The ‘Rome of Portugal’ is a lesser-visited gem that’s 20°C in May

The ‘Portuguese Rome’ is steeped in history, religion and good food (Picture: Getty Images)

With tens of millions of tourists flocking to its ancient streets every year, Rome can feel suffocating.

In the summer it becomes so flooded with people it can be difficult to enjoy – not to mention the sweltering heat.

And this year is set to attract more crowds than ever: the Italian capital is celebrating its Jubilee Year 2025, and the death of Pope Francis has already brought droves of pilgrims to the Vatican.

But there are ways to enjoy a Roman holiday without stepping foot in the Eternal City. One of them is across the continent in Portugal, where the country’s third city has been dubbed the ‘Portuguese Rome.’

Though beautiful, Rome is known for being touristy (Picture: Getty Images)

Braga, a small city in the far north of Portugal, is the less touristy sister of Lisbon and Porto. In 2024, it was named Europe’s next emerging destination in the prestigious World Travel Awards.

A mainstay of the Roman empire, Braga has had much significance in Portugal’s history.

From ornate architecture to ancient buildings and a thriving culinary scene, the city has everything that Rome does, without the crowds.

Things to do in Braga

Often referred to as the heartland of Portugal, Braga is a historic city steeped in religious heritage. That can only mean it’s home to a swathe of elaborate churches.

Portugal’s most photographed church, Bom Jesus do Monte, is located in Tenoes, just outside the city, with a Baroque stairway leading up a hilltop. Towering 116 metres high, the church captures a sweeping panorama of the surrounding region.

The Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary is a must-see (Picture: Getty Images)

Braga Cathedral is even older, built between 1070 and 1093 on the ruins of a Roman temple. Incorporating Gothic, Baroque, Manueline and Renaissance styles, the church has a museum filled with local relics.

Elsewhere, the Chapel of São Frutuoso was constructed in the sixth century AD, making it one of the oldest buildings in the entirety of Portugal.

According to tradition, it was built to replace an ancient Roman temple dedicated to Asclepius, AKA, the god of medicine and good health.

There’s also the Santa Barbara Garden, which is attached to the 14th century Archbishop’s Palace, one of the city’s most important historic structures.

But enough about churches. Braga also has a charming city centre with tree-lined streets, fashion boutiques and beautiful gardens. It’s cute but compact, definitely doable in one weekend.

The Archbishop’s Court and Jardin de Santa Barbara (Picture: Getty Images)

The city has a thriving food scene, and many regional delicacies to try.

A good starting point is bacalhau (salted cod) and caldo verde (soup with potatoes, kale and chorizo), followed by bife à Bragança (a traditional steak dish) andpastel de nata (the famous custard tarts).

The city is home to nine Michelin restaurants and myriad trendy bars. TripAdvisor reviewers recommend checking out the Sardinha Biba nightclub if you fancy a dance.

How to get there and where to stay

The easiest way to get to Braga from the UK is to fly to nearby Porto.

In May, one-way fares start from as little as £28 if you fly from London Stansted, or £58 flying from Manchester.

From Porto, it’s less than a 40-minute drive. Taxis typically cost around £50.

For accommodation, the average cost of a hotel room in Braga during the summer season is between £75 and £90.

When to visit Braga

The best time to visit Braga is undoubtedly the summer.

In May, temperatures reach highs of 20°C, perfect walking weather. In July and August, the mercury can reach 25°C.

If sun isn’t your thing, temperatures for the rest of the year don’t typically dip much below 10°C.

In January and February, expect highs of 14°C, while in November it remains a pleasant 17°C.

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