Natalie & Ricardo
Things to Do
Day Trip: Nazaré
Nazaré is a beautiful coastal town about 30 minutes from Leiria that is world famous for its record waves. Surfers from around the world come here to try to surf one of Nazaré's famous waves! Weather permitting, enjoy a day on the beach here followed by a seafood lunch at one of the many delicious seafood restaurants in town.
Day Trip: Óbidos
Óbidos is a quaint, historic small town about 45 minutes south of Leiria that is a must-do day trip while you're in Portugal. While there, make sure to visit the castle and try a shot of ginja in a chocolate shot glass! Note: Óbidos is about 30-40 minutes south of Nazaré, so to maximize time, we recommend doing both Óbidos & Nazaré in one day.
Day Trip: Coimbra
Coimbra is a gorgeous, hilly, riverfront city located about an hour north of Leiria. The "university city" of Portugal, Coimbra is home to a preserved medieval old town & the historic University of Coimbra (est. in 1290 - one of the oldest in the world). Tour the University, enjoy a cappuccino and pastel de nata in the plaza, take a walk along the Ponte de Santa Clara and do some shopping in one of the many cute souvenir shops in town!
Batalha Monastery
A short 15 minute drive from Leiria, the epic, gothic-style Monastery of Batalha is a must-see site while staying in Leiria. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, construction began on the monastery in 1386 to commemorate the 1385 Battle of Aljubarrota. You can purchase a ticket to tour the monastery for 6 euros or admire it while enjoying an espresso at a neighboring café in Batalha.
Sanctuary of Fátima
The Sanctuary of Fátima (Santuário de Fátima) is one of the most important Catholic shrines in the world dedicated to the Virgin Mary that welcomes millions of pilgrims and tourists from all over the world each year. A 25-minute drive from Leiria, the Sanctuary of Fatima marks the spot where the Virgin Mary allegedly appeared in 1917.
Castle of Leiria
Built in 1135 as a line of defense against the Moors, the medieval Castle of Leiria is a hallmark of Leiria and can be seen from the city center below. It was closed for restoration work for a couple years, but recently reopened to the public in May 2021. If interested, visitors can take a guided tour guided tour Tuesday-Saturday at 10am or 2pm.
Rua Direita
Rua Direita (straight street) is a crooked street full of character located in downtown Leiria. Take a stroll down this picturesque street to take photos, drink an espresso at the Espaço Eça cafe or have a drink while listening to live music at the Atlas Hostel.
Espaço Eça
Adorable café located on the Rua Direita in downtown Leiria that is a perfect spot to stop for an espresso and pastry.
Restaurante Mata Bicho
Portuguese restaurant located in the Plaza (Praça Rodrigues Lobo) in the heart of downtown Leiria with great outdoor seating and views of the castle.
Pipo Velho
The best restaurant in town! Amazing, authentic Portuguese restaurant owned by Ricardo's groomsman, João ("Pipo") Silva.
Cervejaria João Gordo
One of the best restaurants in Leiria, João Gordo ("Fat John") comes highly recommended by locals.
Atlas Leiria
A great spot to stop for a cocktail and listen to some music along the Rua Direita in downtown Leiria.
Feira de Leiria
Every May, Leiria hosts it's huge fair ("Feira") outside of the soccer stadium downtown with games, rides, music and lots of food (including the famous churros!). This year, the festival goes through May 29, so be sure to check it out while you're in town!