Incredible Things to Do in Óbidos Portugal (Tips & Map)

One of the most charming towns you can visit in Portugal is easily Obidos. Full of cobblestone streets, medieval charm, and blue and white-washed architecture, Obidos is everything you could ask for when it comes to a unique Portuguese town to visit. In this guide, you will learn some of the best things to do when visiting Obidos, travel tips, and more!

Additionally, you will find a map with all the spots for you to save!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no cost to you.

---

Things to See and Do When Visiting Óbidos

This town was originally established by the Romans, however, after Rome fell, the Moors took control of the land and constructed the castle walls that encircle it. In fact, the name Obidos is derived from the Latin word oppidum, which stands for “walled city.”

Eventually, King Afonso Henriques, Portugal’s first king, conquered Obidos in 1149. As the years went on, Obidos was maintained by many of Portugal’s queens, who commissioned many of the monuments we still see today.

Óbidos Castle

One of the most popular things to visit in Obidos is none other than the Óbidos Castle.

This stunning medieval castle was built as a military fortress by the Moors, who took over after the Romans abandoned the land.

While you can’t currently go inside this castle for a tour, you can certainly admire the castle from the outside. But if you really want a peek inside, book a night here since part of it does function as a hotel, Pousada Castelo de Obidos.

Walk the Castle of Obidos Walls

One of our favorite things to do in Obidos was walking the fortress walls, which is completely free to do! It is important to note that the castle walls do not have any protective barrier. Therefore, warning signs are at the stairs to let you know before you climb. If you fall or get hurt, it is all at your own risk.

So, if you are brave enough and able to climb these walls, the views looking down on Obidos and the surrounding area are really amazing. We didn’t walk the entire length, but we really enjoyed the area closest to Porta da Vila.

Igreja de Santa Maria

Arguably, one of the most important sites in Obidos is the church of Santa Maria. Sitting at the center of the Santa Maria square, this church dates back to the 16th century.

So, what makes this church interesting? Well, it is where King D. Afonso V of Portugal married his wife, who happened to be his cousin. Later, it was renovated by Queen D. Catherine of Austria.

Porta da Vila (Vila de Óbidos)

While wandering around, make sure to stop by Porta da Vila, which in English stands for Town Gate and Our Lady of Piety Oratory. This has been a National Monument since 1910, and you will find some beautiful painted tiles.

It is believed to have been built around 1376, and there was a musician playing during our visit. It is right by one of the steps to climb the castle walls.

The Óbidos Aqueduct (Acueducto de Óbidos)

While in here, you can also see the Acueducto de Óbidos, a 16th-century Aqueduct that would provide water to the people of Óbidos. Queen Catherine of Austria had this aqueduct built and even sold land to pay for it herself.

As you can see, the structure is still in great shape, and it can even be seen from the castle walls. In fact, there is a parking lot beside it that is a popular place for tourists to park before entering the Medieval town.

Taste Ginjinha – A Famous Drink in Óbidos

While exploring, you will likely see places selling something called Ginja, and you should certainly consider tasting it! Famously sold in chocolate cups, this is a sour cherry liqueur served with a cherry.

Many consider Ginjinha to have originated from Obidos, while others believe it was Lisbon. However, there is no denying some of the best tasting Ginjinha can be consumed in Obidos. One of the reasons people believe this is because the Ginjinha cherries are grown in Obidos. A shot or chocolate cup is usually around 1 Euro.

Igreja Santa Casa da Misericórdia de Óbidos

Originally known as the Chapel of the Holy Spirit, this chapel acts more as a museum than a place of worship today. During a visit, you can see 17th century sculptures and art. It is certainly worth a quick stop if you are spending the day visiting Obidos.

Souvenir Shopping

Obidos is a great place to do it if you love shopping for souvenirs! We found the prices to be very reasonable in Obidos, and there is a large variety of things to buy. Furthermore, the shops have more of a local feel than places in Lisbon and Porto.

You will find all the Portuguese classics like linens, ceramics, tiles, cork products, and Galo de Barcelos (Portugal Rooster). Rua Direita is one of the best streets to do this on.

Santuário do Senhor Jesus da Pedra (Sanctuary of the Lord of the Stone)

Located just outside the castle walls is Santuário do Senhor Jesus da Pedra. While the monument was never finished, it is a fine example of baroque architecture.

You can even see it from the Castle walls! It is the white building outside the walls in the photo below.

Hang Out in Praça De Santa Maria (Saint Mary’s Square)

This is a lovely square surrounded by restaurants and souvenir shops, and is a great place to visit while in Obidos. We can thank Queen Catarina of Austria, who commissioned the square to be built, and it is one of the best places to visit in Obidos.

Aside from just relaxing in this square, you will find the Saint Mary’s Church (the focal point of the square), the town’s fountain, Aboins Manor House, and the former Town Hall that has now turned into a museum.

Queen Mary’s Fountain

I wouldn’t go out of my way to see this fountain, however, it is right outside the castle walls. Queen Maria I had ordered the fountain to be erected for public use. Therefore, this serves as the memory of the structure. It is right by Ja!mon Ja!mon.

Wander the Charming Streets in Obidos

I know this sounds very general, but Obidos has some of the most charming alleys I have ever seen – especially because many of the flowers were in bloom during our visit. Every corner felt so picturesque, and I found myself just wanting to get lost walking around the cobblestone streets.

So, don’t be afraid to wander up and down the alleys – aside from walking the castle walls, this was my next favorite thing to do in Obidos. Oh, and make your way down Rua Direita Street, which is considered the main street.

Peek Inside Capela De São Martinho

Known as Óbidos’ only surviving completely medieval building since others were partly destroyed, taking a quick look at Capela De São Martinho is worth it. Although the inside is usually empty, there was an interesting sculpture during our visit. During Christmas time, there is usually a nativity scene.

This private shrine was built in 1331 to house the tombs of clergymen from Lisbon’s cathedral.

Obidos Fun Fact: A major Napoleon defeat happened just a few kilometers from here.

Attend One of the Festivals

Depending on when you’re visiting Portugal, you may want to visit some of the vibrant events in Obidos. We visited on a Sunday, and there were plenty of people dressed in medieval attire and shooting bow arrows near the castle.

Furthermore, they host:

• Chocolate Festival in the Spring
• The Medieval Fair (July)
• International Literary Festival (September/early October)
• Christmas Holiday Market

How To Get Here

Now that you know some of the best things to do while visiting, you may be wondering how to get here. Located about an hour North of Lisbon and 2 hours South of Porto by car, Obidos is a great day trip. If you are planning to drive between Porto and Lisbon, Obidos is a must-stop, in my humble opinion.

If you drive to Obidos (what we did), I suggest parking on the outskirts of the town. This is because the streets are tiny, with single lanes. Parking towards the outside will be easier and less stressful! We parked on R. do Chafariz dos Cavalos and walked up to the town walls near Ja!mon Ja!mon restaurant.

If you don’t have a car, it is still quite easy to reach Obidos from Lisbon via public transportation. It will take between 2-3 hours. Additionally, you can join a group trip with transportation. These tours usually include a few stops.

How Much Time to Spend

Most people take a day trip to Óbidos, which I think is fine. The town is very small, so you can really enjoy a couple of hours here if you’re pressed for time. However, if you are doing a road trip through Portugal, Obidos can be a nice place to spend the night, especially if you’re visiting Portugal during the summer.

Since most tourists visit during the day, being in Obidos in the late afternoon and morning will give you the opportunity to enjoy the town without the crowds. Plus, the area is so charming that you might want to spend more time slowing down and taking it in.

We did a road trip from Porto to Lagos with a stop in Obidos, and I wouldn’t have minded spending the night in Obidos looking back at our trip.

If you want to really embrace this town, spending 1-2 days will be plenty of time in Obidos.

Places to Eat in Obidos

There are dozens of places to eat when visiting Obidos. Some places to try when visiting Obidos include:

• Capinha d’Óbidos – Bakery and good sandwiches.
• Real Casa do Petisco – Traditional Portugese food.
• Ja!mon Ja!mon – We didn’t eat here, but it is highly rated.

Best Time to Visit

I still consider this town to be more of a hidden gem, although it is becoming more and more popular. During the Spring, Fall, and Winter, you will find the fewest crowds in Portugal, therefore, Obidos will be less crowded as well.

If you’re visiting Obidos during the summer, the best time to visit will be earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon when the tour groups leave. Additionally, if you really want to avoid crowds, consider visiting on the weekdays.

Where to Stay

If you decide to spend the night, here are some options to consider. The town is very small, so bookings fill up fast, therefore, booking in advance is important.

• Pousada Castelo de Obidos: Feel like a King or Queen and stay at the 4-star hotel that is located in the Obidos Castle – a unique experience for sure!
• Casa Senhoras Rainhas – Óbidos – by Unlock Hotels: A 4-star hotel with charming rooms and a great location.
• Casa Picva: This is a 3-star hotel located just outside of the walls. It is highly rated.
• Casa Do Relogio: Another 3-star hotel situated right outside the castle walls. This property has cozy-looking rooms and is also highly rated.