Living in Braga offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern vibrancy, making it an increasingly attractive destination for expats and retirees seeking an authentic Portuguese experience.
As Portugal’s third-largest city, with a population of around 180,000, Braga strikes a balance between urban amenities and a relaxed, small-city atmosphere. Nestled in the lush Minho region of northern Portugal, this inland city is surrounded by rolling green hills and is just a short drive from the stunning coastline.
Braga’s rich history, dating back to Roman times, is evident in its well-preserved architecture, with the magnificent Braga Cathedral at its heart. The city’s compact center is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, grand plazas, and baroque churches, interspersed with modern shops, cafes, and restaurants. This juxtaposition of old and new creates a dynamic living environment that respects its past while embracing the future.
The presence of the University of Minho infuses Braga with youthful energy and contributes to its growing tech scene, earning it the nickname “Portuguese Silicon Valley.” This economic vitality, combined with a lower cost of living compared to Lisbon or Porto, makes Braga an appealing option for those looking to relocate to Portugal.
While not as popular with expats as coastal areas, Braga’s international community is growing, attracted by the high quality of life, excellent healthcare, and the opportunity to immerse themselves in Portuguese culture. The city’s strategic location, just an hour from Porto and close to the Spanish border, adds to its appeal, offering easy access to diverse experiences and travel opportunities.
Renting & Buying Property
The property market in Braga offers a range of options for both renters and buyers. The city has seen steady growth in recent years, with new developments complementing its historic architecture. Whether you’re looking for a modern apartment in the city center or a traditional house in the surrounding areas, Braga provides diverse choices for expats and retirees.
Buying
Property prices in Braga are generally more affordable compared to larger cities like Lisbon or Porto. Typical properties include modern apartments, traditional townhouses, and detached homes with gardens in the suburbs.
Search properties for sale in Braga
Renting
Rental prices in Braga are more affordable than Lisbon and Porto, making it an attractive option for expats and students. However, rental prices have increased significantly in the past few years due to its increased popularity.
Living in nearby towns or rural areas can offer even more affordable options, with prices about 20-30% lower than in the city center.
Read more about renting in Portugal
What To See & Do in Braga
Bom Jesus do Monte
Bom Jesus do Monte is an iconic 18th-century sanctuary perched on a hill east of Braga. This pilgrimage site is renowned for its magnificent baroque staircase, comprising 573 steps interspersed with chapels representing the Stations of the Cross.
Visitors can either climb the zigzagging “Sacred Way” or take the world’s oldest water-balanced funicular to reach the summit. At the top, you’ll find a neoclassical church housing beautiful religious art and gilded woodwork.
The surrounding park offers landscaped gardens, tranquil fountains, and grottoes for exploration. The panoramic views of Braga and its surroundings from this vantage point are simply breathtaking.
Braga Cathedral (Sé Da Braga)
As Portugal’s oldest cathedral, Sé de Braga is a testament to the city’s rich history. Its architecture spans various epochs, blending Romanesque, Gothic, Manueline, and Baroque styles.
The interior boasts a Baroque main chapel, while medieval elements like the royal tombs of King João I and Queen Philippa of Lancaster are preserved in the chapel of King Manuel.
The Renaissance choir, adorned with intricately carved wooden stalls, is a highlight. Don’t miss the cathedral’s two museums – the Treasure-Museum and the Diocesan Museum – which house an impressive collection of ecclesiastical art, manuscripts, and relics.
This architectural marvel offers a journey through Portugal’s artistic and religious history.
Roman Thermae of Maximinus
Step back in time at the Roman Thermae of Maximinus, located in Braga’s historical center. These well-preserved thermal baths, dating back to the 1st century AD, offer a fascinating glimpse into the city’s Roman past when it was known as Bracara Augusta. The archaeological site showcases various components of the bath complex, including the frigidarium (cold bath), tepidarium (warm bath), caldarium (hot bath), and sudatorium (steam bath). Informative panels help visitors envision the once-bustling baths and understand the advanced heating and plumbing systems of ancient Rome. This site provides a tangible connection to Braga’s importance as a major Roman city in the Iberian Peninsula.
Jardim de Santa Bárbara
The Jardim de Santa Bárbara, nestled in the heart of Braga, offers a serene escape from the city’s bustle. This charming garden, named after the medieval wing of the Archbishop’s Palace that frames it, is a vibrant mosaic of colorful flowers and exotic plants. The centerpiece is a fountain featuring a statue of Saint Barbara. Meticulously manicured flowerbeds create a spectacular display, especially during spring and summer. The backdrop of the centuries-old palace wing, adorned with weathered stones and coats of arms, adds a touch of historical ambiance. This picturesque garden is perfect for a peaceful stroll or a moment of quiet contemplation amidst Braga’s urban landscape.
Igreja do Carmo
The Igreja do Carmo, a late 17th-century Baroque church, stands as a testament to Braga’s rich ecclesiastical heritage. Its distinctive façade, adorned with beautiful azulejo tilework and flanked by two bell towers, is a quintessential example of Portuguese architecture. Inside, visitors are treated to a harmonious blend of gilded woodwork, intricate frescoes, and precious religious artifacts.
The main altar, dedicated to Our Lady of Mount Carmel, features a remarkable gilded altarpiece. The church also houses a valuable collection of 17th and 18th-century religious art, making it a must-visit for both architecture enthusiasts and those interested in Portugal’s religious history.
Palácio do Raio
Palácio do Raio, situated in Braga’s heart, is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. Commissioned in the mid-18th century and designed by renowned architect André Soares, this palace showcases the opulent Rococo style.
Its striking blue-and-white tiled façade is a visual feast, while the interior boasts a stunning central staircase adorned with wooden handrails and sculptural details.
Today, the palace houses the Dom Diogo de Sousa Museum, offering exhibits on Braga’s history and archaeology. A visit to Palácio do Raio provides a glimpse into the grandeur of 18th-century Portuguese architecture and the rich cultural heritage of Braga.
Cost Of Living
The cost of living in Braga is generally lower than in Portugal’s major cities, making it an appealing destination for expats and retirees. Housing costs, whether renting or buying, are the most significant expense. However, daily living expenses such as groceries, dining out, and entertainment are quite reasonable. A couple can live comfortably in Braga on a budget of €1,500 to €2,000 per month, including rent. Utilities are relatively inexpensive, and public transportation is affordable and efficient.
Can I Move to Braga?
Moving to Braga, like any city in Portugal, is certainly possible for many international residents. Portugal offers a variety of visas and residency permits designed to accommodate different situations, whether you’re from the EU/EEA/Switzerland or from other parts of the world. Here are some of the most common options:
- EU/EEA/Swiss: If you have an EU/EEA/Swiss passport, moving to Portugal is fairly straightforward and there is no visa requirement.
- D7 Visa: This visa is ideal for retirees or those with a regular passive income. It’s commonly used by individuals receiving pensions or social security benefits, but it also accepts other forms of passive income such as rental income, dividends, or royalties. The D7 is popular among those looking to retire in Braga or live off their investments.
- D8 Visa: Also known as the Digital Nomad Visa, the D8 is perfect for freelancers and remote workers. If you’re able to work from anywhere and are drawn to Braga’s blend of history and modernity, this could be an excellent option.
- Golden VIsa: For those with significant savings who are interested in investing in Portugal, the Golden Visa program could be appealing. This visa requires a substantial investment in real estate, funds, or other qualifying investments. The main advantage is the minimal stay requirement – you only need to spend an average of 7 days per year in Portugal to maintain your residency status.
- D2 Visa: If you’re an entrepreneur or planning to start a business in Braga, the D2 visa might be the right choice. This visa is designed for those who want to establish or relocate a business to Portugal. Braga’s growing tech scene and startup ecosystem could make it an attractive location for entrepreneurs and besides the D2 visa, there are several other visas available.
Get in touch to discuss moving to Portugal
Expat Life
While Braga’s expat community is smaller compared to coastal cities, it’s growing steadily. The city attracts a diverse mix of nationalities, including British, American, German, and Brazilian expats. Many are drawn to Braga for its universities, tech industry, or retirement opportunities.
The expat community is welcoming and often organises social events and meetups. International residents in Braga appreciate the city’s relaxed pace of life, rich cultural offerings, and the opportunity to immerse themselves in authentic Portuguese culture.
Food
Braga’s cuisine reflects its rich cultural heritage and the bounty of the Minho region. Here are some regional dishes you must try:
- Bacalhau à Braga: A unique local take on Portugal’s beloved codfish, featuring deep-fried potatoes and a spicy sauce.
- Papas de Sarrabulho: A hearty dish made with various meats, bread, and cumin, popular during winter months.
- Frigideiras: Small meat pies filled with veal or pork, a specialty of Braga.
- Pudim Abade de Priscos: A rich egg custard pudding made with port wine and bacon, a local dessert delicacy.
- Vinho Verde: The region’s famous “green wine,” light and refreshing, perfect for warm days.
You’ll also find national Portuguese dishes like caldo verde (kale soup), grilled fish, grilled meat dishes, and cozido à portuguesa (a Portuguese stew) on most traditional Portuguese menus. These are found throughout Portugal. Of course, the pastel de nata is ubiquitous here too.
Upsides & Downsides Of Living Here
Pros
- Rich cultural heritage and beautiful architecture
- Lower cost of living compared to major Portuguese cities
- High quality of life with good healthcare and education systems
- Proximity to nature and outdoor activities
- Vibrant university atmosphere
- Less touristy, offering a more authentic Portuguese experience
Cons
- Fewer job opportunities compared to Lisbon or Porto
- Smaller expat community
- Limited international flight connections (though Porto airport is nearby)
- Colder and rainier winters compared to southern Portugal
- Less English spoken than in more tourist-oriented areas
Climate
Braga experiences a Mediterranean climate with Atlantic influences. Summers are warm and dry, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 28°C (59°F to 82°F). Winters are cool and rainy, with temperatures typically between 5°C and 14°C (41°F to 57°F). Some people say it rains as much (and even more) than Ireland or the UK. Spring and autumn are generally mild and pleasant.
While Braga isn’t a coastal city, it’s within driving distance of several beautiful beaches along the Costa Verde. For summer cooling, locals often head to praias fluviais (river beaches) in the nearby countryside.
Will I need to learn Portuguese?
While English is widely spoken in major Portuguese cities, in Braga, knowing Portuguese becomes more important. Many locals, especially older generations, may not speak English fluently. Learning Portuguese is crucial for daily life, from shopping to dealing with local authorities. It’s also key to fully integrating into the community and appreciating the local culture.
Portuguese people are generally helpful and enjoy speaking other languages, but they truly appreciate when you make an effort to speak their language. Moreover, if you’re considering applying for Portuguese citizenship in the future, you’ll need to pass an A2 level Portuguese language exam.
Read more about learning Portuguese
Schools
International Schools
- CLIB – The Braga International School
Public Schools
- Escola Secundária Carlos Amarante
- Escola Secundária D. Maria II
- Escola Secundária Alberto Sampaio
- Escola Secundária Sá de Miranda
- Escola Secundária de Maximinos
Private Schools
- Colégio D. Diogo de Sousa
- Colégio João Paulo II
- Externato Infante D. Henrique
- Externato Carvalho Araújo
Universities
Braga is home to University of Minho. Founded in 1973, it is currently comprised of three campuses: the Gualtar Campus, in Braga, and the Azurém and Couros Campi, in Guimarães.
Read more about schools in Portugal
Getting Around
Braga is a relatively compact city with a walkable historic center. The core of the city is fairly flat, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some areas, particularly towards Bom Jesus do Monte, can be quite hilly.
For longer distances or when venturing outside the city center, other modes of transportation become necessary.
- Train: Braga has a centrally located train station with regular connections to major Portuguese cities. The journey to Porto takes about an hour, while Lisbon is approximately 3.5 hours away. There are also regional trains connecting Braga to nearby towns in the Minho region.
- Bus: The city has an extensive bus network. These buses cover most areas of the city and its outskirts. For those living outside the city centre or planning to explore the surrounding region, buses can be a reliable option.
- Car: While not absolutely necessary for daily life in the city center, having a car can be beneficial for exploring the Minho region and for convenient access to nearby towns and natural areas. Parking in the city center can be challenging, but there are several public parking lots available.
- Ride-sharing: Uber and other ride-sharing services are available in Braga, providing a convenient alternative to traditional taxis, especially for short trips within the city or to nearby attractions.
- Flying: The nearest major airport is Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport in Porto, about 50 km away from Braga. This international airport offers connections to many European cities and some to North America.
For a wider range of international destinations, including direct flights to North America, Lisbon Airport is the best option, though it’s further away.
Day Trips from Braga
Braga’s location in the heart of the Minho region makes it an excellent base for exploring northern Portugal. Popular day trips include visiting the historic town of Guimarães, known as the birthplace of Portugal, which is just 25 minutes away by car. The beautiful Peneda-Gerês National Park, with its stunning landscapes and hiking trails, is about an hour’s drive.
Porto, with its iconic bridges and port wine cellars, makes for an easy day trip, being only an hour away by train. Beach lovers can head to the coastal towns of Viana do Castelo or Póvoa de Varzim, both reachable within an hour.
For wine enthusiasts, the Vinho Verde wine region surrounds Braga, offering numerous vineyards and wineries to explore.
Similar Locations
When comparing Braga to other Portuguese cities for living, it shares some similarities with Coimbra and Guimarães. Like Braga, Coimbra is a historic university city with a rich cultural heritage, though it’s slightly larger. Guimarães, closer in size to Braga, also boasts a well-preserved historic center and strong cultural identity. Both Braga and Guimarães offer a more authentic Portuguese experience compared to more touristy cities like Lisbon or Porto.
Braga is often seen as a more affordable alternative to Porto, offering a similar northern Portuguese lifestyle but with a lower cost of living and a more relaxed pace. It’s less cosmopolitan than Lisbon or Porto but offers a strong sense of community and tradition.
Compared to coastal cities like Aveiro or Faro, Braga offers a different lifestyle, being inland and slightly cooler. However, like these cities, it maintains a good balance between urban amenities and a manageable size, making it attractive for those seeking a high quality of life without the bustle of a major metropolis.