Obidos: Medieval Walled Town with Charming Streets

Description: Obidos is a charming and historic town located in central Portugal. It is often referred to as the “Wedding Present Town” because it was traditionally given as a wedding gift from the king to the queen. Enclosed by medieval walls, Óbidos is renowned for its picturesque cobbled streets, whitewashed houses adorned with colorful flowers, and a well-preserved castle. This town is a perfect example of a medieval European town and is a popular tourist destination.

Visitor Fee: There is generally no entrance fee to visit Obidos itself. You can walk the town’s streets and enjoy its beauty freely. However, some specific attractions within Óbidos, like the castle and museums, may have admission fees.

Transportation:

• Car: Óbidos is easily accessible by car, located about 85 kilometers (53 miles) north of Lisbon. There’s ample parking available outside the town’s walls.
• Bus: You can take a bus from Lisbon to Óbidos. Several bus companies operate this route.
• Train: While there is no train station in Óbidos, you can take a train from Lisbon to the nearby town of Caldas da Rainha and then a bus or taxi to Óbidos.

Things to Do:

1. Walk the Walls: Stroll along the medieval town walls and enjoy panoramic views of Óbidos and the surrounding countryside.
2. Visit Óbidos Castle: Explore the well-preserved Óbidos Castle, which dates back to the 12th century and now serves as a hotel.
3. Rua Direita: Wander down Rua Direita, the main street lined with charming shops, cafes, and artisan boutiques.
4. Try Ginja: Sample the local liqueur, Ginja de Óbidos, made from sour cherries, at one of the town’s bars or shops.
5. Attend Festivals: If you visit during the Óbidos Medieval Market or the Chocolate Festival, you’ll experience the town’s vibrant atmosphere.
6. Santa Maria Church: Visit Santa Maria Church, an architectural gem adorned with stunning azulejos (traditional Portuguese ceramic tiles).

Why People Enjoy Coming Here:

• Medieval Charm: Óbidos transports visitors back in time with its well-preserved medieval architecture and cobblestone streets.
• Scenic Beauty: The town’s picturesque appearance, with colorful flowers and whitewashed buildings, makes it a photographer’s dream.
• Cultural Events: Festivals like the Medieval Market and Chocolate Festival add excitement to the town’s ambiance.
• Local Cuisine: Savor traditional Portuguese dishes and local sweets at the town’s restaurants and cafes.

How Old Is This Place: Óbidos has a history dating back to Roman times, but it’s most renowned for its medieval heritage, with the castle and walls dating to the 12th century.

List of Activities:

• Walking along the town walls.
• Visiting Óbidos Castle.
• Exploring Rua Direita and shopping for artisanal products.
• Tasting Ginja de Óbidos.
• Experiencing cultural festivals.
• Admiring the azulejos in Santa Maria Church.

Additional Nearby Attractions:

• Peniche: Head to the coastal town of Peniche, known for its beautiful beaches and as a starting point for boat trips to the Berlengas Islands.
• Batalha: Visit Batalha, home to the stunning Batalha Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Caldas da Rainha: Explore Caldas da Rainha, known for its ceramics and thermal baths.
• Nazaré: Discover Nazaré, a famous fishing village with a stunning beach and giant waves popular among surfers.