Magical Things to Do in Óbidos, Portugal: A 1-2 Day Itinerary
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The moment I saw a photo of Óbidos—a tiny, walled town in central Portugal—I knew I had to go. With cobblestone streets winding past whitewashed houses, flowering vines, and a castle rising above it all, it looked like something straight out of a fairytale. And it truly is.
Whether you’re planning a quick day trip from Lisbon or staying overnight to soak up the atmosphere, there are so many charming things to do in Óbidos that make it well worth your time.
As a solo female traveler who’s explored Portugal from Porto to the Algarve, I found that Óbidos offered something special: a slower pace, rich history, and just the right amount of magic.
In this guide, I’ll share exactly what to do in Óbidos—from walking its medieval walls to sipping ginjinha in a chocolate cup—with personal tips, photos, and honest recommendations based on my experience.
Let’s dive in!
Is Óbidos Worth Visiting?
Absolutely—Óbidos is one of Portugal’s most enchanting small towns, and it’s well worth a visit whether you have a few hours or a full day to spare.
Famous for its medieval walls, colorful streets, and castle-turned-hotel, this tiny town packs a lot of charm into a walkable footprint.
While many travelers experience it on a day trip from Lisbon, staying overnight unlocks an entirely different side of Óbidos—one that’s quieter, slower, and full of golden-hour magic.
If you’re wondering what to see in Óbidos or whether it deserves a spot on your Portugal itinerary, let me reassure you: yes, it does.
From local food and literary-themed cafés to centuries-old streets that seem frozen in time, Óbidos delivers a unique blend of history, beauty, and atmosphere that’s hard to find elsewhere.
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How to Get to Óbidos
Óbidos is located about 85 kilometers (53 miles) north of Lisbon, making it a popular day trip destination. You can get there by bus, car, or train—but not all options are created equal.
I personally traveled to Óbidos by train from Aveiro and left by bus to Lisbon, and I’d definitely recommend the bus over the train.
By Bus (Highly Recommended)
Taking the bus to Óbidos is by far the most convenient and comfortable option—especially if you’re coming from Lisbon. The Rápida Verde service run by Rodoviária do Oeste departs from Campo Grande bus station in Lisbon and takes just over an hour.
The best part? The bus drops you off right outside the town walls, so there’s no uphill trek involved.
Tickets are around €9, paid in cash directly to the driver, and buses run fairly frequently during the week (with reduced service on weekends).
The ride itself was surprisingly smooth and modern, making this a great choice for a Lisbon to Óbidos day trip.
By Car
If you’re planning to explore more of central Portugal—like Nazaré, Batalha, or Alcobaça—then renting a car might be worth it.
The drive from Lisbon to Óbidos takes about an hour via the A8 motorway (a toll road), and there’s free parking available just outside the historic center. Renting a car also gives you the freedom to stop at scenic viewpoints or hidden beaches along the way.
(Tip: I recommend booking through Discover Cars for affordable rates and easy pickup in Lisbon.)
By Train (Not Ideal)
While it’s technically possible to take the train to Óbidos, I wouldn’t recommend it.
I made the journey by train from Aveiro, and while the countryside views were lovely, the station itself is located far from the walled town—about a 20-minute walk down a country road with no sidewalk
Add limited departure times and a travel time of over two hours from Lisbon, and the train just doesn’t stack up.
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Things to Do in Óbidos – Day One
Most people visit Óbidos as a quick stop on a Portugal itinerary—maybe an afternoon escape from Lisbon or a detour on the way to Nazaré. But choosing to stay overnight? That’s what made it magical for me.
Without the pressure to rush through the sights, I was able to slow down and soak up the rhythm of this storybook town.
The best things to do in Óbidos aren’t flashy or bucket-list big. They’re quiet, beautiful, and best experienced without a strict itinerary.
Here’s how I spent my first day uncovering its charm—and why I think you’ll want to do the same.
Óbidos Tour Recommendation: Medieval Tales & Secret Spots
If you’re short on time—or just want to dive deeper into the magic of Óbidos—this highly rated guided walking tour is a fantastic way to explore. It covers both iconic landmarks and hidden gems, with a local guide who brings the town’s history to life through stories of queens, painters, and poets.
Why I Recommend It:
- Walk the castle walls and explore quiet backstreets
- Visit not one, but two of Óbidos’s unique bookstores
- Learn the stories behind the town’s churches and famous residents
- Includes a tasting of Ginjinha de Óbidos in a chocolate cup
This tour is especially great if you’re only visiting for a day and want to make the most of it.
Wander the Cobblestone Streets
If you do just one thing in Óbidos, make it this: wander.
After arriving by train from Aveiro (not the most convenient route, for the record), I walked into town past fields and horses and winding country roads.
Once I dropped my bag at the hostel, I headed straight up toward the Porta da Vila—the ornate city gate—and into the walled center of town.
Óbidos may be small, but it’s a maze of charm. Once I passed through the Porta da Vila, I found myself on the bustling main street, filled with souvenir shops, cherry liqueur in chocolate cups, and more tourists than I’d expected.
But the magic truly began when I ducked down a side alley. Suddenly, the crowds disappeared, and I had the whitewashed streets—and their bursts of bougainvillea—all to myself.
There’s no official “route” for exploring the town, and that’s part of what makes it so lovely. One of the best things to do in Óbidos is to let yourself get lost in its winding streets. Every turn reveals another photo-worthy doorway, charming church, or vine-draped balcony.
Visit the Bookstores & Literary Spots
One of the most unique things to do in Óbidos is explore its surprisingly literary side. As a UNESCO City of Literature, this tiny town has bookstores tucked in the most unexpected corners—between wine bottles, behind ivy-covered doors, even inside a deconsecrated church.
I spent part of the afternoon browsing secondhand novels, breathing in that musty-paper smell that book lovers know so well. I also passed the Literary Man Hotel, where over 50,000 books line the halls and lounges. I didn’t stop in just yet—I had plans to return there for dinner.
The whole town feels like it was made for wandering readers. I kept my pace slow and let the stories of Óbidos unfold around me.
Don’t Miss These Bookish Spots in Óbidos:
- São Tiago Church Bookstore – A massive bookstore housed in a former royal chapel.
- Literary Man Hotel – Boutique hotel meets library, with thousands of books in every room and hallway.
- Market Bookstore (Livraria do Mercado) – Part bookstore, part organic shop, tucked inside an old market hall.
- Livraria da Adega – A small wine shop/bookshop combo offering unique finds and local charm.
- Ler Devagar Óbidos – A satellite of Lisbon’s famous bookstore, located in a historic space near the castle walls.
Walk the Medieval Walls (Golden Hour Is Best)
Of course, no visit to Óbidos is complete without walking the town’s iconic medieval walls. Built to protect the city centuries ago, they now offer panoramic views over terracotta rooftops, green countryside, and the castle itself.
When I first arrived, the wall walk was packed with other visitors. But since I was spending the night in Óbidos—a major perk over a day trip—I waited until golden hour to climb up. And wow, was it worth it. As the sun dipped low, the crowds thinned, the light turned soft and golden, and the entire town felt like it had slipped back in time.
This moment—quiet, glowing, and completely surreal—is still one of my favorite memories from all of Portugal. Walking the walls at sunset is absolutely one of the best things to do in Óbidos if you stay overnight.
Note: The walls have no guardrails, so wear sturdy shoes and use caution.
Love medieval walled towns? If you’re obsessed with places like Óbidos, you’ll fall head over heels for Rothenburg ob der Tauber in Germany. Think half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and fairytale charm year-round.
Slow Down and Soak It In
After exploring and snapping far too many photos, I settled in at a small café on the main street with a cappuccino and some quality people-watching. There was a 200-pound great dane puppy next to me (yes, really), and his proud owner told me—through some serious miming—that he was only six months old. It’s the little moments like this that remind me why I love solo travel so much.
Splurge on Dinner at Book and Cook Restaurant
After golden hour on the walls, my stomach started rumbling and I began the hunt for dinner. Many spots had already closed for the night (Óbidos definitely winds down early), but I managed to snag a table at Book and Cook, the restaurant tucked inside the Literary Man Hotel—and I’m so glad I did.
Even before the food arrived, the vibe alone made it one of the most memorable meals of my Portugal trip. Picture this: cozy library shelves stacked with old books, comfy couches, warm lighting, and a menu delivered tucked inside a novel. As a solo traveler and lifelong book lover, I felt like I’d stepped into my dream dinner setting.
The food didn’t disappoint either. A glass of crisp white wine, fresh bread and olives, a perfectly cooked lamb dish, and the richest chocolate mousse to finish it off. At €31 for everything, it was a splurge by Portugal standards—but still a steal compared to back home.
If you’re looking for a restaurant in Óbidos that combines atmosphere, great food, and a touch of literary magic, this is it.
Things To Do In Obidos — Day Two
While Óbidos is small enough to see in a day, I’m so glad I gave myself a second. Staying longer let me slow down, explore more intentionally, and truly feel the rhythm of the town without the rush of a day trip itinerary.
There aren’t a ton of must-see attractions in Óbidos, but that’s kind of the point—the real joy comes from meandering, people-watching, and noticing the little details.
Here’s how I spent my second day in this magical walled town.
Explore the Streets (Again—But Differently)
After a slow morning catching up on work (because remote life doesn’t pause for fairytale towns), I ventured back into Óbidos, this time with a paper map in hand from the tourist office. While I’d wandered aimlessly the day before, today I had a bit more direction—and it made me notice even more.
I passed lemon trees hanging over stone walls, peeked into tucked-away courtyards, and got another dose of those sweeping views from the top of the town walls. There’s something deeply satisfying about seeing the same place from a slightly different perspective and noticing details you missed the first time.
Enjoy a Ginjinha in a Chocolate Cup
Later that morning, I stopped for one of Óbidos’s most iconic treats: a shot of ginjinha, the town’s beloved cherry liqueur, served in a tiny chocolate cup.
I bought it from a small stand on the main street, handed over a euro, and took a sip. Sweet. Strong. And then came the best part—eating the chocolate. It’s a tiny, slightly touristy ritual, but totally worth it.
Grab a Casual Lunch Outside the Walls
For lunch, I stepped just outside the city walls to Restaurante Muralhas, a no-frills pizza place perfect for a quick bite. The food was simple but satisfying, and the quiet setting was a nice break from the occasional tourist bustle inside the gates.
Shop for Local Snacks on Main Street
On my way back to the hostel, I stopped at one of the many shops lining the main street and bought a chunk of local cheese—dinner, paired with some fresh bread I already had. And honestly? It was perfect. Simple, rustic, and completely in tune with the spirit of Óbidos.
Where to Stay in Óbidos
If you have the time, I highly recommend spending a night in Óbidos. As charming as the town is during the day, it takes on a whole new level of magic after the day-trippers leave. Whether you’re looking for a castle stay, a book-lover’s dream, or a cozy budget-friendly base, there’s something here for everyone.
Here are some of the best places to stay in Óbidos, broken down by budget:
Budget: Hostel Argonauta
Set in a 17th-century former wine press, Hostel Argonauta is full of character—blending repurposed vintage furniture with an artistic, homey vibe. Located in the heart of Óbidos’s artisan district, it’s a great base for exploring both the historic town and nearby Óbidos Lagoon.
The hostel offers two shared dorms and one private double room, with shared bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and towels included. It’s a cozy, welcoming spot perfect for slow travelers on a budget.
Mid-Range
The Literary Man Hotel
With over 50,000 books lining its hallways and rooms, The Literary Man Hotel is a must for readers and romantics. Rooms are stylish and cozy, and there’s a beautiful library lounge where you can sip wine surrounded by old hardcovers. It’s also home to Book and Cook, one of the most atmospheric restaurants in town.
Staying here feels like sleeping inside a novel—and I mean that in the best way.
Casa das Senhoras Rainhas
Tucked near the castle ramparts, Casa das Senhoras Rainhas offers charming, comfortable rooms—some with private balconies overlooking the rooftops. There’s also an on-site restaurant and a peaceful courtyard perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.
It’s a lovely balance of location, comfort, and Old World charm.
Casa Lidador
A blend of traditional Portuguese architecture and modern comfort, Casa Lidador is a quiet retreat with minimalist design, a shared kitchen, and even a small outdoor pool. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a bit more independence during your stay.
Bonus: the terrace views are stunning.
Luxury: Pousada Castelo de Óbidos
For the ultimate fairytale experience, stay at the Pousada Castelo de Óbidos, a hotel housed inside the town’s actual medieval castle. The rooms are outfitted with antique furnishings, thick stone walls, and sweeping views of the town and countryside.
It’s not every day you get to sleep inside a 14th-century fortress—this one’s worth the splurge if you want a stay you’ll never forget.
FAQ About Visiting Óbidos, Portugal
What are the best things to do in Óbidos?
Some of the top things to do in Óbidos include walking the medieval walls, wandering the cobblestone streets, sipping ginjinha in a chocolate cup, visiting the Literary Man Hotel, and simply soaking in the fairytale-like atmosphere.
For a curated experience that covers all the highlights—castle, churches, bookstores, and ginjinha tasting—I recommend this top-rated walking tour.
How many days do you need in Óbidos?
You can technically see the highlights of Óbidos in one day, but staying overnight allows you to experience the town without the crowds and enjoy golden hour on the walls—an unforgettable experience.
Is Óbidos worth visiting?
Yes! Óbidos is one of the most charming small towns in Portugal. Its medieval architecture, literary flair, and slow travel vibe make it well worth the stop—especially if you’re coming from Lisbon or heading up the Silver Coast.
Can you walk the walls of Óbidos?
Yes, the medieval walls of Óbidos are open to the public and free to walk. They offer stunning views of the town and countryside, but be aware: there are no guardrails, so walk carefully.
What is Óbidos famous for?
Óbidos is best known for its medieval castle, well-preserved town walls, literary heritage, and ginjinha liqueur served in chocolate cups. It’s also famous for events like the Medieval Festival and International Chocolate Festival.
Final Thoughts: Slow Travel in Óbidos
Spending two days in Óbidos taught me something I didn’t know I needed to learn: that doing less can be more.
This little walled town isn’t packed with flashy sights or must-do attractions, but it invites you to move slower, to look closer, to feel things more deeply. From golden-hour strolls on the castle walls to unhurried coffee breaks and quiet streets full of character, Óbidos reminded me why I love travel in the first place.
It’s not about seeing more. It’s about being present. And this place—peaceful, poetic, and wrapped in centuries of stories—is perfect for that.
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