Braga is a historic city about 53 km north of Porto Airport. Direct bus services and metro+train combinations are available.

About Braga

Braga is one of the oldest cities in Portugal, founded by the Romans as Bracara Augusta over 2,000 years ago. Today it is the country's third-largest city and its ecclesiastical capital, earning the nickname "Portuguese Rome" for its extraordinary concentration of churches, chapels, and religious monuments. The city is home to the oldest archbishopric in Portugal, and its religious festivals, particularly the centuries-old Semana Santa (Holy Week) celebrations, are among the most elaborate in the Iberian Peninsula.

The crowning jewel is the Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on a hillside east of the city. Its monumental Baroque stairway of 581 steps zigzags up the slope through chapels, fountains, and allegorical sculptures. A water-powered funicular — the oldest in the Iberian Peninsula — offers an alternative ascent for those who prefer not to climb.

Braga's historic center has been beautifully revitalized, with the pedestrianized Rua do Souto and surrounding streets lined with boutiques, traditional pastry shops (try the pastéis de Santa Luzia), and vibrant cafes. The city has a youthful energy thanks to the University of Minho, and its modern cultural scene includes the Theatro Circo and the innovative gnration arts center housed in a former medieval castle.

Nearby Landmarks

Bom Jesus do Monte Braga Cathedral Sé de Braga Theatro Circo Tibães Monastery

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost $60-75
Time 45-55 min

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Rideshare (Grab/Uber)

Cost $50-65
Time 45-55 min

Arrivals level pickup area

Step-by-Step Directions

Take GetBus direct service from the airport, or take Metro Line E to Campanha station and transfer to CP train to Braga.

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi $60-75 45-55 min Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Rideshare $50-65 45-55 min Budget-conscious, app users

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

GetBus and other airport shuttle services run until approximately 10:00-11:00 PM. After that, a taxi from Porto Airport to Braga costs approximately €60-75. Uber is available but may have limited drivers willing to make the intercity trip late at night. The last CP train from Porto to Braga departs around 11:00 PM.

Luggage Tips

Direct airport shuttle buses have dedicated luggage compartments and are the most comfortable option for travelers with bags. If taking the metro to Porto then a train to Braga, you will need to transfer with luggage through Porto stations. Braga train station has no luggage lockers, but the city center is walkable from the station.

Accessibility

Direct bus services from Porto Airport to Braga are generally wheelchair accessible with advance notice. Braga's city center is relatively flat in the central pedestrian area. However, the Bom Jesus do Monte has the historic funicular as an accessible alternative to the stairs.