OVERVIEW
Obidos is one of the most charming towns I have ever been to and I could have daydreams of myself living there for a month… spending my afternoons hanging laundry on my clothesline while talking to the local elderly ladies and gossiping about the town. When my mind starts drifting, I imagine living in a small town like this where everyone knows each other and old traditions are used today. Need more proof that this town is amazing? Consider this: In the 13th century, Queen Isabel visited this town and fell so in love with it that her husband, King Denis I, gave it to her. That’s right…he gave her the actual town. (Good luck topping that gift Buddy!) Although it is good for a day trip, there is nothing like being here after the crowds have left. That’s when the magic happens.
Here are my top 10 things to do in Obidos:
WALK AROUND THE TOWN DURING THE DAY
As soon as you enter the town you will feel like you’ve stepped through a portal back in time. The best thing to do is get lost on the cobblestone streets and alleyways.
There are two main streets in the town so all the alleyways will always bring you back to the center of town.
WALK AROUND THE VILLAGE AT NIGHT
As I mentioned above, the town looks very different at night and is a safe place to explore after dark. Locals will dine later than the tourists so if you wait to eat you will feel like you’re part of the community. After dinner, find the town square and sit outside enjoying a drink while looking at the church and the old buildings.
GO UP ON THE WALL
Obidos is surrounded by a towering medieval stone wall. The only problem about a good view is you usually have to be up high to see it. I’m not a huge fan of heights but I’m a sucker for a good photo opportunity. From atop the wall you can see an amazing sunset,
the surrounding farmlands outside the town,
and panoramic views of the town.
The wall has no railing on the side of the town and there were many places where there were high drops.
If you’re going to go up there, make sure you’re wearing good shoes and explain the dangers ahead of time. When we were there in 2020, most of the wall was closed off except for one area near the castle.
GO UP TO THE CASTLE
The castle is actually a hotel now, so there’s not much to see when you go up there. However, it offers an amazing view of the town and a great option if you do not want to walk the wall. If you get a chance to eat there you will dine in a uniquely decorated room with impeccable service and delicious authentic Portuguese food.
ENJOY SOME GINJA
Throughout the town you will see many places selling Ginja. This fruity drink is a liqueur made from ginja berries that is served in a small chocolate cup. This sweet drink tastes like cherries and blends perfectly with the chocolate cup.
SEE THE FRONT GATE
The main entrance is called Porta da Senhora (Door of the Lady). Make sure you take the time to appreciate the gorgeous azulejos… the traditional blue and white tiles that Portugal has made famous.
GO ON A HORSE-DRAWN CARRIAGE RIDE
A unique way to see the town is on a horse-drawn carriage ride. You can usually find them by the entrance to town and I believe they give you a choice of riding within the walls or through the countryside.
VISIT THE CHURCH
Igreja de Santa Maria (The Church of St. Maria) is a lovely church that you can peek into as long as there are not masses in session.
The courtyard is a gathering spot for many locals.
ENJOY SOME RESTAURANTS
The streets are lined with stores, quaint taverns, and restaurants serving Portuguese food made from family recipes.
GO SHOPPING
Throughout the town, the streets are lines with stores. You’ll find lots of the same souvenirs as you will in most places, but there are also places to buy pottery, purses, bottles of ginja, jewelry, and clothes.
