Perched high above Braga, in the parish of Tenões, the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte is a place where devotion, spectacular architecture, and breathtaking views come together! This iconic site of northern Portugal has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2019. We’ll guide you through all the practical details, local anecdotes, and insider tips to make the most of your visit.

History and Architecture

The Bom Jesus do Monte site has been a place of devotion and contemplation since the 14th century, with the first traces of chapels and shrines dating back to 1373. Over the centuries, the sanctuary gradually took the form we see today, largely thanks to Archbishop Rodrigo de Moura Teles, who initiated the construction of the spectacular Baroque stairway. This masterpiece of architecture and symbolism zigzags over 116 metres of elevation and contains approximately 577 steps, punctuated by chapels and fountains illustrating the stages of the Via Sacra (good luck if you’re not feeling sporty!).

At the top, the Neo-classical church, designed by architect Carlos Amarante between 1784 and 1834, stands proudly as one of the first of its style in Portugal. Bom Jesus do Monte is also one of the country’s most important pilgrimage sites.

Why Visit ?

Primeiro, pela experiência visual ! A magnífica escadaria em granito, os jardins e o espetacular panorama sobre a cidade de Braga (ainda mais bonito ao pôr do sol!). Depois, pela engenharia única do funicular (datado de 1882), que foi aliás o primeiro da Península Ibérica ! Continua em funcionamento e é movido por um sistema de contrapeso de água. Mas, claro, também pela espiritualidade; o caminho de peregrinação, a via sacra, convida à meditação. E por fim, por esta natureza envolvente no alto da cidade, o parque adjacente oferece tranquilidade e revigora os visitantes…

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Practical Information

How to Get There

From Porto : approximately 40-45 minutes by car, or 1 hour by coach to Braga city centre.

From Braga city centre : Just 5-6 km (around 10 minutes by car or taxi).

By car : follow the “Estrada do Bom Jesus” once in Braga.

By public transport : take the local bus (line 2) from Braga to the sanctuary.

Ascending the site on foot by climb the stairway (for exercise and breathtaking views !) or by funicular, a short 3-minute ride from the lower station gets you to the top effortlessly while enjoying the lush vegetation.

Opening Hours and Prices

Entrance to the sanctuary is free.

Funicular : approximately €2 one-way, €3 return (check current rates).

Best time to visit : March to October for pleasant weather and ideal light. Sunset on the stairway is highly recommended.

What to See ?

Baroque stairway
Via Sacra, Stairway of the Five Senses, Stairway of the Three Virtues.

Bom Jesus Basilica
A must-see Neo-classical masterpiece.

Gardens and park 

Perfect for leisurely strolls, relaxation, and taking in the view.
Historic funicular
A major attraction in its own right.

Photo hotspots : capture the stairway from the bottom or the upper terrace, the views make you feel on top of the world!

Accommodation and Dining

Where to stay ? Braga city centre is ideal for one or two nights, offering easy access to the sanctuary and local amenities.

Dining at the top : enjoy a refreshing ice cream or a traditional Portuguese pastry with coffee in the small café while taking in the stunning view.

Tip : arrive early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and benefit from soft, warm light.

Anecdotes and Secrets

“The climbing slope”
At the top, a curious road makes cars roll uphill when left in neutral, an optical illusion or local magic ? Worth testing ! (We even tried it with a football, and it works !)
Symbolic fountains
The stairway features charming fountains, including the one dedicated to the “Five Senses”.

Top park
A beautiful area with a lake where you can even row a boat in summer.

The Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte in Braga is much more than a religious monument; it’s a complete experience combining architecture, nature, spirituality, and breathtaking panoramas ! Easily accessible from Braga or Porto, it’s perfect for a half-day visit or a peaceful escape. Whether climbing the steps, descending by funicular, or simply admiring the view from above, this magical place will stay in your memory.