Tucked away in the hills an hour’s drive from Lisbon, the village of Óbidos is well worth a visit. And we’re not the only ones saying so! This beautiful medieval village has just been named one of the best villages for tourism by the UN. Want to know what this best tourist destination 2024 has to offer?
ContentThe best tourist destination among villages in 2024 is ÓbidosÓbidos – a unique royal historyWhat to do in Óbidos and when to go there
WomanEL will list the reasons to visit Obidusha at least once in your life, as well as the time of year when you should go there.
The best tourist destination of 2024 among villages is Óbidos
View this post on Instagram
The first thing that catches the eye in Obidos is, of course, the beautifully preserved medieval castle and fortress walls, thanks to which this Portuguese village seems frozen in time . Actually, the name Óbidos comes from the Latin Oppidum, which means “fortified city”.
And this journey into the past continues as you pass through the Porta da Vila, the main gate of the town: you can see the 18th-century blue and white azulejos depicting the Passion of Christ. Then, walk through the narrow winding streets with charming cafes and shops, white houses decorated with yellow and blue flowers, and up to the village's most beautiful castle.
Built in the 13th century and considered one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal, Castelo de Óbidos is now a luxury hotel, but you can still visit the historic building for free. Don't miss the incredible views of the village and surrounding area from the castle's ramparts, which you can climb.
Do you want to go on vacation to Switzerland in 2025? Choose the following tourist destinations.
Obidush – a unique royal story
View this post on Instagram
The history of Óbidos is as rich as it is fascinating. Even in pre-Roman times, Celts, Romans, Visigoths and Moors lived here, and in 1148, under King Afonso Henriques, it was conquered by the Portuguese.
In 1210, King Denys I presented Óbidos to his wife, Queen Isabel, thereby turning the city into “city of queens” for several centuries. The Portuguese queens turned out to be truly great rulers.
The terrible earthquake of 1755 that destroyed Lisbon destroyed part of the castle and buildings, which, fortunately, were restored.
What to do in Obidush and when is the best time to go there
Visiting Óbidos during the festivals is a great way to experience the rich culture of Portugal, Source: unsplash.com
After exploring the castle and ramparts, head to the town's main square with the Igreja Santa María church, whose azulejo-decorated interior is sure to impress, and then to the Libraria Santiago, a unique bookstore housed in an abandoned church.
On the outskirts of town, a little further north, is the Sanctuary of Señor da Pedra, a Baroque pilgrimage site built in the 18th century, with a stone cross dating from the 2nd or 3rd century.
Numerous festivals are held here throughout the year:
- The International Chocolate Festival in spring, when Óbidos turns into a paradise for chocolate lovers, with sculptures, workshops and, of course, numerous tastings.
- In summer. The Mercado Medieval, during which the city comes to life as in the Middle Ages, with costumes appropriate to the era, duels and performances.
- The International Literature Festival in Óbidos in autumn, which is particularly significant for this village, recognized by UNESCO as a city of literature.
- Christmas is a great time to get to know the city. You can expect magical decorations, a Christmas market, and entertainment for the whole family.
And before you head home, be sure to try jinjinha, a cherry liqueur traditionally served in a small chocolate cup. This local delicacy is the perfect sweet break after a city tour.
Here we talked about the most beautiful and luxurious palace in Europe. It is not the only one, in fact!
