Castle of Óbidos travel guide

Nestled atop a hill in the charming town of Óbidos, the Castle of Óbidos is a well-preserved medieval fortress with a rich and eventful history. Its origins can be traced back to the 8th century, during the Moorish occupation of the Iberian Peninsula.

The castle was reconquered by the first King of Portugal, Afonso Henriques, in 1148 and was later gifted to Queen Isabel on her wedding day, a tradition that continued for several centuries, earning Óbidos the nickname 'town of queens'.

Over the years, the castle underwent various architectural modifications, reflecting the changing trends of Portuguese military architecture. In the 20th century, it was transformed into an enchanting pousada (historic hotel).

Today, the Castle of Óbidos is a National Monument and one of Portugal's most popular tourist destinations, offering visitors a captivating journey through time, from its Moorish roots to its current status as a romantic medieval getaway.

The Castle of Óbidos, perched atop a hill, offers panoramic views of the surrounding town and countryside, making it a photographic hotspot. Its formidable medieval walls, which can be walked upon, create a loop around the entire historical town, providing a unique way to explore and appreciate the architecture of the era. The castle's interior houses a luxurious pousada, a type of traditional Portuguese inn, adding an element of grandeur and a touch of modern comfort within the ancient walls. The castle's architectural style is a blend of Moorish and Roman influences, visible in its robust towers and intricate details. The castle's whitewashed walls and cobblestone streets add to its medieval charm, while its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the vineyards of the region make it a visual treat. Another distinguishing feature is the annual Medieval Market, where the castle transforms into a vibrant scene of medieval festivities, complete with banquets, knights, and jesters.

Located in Santa Maria, São Pedro e Sobral da Lagoa, the iconic Castle of Óbidos is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful town of Óbidos or as a stop on your countrywide road trip in Portugal.

Óbidos is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Óbidos offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit the iconic landmarks and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Porta da Vila, Sanctuary of the Lord of the Stone, Aqueduto de Usseira, and Church of Saint Mary.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Óbidos has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Óbidos - a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Portugal!

Castle of Óbidos is located in Óbidos, Portugal, and is easily accessible by several modes of transportation. If you are arriving by plane, Lisbon Portela Airport is approximately 40.75 miles (65.56 km) away from Óbidos. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle to the town, where Castle of Óbidos is located.

If you’re already in Óbidos, you can take a bus, taxi or even walk to the castle. The exact address of the attraction is R. Josefa de Óbidos, 2510-001 Óbidos, Portugal, Portugal.

You can also rent a car and drive to Castle of Óbidos. With a rental car you will enjoy freedom to explore Castle of Óbidos and other top attractions in Óbidos at your own pace.

With your travel plans in place and these guidelines in mind, you're all set for an unforgettable experience at Castle of Óbidos!

The best time to explore Castle of Óbidos, a historic jewel in Portugal, depends on your preferences. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are typically the most favorable seasons to visit. The weather during these periods is generally mild and pleasant, making sightseeing comfortable. Notably, these shoulder seasons also see fewer tourists, allowing a more relaxed exploration of the castle's charming medieval streets and robust walls. The summer months (June to August), while busier, host the annual Medieval Market, where the town and castle come alive with medieval games, performances, and stalls selling traditional food and crafts, enhancing the overall experience for tourists. However, the summer heat can be intense, so it's recommended to plan your visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid peak temperatures. Regardless of the season, the Castle of Óbidos radiates a timeless appeal that is sure to captivate every visitor.

Discover the enchanting beauty of Óbidos and top attractions like Castle of Óbidos with a perfectly planned holiday package. Our travel packages include everything you need to explore Castle of Óbidos and beyond. Whether you're looking for an adventure-filled getaway or a relaxing retreat, our holiday packages to Óbidos, Portugal, offer a variety of activities and experiences to suit all types of travelers.

Continue reading to find the best travel plans and tips for discovering this one-of-a-kind castle in Portugal.

Wake up well-rested to a new day of exploring in Óbidos by staying at a top-rated hotel in the heart of the town. With the town's most famous attractions like the stunning Castle of Óbidos just a stone's throw away, you'll be in the perfect location to effortlessly immerse yourself in Óbidos.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Castle of Óbidos below.

Óbidos offers a diverse range of top attractions. From museums and architectural wonders to sculptures and natural wonders, the town has something for everyone. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Óbidos, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Porta da Vila, Sanctuary of the Lord of the Stone, and Aqueduto de Usseira.

Porta da Vila is a bucket-list castle and top attraction in Óbidos, attracting numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 5 out of 5 stars in 2,798 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the town. The exact address of Porta da Vila is R. Josefa de Óbidos 2, 2510-070 Óbidos, Portugal.

Another appreciated attraction in Óbidos is Sanctuary of the Lord of the Stone. This is just like Porta da Vila, one of the most popular sites to visit in the town. With an impressive average rating of 4 out of 5 stars among 818 visitors, it’s also one of the highest rated. The exact address of this pilgrimage site is Largo do Santuário, 2510-102 Óbidos, Portugal.

Aqueduto de Usseira is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Óbidos. This aqueduct and top attraction in Óbidos has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 510 visitors. Visitors usually spend a moment at Aqueduto de Usseira creating core memories of the town. This attraction is located at the address of N114 9, 2510 Óbidos, Portugal.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the town of Óbidos below.