It's an amazing construction and is beautifully set into manicured gardens just outside Braga. It is lovely to walk around and is a site that visitors to Fatima include in their itenary. Tough going in a wheelchair, but you can get into the main church. If you do visit and you have a car, go the extra few km up the hill to Samiero.

A truly stunning location with lots of history. The walk can take a few hours if you fancy a lil stroll through all the features. I suggest you start from the top of the hill as it will be lighter on the feet. Got an Uber to the top and the walked to the bottom.

Bom Jesus do Monte – A Must-See in Portugal Bom Jesus do Monte is one of those places that leaves a lasting impression. The moment you arrive, you’re struck by the majestic baroque stairway, beautifully designed with fountains, statues, and intricate details at every level. Climbing it feels like a journey both physical and spiritual, with breathtaking views as a reward at the top. The sanctuary itself is stunning, set against a backdrop of lush greenery, and the panoramic views over Braga are unforgettable. Whether you walk up the grand staircase or take the funicular, the experience is equally special. It’s not just a religious site but also a place of serenity, history, and beauty—perfect for reflection, photography, or simply soaking in the atmosphere. For me, visiting Bom Jesus do Monte was a magical experience and one I would highly recommend to anyone exploring Portugal.

The church at the top is beautiful. The gardens are expansive and fun to explore. The views over Braga and the staircase with sculptures are spectacular.

Lovely sight to visit even in the rain and mist. A little overrated but might have been better, if I didn't have an injury affecting mobility. Funicular was great.

A must see sight in Braga. There are 573 stairs but it didn't seem difficult to get to the top as you stop at each level to take in the sights. Totally worth it to experience the sanctuary at the top. A beautiful church, gardens and amazing views. It is very tranquil.

Is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its monumental Baroque stairway, which features chapels and fountains, and its beautiful neoclassical church. It's a significant Christian pilgrimage site and a popular tourist attraction, offering stunning views and a unique experience combining spirituality with architectural and natural beauty. Its monumental staircase, known as the Sacred Way, ascends the mountain with allegorical fountains and chapels depicting the Five Senses and Three Virtues. The site is also notable for its integration of natural elements like granite, water, and vegetation with man-made structures, as well as the historic, water-balanced funicular that transports visitors up and down the mountain.

This 15th century church is marvelous and a beauty of the architecture. We were not able to visit the church from inside as it was closed, but it had a quite a stance in the middle of the market. There is a ancient monument just outside it with a cross within it. Overall a magnificent structure and well preserved.

A stunning Gothic church rich with history and atmosphere. Beautiful architecture and peaceful surroundings in the old town. A must-visit landmark when exploring Guimarães!

It is located on Largo de Oliveria. It is definitely an amazing church. Not just it is a part of the culture but architecture wise it is also amazing. Inside of the church is another story. You will be impressed for sure. You can spend lots of time inside by embracing serenity and peace. Recommended strongly!

I can’t go inside because it’s Mass time. I stand and watch from the outside, took some photos, feel great to be there. I ask them about coin souvenir for selling, but they don’t have it, so sad in minute.

Great & beautifully designed ☺️

I love this church. Such a beautiful arches and even the old fire alarm box that used to be connected to the bells.

The Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira (Church of Our Lady of the Olive Tree) in Guimarães is a deeply unique and historically resonant landmark, central to the city's identity as the birthplace of Portugal. What sets it apart is its Gothic architecture and its profound connection to King John I and the Battle of Aljubarrota, as he ordered its reconstruction in the late 14th century as a vow of thanks for the Portuguese victory. This makes it a significant symbol of Portuguese independence. Adding to its distinctiveness is the "Legend of the Olive Tree", which gives the church its name. According to tradition, an ancient olive tree in front of the church miraculously revived after being cut down, leading to the placement of the Padrão do Salado (a Gothic shrine commemorating the Battle of Salado) right outside its doors. The church's interior features notable 18th-century altarpieces and a revered image of Our Lady of Oliveira. This blend of historical significance, architectural evolution, and local legend makes Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira a truly singular site.

Imposing building that can be seen from all around. The original structure is largely still fully intact, however they're is no interior to look at, side from the room where the virtual reality experience is held. The wall walk is essentially all there is, however yes still very impressive, with stunning views all around, including it the palace nearby.

Guimarães Castle is the impressive ruin of an ancient fortress, believed to have been one of the first residences of Portugal’s early kings. This stronghold was originally built to defend the surrounding lands and played a key role in the country’s formation. Today, visitors can explore the remaining towers and walls while enjoying a fascinating VR experience that recreates what the castle looked like centuries ago. It’s a great way to imagine its former glory and understand its importance in Portuguese history. Definitely worth a visit — especially if you’re interested in medieval architecture or the origins of Portugal itself.

Nice Castle, short walk around. Lots of history here. 360 virtual tour was cool. If your going to visit, either buy your tickets online or visit the ducal palace first and buy Combo tickets there first.

The castle of Guimarães is a must-see and truly impressive, full of history and atmosphere. However, the online ticketing system is a real nightmare: the process is unnecessarily complicated and PayPal is not even available. It’s a shame that visitors have to go through such a complex journey just to get in. On top of that, the central tower was closed without any prior notice, which was disappointing. Overall, the monument itself is absolutely worth it, but the management of the visitor experience could and should be much better.

Parked far away so walked a lot, but discovered great cafe and walked through old town after castle and chapel. Entry is free for Portuguese and 5euros each for castle and palace for tourists. Visited Sep 2025.

A very weird place. Just four walls and that's it. The only interesting thing is the tower and it's closed. In one loophole you can buy water for €2, in another you can watch a 3D cartoon for €6. What's the entrance fee for? The creepiest attraction in Portugal.

It is a scam for the tourist. You pay 5.31euro to see 4 walls in 5 minutes. You cannot even enter the central tower. Don't go to this place. There is plenty of castels much more interesting like in Obidos, Silves, Sintra or Montemor-o-Velho. I was really deceived and I could have spend 5 euro to get 4 bananas, 1 bottle of water, 2 packs of granola and 3 packs of lemonade. Just stay outside is really enough and enjoy the photo I posted. Regards

The palace grounds have some nice huge trees, benches, … very nice area. Inside, the walkthrough has nice examples of tapestry, furniture, and such from the Baroque era. The history of the palace ties deeply into the history of Portugal, so well worth visiting. Plus, Guimarães is so charming.

I really admired the historical objects, furniture, paintings and weapons inside; the explanations were also quite in detail. It would have been a better visit if there was more information about those who have lived in this Palace and also so situate it's importance in Portuguese history.

The Palácio dos Duques de Bragança is a modern reconstruction of the original palace, and it’s clear that several contemporary features — such as the distinctive chimneys — were added during restoration. While these newer elements somewhat alter the authenticity of the original design, the site remains impressive and historically significant. The entrance fee is very reasonable, and the palace’s location right next to Guimarães Castle makes it convenient to visit both in one trip. The building is clean, well-maintained, and still manages to convey a strong sense of Portugal’s past. Despite the reconstruction, it’s definitely worth a visit for anyone interested in architecture, history, or simply exploring the heritage of Guimarães.

A truly beautiful property with elegant rooms, detailed carpets, and many historic objects that give the place a very special atmosphere. You can buy a combined ticket for the palace and the castle, which costs only 8 euros and is absolutely worth it. The whole site is peaceful, well maintained, and definitely worth a visit.

A must visit place if you are in Guimarães. The site is both beautiful and offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of people from centuries past. The chapel, in particular, was stunning. Keep in mind that waiting times can be lengthy, especially on hot days, so it might be wise to visit during cooler seasons. Free admission is available for residents of Portugal.

Impressive building with lots of history. Gets quite busy and there's not a lot to see for the entry price - especially with the building works currently going on. If you buy the castle ticket say the same time, there is a discount.

There is something serene about this palace, you are embraced by it as you go inside. It's free if you buy the Guimaraes Pass from Casa de memorias so is the castle and 9 other places in Guimaraes.

Impressive in terms of history, antiquity and exterior architecture. The entrance well guarded by a somewhat aggressive parishioner, who did not allow us to take a look inside at six in the evening, when we arrived from Porto, because the religious service for the locals was about to begin. On our next visit to Portugal, I hope we will have better luck with the parishioner and see the interior as well.

The Catedral da Sé de Braga is one of the most beautiful Catholic complexes in all of Portugal. The main altar is a stunning masterpiece of art, and the museum is equally impressive, filled with gorgeous rooms and sacred artworks. Our guide shared the fascinating story of Saint Frutuoso while showing us the church, which made the visit even more meaningful. I highly recommend visiting this incredible place!

This cathedral is very interesting, especially if you are fond if Baroque architecture. There is also one very interesting gothic chapel. When we arrived it was closed for lunch (12-14.30 I believe). We paid for the 4 euro ticket which allowed access to all but the museum. Visit took about 45 minutes including 10-15 minute wait for the guided tour. Friendly and knowledgeable guides.

The most amazing organ you will probably ever find in a Cathedral. Old, classic and well maintained. A must see, you won't be disappointed. Washrooms and lockers are also available. Tickets were very reasonable.

The Braga Cathedral, Santa Maria, is one of Portugal’s most important religious landmarks. Its mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles makes every corner fascinating. Inside, the ornate chapels, sacred art, and peaceful atmosphere create a moving experience — a true spiritual heart of Braga.

This is the oldest national cathedral in Portugal, predating the foundation of the country itself. Construction began around 1070, and the cathedral was consecrated in 1089. Over the centuries, it has absorbed a variety of architectural styles — from Romanesque to Gothic, Manueline, and Baroque — reflecting the artistic transitions of each period. Notable features include the tombs of Count Henry and Teresa of León, the Baroque high choir and organ, the Manueline main chapel, the cloisters, and several richly decorated Baroque chapels such as the Chapel of the Kings, the Chapel of Glory, and the Chapel of São Geraldo. As the seat of the Archdiocese of Braga, it has long served as the religious center of northern Portugal and is considered one of the foundational Christian landmarks of the Iberian Peninsula.

There are guided tours offered that brings you to see some inner rooms and chapels. The area around the church are filled with café and shops.

I love the idea of going up by train, but unfortunately, the employee who drives the train didn’t speak any English, which is slightly frustrating because it’s a tourist place.

Only opens at specific time, so we got there at 1pm and it was closed, however the climb up was not bad at all.

Not organized around schedule, selling tickets, boarding, etc. The ride is nice but the ticketing and onboarding process needs a lot of improvement

A short ride, take visitors to the church that is located on the mountain

I do hesitate with the rating as it was like 2 euro for 2 minutes so doesn't sound like a good value for money. But it is indeed quite unique in terms of antique mechanism and looks cute:) Also helpful for people who'd struggle to climb 550 steps, although for reasonably fit person it's around 15 minutes and it's nice to walk! The park, gardens and views are beautiful. Unfortunately the information was scarce and the operator didn't speak English. I'm not entitled but it would help if some more info was available.

Well worth a trip. Difficult to find if you are not looking out for the signpost to the Funicular once on the road up to the church. Only one signpost from the main road. The Funicular at Bom Jesus is an amazing piece of engineering-There are two tracks and carriages. There is a large tank under each carriage which is filled with water at the top and when it is released, gravity takes it down the track while at the same time pulling the second carriage up! The tank was emptied completely at the bottom and (I think) water pumped back to the top to start process again. Completed in 1882. - Such inventivenesses

If you want to have fun in a very old transportation this is the place. When you arrive to the top just admire how it operates (with water on it- hydraulic lift). You pay 1.50 just to go up and +1 if you want to come back using it. Otherwise, as we did just come walking thru the stairs. we arrived at 11 am and almost not cue, we got back to the same place to leave at 4 pm and it was very crowded You have some options of restaurants in the top of the hill To come here just search for bus number 2 from downtown. Super easy. Pay 1.60 euros per person. You need to use cash. Have fun!

The Jardim de Santa Bárbara is one of those places that feels like a secret garden hiding in plain sight — and it’s nothing short of enchanting. Nestled right in the heart of Braga’s historic center, behind the medieval walls of the former Archbishop’s Palace, this public garden offers an explosion of color, history, and tranquility that surprises even seasoned travelers. We visited during spring, and the timing could not have been more perfect. The air was fresh, the sky a shifting canvas of clouds and light, and the flower beds were in full, glorious bloom. Tulips, marigolds, begonias, salvias, geraniums, and other seasonal species form a mosaic of colors with almost painterly precision. The neatly trimmed hedges, topiaries, and manicured walkways add a rhythm to the space — a perfect counterpoint to the wild beauty of the flowers. The medieval ruins of the palace’s arcade provide a stone backdrop that is both dramatic and serene, as if Braga’s past is watching over the present. This is an extremely photogenic location, ideal for casual snapshots or professional photography alike. Every corner seems carefully designed to frame a perfect image — with arches, towers, floral bursts, and symmetrical paths. You’ll find locals sitting on benches, reading, chatting, or simply enjoying the sun. It’s one of those rare places where you feel time slow down. One of the hidden treasures of this space is its subtle blending of garden art with archaeology — those arches and stones are not just decorative, they are fragments of Braga’s ecclesiastical history. That juxtaposition of blooming life and ancient stone gives the garden a sense of continuity that is deeply poetic. Best of all: it’s free to enter. This is not a gated, curated tourist attraction, but a gift to the city — and to its visitors. If you’re exploring Braga, don’t rush past it. Sit for a while, breathe it in, let your senses do the rest. The Jardim de Santa Bárbara is not just a garden; it’s an open-air masterpiece of color, heritage, and calm — a rare gem that feels like a privilege to stumble upon.

Santa Barbara Garden is a peaceful and well-maintained green space. It's a nice spot to take a walk, relax, or enjoy some quiet time surrounded by flowers and trees. While it’s not particularly large or full of major attractions, it offers a pleasant escape from the city’s hustle. Ideal for a short visit or a casual stroll.

A truly charming spot in the heart of Braga! The Santa Barbara Garden is beautifully maintained, full of colorful flowers, manicured hedges, and a stunning view of the old Archbishop’s Palace. It’s a peaceful place to relax, take photos, or simply enjoy the atmosphere. The combination of flowers, fountains, and historic architecture makes it one of the most picturesque places in the city. It’s especially lovely in spring and summer when everything is in full bloom. Highly recommend stopping by — whether you’re exploring Braga for a few hours or staying longer, this garden is definitely worth a visit!

This is a beautiful garden with flower present all over it. It is well maintained and decorated, and people can roam freely here and enjoy the nature. There is a old fort wall present just next to the garden.

Always stunning! The flowers are renewed every month, making the garden look different and beautiful each time. A true gem in Braga!

Beautiful flower and shrub gardens, meticulously maintained and with the backdrop of a castle wall. Absolutely stunning, even in late September!

a small, neat, nice garden. Unfortunately the lack of shade and the strong sun didn't let me spend more than 10 minutes for a walk

10 eur for the round trip, definitely worth it. The views during the ride and at the top are amazing. I only wish they installed some kiosks to sell tickets, because the line can stuck sometimes as there is only one counter.

A beautiful and highly recommended experience! The cable car ride is calm, safe, and offers stunning views of Guimarães and the surrounding nature. At the top, the Penha Sanctuary is a magical place to walk around, relax, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Perfect for photos and a peaceful moment in nature. It’s best to go early or on a weekday to avoid queues.

They need to purchase new cable cars because the glass has scratches. It was hard to see the view

Great journey to the top of the mountain, €7.50 return. Dog friendly too & also takes bikes. Views from the top are amazing! Huge boulder formations, pretty church, park, several cafe/restaurants up there too. Def not to be missed if visiting Guimaraes!👍🏻

Only €10 to go up and down. A real bargain and great views of the city below. Also, at the top of the hill, it is very beautiful.

It was a pleasant journey since we visited off season and there were not many people there. The view was not particular beautiful or anything and it’s a bit strange to sit in a cable car above some people’s house. The church and the park on the peak were peaceful though.

So nice! Worth the trip! Beautiful view of the city and lots of picnic tables.

Beautiful cathedral and give very calm feeling. We got ice cream in a cafe near it and we were just sitting and chilling outside on the bench. Really peaceful place. Architecture is beautiful and I loved two angels statues before the entrance.

Lovely setting up above Bom Jesus, worth the visit. Mass is said on Wednesday at 11.00am in English if interested. There is a huge conference (?) center beneath the church where I guess they hold major religious events that are too big for the church.

Located at the top of a hill 350 meters above Braga. Is special due to its stunning panoramic views of Braga, it’s significance as major Marian pilgrimage site, and its impressive, large-scale Neoclassical architecture. It is a serene place for reflection, a significant religious monument that hosted Pope John Paul II, and it's conveniently located near the Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary

We saw this on the way to Bom Jesus Do Monte and speed to have a look. We didn't go into the basilica, but admired it from the outside. The complex that the sanctuary is on is vast and beautiful. The steps leading up to the church and the columns are majestic

Higher up than Bom Jesus so worth visiting at the same time. Plenty of parking. A wide flight of straight steps lead up to the church and I have been there when there is a large canopy/alter between the two pillars at the top of the steps where presumably priests address large outdoor congregations on the steps below on special religious occasions. At certain times you can gain access to the dome walkway for a reasonable charge.

This is one of Portugal’s most important Marian pilgrimage sites, located atop Monte Sameiro. It began in 1863 when Father Martinho António Pereira da Silva of the Archdiocese of Braga erected a small monument to commemorate the 1854 proclamation of the Immaculate Conception. Construction of the main church began in 1863, with a new expansion in 1890, and the sanctuary was eventually completed in the 20th century in Neoclassical style. Major pilgrimages are held annually on the first Sunday of June and the third Sunday of August.

Beautiful place great for photos. Lovely view and great if you are religious since you can go in the church aswell

Very beautiful and a lot of stones, every time you find a new route to walk, and there are many places and tables in the park where you can have a quiet picnic

What a stunning place, above Guimaraes, you can get the cable car up for free if you get the Guimaraes pass from the Casa de Memorias. This park at the top is breathtaking and tranquil. Enjoy the park take a picnic you won't regret it. Cable car runs from 10.00 to 18:00

This is probably the most beautiful place on Portugal for me. Looks like magic forest, full of green life.

Unique place with outstanding views, calm forests and majestic boulders, which are very fun to walk around in. The cable car trip up there (and back down) is also a nice experience :)

An unexpected find at the top of the cable car. Really unusual park like something out of The Hobbit

The beauty of the paths is worthile the visit. Worthwhile to visit all year long.

Charming parque with an amazing view! Enough parking space available or accesible by cable car

An amazing viewpoint. The way to get here, the parking place, the trees around here, every single thing is just wow. Please make sure you are driving in clear weather or else you will miss the view.

Otherworldly, there aren’t applicable words. Must go. But only if you drive well and carefully.

Beautiful viewpoint. We hiked until there and was magical. A bit busy for sunset but as soon as the sun set all the people leave and you can enjoy a peaceful and lovely end of the day with the clouds turning red or orange. Recommended

Crazy views below the mountains! Really recommending for visiting!

This is one of my favourite view points in the National Park. There are 4 viewing platforms in this spot. If you are not a hiker or have mobility limitations you can drive straight up to this spot. One of the platforms is ramped and fully accessible.

Accessible with the car till very top. Beautiful views and great place to have picknic.

It’s a bit of a drive twisty and curvy up the mountain but totally worth it. This is in beautiful Geres on the north of Portugal

Lovely area , we entered by the small windy hilly mountain road at the top part of the falls , we were in a campervan and the parking was a bit tricky , roadside parking only on the narrow roads , we walked down the steps and along a gravel path and over rock forms to get to see the upper part of the falls and the lovely rock pools filled with crystal clear and cold water . It’s free to visit and worth it , to sun bath here on a hot day would be lovely .

A natural pearl to cool off and swim in the hot summer days. The water are very cold even in Sep. the end of the summer and their color is amazing and transparent. A great place to spend some time and relax.

Mega schöner Wasserfall, Paradies! Can absolutely recommend this place, feels like heaven! Rocks can be slippery, so take care when walking on them, the water is of course super cold and fresh, but also super clean!

They are currently working under the bridge. (For at least 150 days!). So you can‘t get into the water. The water is brown from the workers! No nice view, no swimming! Don‘t go now there. It ain‘t worth the way!!!

This area is not for beginners and climbing can result in death if not careful. It's beautiful but if you love your kids I would not let them run around here. There are multiple waterfalls and a bar topside so you can get some refreshments. Be careful!

Beautiful place to stop for a swim on your road trip through northern Portugal. Crystal clear, cold and refreshing water.

Amazing sight. There is stair to climb for a nice view.

It is a historical monument in Braga where you can visit for free, no admission, and open for 24 hours. If you walk from Braga train station and follow the centro sign, you will see this monument from far. The monument is standing there beautifully to welcome you to the Braga city. After you enter, it is only a pedestrian way, only an authorized vehicle can pass tat way.

This is one of Braga’s most iconic landmarks and historic gateways. Originally part of the medieval city wall, it was constructed around 1373 during the reign of King Dinis with the building of the Torre da Porta Nova (New Gate Tower). The gateway was completed in its early form in 1512 under Archbishop D. Diogo de Sousa. In 1772–1773, the arch was redesigned by André Soares, incorporating both Baroque and Neoclassical elements. The western façade is ornate and Baroque in style, while the eastern side is simpler and Neoclassical. Notably, the arch was built without an actual gate, giving rise to the local saying: Bracarense nunca fecha a porta — Braga folk never close their doors.

Very interesting history about the gates. Also notice the different facades, outside the city walls the coat of arms to show power and inside the city walls Mary is there to protect the city.

The history gate which symbolises the start of the old city is magnificent. This gate is the start of the walking street to explore this old city and the main market place which also have churches and gardens lined up. This place is usually flocking with tourists and have been the major attraction of the city.

This was in Braga. Had a good walk around and had coffee near the cathedral.

It's a historical monument, nothing too exciting, but a great place to grab lunch as there are several restaurants around it. It has great details and it's a great place to take photos as the environment around it is very interesting with the contrast between the old and new.

Nice gate. Take a picture during sunset.

This is one of the most popular waterfalls in the region, so you really need to arrive early to enjoy it properly. I recommend getting there between 07:00 and 08:30 if you want a good parking spot and a peaceful moment before the crowds arrive. 🚗☀️ The walk to the waterfall is short and easy, and the view is beautiful — especially in the early morning light. 🏞️ Bring your camera and maybe breakfast for a perfect start to the day. --- For more tips follow me on Google. I have a lot of maps and places to visit all around the world 🌎 all for free for my followers on Google Maps.

Pretty water fall. Easy enough walk to it. We parked where the road ended and the dirt road started. You can hike down to the base and swim if you want. Lots of water pools on the way up to sit in the water. Also a hike up to a view point by the parking area.

Very nice scene, but you can't get very close.

A very challenging and long single track road with sheer drop on one side to reach this point from Geres so beware! But the waterfall was very pretty and it is a beautiful area ..not enough water in October for it to be truly spectacular

A good hike to this beautiful granite rock face waterfall. You can hike ( reasonably hard ). There is a hike path, that is labeled but I could work it out so I used the road. The other option is to drive to the waterfall. The time you save can be spent swimming in one of the many small pools ( that requires a bit of careful minor rock walk). Now I did not read up prior to the hike else I would have driven up and enjoyed the nature swim. But the hike was good for my body and soul so it was not in vain. I am happy my body is in good shape😜 I added some pictures of the mushrooms that I found along the way. I am certain there are some edible mushrooms out there but my knowledge stops with Chanterelles only. One picture shows the village where I started the walk, so you know how much is the climb. That picture is midway the climb. Coming down was easy, I ran some of the sections. All in all it took my 4.15 hours with a 10 to 15 mins on the top. But expect a longer duration if you are not a hiker.

Very nice place to visit, you can park at the beginning of the dirt road and go by foot (10mn walk) but feel free to take your car/van closer to the waterfall since the dirt road is ok to drive and you have a lot of spaces to park your car or even bigger vans; the place people take bath in this waterfall requires you to go through an unmarked trail and basically go trough the river up to the bottom of the waterfall, since the official visit leads you to the top of the waterfall

A beautiful place. When we visited (a sunny day in October) it was very crowded. Because of the extended warm season, there was not a whole lot of water going down. Will definitely visit again during spring-time!