Óbidos: The Complete Guide

Óbidos is a medieval town located in the Centro region of Portugal. The town is known for its well-preserved architecture, including its castle and walls, which date back to the 12th century.

The town’s history can be traced back to Roman times, but it was during the medieval period that Óbidos became an important center of trade and culture. It was also during this time that the town was gifted by King Dinis to his wife, Isabella of Aragon, as mentioned in the previous answer.

In addition to its historical significance, Óbidos is also known for its beauty. The town is situated on a hill and is surrounded by rolling countryside and vineyards. Visitors can walk along the town’s cobbled streets, which are lined with white houses adorned with colorful flowers. The town also has a number of churches and other historical buildings, including a 16th-century aqueduct.

Óbidos is also famous for its annual Chocolate Festival, which takes place every year in March or April. During the festival, visitors can sample a variety of chocolates, attend workshops and cooking demonstrations, and enjoy live music and other entertainment.

Overall, Óbidos is a charming and picturesque town that is well worth a visit for anyone interested in history, culture, and natural beauty.

Visiting Óbidos for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Óbidos on the first visit. Top help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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6 Best places to See in Óbidos

This complete guide to Óbidos not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Óbidos and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Porta da Vila (Óbidos)

Porta Da Vila, Óbidos, Portugal
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Diego Delso

Porta da Vila is the main entrance to the charming walled town of Óbidos, Portugal. The gatehouse was originally built in the 14th century and was later remodelled in the 18th century in a Baroque style. It is located at the end of Rua Direita, the main street of Óbidos.

Read our full blog post on Visiting Porta da Vila (Óbidos)!


Address: Porta da Vila, Rua Josefa de Óbidos, Óbidos, Portugal | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 0.11km

Museu Municipal de Óbidos

Museu Municipal De Óbidos
CC BY-SA 4.0 / GualdimG

The Municipal Museum of Óbidos is a small but impressive museum located in the historic center of Óbidos, Portugal. Housed in a former 16th-century prison, the museum is dedicated to showcasing the cultural heritage of the town and its surrounding region.

Read our full blog post on Visiting Museu Municipal de Óbidos!


Address: Museu Municipal de Óbidos, Rua Direita, Óbidos, Portugal | Hours: 10am-1pm & 2-6pm Tue-Sun | Distance: 0.16km

Praça de Santa Maria (Óbidos)

Praça De Santa Maria (Óbidos)
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Vitor Oliveira

Praça de Santa Maria is a historic square located in the center of the town of Óbidos, Portugal. The square is surrounded by beautiful buildings that date back to the medieval period and reflect the town's rich history and cultural heritage. Praça de Santa Maria is also home to a number of cafes and restaurants, where visitors can enjoy traditional Portuguese cuisine and drinks while taking in the square's charming ambiance. Throughout the year, the square hosts a variety of cultural events, including festivals, concerts, and exhibitions. During the Christmas season, the square is decorated with festive lights and hosts a popular Christmas market. Overall, Praça de Santa Maria is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Óbidos. It offers a glimpse into the town's fascinating history and is a great place to relax, socialize, and enjoy the local culture.

Read our full blog post on Visiting Praça de Santa Maria (Óbidos)!


Address: Praça de Santa Maria, Óbidos, Portugal | Distance: 0.18km

Aqueduto de Óbidos

Aqueduto De Óbidos
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Vitor Oliveira

The Aqueduct of Óbidos is an impressive engineering feat that stretches over 3 kilometers (1.8 miles) outside the town of Óbidos, Portugal. It was built in the 16th century to transport water from the Usseira River to the town's cisterns, fountains, and other public places.

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Address: Aqueduto de Óbidos, N114, Óbidos, Portugal | Distance: 0.33km

Castelo de Óbidos

Castelo De Óbidos
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Joaomartinho63

The Castelo de Óbidos or Castle of Óbidos is a medieval castle located in the town of Óbidos, Portugal. The castle dates back to the 12th century and was built by King Sancho I to defend the town from invading forces.

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Address: Castelo de Óbidos, Rua Josefa de Óbidos, Óbidos, Portugal | Distance: 0.36km

Santuário do Senhor Jesus da Pedra

Santuário Do Senhor Jesus Da Pedra
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Alvesgaspar

Santuário do Senhor Jesus da Pedra, also known as the Sanctuary of Lord Jesus of the Stone, is a Catholic pilgrimage site located in the village of Casal Novo, near the town of Óbidos in Portugal. The sanctuary is situated on top of a hill and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

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Address: Santuário do Senhor Jesus da Pedra, Largo do Santuário, Óbidos, Portugal | Distance: 0.85km

Tours and Activities from Óbidos