Few monuments in Portugal embody the country’s identity, ambition, and artistic evolution quite like the Batalha monastery. Rising from the quiet town of Batalha, this architectural landmark is far more than a religious structure — it is a symbol of independence, innovation, and centuries of craftsmanship that continue to captivate visitors from around the world.

For those planning a visit, exploring the full experience of the Batalha monastery is best done through a dedicated Batalha monastery guided tour

The Origins of Batalha Monastery: A Monument Born from Victory

The story of the monastery begins in 1385, in the aftermath of the Battle of Aljubarrota. King João I of Portugal vowed to build a grand monastery dedicated to the Virgin Mary if his troops secured victory against Castile — a decisive moment that ensured Portugal’s independence.

Construction began in 1386 and would span over 150 years, involving multiple generations of architects, artists, and craftsmen. This extended timeline explains the monastery’s fascinating blend of architectural styles, evolving from Gothic to Manueline influences.

From its very foundation, the monastery was designed not only as a place of worship but also as a royal pantheon and a political statement — a physical manifestation of Portugal’s newfound strength.

Gothic Foundations of Batalha Monastery: Precision, Height, and Light

The initial phase of the Batalha monastery was led by architect Afonso Domingues, who established the structure’s Gothic framework. Inspired by European cathedrals, the design emphasized verticality, symmetry, and the interplay of light.

The monastery’s church is a prime example of Gothic architecture in Portugal. Its high vaulted ceilings, pointed arches, and large stained-glass windows create a sense of elevation and spiritual transcendence.

What distinguishes the Batalha monastery from other Gothic monuments is its refined execution. The stonework is precise, almost delicate, revealing a mastery of technique that was rare in the Iberian Peninsula at the time.

The Cloisters of Batalha Monastery: Harmony and Geometric Perfection

One of the most captivating elements of the monastery is its Royal Cloister (Claustro Real), completed under the direction of architect Huguet.

The cloister is a masterpiece of geometric harmony. Its arches are adorned with intricate tracery, blending Gothic and early Manueline elements. The open courtyard, surrounded by elegant arcades, creates a serene atmosphere that contrasts with the monument’s imposing exterior.

Light plays a central role here, making every visit to the monastery a unique visual experience depending on the time of day.

Manueline Influence in Batalha Monastery: Ornamentation and Maritime Identity

By the late 15th and early 16th centuries, the architectural language of Portugal was shifting. The Age of Discoveries brought wealth and new artistic influences.

This transformation is evident in the Batalha monastery, particularly in the Unfinished Chapels (Capelas Imperfeitas). Here, the Manueline style takes center stage, with elaborate carvings of ropes, spheres, botanical motifs, and maritime symbols.

These elements reflect Portugal’s seafaring achievements and add a unique national identity to the UNESCO heritage monument, setting it apart from other European monuments.

Batalha Monastery as a Royal Pantheon

The Batalha monastery also serves as a royal pantheon, housing the tombs of King João I, Queen Philippa of Lancaster, and Prince Henry the Navigator.

The Founder’s Chapel is a highlight, combining architectural innovation with symbolic design. The detailed tomb sculptures reinforce the monastery’s role as a space of memory and national heritage.

Preservation and Restoration of Batalha Monastery

Over the centuries, the Batalha monastery has faced challenges, including damage from the 1755 Lisbon earthquake and periods of neglect.

Restoration efforts began in the 19th century and continue to this day, ensuring that the Batalha monastery remains one of Portugal’s best-preserved historical landmarks.

Its classification as a UNESCO World Heritage Site highlights its global significance and architectural value.

Visiting a UNESCO Heritage Monument Today

Today, the monument is one of the most visited attractions in Portugal’s Silver Coast region. Its combination of history, architecture, and cultural significance makes it a must-see destination.

Walking through its chapels, cloisters, and grand halls offers a journey through centuries of Portuguese history.

Why Should Be on Your Travel List

The monastery is not just an architectural landmark — it is a storytelling masterpiece. Each stone, arch, and carving reflects a different chapter of Portugal’s history.

For travelers exploring the Silver Coast, visiting the Gothic pearl is an essential experience that combines culture, history, and visual beauty.

The post Batalha Monastery: A Masterpiece of Portuguese Gothic Architecture appeared first on Silver Coast Travelling.

There are places you visit — and places you truly experience. Portugal’s Silver Coast belongs firmly to the latter. Stretching along the Atlantic between Lisbon and Porto, this region is a tapestry of wild beaches, historic towns, and authentic traditions that remain largely untouched by mass tourism. But to truly understand it, you need more than a map or a guidebook. You need someone who knows it by heart.

That is where Silver Coast Travelling Portugal stands apart.

A Local Company Rooted in Authenticity

In an age where travel experiences are often standardized and globalized, Silver Coast Travelling Portugal takes a different approach — one that is deeply rooted in local identity.

This is not just a tour company operating in the region. It is a project built by people who live here, who grew up among these landscapes, and who understand the subtle details that make each village, beach, and tradition unique.

Every tour is led by local guides. Not outsourced, not temporary — but genuine ambassadors of the Silver Coast. This local-first philosophy ensures that each experience goes beyond surface-level sightseeing. Visitors are invited into the rhythm of the region, discovering stories, flavors, and perspectives that are often invisible to outsiders.

Nearly 15 Years of Experience in the Silver Coast

Experience matters — especially in travel.

With nearly 15 years operating in the Portuguese tourism market, Silver Coast Travelling Portugal has refined its approach to create tours that are both seamless and memorable. This longevity is not just a number; it represents thousands of travelers welcomed, countless itineraries perfected, and a deep understanding of what makes a journey truly exceptional.

From navigating the best times to visit iconic spots to uncovering hidden gems away from the crowds, this experience translates into a level of precision and confidence that only time can build.

The Advantage of Local Knowledge

The Silver Coast is not a destination you can fully grasp through generic itineraries.

Its true essence lies in the details — the quiet café where locals gather at sunrise, the fisherman’s story behind a coastal village, the lesser-known viewpoint where the Atlantic reveals its raw beauty.

Silver Coast Travelling Portugal offers access to this insider perspective.

Because their guides are locals, they don’t just show you the region — they interpret it. They understand the cultural context, the historical layers, and the living traditions that define this part of Portugal. The result is an experience that feels personal, immersive, and genuinely enriching.

Consistently Outstanding Reviews Across Platforms

Trust is built on consistency — and in today’s travel landscape, reviews are one of the most powerful indicators of quality.

Silver Coast Travelling Portugal maintains an impressive average rating of 4.9 across multiple major platforms, including GetYourGuide, TripAdvisor, Airbnb Experiences, Viator, and Google.

This level of consistency is not accidental. It reflects a commitment to excellence at every stage of the customer journey — from the first contact to the final moment of the tour.

Travelers frequently highlight the professionalism of the guides, the depth of local knowledge, and the authenticity of the experiences. More importantly, they emphasize something that cannot be easily quantified: the feeling of being welcomed, understood, and genuinely cared for.

Personalized Experiences, Not Mass Tourism

One of the defining characteristics of Silver Coast tours in Portugal with this company is the clear move away from mass tourism.

Forget large groups and rigid schedules. Instead, expect:

• flexible itineraries
• tailored experiences
• genuine interaction with the local culture

Whether you're interested in history, gastronomy, or coastal landscapes, each tour adapts to your pace and interests.

Discover what to explore in specific destinations:

top experiences in Alcobaça

what to do in Nazaré

best things to do in Óbidos

A Region Worth Discovering — The Right Way

FThe Silver Coast is often described as Portugal’s best-kept secret. It offers the charm of places like Óbidos, the spirituality of Fátima, the coastal drama of Nazaré, and the natural beauty of Peniche — all without the overwhelming crowds found in other destinations.

But discovering it the right way makes all the difference.

With Silver Coast Travelling Portugal, visitors are not just ticking landmarks off a list. They are building a connection with the region — one that lingers long after the journey ends.

Choosing the right tour company can transform a trip from ordinary to extraordinary.

Silver Coast Travelling Portugal combines three essential elements that define a truly exceptional travel experience: local authenticity, extensive experience, and consistently outstanding customer satisfaction.

It is a company that understands that travel is not just about places — it is about people, stories, and emotions.

For those seeking to explore Portugal’s Silver Coast in a meaningful, immersive, and memorable way, the choice becomes clear.

If you want to have a greater experience at the Silver Coast book see our destinations visit our Silver Coast Portugal page!

The post Why Choose Silver Coast Travelling Portugal appeared first on Silver Coast Travelling.

There is a certain moment, just before entering Óbidos, when time seems to slow down.

From a distance, the silhouette of Óbidos Castle rises above the landscape, overlooking the rolling hills of Portugal’s Silver Coast. The contrast between the medieval walls and the whitewashed houses below creates a scene that feels both timeless and deeply authentic.

For those exploring the region through Silver Coast Travelling, this is not simply another destination — it is one of the most iconic and defining landmarks of central Portugal.

Walking into Óbidos is not just about visiting a place. It is about stepping into a story that has been unfolding for centuries.

Where Is Óbidos Castle and Why Is It Important?

Óbidos Castle is located in the historic town of Óbidos, on Portugal’s Silver Coast, approximately one hour north of Lisbon.

A Strategic Location on the Silver Coast

Its elevated position provided control over fertile lands and key trade routes, making it a crucial defensive point throughout history.

Today, this same location offers breathtaking panoramic views, making it a highlight for anyone interested in Silver Coast Travelling.

The origins of Óbidos Castle

The origins of Óbidos Castle date back to ancient times, long before the medieval structure seen today.

During the Roman era, the site was already inhabited due to its strategic importance. Although physical remains are limited, historical evidence suggests it functioned as a defensive and administrative outpost.

The true development of the castle began during the Moorish occupation, between the 8th and 12th centuries.

The Moors built the first defensive walls and established a fortified settlement, shaping the urban layout that still defines Óbidos today.

The Christian Reconquest and Royal Legacy

The history of Óbidos Castle changed dramatically in 1148.

Conquest by Portugal’s First King

Afonso Henriques, the first King of Portugal, captured Óbidos from the Moors, integrating it into the emerging Portuguese kingdom.

This marked the beginning of significant development and expansion.

The “Town of Queens”

One of the most distinctive aspects of Óbidos’ history is its connection to Portuguese royalty.

In 1210, King Dinis gifted the town to Queen Isabel. From that moment onward, Óbidos became part of the dowry of Portuguese queens.

This royal patronage ensured the preservation and continuous enhancement of the castle and town.

Architecture of Óbidos Castle

Óbidos Castle is widely considered one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Portugal.

Military Design and Defensive Features

The castle includes:

• High stone walls
• Watchtowers
• Battlements
• Narrow defensive entrances

These elements highlight its primary function as a fortress.

Gothic and Manueline Influences

Over the centuries, architectural styles evolved.

Gothic elements reinforced the structure, while Manueline details introduced decorative sophistication during Portugal’s Age of Discoveries.

This combination gives the castle its unique identity.

What to Experience at Óbidos Castle Today

Visiting Óbidos Castle offers more than historical insight — it is a fully immersive experience.

Walking the Castle Walls

Visitors can walk along the walls and enjoy panoramic views over the town and surrounding countryside, are one of the most memorable experiences on the Silver Coast (is free, we don´t do it during our walking tours because of safety reasons: there are no rails)

 Exploring the Medieval Town

nside the walls, visitors will find:

• Traditional whitewashed houses
• Artisan shops
• Historic churches

This creates a rich and authentic environment, ideal for those exploring through Silver Coast Travelling.

Staying Inside the Castle

The castle has been converted into a historic pousada.

Staying here allows visitors to experience the atmosphere of a medieval fortress while enjoying modern comfort.

Why Óbidos Castle Is Essential for Silver Coast Travelling

For anyone travelling along Portugal’s Silver Coast, Óbidos Castle is an essential stop.

It offers:

• Deep historical significance
• Unique architectural beauty
• Authentic cultural experience
• Stunning landscapes

Few places combine these elements so seamlessly.

Final Thoughts

Óbidos Castle is more than a historical landmark — it is a symbol of Portugal’s identity.

For those engaging in Silver Coast Travelling, it represents one of the most complete and memorable experiences in the region.

It is not just a place to visit, but a place to understand.

If you want to have a greater experience at the Silver Coast book your Óbidos Tour!

The post The Castle of Óbidos: A Journey Through Time on Portugal’s Silver Coast appeared first on Silver Coast Travelling.

The Monastery of Batalha, officially Santa Maria da Vitória Monastery, is a masterpiece of Late Gothic and Manueline architecture, founded in 1386 by King João I in thanksgiving for the victory at the Battle of Aljubarrota.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, it is one of Portugal’s most iconic landmarks.

Reasons to Visit

1. The stunning exterior with elaborately carved limestone facade and Manueline portal;

2. The main church, soaring over 30 meters tall, with 15th–16th century stained glass window;

3. The Founder’s Chapel, housing the royal tombs in a unique octagonal space blending Gothic and English perpendicular style.

Main Highlights

1. Main Church – access to the free nave area with impressive height and light;

2. Founder’s Chapel – the royal pantheon with tombs of João I and Philippa of Lancaster;

3. Royal Cloister – lavish Manueline details with social and maritime symbols;

4. D. Afonso V Cloister – more austere but elegant gabled arches;

5. Chapterhouse – houses the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the “Christ of the Trenches” statue ;

6. Unfinished Chapels – monumental stonework never completed, commissioned by King Duarte I.

Guided Tour Experience

A guided tour is highly recommended to fully appreciate the monument’s artistic and historical depth.
Typical tours last around 1 hour 30 min, available in the morning or afternoon .

Book here your Batalha Monastery Tour.

Practical Information

. Opening Hours:

. April to 15 October: 9:00–18:30 (last entry at 18:00);

. 16 October to March: 9:00–18:00 (last entry at 17:30) ;

. Closed on 1 Jan, Easter Sunday, 1 May, and Christmas Day.

. Tickets:

. Standard ticket: €15 per person;

. Free for children under 12; 50% discount for seniors (+65), students, families;

. Free for children under 12; 50% discount for seniors (+65), students, families;

. Free entry for national residents;

Other Attractions in Batalha

. Church of Santa Cruz – parish church featuring Manueline portal and baroque touches;

. Grutas da Moeda – spectacular limestone caves nearby ;

. Museum of the Community of Batalha and Interpretation Centre of Aljubarrota Battle, to deepen historical context;

. Boutaca Bridge, a neo‑Gothic bridge over Rio Lena with decorative pinnacles.

Tips for Visiting

. Allocate 1–2 hours for the monastery alone; add more time for surroundings;

. Use guided tours to enrich your understanding of the Batalha monastery ;

. Best seasons: spring or autumn, to avoid heat and crowds common in summer.

If you want to discover and explore one of the country best regions book one of our Silver Coast Portugal Tours.

The post What to Visit in Batalha with Guided Tour appeared first on Silver Coast Travelling.

This is one of the most fascinating coastal towns in Europe and it´s here in the Silver Coast Portugal, less than 1.5 hours from Lisbon, easily accessible by car or bus.

Nazaré main attractions

1. Nazaré Beach

Praia da Nazaré is certainly the town's main asset, you could even say it's its heart. The beach attracts many people during the summer and is one of Portugal's best-known coastal towns.

The beach is ideal for swimming, but also for walks by the sea.

2. Fort of São Miguel Arcanjo

This iconic viewpoint is at the southern end of the beach! Situated on a steep cliff, it is sought after by people from all over the world as the main vantage point for watching what are considered to be the biggest waves in the world.

The fort dates back to the 16th century and was built by King Sebastião and used as a defense against pirates from North Africa, and later used as a defense by the French army.

Inside the fort you'll also find a museum where the phenomenon of giant waves is explained, as well as some of the surfboards and bodyboards used by surfers.

3. Sítio da Nazaré

Sítio da Nazaré offers some of the most breathtaking views of the entire Portuguese coastline. This is the perfect place to take the best pictures of your trip. If you can wait for the sunset, it will be worth it.

However, here you should also visit the Sanctuary of Nazaré, known for having been the first great Marian cult in Portugal. Inside you'll be able to see magnificent 17th and 18th century tiles as well as its majestic gilded altar.

Tip: by the altar buy a ticket to visit the sacristy.

4. Nazaré Lift

Dating back to the end of the 19th century, this elevator was designed by one of Eiffel's pupils: Raul Mesnier du Ponsard, and connects the beach to Sítio da Nazaré, making it the best way to get to the top.

5. Norte beach

Praia do Norte is known worldwide for the biggest waves surfed on the planet. It was here that Garrett McNamara surfed a wave of almost 30 meters, making Nazaré a sacred place for big wave surfing. It's the ideal place to watch international championships and challenge nature.

Not to be missed in Nazaré

Surfing and giant waves

Big waves have a specific season and only happen between October and March. Even if you don't surf, watching the world's greatest surfers go down what are considered to be the biggest waves in the world is something not to be missed.

Boat trips

With these tours you can explore the coast from a different perspective. Not only will you be able to see the cliffs, but some of the guided tours offer dolphin watching or a view of the giant waves from the open sea.

Typical cuisine

Nazaré is also known for being a gastronomic paradise, so don't miss out on traditional dishes such as:

• Grilled Sardines (during summer season)
• Seafood rice
• Fish stew
• Octopus "à Lagareiro"

Culture and traditions

Nazaré is a town deeply rooted in maritime traditions. It is common to see women dressed in their seven skirts, a symbol of the local cultural identity. The Dr. Joaquim Manso Museum, in Sítio da Nazaré, offers a fascinating insight into the town's history, culture and legends.

Popular Festivities

• Our Lady of Nazaré (September 8): One of the main religious festivals, with processions and celebrations
• Nazaré Carnival: Known for being one of the liveliest in Portugal, with parades and traditional costumes

 Tips for visiting Nazaré

When to visit?

• Summer (June to September): warm weather, ideal for beaches and walks
• Winter (October to March): big wave season
  

Where to stay?

• There are several hotel options in Nazaré, from local accommodation to resorts with sea views
• Recommended neighborhoods include the historic center, Sítio and the Marginal area

How to get there?

• By car: via the A8 from Lisbon or Leiria
• By bus: companies such as Rede Expressos or Rodoviária do Oeste offer direct connections

Nazaré with Children

Nazaré is a family-friendly destination. The central beach has guarded areas and calmer waters in summer. The Parque Atlântico, with its gardens and playgrounds, is a good option for quiet moments with the little ones.

If you want to learn more about the stories and legends of this charming town, book a guided tour of Nazaré with us!

The post Nazaré: the land of giant waves appeared first on Silver Coast Travelling.

When we travel, we try to enrich our experience in the place we've chosen to get to know better. And of course, there's no better way to get to know the culture of the places we choose to visit than through their gastronomy.

Gastronomy of the Silver Coast Portugal: Influences and characteristics

The region is bathed by the Atlantic Ocean and at the same time lives off its rurality, and the gastronomy is influenced by this dichotomy: the sea and agriculture. Here the dishes reveal a Portuguese tradition passed down from generation to generation, as well as room for innovation.

Typical ingredients

Fish and seafood: Sea bass, sardines, clams and barnacles are some of the stars at your table

Fruits and vegetables: "Rocha" pear, "Alcobaça" apple and high quality vegetables mark the region

Meat and sausages: Kid, piglet and blood sausage are used in local cuisine

Conventual pastry: Highlights include bean cakes from Torres Vedras, sponge cake from Alfeizerão and cornucopias from Alcobaça

Wines and liqueurs: Lisbon wines and sour cherry liqueur are very popular throughout the country.

Typical dishes from Silver Coast Portugal

Tradition is everything here, and the most typical dishes show it. The tradition of fishing and agriculture is at its most cultural in the gastronomy.

Fish stew: Towns like Peniche and Nazaré bring us one of the most emblematic dishes of the Portuguese coast. Caldeirada de peixe is a mixture of fresh fish, potatoes, peppers and tomatoes, which are cooked slowly to enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.

Bolhão Pato style clams: This unmistakable taste of Portuguese gastronomy is a simple but very tasty combination. Here the seafood combines with olive oil, garlic, coriander and white wine.

Seafood stew: The most important ingredient here is the fresh seafood, but the bread can't be far behind. To all this is added garlic, coriander and poached eggs, creating a unique and irresistible flavor.

Grilled sardines: Here are the queens of the Portuguese festival! It couldn't be more traditional. There is usually a special time to eat them, which is when they reach their appetizing size: between June and September. They are served with bread or boiled potatoes.

Silver Coast piglet: Yes, it's associated with the Bairrada region, but in the West there are also very appetizing variations of this dish. Piglet is nothing more or less than a tender pig that is roasted and stands out for its crispy, juicy skin.

Traditional pastry

The monasteries throughout the region brought with them some of the most traditional sweets that can be found in some of the cities and towns in the Silver Coast.

Pão de Ló from Alfeizerão: This sponge cake is a little different from the rest because the inside is creamy and moist, giving it a different texture. For all lovers of conventual sweets, this one is a must try.

Cavacas from Caldas: Cavacas das Caldas are more or less like a sigh. They are a dry cake made from eggs, flour, sugar and lemon and are perfect with a nice cup of coffee.

Cornucópias from Alcobaça: Developed by the “white monks” or Cistercian monks, cornucopias are based on egg yolks and sugar and are shaped like a cone.

Ginja from Óbidos: Although it is a drink, it is a drink and not a sweet… this liqueur is served in a chocolate cup, giving it a new look!

Regional wines and drinks

The Lisbon wine region takes in much of the West and has some of Portugal's most famous wines. We also highlight two other very special drinks here, Ginja de Óbidos and Aguardente da Lourinhã.

Wines from Torres Vedras and Alenquer: The red wines are usually full-bodied and the whites aromatic. Some of the whites have a salty touch due to the proximity of the vines to the ocean.

Ginja de Óbidos: this is a traditional liqueur from the West region, and it's like a sweet Port wine.

Aguardente da Lourinhã: there are only three demarcated brandy regions in the world: Cognac and Armagnac in France and another in the West, more precisely in Lourinhã. This is a hidden treasure that you'll have to discover.

Best time to visit and try the local specialties

There is no best time to visit the region, as they are all different and special, but here are a few tips to suggest the best time to try some of the local gastronomic specialties:

June to September: this is the perfect time of year to try grilled sardines.

Autumn and winter: be sure to try the fish stew or the seafood açorda, which are comforting dishes.

Gastronomic festivals not to be missed: Highlights include the partridge festival in Caldas da Rainha (A-dos-Francos), the seafood festival in Ericeira or the Medieval Fair in Óbidos.

Conclusion

If you like to eat, and you think this is a way of getting to know the local culture of the Silver Coast Portugal region better, then you should pay a visit and try all these suggestions, starting with fresh fish, passing through seafood, and not ending with meat but with sweets. As a digestif, try a Ginja from Óbidos or a brandy from Lourinhã. And if you want to get to know and taste more our local culture book the Caldas da Rainha Food Tour.

Enjoy your meal!

The post Silver Coast Portugal: a rich and diverse gastronomy appeared first on Silver Coast Travelling.

In this article we'll explore what this region has to offer, so follow along for tips that will increase your curiosity about this destination.

But where is the Silver Coast Portugal?

Silver Coast lies between three districts: Lisbon, Santarém and Leira, straddling both the Atlantic coastline and the interior of the country. As well as stunning landscapes and charming towns and villages, the region is close to the capital Lisbon.

Destinations in focus in the Silver Coast Portugal

Óbidos the most charming medieval town in Portugal

This town is one of the most picturesque in the country, surrounded in its entirety by medieval walls (well preserved), offering visitors narrow streets full of flowers and whitewashed houses creating a charming atmosphere.

These are some of the points not to be missed during a visit to the town:

• Town main entrance and its XVII/XVIII-century tiles
• Church of Santa Maria de Óbidos
• Santiago bookstore (ancient royal chapel)
• VIII century Moorish castle

Peniche, the surfers "Meca"

This is probably the best-known surfing destination in Portugal and abroad. This peninsula is home to some of the best waves in the world. Supertubos beach and Baleal are the beaches of choice for practicing this sport. You can always combine sport with the rich gastronomy associated with fresh fish.

Not to be missed in Peniche:

• Supertubos beach
• Baleal beach
• Carvoeiro cape
• Museum of Independence

Nazaré, the land of Giant Waves and fishing traditions

Yes, if Peniche is known for being the “Mecca” of surfers, Nazaré is no exception and in the last 15 years has become known as the land of giant waves. Today the town attracts professional surfers from all over the world who want to surf what are considered to be the biggest waves in the world.

Then, of course, there's so much more! Highlights include the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the coastline, as well as the traditions associated with its people, such as the drying of the fish or where the oldest women still wear seven skirts. Caldeirada de Peixe (fish stew) or Arroz de Marisco (seafood rice) are two gastronomic dishes to try.

What to visit if you're in Nazaré:

• São Miguel Arcanjo fortress
• Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Nazaré
• Funicular

Caldas da Rainha and its centuries-old thermal baths

This city planted between hills and beaches is known for its thermal baths, where its thermal hospital is considered the oldest in the world. But not only that, the city is also known for its rurality, where the “Praça da Fruta” is the only traditional open-air market open every day of the year. Here you can find fresh fruit and vegetables as well as a variety of local cheeses.

Off the beaten tourist track, this is the place to visit:

• Thermal Hospital
• Street market
• D. Carlos I
• José Malhoa Museum

Alcobaça the city of love

Alcobaça is known for its monastery and for the love story of King Pedro I and Queen Inês de Castro. But there's more to discover in the city. In association with the monastery of Santa Maria, you can try the convent sweets, including the cornucopia.

Not to be missed in Alcobaça:

• Santa Maria monastery (UNESCO heritage)
• Wine museum
• Conventual pastry

Silver Coast Portugal: Culture and traditions

The Silver Coast Portugal is rich in cultural traditions, crafts and festivities, some of which are centuries old. These include:

• Ginja de Óbidos: A true nectar of the gods that today is drunk in a glass of chocolate.
• Bordalo Pinheiro: The master who revolutionized ceramics and the dynamics of the city of Caldas da Rainha.
• Dried fish: In Nazaré there is an open-air museum showing how this activity is carried out.
• International Chocolate Festival: This is one of the most eagerly awaited festivals in the country and brings even more magic to the surroundings of Óbidos castle.

Gastronomy in the Silver Coast Portugal region

The Silver Coast is known as the “breadbasket” of the capital. Fresh ingredients abound, transforming the quality of any dish.

• Fish stew: in this stew, the star of the dish is the fresh fish
• Bacalhau à lagareiro: as it should be, here too we find the king of the Portuguese table (codfish)
• Pão de Ló de Alfeizerão: This delicacy of the gods is one of the most popular conventual pastries in Portugal (similar as a Sponge cake).

When is the best time to visit the Silver Coast Portugal?

• Summer: this is the ideal time to visit the region's long sandy beaches and also to enjoy festivals such as the Óbidos Medieval Market.
• Autumn: The mild temperatures will allow you to visit the historic towns, or go birdwatching in the Óbidos lagoon.
• Winter: Ideal for watching the giant waves of Nazaré
• Spring: If you like hiking or walking outdoors, this is the ideal time to visit the region.

Events not to be missed in the Silver Coast Portugal

Let's make a list of events and activities that you'll want to visit in the Western region:

• Medieval Market: In the summer this is probably the most popular event. It takes place during July and August in the town of Óbidos
• Caldas Late Night: This is an art festival held by university students at Caldas da Rainha (late May)
• International Exhibition of Alcobaça Conventual Sweets & Liqueurs: takes place during the month of November
• World Surf League: Every March at the Supertubos beach in Peniche

Conclusion

In conclusion, this region north of Lisbon is the perfect example of how you can mix history, culture and nature in your trip, and is ideal for planning a shorter or longer visit if you have the time.

Either way, we're here waiting to show you the best we have to offer. Get to know more about the Silver Coast destinations.

Get local with a local!

The post The Silver Coast Portugal: A guide to explore this fascinating region appeared first on Silver Coast Travelling.

The town lies between the sea and the hills of the West, just an hour away from Lisbon by car and bus.

History of Óbidos

Roman origins and influence

The occupation of the territory where the town of Óbidos is located today dates back to prehistoric times, and it is believed that the Celts were here between the second and third centuries BC. However, it was the Romans who had the greatest influence, creating roads to facilitate trade and the defense of the territory.

It was also the Romans who brought the famous Óbidos fruit to Portugal: the sour cherry!

The Muslims and the Christian Reconquest

The Muslims were in Óbidos for five hundred years. They turned the town into a stronghold. The church of Santa Maria de Óbidos, for example, is thought to have been a mosque before being baptized by the first Portuguese king, Afonso Henriques. Óbidos was conquered by the Portuguese a year after the conquest of the castle of Lisbon, in 1148.

Vila das Rainhas: A gift from King Dinis to Queen Santa Isabel

The fact that Óbidos is so well preserved to this day owes a lot to the legacy that the Portuguese queens left here.

It all began in the 13th century when King Dinis gave his wife Queen Isabel the castle and lands of Óbidos. And with this gesture a tradition began in which kings offered the town and its lands to their queens as a dowry, and today the town is known as “Óbidos the town of queens”.

The recent past and the present

The twentieth century brought major changes to the town of Óbidos. Major reconstructions were carried out within the town. One of these was the Moorish castle, which was transformed into a Pousada. This hotel model was implemented in Portugal during the 1940s and 1950s by the Estado Novo, and the Óbidos castle is the first example of all.

What to do in Óbidos

Strolling through its narrow, medieval streets

This is a unique experience because Óbidos is a beautiful picturesque town, with its whitewashed houses and blue, yellow or red stripes. There are fantastic corners that will add even more life to your Instagram. Rua Direita (the main and most popular street) has craft stores and cafés where you can stop (or as many as you like) to shop or have a drink.

Visit the Moorish Castle

This eighth-century castle at the top of the hill is one of the stops you can't miss. From here you're sure to get some of the best views of the picturesque village. Today it houses a luxury inn, but you can still visit its courtyard and get an idea of what the castle would have looked like in medieval times.

Taste the Ginjinha from Óbidos

As written before, sour cherries were brought to the region by the Romans from what are now Greece and Turkey, but it wasn't until the 12th century that the first monks at the Santa Maria de Alcobaça monastery began to develop the fantastic nectar we have today.

Nowadays, the great “new” tradition is to drink your ginjinha in a glass of chocolate, providing a unique experience.

Exploring religious heritage

Church of Santa Maria de Óbidos

This church was baptized in the 12th century by the first Portuguese king D. Afonso Henriques and is today the town's main church. We highlight the artistic tile work from the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, as well as a unique treasure: the five paintings by the Baroque painter Josefa de Óbidos known as the “Holistic Marriage of Saint Catherine”.

Church of São Pedro

This Baroque church was built during the 13th century but was extensively damaged during the 1755 earthquake, which severely damaged the structure of the town of Óbidos.

Highlights of the visit include its imposing Baroque altar and the Portuguese choir on the church's ceiling.

Sanctuary of Senhor Jesus da Pedra

The main feature of this church is that it is hexagonal. It was built in the eighteenth century and is associated with one of the local legends.

Themed festivals in the town of Óbidos

In recent years, the town of Óbidos has been transformed culturally and is now home to some of the biggest festivals in Portugal.

Christmas Town: It takes place during the winter and has a different theme every year. This is probably the biggest festival of them all and is focused on a younger audience.

Medieval Market: It's held in the summer and usually takes place in July and August. In addition to the medieval theme, this event is made even more popular by the fact that you can rent medieval costumes. Food, drink and shows are always present.

International Chocolate Festival: As you can already tell, this festival is a favorite with the sweet tooth. Just like Vila Natal, it changes its theme every year. It takes place in March and April.

FOLIO: This international literary festival brings writers from all over the world to Óbidos. It takes place in October and turns Óbidos into a giant bookshop! The town is part of UNESCO's network of literary towns.

Here are some tips for visiting Óbidos:

When is the best time?

Yes, you can choose any time of year to visit the town of Óbidos! Entrance to the walled town is free and you can stroll through its streets at any time of day, but there are “times” and “seasons” to do so:

• Spring and fall: Pleasant weather and probably fewer tourists
• Summer: Busier, but the Medieval Market festival is definitely worth a visit
• Winter: Perfect time to visit the Christmas Town festival.

How to get to the village

The town of Óbidos is about an hour away from Lisbon.

• By car: The quickest way is to take the A8 highway, taking the exit that says “Óbidos”
• By bus: There are regular bus departures from Lisbon from the Campo Grande terminal
• By train: It is also possible to get to Óbidos by train, but it takes longer and the train station is a long way from the town.

Where to eat

Being an international destination, there are many restaurants with a varied gastronomic offer (sometimes it is more difficult to find options for vegetarians).

Where to stay

For a small town like Óbidos, there are many choices for overnight stays or longer vacations. You can choose from hotels inside and outside the walls, as well as local accommodation.

Conclusion

This is certainly a destination not to be missed in Portugal. If you're planning your next trip, book a guided tour of Óbidos with us and have a unique experience.

If you want to have a greater experience at the Silver Coast book your Óbidos Tour!

The post Óbidos: the jewel of the crown appeared first on Silver Coast Travelling.