Óbidos is a beautifully preserved medieval walled town, inviting visitors to explore its ancient castle, cobbled streets, and traditional houses adorned with vibrant flowers. The town offers a journey into history, complemented by unique local traditions like the cherry liqueur, Ginjinha, and various cultural festivals throughout the year.
The historic center, particularly along Rua Direita, is the main area for socialising, featuring numerous shops, cafes, and restaurants. Backpackers may find hostels within the historic core that facilitate social events, and Bar Ibn Errik Rex offers a cozy spot to enjoy local drinks.
Top 7 Things to do in Óbidos
The activities in Óbidos primarily involve exploring historical architecture, enjoying local culinary traditions, and immersing oneself in its unique literary culture.
1. Walk the Medieval Walls
Circumnavigating Óbidos by walking its ancient fortified walls offers unparalleled panoramic views of the town's whitewashed houses, cobbled streets, and the surrounding countryside. This experience, spanning approximately 1.5 to 3 kilometers, allows for a unique perspective and a sense of stepping back in time. While largely intact, the path can be uneven and narrow in places, with no guardrails, requiring careful footing. It is an adventurous way to see the entire village.
Cost: Free to access.
Transport: The town walls are easily accessible on foot from anywhere within Óbidos' historic center.
2. Explore Rua Direita and Side Streets
Stroll along Rua Direita, the main street stretching from Porta da Vila to the castle. This vibrant thoroughfare is lined with shops selling traditional handicrafts, local produce, and the famous Ginjinha. Venturing into the smaller, quieter side alleys reveals hidden gems, flower-adorned houses, and charming cafes, offering a more intimate glimpse into daily life within the walled town. It is an opportunity to discover unique souvenirs and local art.
Cost: Free to explore, costs vary for shopping and dining.
Transport: Rua Direita is the central artery of Óbidos, easily walkable from any point within the town walls.
3. Taste Ginjinha de Óbidos in a Chocolate Cup
Indulge in Ginjinha, a traditional Portuguese sour cherry liqueur, a specialty of Óbidos. It is commonly served in a small edible chocolate cup, offering a delightful blend of sweet and tart flavors. This local tradition can be enjoyed at numerous shops and bars throughout the town, particularly along Rua Direita.
Cost: Typically around €1-€3 per shot in a chocolate cup.
Transport: Available at various establishments throughout the walkable town center.
4. Visit Igreja de Santa Maria
The Church of Santa Maria is Óbidos' principal church, situated in the main square. Its interior is adorned with stunning 17th-century blue and white azulejo tiles and features a painted wooden ceiling from 1676. The church houses important artworks, including paintings by Josefa de Óbidos, and the Renaissance tomb of João de Noronha. This historic site, once a Visigothic temple and then a mosque, reflects centuries of religious and architectural evolution.
Cost: Free admission.
Transport: Located in Praça de Santa Maria, easily accessible on foot within the walled town.
5. Explore Óbidos Aqueduct (Aqueduto da Usseira)
The Aqueduto da Usseira, a 16th-century aqueduct commissioned by Queen Catherine of Austria, transported water to Óbidos for several kilometers. This impressive historical monument, with its many arches, is visible just outside the town walls and can be admired from various viewpoints, including from the castle walls. It is an open monument, offering an opportunity to appreciate a significant piece of historical engineering.
Cost: Free to visit.
Transport: The aqueduct is located just outside the main town walls, accessible on foot. Parking is available nearby if arriving by car.
6. Browse Unique Bookstores (UNESCO City of Literature)
As a UNESCO City of Literature, Óbidos offers several distinctive bookstores, many housed in intriguing locations. Explore places like Livraria de Santiago, set within a former church, or the barn-like Livraria de Mercado. These unique spaces invite visitors to discover new titles, antique books, and experience Óbidos' strong connection to literature, adding a cultural layer to the visit.
Cost: Free to browse, cost varies for book purchases.
Transport: Located within the walkable medieval town.
7. Admire Porta da Vila
The Porta da Vila serves as the main entrance to the walled town of Óbidos. This double-doored gateway is notable for its interior, which features a balcony adorned with beautiful 18th-century blue and white azulejo tiles depicting religious scenes. It is a stunning example of Baroque art and provides an impressive welcome to the historic village.
Cost: Free to admire.
Transport: The main entrance to Óbidos, easily accessible upon arrival.
At TFA Travel we believe in travel for all. Our mission is to enable people to explore the world as easily as possible without having to pay a travel agent a huge commission.
Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
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