Whenever someone visits us here in Portugal, we can’t help but take them to Óbidos. It’s one of those places we just have to share.
Óbidos sits right outside of Caldas da Rainha about an hour from Lisbon and it is easily one of Portugal’s most beautiful destinations. The medieval walls, the winding cobblestone streets, and vibrant bougainvillea add to its never-ending charm. As soon as I stepped foot inside the city walls for the first time, I fell in love.
Óbidos is one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal, and it’s easy to see why. As a medieval town with a rich history, it feels like stepping back in time. Was I love most about Óbidos is its atmosphere. Walking down the cobblestone streets surrounded by centuries-old buildings, you can almost forget what century you’re in.
Yes, many of the shops are touristy-that’s how the town thrives–but there are plenty of cool places if you know where to look. And if you visit in the fall, you’ll be greeted by the stunning bougainvillea in full bloom.
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Getting to Óbidos
If you’re coming from Caldas da Rainha, you’ve got a few options:
Taxi: About €20 from Caldas da Rainha.
Bus: It takes about 20 minutes and costs €5.
Car: A 15-minute drive with free public parking right across from the castle.
From Lisbon, buses run regularly from the Campo Grande station and cost around €10. It drops you off right in front of the city walls. You can also join a day tour. Get your guide has a fun one that dives into Medieval Tales and Secrets.
Walking Around
Once you enter the city walls, the road splits. If you take the left fork, you’ll wander up the cobblestone streets toward St. James Church and the castle.
There are plenty of souvenir shops along the way. I had to talk myself out of buying a toy sword and shield–they take their medieval heritage very seriously here.
At the top of the hill, you’ll find Saint James Church, which has been converted into a charming bookstore. It’s worth a stop to admire the space and browse the books.
If you prefer a more interactive experience, there’s also a self-guided scavenger hunt that takes you through the town’s highlights.
If you are looking for a private tour of Óbidos (or anywhere else in Portugal) check out our article about private tour guides here.
Feeling Peckish?
Óbidos has no shortage of places to eat, whether you’re after a quick snack or a long, relaxed meal.
- O Portão de Vila (by the main entrance) – This cozy snack bar is run by a friendly British couple. Their flatbread pizzas are delicious, the beer is cold, and if you’re lucky, they might even make you a milkshake.
- Avocado Coffee and Healthy Food Company – For vegetarians, this spot is a gem. The food is fantastic, and the sangria is even better.
- Á Janela – Next door to Avocado, they serve great pizza and have daily specials.
- Cerveja Letra-a brewery inside the walls. They have a great selection of craft beer and the burgers and fries are pretty good!
Further inside the walls, you’ll find plenty of other options along the Rua Direita, the right fork of the main road.
Castelo de Óbidos
Perched at the top of the hill is the Óbidos, a wedding gift from King Dinis to Queen Isabel in 1282. These days, It’s a hotel and restaurant. We had lunch there once–the atmosphere was incredible, and the wine was excellent , but the food was on the pricey side (as expected). One highlight: the tomato salad with chocolate chips. Yes, really. It was surprisingly good!
Special Events in Óbidos
Óbidos is also known for its special events. The area inside the castle walls hosts the Christmas Light Show, the Chocolate Festival, and the Literature Festival. The town was even named a UNESCO Creative City of Literature in 2015. Most events have an entrance fee, and you can usually buy discounted tickets online atTurismo.obidos.pt.
In July, you simply MUST attend the Medieval Festival! We had such a good time! The food is amazing and the entertainment is better than the renaissance festivals in the states.
Óbidos Museums
Óbidos has two small but interesting museums if you’re into history and religious art.
- The Óbidos Parish Museum at St. John the Baptist Church – Located just outside the city walls, this museum has artifacts from local churches and a fascinating history. The church was originally built in 1309 on a Visigothic temple and once served as a place of worship for those with leprosy.
- Municipal Museum on the Main Street (left fork) inside the city walls. This museum houses religious art, Roman artifacts, and weapons from the Napoleonic Wars. Some of the pieces are truly unique.
Ingreja de Santa Maria
Once you’ve explored the castle, make your way to the Igreja de Santa Maria, the main church in the square. It’s a peaceful spot where you can light a candle for a loved one and take a moment to reflect.
Don’t forget the famous Ginjinha de Óbidos!!
Before you leave, you have to try the famous Ginjinha de Óbidos—a sour cherry liqueur. You can get it in a chocolate cup or straight up (I’m a fan of the classic version). Bar Ibn Erik Rex is one of my favorite places to enjoy it. Trust me, it’s hard to stop at just one.
During summer, most restaurants stay open all day. But from mid-October, many close between 3 and 7 p.m., so plan your meals accordingly!
Óbidos is truly one of those places that never loses its magic, no matter how many times you visit. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just love wandering charming streets, there’s something for everyone here.
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Shelley is a full time traveler, blogger and podcaster currently living in Portugal with her wife, 2 dogs and a cat. She is a former history teacher originally from Winston-Salem, NC but wanted to see what life was like abroad. Now she travels all over Portugal and Europe writing about what she sees and does and tells you all kinds of fun stories on the podcast at Wandering Works for Us.