If Lisbon is anywhere on your future itineraries, consider adding an extra day to journey outside the city to explore one of Portugal's most charming seaside towns, Nazaré.
The Perfect Day Trip Destination from Lisbon
If you drive about 120 kilometers north of Lisbon, you will discover an idyllic fishing village filled with quaint buildings with terracotta rooftops and teeming with cultural heritage. Visiting Nazaré offers an exciting chance to further delve into Portugal’s coastal lifestyle with opportunities to shop, relax on the beach, or feast on local seafood.
On the Road
Start off your day from your homebase in Lisbon with a coffee and a pastel de nata, Portugal’s popular custard tart, before embarking on a scenic drive through surrounding towns and rolling hills. Alternatively, stop for a quick breakfast along the way in Ericeira, another coastal village with a trendy café scene and laid-back atmosphere. Dear Rose Café, Black Magic, and Tiger and Chick are some delicious spots to fuel up for your journey.
Wander from Street to Sea
Once you arrive in Nazaré, spend the afternoon wandering the narrow streets and alleyways, perusing local shops, and soaking in the ocean views. For a glimpse into the area’s religious history, visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazareth and admire the detailed architecture. Then, head down to the beach to see displays of peixe seco (dried fish) and learn about the traditional process of sun-drying local fish.
A Taste of the Portuguese Coast
Lunchtime is the perfect opportunity to explore the flavors of the region. For a modern take on the coastal cuisine, book a table at Restaurante Sitiado where they fuse unique tapas and local fares to create a truly exceptional dining experience. If you are craving a more traditional experience, Maria do Mar and Restaurante a Tasquinha embody the romantic charm of European dining while offering classic dishes like grilled fish and seafood stews.
Epic Waves and Epic Views
After lunch, take a ride in the funicular up to Sitio de Nazaré, where you can explore the Fort of São Miguel Arcanjo. Depending on the season, you may even witness some of the largest surfable waves in the world. Nazaré may be a quaint, tranquil town, but the name also garners recognition for hosting one of the most famous - and dangerous - surf breaks. The gigantic waves typically appear between November and March. If you are lucky enough to be in the area during one of the swells, be sure to grab a spot on the cliffs above Praia do Norte (North Beach) and watch as big-wave surfers from all over attempt to conquer Nazaré.
Even if your visit does not align with the surf season, the cliffs still offer stunning views and a refreshing ocean breeze.
Whether you're an avid surf fanatic, a seafood epicure, or just a lover of small towns with lots of character, a day trip to Nazaré is a great way to elevate any trip to Lisbon.