Day Trip to Enchanting Óbidos

Óbidos is an ideal day trip from Lisbon for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and step back in time. What’s so special about Óbidos? Just an hour’s drive north of Lisbon, this charming hilltop medieval town offers a picturesque setting enclosed by ancient fortified walls built in the 13th century. Though the walls were damaged in the 1755 earthquake, they were completely restored beginning in 1910.

We spent a week in Óbidos a few years ago, and paid a return visit to Óbidos as a day trip from Lisbon during our recent trip. You can easily see the highlights of Óbidos during a day trip, though an overnight stay allows you even more time to explore the surrounding area. Today we’re sharing a day trip itinerary that will let you both explore the medieval walled city and castle of Óbidos and enjoy time in nature at the lagoon. If you have more time, consider adding a day trip to neighboring Peniche.

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Why Visit Óbidos for a Day Trip?

Visitors can explore the well-preserved Óbidos Castle, stroll through narrow cobbled streets lined with colorful houses, walk the castle walls, and enjoy local Ginja served in edible chocolate cups. The town has unique bookshops and galleries to browse. In contrast to the busy walled city, the Óbidos Lagoon, provides opportunities for long bike rides, leisurely sails, or kayaking and paddle boarding in a tranquil setting.

Getting To Óbidos (from Lisbon)

Getting to Óbidos from Lisbon is convenient, making it an easy day trip for travelers whether traveling by car or public transport. A tour is also a great way to see all of the highlights and learn more about the history of Óbidos.

By car	Just over a 1 hour drive, with easy parking near the Aqueduct as you enter town.
By bus	Averaging 10 Euros, the bus ride from Lisbon takes 70-80 minutes.
By train	Take the train to Caldas da Rainhas, transfer to a bus to Óbidos. This takes 2+ hours.

Recommended Tours from Lisbon to Óbidos

Óbidos Day Trip Itinerary

Morning Adventure: Castle & Town Walls

Start your visit by entering the old town near Nossa Senhora de Piedade, the open air chapel. Dating back to the 16th century, you’ll find Nossa Senhora de Piedade on the right after passing through the 1st town gate.

Once you’ve passed through the chapel, take time to simply wander the streets, getting a feel for this historic town. The street are made of cobblestone, which can be slippery and uneven at times. Wearing sneakers or closed toed shoes with non-slip soles is recommended.

We chose to walk the town walls to get a different perspective as well. This provides you with stunning views of the surrounding countryside and coast, as well as of the town and castle.

While the wall is sufficiently wide to walk on in all places, there is a risk of falling. It also has steep stairs with no hand railing. Read the warning signs and decide if you want to do this at your own risk.

There is no cost to explore the Óbidos castle, unless you’re visiting during the annual Medieval Festival. The indoor areas of the hotel have been converted into a Pousada, so you can’t go inside unless you stay there. This is a great opportunity to stay in a castle in the walled village.

Morning Literary Escape

Post castle exploration, make your way to the unique Livraria de Santiago bookstore in the heart of the town. A chapel converted into a library, it’s a paradise for book lovers. It has an eclectic atmosphere, with books from floor to ceiling, provides the perfect backdrop for a peaceful reading break. On a hot day, this is also a great break from the heat.

Afternoon at the Lagoon

Take a break from old town to spend the afternoon out on the waters of Obidos Lagoon. We’ve enjoyed paddling from the Escola de Vela da Lagoa. They offer lessons and rentals for sailing, kayaking, and paddle boarding on the serene lagoon. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, the lagoon’s calm waters are ideal for a variety of water sports. The sailing school does offer a limited lunch menu, with burgers, a variety of salads, and omelets. While simple, we have enjoyed consistently good food and eating outdoors next to the lagoon.

If you’re not up for water spots, consider renting a bike or taking a bike your and exploring the trails around the lagoon. You can bike along the river from Obidos to the lagoon, or rent a bike at the lagoon.

Evening: Dinner and a Sunset along the Silver Coast

Head over to the Atlantic coast to end your day with dinner and a walk on the beach at sunset on the silver coast. Staying at the beach for the night is a great option to extend your stay, whether at the Marriott or at a private home rental.

Óbidos is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Portugal—perfect for a day trip or an overnight for history buffs, literary lovers, and adventure seekers alike. If you enjoyed exploring the walled cities and castles, consider a visit to Sintra.

If you have the time to spend the night, enjoy staying right in the castle in old town or just off the beach in Praia D’El Rey. Don’t miss adding a side trip to Peniche and to the Berlengas Islands.

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Where to Stay in Óbidos

Pousada Castelo de Obidos	Guest house in Óbidos’ castle
Casa Senhoras Rainhas – Óbidos – by Unlock Hotels	Boutique hotel within the city walls
The Literary Man Obidos Hotel	Former convent within the city walls, with international books scattered throughout
Stunning 3-Bedroom Townhouse	Great choice for families or groups wanting to be near the beach. This T3 townhouse is 0.2 miles from the beach and close to the golf courses of Praia d’El Rey.
Villa Lantana	3-bedroom golf and pool villa with easy access to the Óbidos Lagoon.
Praia D’El Rey Marriott Golf & Beach Resort	If you are looking for a golf resort directly on the beach, the Marriott is a great option. You can get easy transfers into the old town, but have the convenience of staying directly adjacent to stunning beaches.