Óbidos - Discovering Portugal

Travelling to Óbidos

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Óbidos, a pretty good destination in Portugal (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Óbidos and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Óbidos, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Portugal, here's everything to know about Óbidos for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Óbidos

Óbidos is a picturesque medieval town located in the West Region of Portugal, about 80 km north of Lisbon. It is known for its well-preserved castle walls that enclose narrow streets lined with whitewashed houses decorated with colorful flowerpots. The town has a rich history dating back to Roman times and has been ruled by various kingdoms and empires throughout the centuries. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its charming atmosphere, quaint shops, and traditional Portuguese food. In addition, Óbidos hosts various cultural events throughout the year, such as a medieval fair and a chocolate festival.

What to visit in Óbidos

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions of Óbidos, Portugal: 1. Óbidos Castle: This castle dates back to the 12th century and is located within the medieval walls of the town. It features a massive stone keep, ramparts, and crenellated battlements that offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
2. Porta da Vila: Porta da Vila is the main entrance to Óbidos, and it’s a beautiful archway built in the 18th century. It has a small chapel and a statue of Our Lady of Piety where pilgrims stop to pray.
3. Igreja de Santa Maria: This church was originally built in the 12th century, but it was later rebuilt in Gothic style in the 14th century. It features beautiful stained glass windows and a baroque-style altarpiece.
4. Assembleia Foz Óbidos: Located near the mouth of the Óbidos lagoon, Assembleia Foz Óbidos is a multi-purpose venue for cultural, social, and sports events. Its unique architecture, with a roof shaped like a wave, offers stunning views of the lagoon.
5. Lagoa de Óbidos: This is the largest lagoon in Portugal and is famous for its unique ecosystem. Visitors can go birdwatching, windsurfing, or kayaking on the lagoon.
6. Museu Abílio de Mattos e Silva: This museum is dedicated to the renowned Óbidos painter Abílio de Mattos e Silva. It features several of his works, as well as pieces from other Portuguese artists.
7. Capela do Senhor da Pedra: Located just outside the walls of Óbidos, this chapel was built in the 18th century on top of a large rock. It's a popular spot for visitors because of the stunning views it offers of the surrounding countryside.
Overall, Óbidos is a charming town in Portugal with a lot to offer visitors. Whether you're interested in exploring the history and architecture of the town, or you want to enjoy outdoor activities like birdwatching or windsurfing, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Portugal, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Óbidos.

When to go on holiday to Óbidos

The best time to visit Óbidos is during the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. The summer months of June to August can be quite crowded and hot, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F). If you don't mind the crowds and high temperatures, the summer is a good time to visit as there are many festivals and events taking place. The winter months (December to February) can be quite chilly and rainy, but still enjoyable if you prefer cooler weather. Ultimately, it depends on your personal preferences and what you want to do during your trip to Óbidos.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Óbidos

Óbidos is a medieval town located in the west of Portugal, about 80 kilometers north of Lisbon. Here are some ways to get there: 1. By car: The easiest way to get to Óbidos is by car. From Lisbon, you can take the A8 highway and follow the signs to Óbidos. The journey takes around one hour.
2. By bus: There are regular bus services from Lisbon to Óbidos. The journey takes around 1h30min and the bus company is Rápida Verde.
3. By train: There isn't a direct train connection between Lisbon and Óbidos, but you can take a train to Caldas da Rainha and then switch to a bus or taxi to get to Óbidos.
4. By taxi: You can also take a taxi from Lisbon to Óbidos. It might be a bit expensive, but it's a comfortable option.
I hope this information is helpful!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Óbidos, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Óbidos

Óbidos is a charming medieval town located in the central-western region of Portugal. Here are some of the typical foods of Óbidos: 1. Ginjinha: This is a traditional cherry liqueur made from Morello cherries and served in small chocolate cups. It is a must-try drink in Óbidos.
2. Queijadas de Óbidos: These are small, sweet cakes made of eggs, sugar, milk, and cinnamon. They are a local specialty and are often sold in souvenir shops in the town.
3. Cozido de Porco: This is a traditional Portuguese pork stew that is slow-cooked with potatoes, carrots, and other vegetables. It is a hearty and filling meal that is perfect for cold days.
4. Caldeirada: This is a seafood stew made with a variety of fish and shellfish, including monkfish, cod, clams, and mussels. It is a delicious and flavorful dish that is often served with rice or bread.
5. Arroz de Marisco: This is a seafood and rice dish that is similar to paella. It is made with various types of fish and shellfish, as well as saffron, tomatoes, and onions.
6. Leitão: This is a roasted suckling pig that is a popular dish throughout Portugal. In Óbidos, it is served with roasted potatoes and a variety of vegetables.
7. Sopa de Pedra: This is a hearty stone soup that is made with beans, vegetables, and meats. Legend has it that a monk once made the soup by asking for a stone and then adding ingredients as he received them from the villagers.
8. Pão-de-Ló: This is a traditional sponge cake that is made with eggs, sugar, and flour. It is light and fluffy and is often served as a dessert with a dusting of powdered sugar.
You can find general info about typical foods in Portugal here.

Is Óbidos an expensive destination for tourists?

Óbidos is generally not considered an expensive destination for tourists, especially when compared to major cities like Lisbon or Porto. However, prices can vary depending on the season, accommodation choice, and activities you participate in. During peak season (mid-June to mid-September), prices for accommodation and dining may be higher. If you are looking for budget-friendly options, consider staying in nearby towns like Caldas da Rainha or Peniche, which offer more affordable accommodations within driving distance of Óbidos. Overall, Óbidos is a charming and picturesque destination that should be affordable for most travelers. Just be sure to research prices and plan ahead to ensure you stay within your budget.

Where to find accomodation in Óbidos

If you want to visit Óbidos, it's best to look for accommodation in the town of Óbidos itself or in the surrounding areas like Caldas da Rainha or Peniche. These towns have a variety of accommodation options available including hotels, guesthouses, and apartments. Staying in Óbidos itself will allow you to fully experience the town's beautiful medieval architecture and charming atmosphere. Caldas da Rainha and Peniche are also good options as they provide easy access to Óbidos and other nearby attractions.
You can check hotel prices at Óbidos here:
Booking.com

Is Óbidos a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Óbidos is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, like any tourist destination, there may be pickpocketing and other petty crimes, so it is important to be cautious and take necessary safety precautions such as keeping your valuables close to you and being aware of your surroundings. It is also recommended to stay in well-lit areas and not to wander off alone at night. The local authorities and tourism officials take safety very seriously and work hard to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Portugal here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Óbidos.

What type of travelers will enjoy Óbidos the most?

Óbidos is a small medieval town located in Portugal that can be enjoyed by a variety of travelers. It's known for its charming cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and impressive castle walls. Couples will love the romantic and intimate atmosphere of this town. They can stroll hand in hand through the narrow streets, enjoy outdoor cafes, and explore the town's history and culture.
Families with children will enjoy the interactive and entertaining features of the town, from the castle walls and towers to the outdoor games. Kids can dress up in medieval outfits and explore the castle while learning about Portugal's rich history.
Lastly, young people looking for fun can enjoy taking pictures to post on their social media profiles while exploring the town and its activities including local food and incredible drinks from quaint places that give you the local feel. Overall, Óbidos offers a unique experience for all types of travelers who want to enjoy the beauty, history, and culture of a European town.

How to get around Óbidos

The best way to move around Óbidos is on foot, as it is a small medieval town with narrow streets that are not accessible by car. However, if you need to cover larger distances, you can take a taxi or a bus, which operate several routes connecting Óbidos with neighboring cities. Another option is renting a bike, which can be a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the area.

What to see around Óbidos

Certainly! Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Óbidos: 1. Alcobaça - a small town known for its impressive monastery and Gothic architecture.
2. Nazaré - A popular seaside town known for its beautiful beaches and surf scene.
3. Caldas da Rainha - This town is known for its thermal springs and pottery scene. 4. Fátima - This religious town is known for the iconic Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, which attracts many pilgrims. 5. Batalha - This historic town has a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage site, the Batalha Monastery.
6. Peniche - A charming coastal town known for its unique cave formations and breathtaking views.
I hope these suggestions help you plan a fun day trip from Óbidos!
For every travel information about Portugal you can click here.

Wild Trips is the Wikipedia of travel: in the unfortunate case you find an error, please write to us to correct it... Thank you!
Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: https://www.facebook.com/wildtrips.