Are you looking for a unique and memorable travel experience? Then, Obidos, the enchanting medieval walled city in Central Portugal, is just what you need. Declared a National Monument and World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Obidos offers plenty of sightseeing opportunities to its visitors. From the ancient Castle of Óbidos to Santa Maria Church and the Obidos Lagoon, there’s something here for everyone. So take a step back with us as we explore this beautiful Portuguese town!
Introducing Obidos – A Unique and Memorable Travel Experience
Obidos is a unique and memorable travel destination that will take you back to the Middle Ages. This medieval walled city in Central Portugal has been declared a National Monument and World Heritage Site by UNESCO due to its rich history. Obidos offers plenty of sightseeing opportunities, from its ancient castle to cobblestone streets. We’ll explore some must-see attractions in this enchanting destination, including the Castle of Óbidos, Santa Maria Church and the Obidos Lagoon.
Exploring the Castle of Óbidos – An Ancient Monument to Admire
As you enter Obidos, you will be welcomed by the imposing Castle of Óbidos. Built-in 1210, this ancient monument offers a stunning view over the entire town. Visitors can explore its many rooms and towers, admire its beautiful gardens and stroll around the castle walls while taking in the views. Don’t forget to take some pictures as a souvenir!
Discovering Santa Maria Church – A Historical Religious Site
Just outside Obidos is one of Portugal’s oldest religious sites, Santa Maria Church. This church dates back to the 13th century and has been well-preserved for centuries. Visitors can explore its beautiful architecture and admire its ornate sculptures and stained glass windows. Don’t forget to visit the nearby monastery, where you will find some fantastic artifacts from Portugal’s past.
Take in the Views at Obidos Lagoon – Beautiful Scenery Everywhere You Look
A trip to Obidos wouldn’t be complete without taking a stroll around Obidos Lagoon. This stunning lagoon is surrounded by lush greenery and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. So take some time to relax here while admiring the beauty of nature around you.
Obidos Xmas and Chocolate Festival and market
One of the most popular events in Obidos is the annual Christmas Market and Chocolate Festival. Held every year in December, this event is the perfect opportunity to sample some of Portugal’s finest chocolates and purchase unique Christmas gifts for your loved ones. So be sure to take part in this festive tradition!
Visiting Local Markets for Souvenirs and Handcrafted Goods
Obidos has many local markets where you can find great souvenirs and handcrafted goods. From jewellery to ceramics, plenty of items here will make special memories from your trip. Also, don’t forget to visit Caldas da Rainha, a nearby town known for its pottery shops and art galleries!
Eating Traditional Portuguese Cuisine to Complete Your Trip to Obidos!
After all that sightseeing, you can round off your visit to Obidos by indulging in some traditional Portuguese cuisine. From succulent seafood dishes to locally-made cheeses and wines, there’s something here for everyone. So take a step back with us as we explore this beautiful Portuguese town!
Exploring Obidos is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re visiting the Castle of Óbidos or taking in the views at
So plan your trip today and prepare for a unique travel adventure! With its ancient monuments, local markets and delicious cuisine, Obidos has something for everyone. We hope you enjoyed our exploration of this charming Portuguese town! Obidos, we’re sure you’ll fall in love with everything this magical place offers. Enjoy your stay!
3 Fun Facts about Obidos
- Obidos is home to one of Portugal’s oldest and most iconic castles, the Castle of Óbidos. Built-in 1210, this impressive fortress has stood the test of time with its strong stone walls and watchtowers that offer stunning views over the town and surrounding countryside. Visitors can explore its many rooms and towers, admire its beautiful gardens, and stroll around the castle walls while enjoying the views.
- Obidos features some of the best cuisines in all of Portugal. From succulent seafood dishes to locally-made cheeses and wines, there’s something here for everyone. Don’t miss out on traditional Portuguese dishes such as bacalhau (salted codfish) or caldo Verde (Kale soup). For an even more unique experience, join locals gathering at a local café for a late-night drink or snack!
- One of Obidos’ most prominent events is their annual Christmas Market and Chocolate Festival in December. It’s an excellent opportunity to sample some of Portugal’s finest chocolates and purchase unique gifts for your loved ones. The town also comes alive during this festive season with colourful decorations adorning the streets, fun events such as music concerts or theatre plays being held at churches or squares, and locals enjoying mulled wine while chatting with friends or family members by candlelight.
Obidos 4k
3 Must visit shops in Obidos
- A visit to Obidos would not be complete without a stop at the A Vida Portuguesa shop. This family-run business offers an array of unique items, from traditional Portuguese ceramics and kitchenware to handmade products such as soaps, jewellery, and clothing made with natural materials. Many of these products are designed with an emphasis on sustainability and have been crafted by local artisans. The shop also stocks an impressive selection of wines, cream liquors, jams, olive oils, and chocolates that make great souvenirs or gifts for your loved ones.
- The second must-visit shop in Obidos is Livraria do Castelo (The Castle Bookshop). Located in Town Hall Square, this shop has been operating since 1883 and has a rich city history. Visitors can find various books related to Portuguese culture here, including works of art and poetry written in Portuguese or English. There’s also a selection of rare antiques and postcards depicting old scenes of Obidos, which make excellent souvenirs for visitors who want to take a piece of history home with them!
- Lastly, don’t forget to check out Torreão da Sé (Tower of Saint). This centuries-old store is located inside the city walls near Obidos Castle and is one of the oldest establishments in town. It specializes in traditional local handicrafts such as hand-embroidered linens, tablecloths, lace shawls and aprons made from natural fibres like wool and cotton. Here you can find fantastic items that will remind you forever about your time exploring this beautiful medieval city!
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ
Q1: What is Obidos, Portugal, known for?
A1: Obidos is a medieval walled city in central Portugal that has been declared a National Monument and World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It’s most famous for its castle, Santa Maria Church and the Obidos Lagoon.
Q2: What attractions are there to see in Obidos?
A2: Some of the must-see attractions in this enchanting destination include the Castle of Óbidos, Santa Maria Church and the Obidos Lagoon. Other landmarks, such as the Chapel of Saint Catherine or Nossa Senhora da Piedade Convent, offer visitors plenty of sightseeing opportunities.
Q3: When does obidos’ annual Christmas Market takes place?
A3: The town comes alive during December with its annual Christmas Market and Chocolate Festival held every year. It’s an excellent opportunity to sample some of Portugal’s finest chocolates and purchase unique gifts for your loved ones while taking in all that festive cheer!
Q4: Where can I find traditional Portuguese handmade products in Obidos?
A4: A Vida Portuguesa is the perfect place to get unique items such as traditional Portuguese ceramics and kitchenware, handmade soaps, jewellery, clothing made with natural materials, wines, cream liquors, jams, olive oils and chocolates. It’s a family-run business that offers an array of products crafted by local artisans!
Q5: Is there somewhere I can find books about Obidos or Portugal?
A5: Livraria do Castelo (The Castle Bookshop) is located in the Town Hall Square and has been operating since 1883. Here you can find various books related to Portuguese culture, including works of art and poetry written in Portuguese or English. There’s also a selection of rare antiques and postcards depicting old scenes of Obidos.
Recommended Websites about Obidos
- Obidos Portugal – https://www.obidosportugal.com/
- Visit Centro de Portugal – https://visitcentrodeportugal.com/en/place-obidos/
- Discovering Obidos, Portugal’s Medieval City: A Travel Guide –https://unearthingportugalphotographyblog.com/2018/03/discovering-obidos-medieval-city-travel-guide