Guides to Braga and Vila Real
Where to stay, what to see in a weekend, the festivals worth planning a trip around and the day trips from each city. Written by the family that hosts guests in both.
Braga
Where to Stay in Braga
Historic centre or a quieter base with free parking? Where to stay in Braga, Portugal, by area and by reason for your trip, from local hosts.
Read the guideBraga in 2 Days
Two days in Braga, Portugal: the cathedral and old town on day one, Bom Jesus do Monte and a choice of afternoons on day two, plus what to eat.
Read the guideSemana Santa in Braga: Where to Stay for Holy Week
Holy Week in Braga, Portugal: the processions day by day, where to stay to walk to them, parking, and why to book early. From local hosts by the cathedral.
Read the guideChristmas and New Year in Braga
Christmas lights, stalls and New Year's Eve in Braga, Portugal, and where to stay for a family Christmas or a night out. From local hosts by the cathedral.
Read the guideSão João in Braga: Where to Stay for the Festival
São João in Braga, Portugal: the night of 23 June, the rusgas parade, fireworks and the procession on the 24th, and where to stay. From local hosts.
Read the guideBraga Romana: Where to Stay for the Roman Festival
Braga Romana, the festival that turns Braga, Portugal, back into Roman Bracara Augusta every spring: what happens, the Roman sites, and where to stay.
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Vila Real
A Douro Valley Day Trip from Vila Real
Plan a Douro Valley day trip from Vila Real: Peso da Régua, the riverside road to Pinhão, viewpoints, river cruises and wine estates, from a Vila Real base.
Read the guideChristmas and New Year in Vila Real
Bila Natal, the nativity trail and New Year's Eve in Vila Real, Portugal, and where to stay for a family Christmas in the city centre.
Read the guideEaster in Vila Real: Holy Week and Where to Stay
Easter in Vila Real, Portugal: the Good Friday procession, the Easter Sunday compasso, folar, the Douro in spring, and where to stay in the city centre.
Read the guideJune Festivals in Vila Real: Where to Stay
Santo António, the marchas, the São Pedro fair and free concerts: Vila Real's June festivities in Portugal, and where to stay in the city centre.
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