Experience in Braga, Portugal by Maria Inês

What is it like to live in Braga? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Warm people!!!!!!!
A lot of university parties. Great university.
High brow culture expensive but for all the rest affordable prices :):)
During winter rains a lot, but the temperatures are not so low. Really good summers.
Not a big city, so only a good option for those who seek a cosy, lively, warm environment.
A lot of young people to be found since they were the european capital of youth a couple years back...

What is the student lifestyle like in Braga?

The best.
Great university, with caring and trusting teachers plus an organized staff.
Parties all year long (consider "semana académica" = "Enterro da Gata").
A lot of events going on all year long, within every área of studies, wich everybody can join since the university network keeps everybody updated ;)

How much does it cost to live in Braga?

Rents go around 120€ to 180€ (normal prices for rooms).
Students can have their papers printed inside or outsider around campus for cheap prices and with discounts. Public transportation costs 5€ a monthly card.
Eating out is affordable too.
Going out can be for free, or for prices below 10€.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Braga? Is there any advice you can give?

Not really. Just look in websites and newspapers. All around campus are buildings rent just for students.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Amazing!!!!!!
"Bacalhau com natas" = codfish with cream
Try "Francesinhas" at "Taberna Belga", it is imperative!
And around campus go to "Tasquinha Bracarense". For 5€ get a full meal (soup, dish, coffee and dessert), homemade and portuguese.

What places would you recommend visiting in Braga?

1- Historical city center
2- Sameiro
3- Bom Jesus
4- Sé Catedral
5- Bars around the cathedral (only on weekends and holidays)
6- Look for every roman ruin (like in central station)

Is it good to eat out in Braga? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

It is easy to find restaurants, they are all over the place. Just walk in and see what they serve and ask for prices.
It always depends on what you want to eat and spend!

Is the nightlife good in Braga? Where is good to go?

Go to "Sardinha Biba" the oldest club in Braga.
See the bars around campus and in the city center. We have them for all tastes.
If you have the weekend off, take the train to Oporto and see how portuguese enjoy the night out ;)

What advice would you give future students heading to Braga?

Talk to everybody, foreigners are very welcomed in Portugal!
Don't be afraid to explore, it is a small town, so you won't get lost.
Mix within our culture, we love it.
Relax, enjoy food and never rush out of the table.
Talk, drink and have a nice time with the people that surround you ;););)