We stayed one night at the Hotel Villa Garden Braga but I would have liked to have stayed longer. We were due to stay in a standard double in the modern annex but got upgraded to a suite on the 3rd floor of the actual villa. This was a lovely period style room (18th/19th Century) which had 2 double beds and full length French doors leading onto a Juliet Balcony overlooking the garden. It had a small seating area, again with French doors leading onto a Juliet Balcony and a nice size bathroom. We opted to have half board and, although we seemed to be the only guests who were dining and the fact that they had 3 functions on that evening (Saturday), the staff were very attentive and the food was lovely.

The only comment I could make is that the hotel was a good walk to the centre of Braga. However, that didn't really detract from our enjoyment.

Breakfast was just amazing! Beautiful room and good, healthy food. We also enjoyed options for vegans and fresh fruits of great variety!

I only disliked one thing - the old-minded guy in the reception. I know it is still common in Portugal, but I got uncomfortable when he asked me "if the invoice will stay with me" (because I payed, but he wanted to pass the invoice for my male partner) and he reached to give the room key for my partner and in the end he insisted to hand the invoice to my partner. For such a place, I wish service more up-to-date, we are in the world where women are taking invoices :)

Central location: easy access to many historical sites; great parking. The building itself is lovely. We were disappointed that one of the beautiful antique iron lamps that previously adorned the outside staircase was removed.

Bathroom needs updating, especially the shower, as it’s in a higher bathtub which can be challenging for many to access; hairdryer is inefficient and required a good cleaning. The poor quality of the toilet paper that the hotel continues to use after so many years is not indicative of a 4-star hotel. Interesting sculptures adorn various public areas of this hotel, but at least two may be offensive to some patrons as they suggest certain private activities.

The room was spacious. The breakfast was good with many choices. The receptionist (a gentleman I forgot to get his name) was very helpful, accommodating, and provide suggestion/flexibility in some arrangement that helped me a lot. The hotel is not in the historical town center but within a walking distance can walk to the major attractions. Surrounding by many schools. The building itself is lovely.

Ambiance

History of the building

The manager could not have been more helpful and accommodating, allowing a late check out at short notice and nothing was too much to ask

Longer pool hours, but can understand the times given location to rooms

Breakfast was outstanding. A great variety, especially the fruit, which was exceptionally sweet all round. Also loved the easy of the parking. given issues with parking we experienced in the other Portuguese, Spanish and French cities we visited on this trip.

Huge rooms, massive selection at breakfast, and all set in a beautiful old building with high ceilings. Rooms were very clean and tidy and made this stay great!

The hotel old architecture and artwork inside is very charming. Location is excellent just a short walk to the Praça da Republica (old city).

The A/C is controlled centrally and couldn’t be adjusted manually but the temperature was ok.

Staff was super friendly and attentative. The room was clean and the bed was comfortable. Overall a great experience. A place to return to