In 2021, Braga was crowned Best European Destination by European Best Destinations (EBD), a Brussels-based organization that promotes tourism and culture across Europe. This long-awaited award came after over 109,000 online votes worldwide, with 72% of the votes coming from outside Portugal.
Braga had previously secured second place in 2019, but this time, it triumphed over renowned cities such as Rome, which finished second, trailing by more than 31,000 votes.
Braga’s candidacy had the full support of Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, the Secretary of State for Tourism Rita Marques, and Tourism Porto and North of Portugal (ATP), among others.
Braga was crowned Best European Destination in 2021
Voters from the United Kingdom, Brazil, the United States, and France played a significant role in Braga’s success. Interestingly, even the Vatican cast its vote for Braga, reaffirming its strong Catholic heritage.
Braga is often referred to as the most Catholic city in Portugal, thanks to its historical and religious landmarks, such as the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its magnificent staircase offers one of the best panoramic views over the city.
Founded over 2,000 years ago as Bracara Augusta, Braga was an important Roman administrative center in the Iberian Peninsula. It was the seat of the Roman province of Gallaecia (now Galicia, Spain) and was once so powerful that it even rivaled Santiago de Compostela as a religious center. Today:
A key stop on the Camino de Santiago, earning it the nickname “City of Archbishops.”
Also been a youthful and vibrant city, having held the title of European Youth Capital in 2012 and Ibero-American Youth Capital in 2016. The presence of the University of Minho contributes to its reputation as one of the youngest cities in Portugal and Europe, with over 85,000 students and young residents.
Often called the “Portuguese Rome” due to its Baroque architecture, deep Catholic roots, and stunning religious monuments. The city’s charm also extends to its gastronomy, featuring Caldo Verde (cabbage soup), Bacalhau à Braga (codfish dish), Papas de Sarrabulho (a traditional meat stew), and the famous Abade de Priscos Pudding, a centuries-old dessert.
Braga was crowned Best European Destination in 2021
Braga’s cultural richness, historical importance, religious heritage, and vibrant lifestyle make it an unmissable destination for travelers. Whether you visit for its UNESCO sites, stunning landscapes, or incredible food, Braga is a true European gem waiting to be explored.
