Praça da República Arcada - people walking on sidewalk near white concrete building during daytime
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Praça da República Arcada

4.4
·14k reviews·Braga, Portugal

Braga's historic Praça da República, known for its elegant arcade, contrasts with the modern Nova Arcada shopping mall.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, relaxed atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Praça da República Arcada - people walking on sidewalk near white concrete building during daytime

Praça da República Arcada

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, relaxed atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Braga's historic Praça da República, known for its elegant arcade, contrasts with the modern Nova Arcada shopping mall.

4.4
(14k reviews)

"A very good shopping mall with a variety of shops and an inviting food court."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Sidewalks can be uneven

Be mindful of the condition of some sidewalks around the historic square . Wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:

🛍️ Explore Nova Arcada

Discover unique finds at stores like Normal and Secret Pack in Nova Arcada .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Arcada da Lapa

Arcada da Lapa

Praça da República

Historic arcade structure, a picturesque landmark in Braga's city center.

Café Vianna

Café Vianna

Praça da República

Iconic café within the Arcada building, a perfect spot for people-watching.

Nova Arcada Shopping

Nova Arcada Shopping

Near Praça da República

Modern shopping mall with diverse stores, food court, and entertainment options.

Secret Pack

Secret Pack

Nova Arcada Shopping

Unique 'mystery box' store offering a thrilling shopping experience.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Braga's Historic Heart

Praça da República, also known as Arcada, is a central hub in Braga. While it's a beautiful historic square, be aware that some Reddit users mention the condition of surrounding sidewalks can be a bit rough.Reddit Plan your walking routes accordingly.

Shopping & Entertainment Hub

Nova Arcada, located near the historic center, is a modern shopping destination. It features popular stores like Normal and NP4 Game, offering a different vibe from the traditional square. Check opening hours, especially for weekend visits.TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, relaxed atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere, shops open late
Crowd
High
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Enjoy outdoor cafes and plazas
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Respondendo a @ꪑ𝓲ᧁꪊꫀꪶ✨ tour pela loja normal no nova arcada, em Braga! @Joao Cerqueira @Joao Cerqueira #fashion #moda #shopping #tour #outfitinspiration #fy #fyp #gay #lgbt #fyp #garnier #tiktokviral #normalportugal #shoppinghaul #shopwithme #ShoppingSpree #grwm #lojanormal #evento
@joaocerqueira30
18.4K likes • 225.3K views

🚶‍♀️ Sidewalks can be uneven

Be mindful of the condition of some sidewalks around the historic square.Reddit Wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:

🛍️ Explore Nova Arcada

Discover unique finds at stores like Normal and Secret Pack in Nova Arcada.TikTok+1

Favoritos da loja @NORMAL Portugal do Nova Arcada em Braga #maybelline #viralmakeup #got2b #w7makeup #maquiagem #maquilhagem
@mr.andre.fernandes
8.7K likes • 236.2K views
🚋 Braga já teve elétricos a passar na Arcada da Lapa! No coração de Braga, a Praça da República, conhecida também pela Arcada da Lapa, sempre foi um dos pontos mais emblemáticos da cidade. A fotografia transporta-nos para o início do século XX, quando este espaço já funcionava como palco da vida social e comercial bracarense. Braga foi das poucas cidades em Portugal a ter elétrico, o primeiro el...
historylens.ai
3.8K likes • 76.4K views

📱 Electronics Deals

Check out NP4 Game at Nova Arcada for electronics and installment plans.TikTok

☕ Relax at Café Vianna

Enjoy a coffee and soak in the atmosphere at this iconic café.Instagram

A Praça da República, popularmente referida apenas como Arcada e para os Brasileiros “Praça do chafariz, localiza-se na freguesia de São José de São Lázaro, no centro histórico da cidade de Braga, no distrito de mesmo nome, em Portugal. A praça foi aberta em fins da Idade Média. O nome Arcada deve-se à arcada ali existente, erguida por iniciativa de D. Rodrigo de Moura Teles em 1715, no mesmo luga...
evilazioneto
82 likes • 1.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Sidewalks can be uneven

Be mindful of the condition of some sidewalks around the historic square.Reddit Wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:

🛍️ Explore Nova Arcada

Discover unique finds at stores like Normal and Secret Pack in Nova Arcada.TikTok+1

📱 Electronics Deals

Check out NP4 Game at Nova Arcada for electronics and installment plans.TikTok

☕ Relax at Café Vianna

Enjoy a coffee and soak in the atmosphere at this iconic café.Instagram

🎁 Mystery Box Fun

Experience the thrill of 'mystery boxes' at Secret Pack.TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.4
(14k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Nova Arcada is generally praised as a good shopping mall with a variety of shops and an inviting food court, making it a pleasant place for leisure. However, some visitors have reported negative experiences with mall security, citing overly strict enforcement of rules.

"A very good shopping mall with a variety of shops and an inviting food court. Nice to spend leisure time even if you are not there with the purpose of shopping. Located not in the city center but not far from. It. Good parking area."

Belita Isabel Janeira

"Bad security dealing with people like they are dumb. My nephew who is 3 years old was using this balance bike inside the open zone and he was near us. Didn't bother anyone, and the security stopped on his way and said "no bikes inside the mall". Although it is barely a bike and we don't let him ride it inside the shops only outside them, also this bike is smaller than the rental cars for kids all around the mall (but those you need to pay money to use them, so they are okay I guess). Not to forget we used it near other security before without any issues. Anyway, he looked at us like we were dumb, made us take the bike away from the baby's hand.
Thank you a lot for a bad overall experience."

Lujain Hadba

"Nice mall, Ikea centered, shopping area, right outside Braga."

Roberto Vizcon

What People Like

Variety of shops
Inviting food court
Good parking

What People Dislike

Security interactions

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Praça da República is centrally located in Braga's historic center. It's easily accessible on foot from most parts of the city. If arriving by car, there are parking options nearby, though they can be busy.Instagram

Nova Arcada is located just outside the main city center of Braga, making it a short drive or a longer walk. It's easily reachable by car and has good parking facilities.Instagram

Braga's historic center is very walkable. For Nova Arcada or other attractions further out, consider local buses or ride-sharing services. Many visitors find walking to be the most enjoyable way to explore.Instagram

Yes, several local bus lines serve the Nova Arcada shopping mall, connecting it to the city center and surrounding areas. Check local transport schedules for the most convenient routes.

It's a moderate walk, approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on your pace. It's a pleasant walk if the weather is good, allowing you to see more of Braga.Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Praça da República is a public square and is free to visit at any time. You can wander around the arcade and enjoy the atmosphere without any entry fee.Instagram

Nova Arcada is a public shopping mall, so there is no entrance fee. You only pay for the items you purchase inside the stores.

Shop opening hours can vary, but generally, stores in Nova Arcada are open from around 10 AM to 10 PM on weekdays and often later on weekends.TikTok It's best to check individual store hours if you have specific shops in mind.

Praça da República often hosts local events, markets, and festivals, especially during holidays. Keep an eye on local Braga event listings for any upcoming activities.

Yes, the Arcada building houses establishments like Café Vianna and other businesses. You can enter these establishments during their operating hours.Instagram

🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining

Nova Arcada offers a wide range of shops, including fashion retailers like Normal,TikTok+1 electronics stores like NP4 Game,TikTok and unique concept stores like Secret Pack.TikTok There's also an IKEA.

The food court at Nova Arcada offers a variety of food choices, catering to different tastes. Reviews mention it's a good place to spend leisure time even if not shopping.Reddit

Yes, the area around Praça da República has many cafes and restaurants. Café Vianna is a popular choice for a coffee or a light meal with a view.Instagram

While Praça da República is more about historic ambiance, Nova Arcada might offer some modern souvenirs. For traditional crafts, exploring smaller shops in the historic center is recommended.

The 'Normal' store is a popular Danish retailer known for its wide variety of affordable home goods, beauty products, and snacks. It's a frequent subject of shopping hauls on TikTok.TikTok+1

📸 📸 Photography

The Arcada da Lapa itself is a beautiful architectural feature. The fountain and the surrounding historic buildings, especially with flowers in bloom, make for great shots.Instagram+1

Nova Arcada is a modern shopping mall, so photography opportunities are more focused on store displays, food court ambiance, or architectural elements of the mall itself.

Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for the square. Midday can be harsh, but the arcade provides shade.Instagram

Generally, photography is allowed in public spaces like Praça da República. However, always be respectful of private property and individuals when taking photos.

While you can take photos of products, it's polite to ask permission before taking extensive photos inside individual stores, especially if it might disrupt business.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families visiting Braga will find a mix of experiences. The Praça da República offers open space for children to move around, and the nearby gardens provide a pleasant environment. For more structured family fun, Nova Arcada features Arcadalândia,TikTok an entertainment area designed to delight younger visitors. The mall also has a diverse food court, making it easy to find something for picky eaters. Keep an eye out for any family-friendly events hosted at either location.

🛍️ Shoppers & Bargain Hunters

For those who love to shop, Braga offers both historic charm and modern retail. Nova Arcada is a must-visit, especially for its unique stores like Normal,TikTok+1 where you can find everything from home goods to snacks at great prices. Secret Pack TikTok offers a fun, surprise-filled shopping adventure. If you're looking for electronics, NP4 Game TikTok provides a wide selection and payment options. Don't forget to explore the smaller boutiques in Braga's historic center for local crafts and unique finds.

📸 Photographers & History Buffs

Braga is a treat for photographers and history enthusiasts. The Praça da República with its Arcada da Lapa Instagram+1 offers stunning architectural details and a glimpse into the city's past. The Café Vianna provides a classic setting for capturing local life.Instagram For a different aesthetic, the modern architecture of Nova Arcada can also be interesting. Consider visiting during the golden hours for the best light on the historic square.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historic Charm of Praça da República

Praça da República, often simply called 'Arcada,' is the beating heart of Braga's historic center. Its defining feature is the Arcada da Lapa, an elegant arcade that lends the square its popular name.Instagram This area has been a social and commercial hub since the late Middle Ages.Instagram The square is also home to the iconic Café Vianna, a historic establishment perfect for soaking in the local atmosphere and people-watching.Instagram During different seasons, the square can be adorned with flowers, adding to its picturesque appeal.Instagram

Modern Retail Therapy at Nova Arcada

For a contrasting experience, Nova Arcada offers a contemporary shopping destination. This mall is known for housing popular retailers like Normal, a Danish chain famous for its diverse and affordable products, often featured in shopping hauls.TikTok+1 Tech enthusiasts can find a wide selection of electronics, including iPhones and accessories, at NP4 Game, which also offers flexible payment plans.TikTok The mall also boasts unique concepts like Secret Pack, a store specializing in 'mystery boxes' for an element of surprise and excitement.TikTok

Navigating Braga's Public Spaces

While Braga's historic center is generally pleasant, some Reddit users have noted that the condition of sidewalks and public spaces can be inconsistent. Specifically, the sidewalks around Nova Arcada have been mentioned as needing improvement.Reddit This means wearing comfortable and sturdy footwear is advisable, especially if you plan on extensive walking. The city does have well-maintained areas like the gardens along Avenida Central, offering a pleasant contrast.Reddit

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