Situated in Central Portugal, the town of Tomar is one of the nicest places to visit in Portugal. It is known for unique architectural jewels, picture-perfect landscape, a wealth of gastronomical delights, and great Tomar wine. What is more, the medieval town oozes the quiet charm of a midday siesta and offers great accommodation, which makes it a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of civilization.

What to do in Tomar, Portugal

Head to Convent of Christ

Travel to the Convent of Christ. The UNESCO-listed convent is known for its intricate exterior, a strikingly beautiful round church, and its one-of-its-kind air of mystery.

The site was founded by the Knights Templar, after King Alfonso II granted the lands to the order. After the knightly order was dissolved it passed to the Order of Christ, who played a huge role in the maritime adventures in the Age of Discovery.

The round church, chapterhouse, and the convent itself incorporate Gothic, Manueline, and Renaissance architectural influences. It is scenically set across the Nabao River from the rest of Tomar, one of the best cities to visit in Portugal to unveil its glorious imperial and knightly past. Make a trip to the Convent of Christ to grasp how closely linked medieval Portugal’s religion, culture, and politics.

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Travel to Castelo do Tomar

Part of the same cluster as the Convent of Christ, the UNESCO-listed Castelo do Tomar is one of the most lustrous architectural jewels that remain from the times of Reconquista.

The castle made up the first line of defense against the Moors and is a remarkably preserved example of medieval European castle architecture. It features Renaissance, Gothic, and Romanesque elements.

But what makes it truly special are the cross of Santa Maria and more abstruse symbols on a curtain of crenelated walls and towers, making it one of the most mysterious sites in Portugal. Head here to soak up its enigmatic atmosphere and hear the promise of adventure looming ahead.

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Tomar Synagogue

Converted into a museum, the ancient synagogue dates back to the mid 15th century. If you stroll along the scenic cobbled Rua De Joaquim Jacinto you won’t recognize it but by the six-pointed star of David. Inside the prayer house, you will find an impeccably white, spacious room of worship with six columns each representing one of the 6 Jewish matriarchs, and sacred Torah scrolls kept in a wooden cupboard.

Keep in mind that the site bears witness to the tragic destiny of the Portuguese Jews who were expelled or forcibly converted shortly after the synagogue was built.

Aqueduto dos Pegões

One of Portugal’s main landmarks, the stunning Order-of-Christ-built aqueduct impresses with its colossal size, two different tiers of stunningly beautiful arches, and the overall architectural brilliance.

Built in the late 16th century to supply water to the Convent of Christ, it has become one of Portugal’s signature postcard views and is a great place to take photos. Travel to Aqueduto dos Pegoes and bear in mind that you can even climb up and walk the conduit for mind-blowing vistas and great snapshots.

Old Town

Go to Tomar’s one-of-its-kind Old Town known for its scenic town square, white grin-striped facades, broad avenues, Saint John’s monumental bell tower, and the picture-perfect Renaissance Ponta Velha bridge over the Nabao River. Don’t miss out on the downtown’s cozy cafeterias and pleasant boutiques.

Mata Nacional dos Sete Montes

One of the oldest parks in the region, the park was the place of initiation into the knightly order, and even bears a small copy of the convent, Charolinha, designed by the greatest architect of the time Joao de Castilho. Take a walk from old Tomar to the convent through the park to sense the beauty of its oak trees and cedars and terraces with assiduously trimmed hedges, topiaries, and traditional stone vases.

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What makes Tomar, Portugal special

Apart from the unique Medieval atmosphere, Tomar boasts a great pedestrian-only downtown, a riverine park home to swans, herons and families of ducks, and ancient structures such as Castelo do Tomar and Convent of Christ.

Also, it includes less tangible marvels, such as wine and food. Taste the delectable Tomar wine coming from the vineyards along the right bank of the Tagus River, and its ambrosial farming produce at the Tomar’s fresh market, Mercado Municipal de Tomar.

When to visit Tomar, Portugal

Tomar and its environs are pleasant to visit throughout the year but it is for sure the summertime that is the best season to travel here. During the summer months, you can smell the fragrance of its shady parks and gardens and stroll by the quiet flowing Nabao River. But if travelling over Christmas you can revel in Tomar’s festive ambiance and see the beautiful lighting hanging over its pretty streets lined with snow-white facades.

Conclusion

Head to Tomar to uncover its scenic architecture, one-of-its-kind cuisine, and delectable wine. Don’t miss out on a walk with herons and swans in its riverside park and remember that Tomar is a town of many hidden gems and secrets so keep awake your sense of wonder and head to Tomar, redolent of Portugal’s former exploits.

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The pleasure of visiting Tavira is not only to find irresistible rich history in one of the most beautiful villages in Algarve. Seeing Tavira is also an occasion to dive on some of the most beautiful beaches in the country and feel Ria Formosa’s soul and energy all around you.

Tavira was built alongside River Gilão, in an intricate of narrow roadways and white houses that you feel like walking without haste. Jardim do Coreto is near the city center and the liveliest area, where numerous people walk around at night enjoying ice cream and the fresh air, especially on summer nights, when shows or other events bring truly more life to this area.

In this city center, you can also find Ribeira Market, which after having been stopped from use for its original functions, was restored and is now a venue for entertainment and leisure. And from there to the castle where you have the most amazing view over the village, Tavira’s allure tempts us to discover its corners and reveal its secrets.

The juicy fruit orchards, don’t lack the gold of oranges. Furthermore, the whitewashed houses, the lacy chimneys, the hills covered with fig and almond trees, and, in the end, the vast mountain where eagles fly, birds sing, and flowers bloom. The castle and the many church steeples.

The river reflects the houses and gardens as a mirror. The triangles of the “scissors” roofs. Beach and sea horizons. This is a quick sketch of Tavira’s charms and its municipality. Tavira is definitely a city of art and history and a must-visit point on the Algarve’s cultural itinerary. An invitation to discovery voyages.

There is a certain Arabic charm in this city, in its “scissors” or hipped roofs, which cut out from the sky in a peculiar way, and in the lattice doors made of interwoven wood that protect the houses, letting in air and sound, the heritage of the Arabs who inhabited this region.

Tavira is distributed along the two banks of the river, in an intricate of narrow streets and white houses that you feel like walking without haste. Jardim do Coreto is near the city center and the liveliest area, where many people walk around at night enjoying ice cream and the fresh air, especially on summer nights, when shows or other events bring even more life to this area. This is where the Ribeira Market is located, which, after abandoning its original functions, is now a space for entertainment and leisure.

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What to do in Tavira

The oldest bridge, believed to have a Roman origin, is a 17th-century structure with walled parapets from which we can enjoy a beautiful view over the houses. Not as much as what can be seen climbing the Castle Tower, without a doubt the best viewpoint in the city, covering the undulating roofs, the domes of the churches, the river, and the salt flats, to the blue line of the sea that is its limit on the horizon.

Local tradition says that, in the castle, there is an enchanted Moorish woman who every year, on the night of São João (the night of the 23rd to the 24th of June), appears to mourn her fate. She would be the daughter of Aben-Fabila, the Moorish governor who, when Tavira was conquered by the Christians, disappeared by magical arts, after enchanting his daughter. It is said that he intended to return to reconquer the city and thus rescue his daughter, but he never succeeded.

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Tavira’s Churches

The effort of the climb to the top of Tavira’s Castle is compensated by everything that we can admire along the way. For example, when we cross the wall gate and are surprised by the beautiful Renaissance portal of Misericórdia, one of the 37 churches in Tavira. We can also visit the Islamic Nucleus to learn more about the city’s history or the Municipal Museum, located in the Palácio da Galeria, its most remarkable building.

A little further up, there is the castle and the Church of Santa Maria, which occupies the place of the former largest mosque in the city; here rests D. Paio Peres Correia and the seven knights of the Order of Santiago from the work they had to conquer Tavira from the Moors in 1242. Close by, the Church of Santiago, was also built over an old mosque, as well.

On the other side of the river, on the hill in front, there are more churches to visit, such as the Medieval Chapel of São Brás, the Church of Ordem Terceira do Carmo, one of the most sumptuous temples in the Algarve area with exuberant baroque decoration, or the Church of São Paulo (Saint Paul), simpler and more austere.

Gastronomic Specialties: Fresh Fish and Seafood

To make up for the energy expenditure on so many tours, there’s nothing like trying out gastronomic specialties, especially fresh fish and seafood, such as octopus cooked in different ways or razor clam rice.

Tuna, in steaks, also stands out on the menus, as fishing was one of the most traditional activities in this area. We can learn more about this art at the Museum Center in Arraial Ferreira Neto, near the mouth of the river Gilão, built, in the earlier years, to house up to 150 fishermen and their families and was, in 2000,  transformed into a hotel.

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Long Gold Sand Beaches

The city’s charms continue to the Ria Formosa, which we reach by following the road parallel to the River Gilão and flanked by white salt marshes where you can see birds such as the long-legged wing, the flamingo or the tailorbird. In the end, in Quatro Águas, we can take the boat that crosses it and take us to the beach on the sand “tongue”, an island that separates the estuary from the sea. There are 11 kilometers of sand, which includes the beaches of Ilha de Tavira (Tavira’s Island), Terra Estreita (Narrow Land), Barril (Barrel), and Homem Nu (Naked Men), and where we can rest from this well-filled tour.

Top Things to do in Tavira: Be sure to…

• Enjoy the panoramic view from the castle tower
• Walkthrough the ancient streets and discover the remains of the Islamic wall
• Visit the Camera Obscura at Tavira’s Tower in the old water tank to see all the splendor of the city
• Visit some of the 37 churches in Tavira
• Try regional specialties such as octopus or tuna salads and puff pastries from Tavira
• Enjoy an ice cream at Jardim do Coreto
• Take a salt flower extracted from the salt pans in the region
• Take a walk by the sea on the long sandy beach of Tavira’s Island
• Be surprised by the “cemetery” of anchors at Praia do Barril
• Visit the waterfalls of Moinhos da Rocha or Pego do Inferno, 8 km from Tavira

⬇️Please share your favorite activities and things to do in Tavira in the comments⬇️

Silves is one of the largest municipalities in the Algarve. This town holds great historical value, it was first conquered by the Moors in the 12th century, and was once the capital of the Algarve. It ceased to be so in the 16th century when it went into decline mainly due to the silting up of the Arade river on which it was heavily dependent for communication with the outside world. The capital of the Algarve then became Faro. In this town were found traces of human presence since prehistoric times, which demonstrates its antiquity.

The focus of a discovery trip in Silves should be its Historical Center, to be explored on foot. The essential points are concentrated in the area, very close to each other. Although let us give you some friendly advice, the climbs are steep, so you’d better save your breath, this unfortunately is not a tour for people with mobility problems.

In order to start your exploring journey of the city center, you should head to Moinho de Pedra street. If you visit in the warm season, you may see many storks. They are a sight to behold. For many tourists, it is the first time in their lives that they have seen these birds. They build huge nests that can be found everywhere in this area.

A few steps up the street we come upon the first historical attraction, The Silves City Gates. They were attached to walls that protected the town and they used to be the main entrance of Silves. You can cross through this structure to continue on our path of historic thrills.

In front of the City Gates, you will find the town square, where the Silves Town Hall is located. This is another beautiful site in the town, with several palm trees and a lake in the center. Here you will also find some traditional stores where you can purchase some local products and souvenirs.

A few meters away, you’ll find Silves Cathedral, the most important Gothic construction in the Algarve that is also considered to be the best religious monument from this period in southern Portugal. You can also visit the interior, where you will find various architectural styles intertwined. The apse and transept have Gothic ogival vaults and the side altars have Baroque carved decoration.

If you’re enjoying the historical vibe of this area, you can’t miss the opportunity to visit the Silves Municipal Archaeology Museum. This Museum opened in 2008 and contains a dynamic exhibition about the 20th century in Sines in historical, ethnographic, and development terms. As part of this museum, you can also visit The Vasco da Gama house, a part of the museum with multimedia equipment where you can learn about the biography of the famous Vasco da Gama, the places where he lived in this castle, and the importance of his deeds for the History of Mankind.

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After this, if you want to know some of the products, you can stop by the Municipal Market. The Municipal Market is a relatively recent construction, it has the city’s coat of arms standing out next to the entrance portico in the shape of a medieval tower. The market is open from Monday to Saturday, always in the morning, so you can stop by and buy fresh produce from the region.

A tour of Silves is not complete without visiting the Castle, one of the best viewpoints over the city and the region. It was built in 1424 during the Reign of D. João I and served as an important lookout and defense point of the Alentejan area, and it is believed that it was in the castle keep that the Portuguese navigator Vasco da Gama was born. Since 1933, Sines Castle has been classified as a Site of Public Interest and has therefore undergone some restoration work. You can visit the castle from Tuesday to Sunday and admission is free.

Guide to the Algarve

Where to Stay in Silves: 5 Best Hotels in Silves

1. Gato Preto de Silves 

An adults-only bed & breakfast located 5 kilometers from Misericordia Church offers trendy studios, apartments, and suites. The property features a restaurant, garden, and a patio, as well as free WiFi. Some of the units come equipped with a satellite flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchenette with a dishwasher, and a private bathroom with a bidet.

2. Casa Amada 

A 180 m2 holiday home, Casa Amada is a two-bedroom villa in Silves, around 2 kilometers away from Misericordia Church. This luxury villa features a balcony, barbecue, terrace, and private pool with views of the countryside. The villa has 2 bedrooms, a kitchen with a dishwasher and microwave, a flat-screen TV, a living room, and two bathrooms with a bidet.

3. Casa do Planalto by Patio 25

A 3-bedroom villa surrounded by greenery, Casa do Planato by Patio 25 is a 250m2 holiday home located less than 4 kilometers from Misericordia Church. This stunning villa features an outdoor swimming pool, a garden, a barbecue, and extra-long beds for added luxury, as well as 3 bathrooms. The villa comes equipped with bed linen, a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, a dining area, and a fully equipped kitchen.

4. Villa Exclusive & Private Pool & Orchard and Gardens & BBQ & Privacy & Golf Silves

A 300m2 holiday villa, this property comes with 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, and can sleep up to 10 people. The large villa features a private pool, garden area, and a balcony, as well as air-conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a patio. The property is located less than 3 kilometers from the City Doors and the Misericordia church.

5. Quinta da Luz – A Luxury Boutique B&B

A quaint bed & breakfast, Quinta da Luz features an outdoor swimming pool with loungers, a bar, and a patio. The units come equipped with a comfortable seating area, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, and a private bathroom. Guests can enjoy a lovely breakfast every morning on the premises.

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Just over 30 minutes from Lisbon, Setúbal is a city located in the Arrábida Mountains with natural landscapes, which blend between beautiful beaches and mountains covered by preserved vegetation, which makes the scenery even more stunning.

Being a coastal city in the south of the country, the temperate climate allows for pleasant walks even in the cold months of December and January when the maximum temperatures are around 15ºC and to enjoy sunbathing and the beach in the summer with maximum temperatures around 30ºC in August.

This city dates back to the Roman period, which left a very important historical and cultural legacy with centuries-old buildings and constructions. In Setúbal’s Historic Centre, each street, building, façade, pavement, or balcony is a piece of the city’s memory.

What to do in Setubal

If you want to start exploring the main attractions of the city in this area, a good option is to start with Livramento Market, a building in art deco built in 1930. Don’t miss the interior, which is decorated with a tile panel of over 5,000 tiles depicting scenes from everyday life. In this market, besides all the goods you can find in a traditional city market, you will find many places to eat, where you can taste some of the most well-known delicacies of the region.

From here will also give you the opportunity to explore Setúbal center calmly and discover the remaining Avenida Luísa Todi and its central bed full of gardens and monuments. A few minutes away, you can Discover the Praça de Bocage and the São Julião church. Besides his statue in the square after which he is named, there is the Town Hall and the São Julião Church, which was built in the 13th century and then rebuilt at the request of King Manuel I. This is why we find the beautiful Manueline-style portals.

Be sure to enter the church, which is super beautiful and has details in tiles. If after all these visits you want to take a break to eat, you have to try the fried cuttlefish! This is one of the most typical dishes of Setúbal: small strips of breaded cuttlefish accompanied by 1 quarter lemon (to squeeze) and fried potatoes. The sauce, if you like it as much as we do, should be lemon and coriander mayonnaise.

After tasting the delicious typical dish of this city, to complete your passage through the interior of this city you have to pass by one of the most relevant touristic points: the Fortress of São Filipe. It was one of the most important bastions of the capital of the Sado River, against pirates from northern Europe and Africa. From its walls, you can see some of the most spectacular panoramic views of Setúbal and the bay.

Now that you explored the inner part of Setúbal, you can’t miss its surroundings! Serra da Arrábida includes as main points of tourist interest the best beaches in the region, trails, viewpoints, historical sites, restaurants, and confectioneries. If you’re a fan of beaches, you will love the paradisiacal beaches of Arrábida like Figueirinha Beach, Galapos Beach, Galapinhos Beach, Portinho da Arrabida Beach, among many others!

An important detail when visiting this zone is that Traffic between Setúbal and the main beaches of Arrábida is restricted during the summer months, more precisely between June 15th and September 15th. Therefore, if you visit some beaches in Arrábida in the summer months, you will have to use public transport, tuk-tuks, and do some walking to get to the most famous beaches in the region.

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Sagres, Portugal is one of the best destinations to visit in Portugal’s Algarve region. It is renowned for its wind-buffeted fortresses, scattered along its sea-sculpted cliffs, a unique edge-of-the-world feel redolent of Portugal’s former maritime exploits, and the scenic port of Sagres town. What is more, the environs around Sagres is the world’s only place where white storks nest on the cliffs’ faces.

Things to do in Sagres, Portugal

Go swimming & surfing on the unique beaches of Sagres

Sagres has a number of great beaches in its vicinity. They are not only great spots to swim and sun-bask but also great for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and paddle-boarding. Its Praia do Telheiro, Praia de Beliche, and Praia Tonel are nice not only to bask in the sun and swim but they also rank among the region’s best surfing locales.

Other Sagres’  beaches include Praia da Mareta boasting moderate swell, great for medium-level surfers, and a cozy beach bar; tiny Praia dos Rebolinhos, one of the most romantic beach spots in Portugal, and Praia do Zavial, located in the direction of Lagos from Sagres featuring South of Portugal’s biggest surf.

Note that Sagres, Portugal’s beaches offer not only pleasant waves, sunshine, and rock-sheltered seclusion but are also famous for their paradisiac sunsets and sunrises.

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Pay a visit to Sagres Fortress and the Sacred Promontory

Set on a scenic promontory, known to the ancients as the westernmost point of “the whole inhabited world”, the fortress is a one-of-its-kind, impeccably white, wind-whipped structure which served as a barrier against North African raiders.

It was also from here that Henry the Navigator planned his 15th-century expeditions to the uncharted waters along the West African coast, heralding Portugal’s Age of Discovery.

Head here to take great photos, and sense the unique feel of being on a spot that once was regarded as the ultimate avant-post of the “inhabited” world. 

Also don’t miss out on ancient cannons inside the fortress and contemplate the strong waves breaking against its rocks.

Make a trip to the port of Sagres

The picture-perfect harbor is not only worth a visit for its motley boats bobbing around at anchor, but also for its historic significance. 

It is here that sailors from all over the world met to share nautical knowledge, which possibly resulted in Portugal’s great maritime discoveries. It may have been here that the School of Sagres, a half-mythical community of sea-farers and cartographers took shape.

Now it is a major fishing port and is known for its catches of lobster, but also other marine delicacies. Head here to immerse into the briny seaside charm of Sagres.

Note that one of the best ways to explore Sagres and environs is on a boat to see its rugged coastline from the deck.

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What makes Sagres, Portugal special?

Sagres is one of Portugal’s top surfing destinations with its cliff-protected stretches of sand offering some of the best waves in South Portugal.

But it is not just that. You can also swim, take sun-baths and do all kinds of watersports here, such as paddle-boarding. What is more, it is steeped in the history of maritime glory with Sagres’ Fortress being among the most significant landmarks linked to the feats of the Portuguese mariners. 

Head here not only for a mélange of history and great surfing but also to delight in its mouthwatering cuisine and wine.

What to eat in Sagres, Portugal

Don’t miss out on fresh sea delicacies such as lobster, dourada, scallop, and oysters, making the port town of Sagres one of the gourmands’ bucket list destinations. Also, don’t forget that Sagres is located in Algarve, making it one of the best spots to try out Algarve specialties such as Frango de Guia, and Cataplana de Marisco and its delectable wine, such as Negra Mole and Castelao.

When to visit Sagres, Portugal

Summertime is usually considered the best time to visit Portugal. But it is the months when it is bright and warm, without the intense summer heat that are truly the best to visit Sagres. Head to Sagres in Spring or early Autumn to take pleasure in its maritime charm and uncover its great surfing spots.

Conclusion

Sagres is one of the most beloved surfing & swimming destinations in Southern Portugal. It does not just offer great nature, accommodation, and food, it is also one of the historic locales that were key for Portugal’s Age of Nautical Adventure and Discovery. 

Head here to feel the edge-of-the-world feel and delight in the scenic sunsets, making Sagres one of Portugal’s most romantic places to visit.

Guide to the Algarve

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On a trip to Central Portugal, Peniche should be at the top of your list of coastal towns to visit! It is a great destination for exploring and walking around the city, or for a delightful beach holiday.

Everything is beautiful! The sea, the views, the cliffs, the colors, and the flavors make this area one of the most beautiful and diverse natural landscapes in Portugal. Peniche is 100 km away from the Portuguese capital, Lisbon, and is a port and fishing city that conquers us with its heritage and historical relevance, a culture with a strong connection to the sea, and gastronomy that stands out at a national level.

Since it’s a Coastal zone, the best time to fully appreciate Peniche is between May and September. This time of year has longer days, with more sunshine, blue skies, and mild to warm temperatures. The hottest months are generally July and August. Consequently, they are also the most popular and attract the greatest number of tourists and visitors. If you want to avoid this, maybe the best time to visit is June or September.

This city has a lot to see, but it is best to start by exploring the city itself and only then the beaches, to relax after all your sightseeing! A good starting point to visit what this city has to offer is, obviously, the Peniche Fortress, the city’s most identifying postcard image! This well-preserved fortress was the scene of some of the most important historical episodes on the national scene. It is also well known for having been one of the political prisons of the activists who rebelled against the Salazar dictatorship. In addition to the beauty and grandeur of the fortress, inside you will find a Municipal Museum where all the memories of that time are kept.

After exploring the fortress, you are in a good place to explore this city that is deeply connected to the sea. You can start walking towards the center, you’ll be surrounded by in the fishing districts and you’ll also find a labyrinth of streets and alleys great for exploring! In this area you’ll find the Church of Sao Pedro originally, it was built in 1977 and it is without a doubt the most imposing church in the municipality of Peniche. Be sure to visit its interior, where you can see several beautiful paintings and an organ with over 500 tubes!

Right next to the church, much more modest, there’s another temple – or we should consider it. We’re talking about Peniche’s Bobbin Lace Museum, which holds a very valuable collection of refined lace pieces and over 400 years of history of art made by fishermen’s wives, as a complement to the household’s sustenance.

A few minutes away, you can also visit the Garden Square, also known as Jacob Rodrigues Pereira Square. While walking towards this square you can still see some traditional (resilient) shops’ windows and chaste little shops. It’s the perfect place to do some shopping and buy some souvenirs.

If you keep walking, you’ll also find Baluarte Park, a park with a green space that stretches out and divides itself between the various ends of the stone wall, with palm trees, beds of shrubs and flowers, tennis courts, a children’s playground, and even a skatepark. Pass by the small waterfall and climb the stairs on the right side to the top of the wall and the first glimpse over the center of Peniche. Go back to the garden and go to the Statue of the Rendilheira, a symbol of one of Peniche’s most ancient arts: bobbin lace.

Approximately 4 minutes away (through José Estevão Street), it is also worth visiting Largo 5 de Outubro. Here the Misericórdia Church with its Clock Tower has been marking the hours of the penicheiros since 1697. Inside, the ceiling is covered with 55 panels illustrating scenes from the Old and New Testaments, as well as walls covered with 17th-century tiles.

Now, if you feel hungry after all this walking and exploring, it is considered common knowledge that visiting Peniche without indulging in a nice Caldeirada de Peniche, a fish soup, a sweaty lobster or a grilled fish, is a crime, so be sure to enjoy a meal with all the traditional dishes of this area!

After delighting yourself with the traditional snacks and dishes of the area, if you can easily move around by car or taxi, you cannot miss the opportunity to visit the Lighthouse of Cabo Carvoeiro.

This lighthouse was built in 1758 and is one of the oldest in the country still in operation. It was built to mark out an area of the coast with a high risk of shipwreck. Without a doubt, a place to see in Peniche.

From here, you can set off to discover the Portinho da Areia Sul beach, the Varanda de Dominique viewpoint, the hidden Furninha cave where prehistoric remains have been found, and of course the belvedere at Cape Carvoeiro with its unique rock formations, including the emblematic Nau dos Corvos, also known as Pedra da Nau.

To finish, and because we can’t talk about Peniche without mentioning it, are you ready for an even bigger adventure? If you’re here, visiting the island of Berlenga is a must, be sure to reserve. Set aside a whole day for this adventure, it’s worth every second!

The Berlengas Archipelago consists of small islands and coastal reefs, to visit you have to go by boat. The boats to Berlenga leave from the quay near Peniche Fortress, but you’ll find information about them everywhere, there are several companies that make the crossing between Peniche and Berlengas.

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When you arrive on the island because the trip can be tiring. You can take the opportunity to rest on Berlengas beach which is located right next to the port and enjoy the beautiful sandy beach and transparent water. After recovering you can start exploring the various attractions of the island such as the Berlengas Lighthouse and the Fort of São João Baptista. It’s also recommended that you also don’t miss the opportunity to take a boat trip to the island’s caves, or if you’re feeling like it you can also go diving, snorkeling, or canoeing.

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From the Latin term “Oppidum”, the name of the main settlement in any Ancient Roman administrative area, we got the name of this Portuguese town. Óbidos is situated in the Center region of Portugal, in the district of Leiria. It’s around 88 km from Lisbon and 138km from Coimbra.

It has a small population of about 2.200 inhabitants, but nearly 11.800 if we count the whole municipality. The town is known for its wonderful castle and walled city that immerse you in a medieval environment, making you feel like you are back in the 1600s.

Its history is a very rich one as well. The place was inhabited by the Lusitanians until the Romans arrived. There, they built what would one day become the Castle, but just as an outpost for the Roman Legions.

The Visigoths took over after it but it was when the Muslims came, in the 8th Century, that the outpost was turned into a city. A wall was built all around the settlement and they fortified the Roman outpost, turning it into a Castle.

This ended in 1148, when Afonso Henriques, the first king of Portugal, conquered it and integrated the town into its Kingdom. From then on, the town was part of the dowry for various Portuguese Queens, such as Queen Catherine, who would then build the town’s Aqueduct.

Today, it’s one of the most distinctive towns in the Center of Portugal. Throughout the walled city, you can find narrow cobbled streets, with traditional houses all around, some being living houses and others being restaurants or businesses. Its amazing level of preservation is remarkable and makes it a wonderful example of a traditional Portuguese town.

Outside of the walls, you can see the Aqueduct, and if you want to explore the nearby area, you can find the fishing village of Peniche and Nazaré, where the highest waves in the world exist, the amazing beaches of Lagoa de Óbidos, and you can see the largest collection of Buddha statues in Europe, at Buddha Eden Garden, in Bombarral.

As for Óbidos proper, you can expect a small town, pretty calm throughout the year, except during the period when the Christmas Village is on and during the summer, where people from all over the country fill the walled town.

If you like to roam around old cities and see for yourself the history of a whole settlement, and with it the country, Óbidos will be a great trip for you!

Famous Landmarks in Óbidos

Óbidos Castle

Considered Number 2 on the 7 Architectural Wonders of Portugal, the Castle is placed on a cliff, and inside the city is at the end of Rua Direita.

As said before, the medieval castle was conquered by the Portuguese to the Moors, being a reconstructed Roman outpost. It suffered various repairing and fortification efforts, mixing Romanic, Gothic, Manueline, and Baroque architecture, as well as some Moorish characteristics.

Today, it’s completely restored and is one of the most beautiful castles open to the public, functioning today as a hotel. If you want to get the best view of the whole Castle, you can go to the Medieval Market, at the back of the Castle.

The City Walls

The Walls that surround the town are one of its main attractions! Its perimeter is 1.565 meters (around 5134 ft), totally surrounded by a walking path on one side and a battlement on the other. They were defended by some towers that you can see throughout the town.

You can walk through the walls, but be careful because they have no handrail and there have been episodes where people fell off. The access is from 3 stairs, 2 next to the village and a third one right near Porta da Vila (the Village Door).

“Porta da Vila” (Village Door)

The Village Door, or “Porta da Vila”, is the main entrance to the interior of the walled city.

It was built in 1380 and it’s all adorned with the beautiful Portuguese “azulejos”, with an engraving dedicated to the Virgin Mary, due to her protection during the Restoration of Independence, in 1640. Inside the Door, you can find a little chapel to Our Lady of Mercy, the town’s patroness.

It has a medieval military architecture, noted by its double door and the fact that is elbow-shaped, to provide a better defense of the town.

“Rua Direita” (Right Street)

This is the main road in the city, connecting the Village Door to the Castle, on opposite sides of it. Most of the buildings on it are souvenir stores, restaurants, and town attractions.

All of it is a cobbled street, you can see in it beautiful flowers on many windows, exposed handicrafts by local builders, and many small streets connecting to it that will just call for you to take a peek.

Aqueduct

Standing outside the Walled City, you can see the Óbidos’ Aqueduct from the highest tower in the wall. Built in 1573 by Queen Catherine, who paid for its entire construction, it’s around 3km long (around 1.86 miles) and it used to deliver water to 2 fountains in the town. Today, it’s a Public Interest Monument and a very beautiful sight to see from the walls.

Book Tours & Activities in Obidos

What to do in Óbidos

You can just roam around the city, see the incredible churches, libraries, and handicrafts all spent around the town. You will be able to see it all pretty quickly and you will not be disappointed!

But if you are looking for some activities to do, here they are:

Óbidos’ “Ginjinha”

One of the most famous Portuguese liquors, the Óbidos’ Ginjinha is world renown and makes everyone fall in love with it.

Usually served in a chocolate cup, this type of drink has been present in Portugal for centuries, with the oldest record of it being in the 1st century.

In the West of Portugal, where Óbidos is, the climate is particularly good for wild Morello cherries, making the appearance of this drink here, natural. But it was only in the 17th century that the priests of Óbidos started to use these fruits to make the drink we all know and love today.

It’s made out of Morello cherries, sugar, and Aguardente, a very strong liquor with 29% to 60% alcohol level, the “Ginjinha” has a strong flavor and scent, with a dark red color. It can be served with just the liquor or with fruits in it, sometimes even with vanilla or a cinnamon stick.

Today, it is presented in every café and restaurant in the town, with many stores even built specifically to sell it! Besides this, if you visit the house of a person from Óbidos, it is very likely that you will be presented with a small cup of this typical liquor.

Medieval Market

Standing on the backside of the Castle, the Medieval Market is accessible through the Stone Portal. It’s usually free, except during the Christmas Village, Medieval Fair, and the Chocolate Festival, so you can get a beautiful view of the Castle without paying anything!

Christmas Village

From 30 November until 2 January (more or less), you can visit the beautiful Christmas Village! The whole Medieval Market is decorated like Santa’s Workshop and you can ride an amazing Christmas Train or have a hot chocolate at the Ice Bar, a bar made entirely of ice.

It’s an amazing place to take the kids and even for adults, taking you back to your childhood and feeling that warm fuzzy feeling of Christmas! The entrance costs around 7€.

Medieval Fair

The Medieval Fair happens in July and August when this part of the town all dresses up as it once was in the 1600s. You will find traditional food and drinks, medieval music, Knight Fights and you can even participate in a Bow and Arrow Competition!

For the price of 7€ to enter, it will truly be a well-spent day that you will not regret!

Chocolate Festival

The iconic festival happens around April and May, costing just 5€ to enter.

There you can find all kinds of chocolate, both in taste and in shape. Amazing sculptures do artwork all made out of chocolate, while incredible cooks reinvent drinks and food to include the blessing from the skies that is chocolate.

Exhibitors from all over Portugal and the world come to present their products at this festival, so you are assured to have plenty of options and quality.

If you are a chocaholic, you will definitely lose your mind at this Festival.

Getting to Óbidos

You can get to Óbidos by car, bus (from “Rodoviária do Oeste”) or train.

If you go by car from Lisbon, you will take around one hour to get to the town and spend around 10€ for your trip (gas and tolls included). You can park the car just outside the city walls and then walk inside by foot. 

Rent a Car in Obidos

The bus is probably the best option, as from Lisbon, you can get to Óbidos in around an hour. The ticket costs around 8€ and you can get it straight from the driver, stopping just 100m from the city center.

As for the train, is the longest and least preferable route, as it takes around 2:30h from Lisbon and the station is 1km outside the historical center of the town.

Final Remarks

Óbidos is truly a great day trip! It’s a must-see if you are planning to stay and discover more of the region near Lisbon and in the Center of the country!

I would recommend for you to visit it in either spring or fall. Around Christmas, it’s usually packed with people for the Christmas Village, and in summer it’s filled with tourists.

However, if you really want to see the Christmas Village or the summer is the only time you can go, try to visit it early in the day, before the big masses of tourists arrive, or spend the night in the town, so you can make the most of it and enjoy the relaxed and peaceful environment of the evening in Óbidos, spent in family-run restaurants eating home-cooked traditional recipes.

Also, take in mind that the city is really small and you can definitely see it all in less than a day, however, I would recommend you see it by yourself and not with a tour company, as you can do it at your pace and not have to rush to go to some other place next.

As a city that is made of history, with its literal walls telling the story of the peoples that passed through Portugal, from the Romans, passing through the Reconquista, and of the various periods and thoughts that passed through the country after that, you will definitely love every corner of Óbidos!

Hope you have a lot of fun in this little jewel in the Center of Portugal!

⬇️Please share your favorite activities and things to do in Obidos in the comments⬇️

Lagos is a Portuguese town in the district of Faro, region, and sub-region of Algarve, in southern Portugal. This city is considered very important due to its relevance during the Portuguese Discoveries; however, it is also a city with important and beautiful beaches as well as lively nightlife.

Lagos has a number of things to offer its visitors, especially for those looking for a destination that combines history with a perfect summer climate. Such symbiosis could not go unnoticed and nowadays Lagos is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Algarve, both for Portuguese and foreigners.

What to do in Lagos, Algarve

Start your journey through Lagos on the Avenida dos Descobrimentos, the pretty riverside promenade along with the mouth of the Ribeira de Bensafrim, which will take you to some of Lagos’s main points of interest worth visiting. Along this avenue, you’ll stalls with handicrafts, beach items, and regional products seeking to attract shoppers. If you feel like you want to go on an adventure, here you can also find small stands offering boat trips to the stunning cliffs of Ponta da Piedade among other activities.

Book Lagos Tours & Experiences

At this point, you’re close to the pedestrian bridge which gives you access to Lagos Marina, another attraction you must not miss. If you feel like making a pause for refreshment, the Lagos Marina terraces extend an invitation for a brief snack or drink while you enjoy the sun.

After your break and if you’re a fan of history, make sure you visit the Wax Museum of the Discoveries to know or remember a little of Portugal’s golden age, the Discoveries. This museum is only 5 minutes away from the marina and takes about half an hour to visit. Then, still, in the mood of the discoveries, you can return to the Avenida dos Descobrimentos and check the anchored Caravel Boa Esperança, a replica of our 16th-century caravels. The tiny size makes you wonder how it was possible for the ancient sailors to take Portugal so far.

A few minutes away and to continue your journey by the Ribeira de Bensafrim, we recommend a visit to the Lagos Municipal Market. This market is active since 1924 and it’s the perfect place to find fresh fish and seafood from this region! The second floor is magnificent, looks like a rainbow due to the variety of fruit and vegetables available. It’s also worth visiting the top floors, namely due to the terrace that offers stunning views to the canal and marina, don’t use the lift, go up the stairs and appreciate the ceramic mural by the artist Xana.

A few minutes from the market, you can walk towards the city center and visit Gil Eanes square. This square is always busy, in its center, you’ll find the statue of Dom Sebastião (the king who elevated Lagos to a city and capital of Algarve) by João Cutileiro. This square is also one of the gateways to the historic center of Lagos, practically all of which has been converted into a pedestrian zone, so you can keep walking!

The charming streets you’ll find next are populated with commerce, restaurants, and esplanades along with street stalls, and street artists that peacefully coexist. If you walk for some minutes, you’ll find yourself on Garret Street which will lead you to Luís de Camões Square whose trees provide refreshing shade.

Just a few minutes away, you can go towards 25 April Street and at the end of this street, you will find Santo António Church. Built in the 18th century, the simple exterior does not make you guess the beautiful interior decoration. The Santo António Church is a veritable jewel of Baroque gilded woodcarving, a true trademark of Portugal.

From here we can walk towards the sea to explore the Infante Dom Henrique Square. This square is home to several of Lagos’ tourist attractions like the Slave Market, the Santa Maria Church, and Mother Church. In this square, you will find a statue that honors the great “son” of the land is unmistakable and provides one of the best postcards of Lagos. Infante Dom Henrique gazing at the sea seems placidly watching over the children who cheerfully cool off in the shallow waters of the quay, right in front of him.

As referenced, here you’ll also find the Slave Market, also known as Slavery Route Museum. This attraction came from the construction of a car park outside the walls which was one of the most important archaeological discoveries for the city of Lagos. Archaeological excavations discovered 155 skeletons that turned out to be of African origin. This unique discovery led to the opening of the Slavery Route Museum Centre.

Since we reached this part of the city, if you walk some minutes, you can also visit the Castelo dos Governadores, a very well-preserved part of the Lagos wall, an example of military architecture from the past.

To end our pedestrian journey in beauty, after the castle you can visit the Ponta da Bandeira Fortress. This fortress was a 17th-century museum that still functions as a Museum of the Discoveries. Inside, a 17th-century chapel lined with tiles will delight your eyes. Ponta da Bandeira Fortress is considered to be one of the finest examples of maritime fortifications of the Algarve.

Now that you visited the magical historic part of Lagos, we could not fail to mention the beaches in this region, after all, Lagos is also a synonym for the beach! The region’s coastline still preserves natural nooks and untouched beauty. It is not difficult to find stunning beaches, the hard part is to decide which will be the favorite. Among the famous and well-known beaches, with the better infrastructure of hotels and restaurants stand out: Porto de Mós, Meia Praia, Dona Ana, Batata, Estudantes, Pinhão, and, finally, Praia da Luz.

You can also visit Ponta da Piedade where you will be treated to some of the most beautiful coastal scenery in the Algarve. Ponta da Piedade has wonderful cliffs sculpted by the elements. Caves and natural arches, rocks that seem to have been carved by hand and small coves and beaches, bordered by a sea of turquoise and emerald tones, make up this picture painted by Mother Nature. A true work of art that will leave you jaw-dropping!

Guide to Algarve

⬇️Please share your favorite activities and things to do in Lagos in the comments⬇️