Braga

Braga is only 75 minutes from Porto by train and it costs 3 euro 20 to get here, and it is gorgeous. Not touristy at all, gorgeous architecture, 19 degrees when I arrived, old men blow kisses at you when you walk by 🙂 and it has a nice bustly vibe. I like it 🙂 I felt like stretching my legs so walked 5km out of the city and uphill to the Bom Jesus do Monte (which means good Jesus of the mount), and the stairway that climbs 116 meters to a cathedral said to be the final resting place of one of the 12 disciples, with many many many stairs. Like a stairway to heaven. It is a highlight in Braga, a UNESCO protected site, and well worth a walk (or you can catch a bus there) for awesome views across the city, and lots of photo opportunities. Plus you’ll see how the town is expanding, with new developments rising amongst the traditional old casitas with their tiled exteriors and vegetable plots. I don’t often mention my accommodation, but I have to give the Hotel Moon and Sun a special mention because their customer service is the best I have ever experienced. It’s not an expensive hotel, but their attention to detail and making sure you are enjoying yourself is amazing. I have just been delivered a slice of banana caramel pie (didn’t order it, came to my room) in case I want something before dinner. When I checked in a bit early, my room wasn’t ready but I was given a glass of port and a comfortable seat, and nothing has been a problem. You can come to Braga on a daytrip from Porto, but I’m looking forward to spending a couple of days here and not rushing.