Explores Braga as the Ideal European Tourist Destination for 2021
Braga, Portugal Crowned as the Best European Destination for 2021
Braga, a city in North Portugal, has been named the Best European Destination for 2021 by European Best Destinations. This prestigious title recognises Braga's rich historical, cultural, and religious significance combined with its vibrant contemporary appeal.
With over 600,000 travellers from 192 countries participating in the competition, Braga emerged victorious, securing 109,902 votes. This online vote was conducted within 21 days from January 20 to February 10.
Historically, Braga is one of the oldest cities in Portugal and Europe, originally known as Bracara Augusta during the Roman Empire. It served as the capital of the Roman province of Gallaecia and later became the capital of the Kingdom of the Suebi in the 5th century. The city is renowned for its extensive Roman ruins, including baths and architectural remains, showcasing its deep Roman legacy.
Religiously, Braga is known as the "religious capital of Portugal" and the "City of the Archbishops," hosting the oldest Portuguese archdiocese and numerous significant cathedrals and churches with Baroque, Renaissance, and Neoclassical architecture. It remains a major pilgrimage site with a concentration of religious monuments that weave a tapestry of religious history and tradition.
Culturally and aesthetically, Braga impresses with its historic centre filled with majestic old buildings, colourful gardens, and vibrant street life. It is celebrated for its well-preserved Baroque churches and the oldest cathedral in Portugal, alongside its lively urban atmosphere and gardened avenues, making it a charming city attractive to tourists.
The European Best Destinations award in 2021 recognises Braga for its ability to combine its 2,000-year history with its modern amenities, entrepreneurial energy, and cultural events, positioning it as a leading travel destination in Europe and enhancing its international profile.
Braga's selection as Best European Destination 2021 reflects:
- Its exceptional historical depth, from Roman times to medieval and modern eras.
- Its status as a religious and cultural hub with important monuments.
- Its beautiful urban spaces and lively environment appealing to visitors.
This award underscores Braga’s importance as a gateway to Northern Portugal’s heritage and a vibrant contemporary city. Braga will be promoted as the 'Best European Destination 2021' throughout the year to millions of travellers.
In addition to its historical and religious significance, Braga also boasts contemporary architecture, contributing to its youthful vibrancy. The city is known for its unique gastronomy, including codfish prepared in the Braga, Narcisa, or Minho styles, roast kid, and Pudim Abade de Priscos (crème caramel with bacon).
The European Best Destinations competition was organised to determine the trendiest destinations in Europe. Braga's victory in this competition further solidifies its position as a must-visit destination for travellers seeking a blend of history, culture, and modernity.
[1] European Best Destinations. (n.d.). Braga, Portugal. Retrieved from https://www.europeanbestdestinations.com/destinations/portugal/braga/ [2] European Best Destinations. (n.d.). Braga, Portugal: The religious capital of Portugal. Retrieved from https://www.europeanbestdestinations.com/destinations/portugal/braga/religious-capital-of-portugal/ [3] European Best Destinations. (n.d.). Braga, Portugal: A city with a vibrant nightlife. Retrieved from https://www.europeanbestdestinations.com/destinations/portugal/braga/vibrant-nightlife/ [4] European Best Destinations. (n.d.). Braga, Portugal: A city for food lovers. Retrieved from https://www.europeanbestdestinations.com/destinations/portugal/braga/food-lovers/ [5] European Best Destinations. (n.d.). Braga, Portugal: A city of festivals. Retrieved from https://www.europeanbestdestinations.com/destinations/portugal/braga/city-of-festivals/
- Braga, Portugal, the winner of Best European Destination for 2021, offers a blend of its 2,000-year history and modern amenities, making it an attractive eco-tourism destination.
- As the 'historical capital of Portugal,' Braga is rich in landmarks such as Roman ruins, Baroque churches, and cathedrals, making it a cultural tourism hub.
- In addition to its religious significance, Braga is also known for its unique gastronomy, including traditional dishes like codfish prepared in Braga, Narcisa, or Minho styles, roast kid, and Pudim Abade de Priscos.
- Known as the 'religious capital of Portugal,' Braga is home to numerous important cathedrals and churches, drawing tourists from all over the world on pilgrimages.
- Braga's vibrant urban spaces, lively nightlife, and calendar filled with festivals serve as additional reasons for tourists to choose it as their holiday destination.
- The European Best Destinations competition, which aims to determine the trendiest destinations in Europe, has further solidified Braga's position as a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique travel experience, combining history, culture, and modernity. (References: [1], [2], [3], [4], [5])
