Braga in April

April through October gives you the best weather without the summer crowds. May is perfect — 22°C days, blooming gardens, and Easter processions that show off Braga's spiritual side. Summer gets hot (30°C in July) but the city stays lively. University students head home, so restaurants get quieter but maintain quality. The Noites de Verão festival brings free concerts to Jardim de Santa Bárbara. Winter works if you don't mind rain. December through February sees temperatures around 12°C with frequent drizzle. But Christmas markets fill Praça da República, and you'll have Bom Jesus practically to yourself. Avoid the first week of May during university exams — good luck finding a quiet café to read in.