car is the best way to see the surrounding countryside and the attractions on the edge of the city, but public buses do run to many destinations. The city centre itself is best navigated on foot.

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