BRAGA CITY OF FAITH-CITY AND SANCTUARIES FULL DAY TOUR

Braga, a city steeped in Catholic heritage, offers visitors a chance to enjoy its rich history and cultural treasures. The Braga City of Faith-City and Sanctuaries Full Day Tour provides an exceptional opportunity to explore this captivating destination. From the magnificent Braga Cathedral and its Treasure Room to the enchanting Bom Jesus do Monte and Sameiro Sanctuaries, this comprehensive tour promises an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re seeking to deepen your understanding of Braga’s religious past or simply to marvel at its architectural wonders, this tour…

Key Points

• The Braga City of Faith tour offers a comprehensive full-day exploration of the historic city, including visits to the Braga Cathedral, Treasure Room, Jewish district, and renowned sanctuaries.
• The tour includes a private guided experience with a certified guide, all tickets, a typical Portuguese lunch, and convenient pickup and dropoff in Porto.
• Highlights of the tour include the impressive Baroque Braga Cathedral, the captivating Treasure Room, and a guided walking tour of Braga’s old Jewish district.
• The tour features visits to the Bom Jesus do Monte and Sameiro Sanctuaries, with the former boasting the oldest lift in Portugal and the latter being awarded a golden rose by Pope John Paul II.
• The tour provides an immersive experience in Braga’s rich history, cultural heritage, and deep-rooted Catholic faith, offering a unique opportunity to explore the ‘City of Faith’.

Overview of the Tour

The BRAGA City Tour provides a full-day exploration of the ‘City of Faith’, including visits to the Roman capital of Bracara Augusta, the historic Cathedral, the Treasure Room, the Jewish district, and the renowned sanctuaries.

Lasting 8 hours, the tour offers a comprehensive experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the rich history and cultural heritage of Braga.

With a private tour, guests can enjoy a personalized experience with a certified guide available in multiple languages.

The tour includes all tickets and a typical Portuguese lunch, as well as pickup and dropoff in Porto, with an option to transfer to Lisbon at the end of the day.

Highlights of the Tour

BRAGA CITY OF FAITH-CITY AND SANCTUARIES FULL DAY TOUR

Highlights of the Tour:

This full-day tour offers a number of highlights for visitors to Braga. Guests can enjoy a private tour experience without small groups, with a certified guide available in four languages. All tickets and a typical Portuguese lunch are included, along with convenient pickup and dropoff at the location of the guest’s choice in Porto.

Key sights include the magnificent Braga Cathedral and its Treasure Room, a guided walk through the old Jewish district, and visits to the iconic Sanctuaries of Bom Jesus do Monte and Sameiro, the latter awarded a golden rose by Pope John Paul II.

Itinerary of the Tour

The tour begins with pickup in Porto and a 30-minute drive to Braga.

Visitors then explore the Braga Cathedral and its Treasure Room for 30 minutes.

Next, they embark on a guided walking tour of Braga’s old Jewish district, also lasting 30 minutes.

After that, the group enjoys a typical Portuguese lunch with drinks at a local restaurant for an hour.

The tour continues with a visit to the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, including the oldest lift in Portugal, for an hour.

Inclusions in the Tour

This tour includes all tickets for paid visits, such as the Braga Cathedral and Treasure Room. It also provides a typical Portuguese lunch with drinks at a local restaurant.

Plus, the tour covers visits to the Bom Jesus and Sameiro Sanctuaries. Pickup and dropoff in Porto are also part of the inclusions.

The Braga Cathedral and Treasure Room offer a glimpse into the city’s rich religious heritage. The lunch at a local restaurant allows visitors to savor the flavors of traditional Portuguese cuisine.

The Bom Jesus and Sameiro Sanctuaries are two of Braga’s most iconic landmarks, providing an immersive experience in the city’s spiritual significance. With the convenient pickup and dropoff in Porto, this tour makes exploring Braga’s highlights seamless and hassle-free.

Restrictions of the Tour

Despite the comprehensive inclusions, this tour does have some restrictions. Notably, it isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the uneven terrain and steps encountered at certain sites.

Plus, smoking, drinks, and food aren’t allowed inside the tour vehicle to maintain cleanliness and comfort for all participants.

Visitors should also be aware that access to some of the religious sites may be limited during religious services or events. However, the tour guide will provide guidance and ensure the group respects the sanctity of these places.

Braga Cathedral and Treasure Room

At the heart of Braga’s storied past lies the magnificent Braga Cathedral, a testament to the city’s deep-rooted Catholic faith.

Visitors can explore the cathedral’s remarkable interiors, adorned with ornate Baroque and Rococo elements, and visit its renowned Treasure Room, which houses a remarkable collection of religious artifacts, manuscripts, and sacred art.

The Treasure Room offers a glimpse into the cathedral’s rich history, showcasing priceless liturgical vestments, intricate chalices, and illuminated manuscripts that have been carefully preserved over the centuries.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply awestruck by the grandeur of religious architecture, the Braga Cathedral and its Treasure Room are must-see highlights of this captivating city.

Jewish District Walking Tour

Braga’s historic Jewish district offers visitors a unique glimpse into the city’s rich cultural tapestry, where centuries-old architecture and traditions still thrive.

Guided walking tours lead guests through the maze of narrow streets and hidden alleyways, uncovering the stories of a community that has long-since left an indelible mark on Braga’s identity.

Highlights of the tour include:

• Exploring the remnants of the old Synagogue and learning about its significance
• Visiting the former Jewish Quarter, where traditional houses and shops have been preserved
• Discovering hidden courtyards and squares that were once the heart of the Jewish community
• Learning about the influence of Jewish culture on Braga’s cuisine and craftsmanship
• Gaining insight into the challenges and triumphs faced by Braga’s Jewish population over the centuries

Sanctuaries of Braga

The Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte and Sameiro Sanctuary are two of Braga’s most revered religious sites, each offering visitors a unique glimpse into the city’s rich spiritual heritage.

The Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte features an impressive Baroque stairway leading up to the church, with six chapels representing the five senses and the virtues. Visitors can also ride on the oldest public lift in Portugal, offering stunning views of the city.

The Sameiro Sanctuary is known for its impressive golden rose awarded by Pope John Paul II, reflecting its significance in the Catholic faith.

Both sanctuaries provide a peaceful respite from the bustling city, allowing visitors to enjoy Braga’s centuries-old religious traditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?

Yes, you can customize the itinerary to your preferences. The tour provider offers flexibility, allowing you to modify the schedule and activities to suit your interests and needs during the full-day excursion.

Is Photography Allowed at All the Sites?

Photography is generally allowed at the sites visited on the tour, though some restrictions may apply. Visitors should check with the guide or on-site staff for any specific photography policies before taking photos.

What Is the Dress Code for Visiting the Religious Sites?

Visitors to religious sites in Braga should dress modestly, with covered shoulders and knees. Shorts, tank tops, and other revealing attire are generally not allowed. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for navigating the sanctuaries and uneven terrain.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. The tour is suitable for all ages, though children may require adult supervision. The tour includes visits to religious sites, so appropriate attire is recommended but not strictly enforced.

Can I Extend the Tour to Include Additional Sites in Braga?

Yes, the tour can be extended to include additional sites in Braga. Travelers can customize the itinerary with the tour provider to visit other historical and cultural attractions in the city beyond the standard tour.

Recap

The Braga City of Faith-City and Sanctuaries Full Day Tour offers an immersive exploration of Braga’s rich Catholic heritage.

Visitors can marvel at the Braga Cathedral, discover the historic Jewish district, and visit the captivating Bom Jesus do Monte and Sameiro Sanctuaries.

With convenient transportation, a guided tour, and a typical Portuguese lunch, this tour provides a comprehensive and convenient way to uncover Braga’s cultural treasures.