The beautiful city that’s oldest in country but is massively underrated by tourists | Travel News | Travel

Portugal is a stunning holiday destination which welcomed 18 million visitors in 2023. The country features a beautiful coastline, historic cities and a lively culture making it attractive to visitors around the world.

But there is one city that is making a shine this year.

Braga, the country’s oldest city was crowned the Portugeuse Capital of Culture for 2025 and will showcase local and national artists as well as creators throughout a number of the city’s prominent cultural venues including Theatro Circo and gnration.

This hidden gem city is about to show the world what it has to offer and you do not want to miss out. Its cultural mark will be revealed through a varied programme of exciting exhibitions, multidisciplinary shows, and music.

Euronews also reports that Braga is giving Lisbon a “run for its money” – meaning the Portuguese capital could lose some of its tourist footfall to Braga if the city’s surge continues.

Gnration is a space for creation, performance and exhibition in the fields of contemporary music and art. During the day time, visitors can find inspiring exhibitions showcasing work from up and coming artists.

Whilst during the night time, the centre transforms into an energtic space for gigs, contemporary theatre, and experimental performances.

However, of course you can’t visit Braga without exploring its historical sites. 

The city was founded in 27 BC under Emperor Augustus, it became a vital hub in the huge network that connected the Iberian Peninsula to Rome. Over the years it importance had grown and by 216, Emperor Caracalla upgraded it to the capital of the Galician province, reports Euronews.

Today, you can still see all of that rich history deep rooted within Braga through the ancient ruins, roads and preserved artefacts dotted around the city. The Thermal Baths of Alto of Cividade, the city’s only public Roman thermae is one of the most impressive.

Additionally, the Museu de Arqueologia D. Diogo de Sousa is also a must-visit for Roman history lovers. The museum was built to exhibit the city’s ancient past and is home to a number of compelling artefacts including Palaeolithic tools, Roman mosaics, pottery, and jewellery.

For those who would like to add some adventure to their historic and culture filled trip, perched high above the city is Bargra’s World Hertiage Site, Bom Jesus do Monte.

There are two ways of getting to the remarkable attraction – hiking or boarding a historic vertical tram that travels up the 300-metre slope. Once you get there you’ll find a stunning stairway, charming Baroque spectacle, fountains and beautifully sculpted biblical figures – highlighting all of the city’s unique charm.