Hotel Bracara Augusta

Good location. Heart of the city center. Standard breakfast. Dated room decoration.

Hotel bien ubicado, buen desayuno.

We came to Braga for a wedding held outside the city, but we wanted to experience the downtown city environment. This hotel is right on the Avenida Central and just a short walk to shops, outdoor restaurants and historic sights. That’s the primary reason the hotel gets 3 stars from me. It’s an ancient building that was formerly an abbey and we were on the 3rd (top) floor. The roof leaks or has leaked because evidence of water damage was apparent. There was falling plaster in the bathroom where water damage had been repaired, and when it rained this area felt damp to the touch. I could see darkened areas around some of the patches that made me think there was mold present. The shower tiles showed mold in some of the grout crevices. We wanted to use the mini fridge to store some food that we had, but it was warm and apparently not working. When we asked about it on our way out to dinner, they said they would address it. When we got back, fridge was cooling but the motor must have been running warm because the cabin was hot. We left the cabinet doors open after this. Included continental breakfast was adequate, and eggs to order were available upon request. The breakfast location also serves as a restaurant but we did not dine there, opting instead for outdoor dining a short walk away. Staff was mixed. It seemed there was someone different at the desk every day, with some helpful but others standoffish. When we asked for dining recommendations, we were told simply that there were plenty of options in the central area. This was true but not very helpful. Taxis or Ubers cannot get to the front of the hotel since Avenida Central runs along the side of a green mall or walkway. The hotel is on the other side of the green area, and only delivery vehicles or emergency services can get over on that side. This is nice in that it’s quieter on this side without traffic. It’s not a very long walk to the roadway to get a cab or Uber, but be aware of this if guests are physically challenged. Overall a positive experience primarily due to the beauty and charm of the nearby attractions. We would not stay at this location again.