Tucked within medieval walls, the charming town of Óbidos, Portugal, is a perfect day trip destination for a storybook escape. With its cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses adorned with vibrant flowers, and a castle towering above, Óbidos feels like stepping into a fairytale. Our family adventure in this historic town was filled with exploration, delicious food, and unique experiences that made for a memorable day.

Arriving in Óbidos

We arrived in Óbidos early in the morning and parked at the Estacionamento do Campo da Bola, a free parking lot conveniently located just outside the walled city. From there, we walked toward the main entrance, the Porta da Vila, an ornately tiled gateway that immediately set the tone for the town’s medieval charm.

Exploring the Old Town

Once inside the walls, we strolled through the narrow streets of the old town, marveling at the beautiful traditional homes, quaint shops, and the lively energy of visitors exploring the historic surroundings. The town’s main street, Rua Direita, is lined with boutique stores, small restaurants, and artisanal stalls selling local crafts and souvenirs. Our kids loved peeking into the tiny shops filled with books, ceramics, and handmade trinkets.

Lunch at Jamon Jamon

After a leisurely walk through town, we stepped outside the fortress walls for lunch at Jamon Jamon, a cozy eatery known for its rustic charm and delicious Iberian cuisine. The warm atmosphere and friendly service made it a great spot for families. We ordered a variety of dishes to share, including cured meats, cheese platters, and a hearty Portuguese stew. Our youngest enjoyed nibbling on fresh bread and local cheese while we savored the rich flavors of the meal.

Climbing Up to Óbidos Castle

With full bellies, we continued our journey up to the Óbidos Castle, the town’s most iconic landmark. The castle, which now houses a luxurious hotel, offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. While some of the walkways can be steep, our family found the adventure thrilling. The kids loved pretending they were knights defending the ancient walls, and we took plenty of photos with the breathtaking landscape as our backdrop.

A Sweet Snack at Nata Lisboa

After our castle exploration, we stopped at Nata Lisboa for a well-earned snack. The café specializes in the famous pastel de nata, a custard tart that is a must-try in Portugal. Paired with a smooth espresso, it was the perfect mid-afternoon treat. The creamy texture of the tart and the flaky crust delighted everyone in our group, proving that sometimes the simplest pleasures make the best memories.

Discovering Rua Direita’s Shops

Re-energized, we wandered back down Rua Direita, taking our time to explore more of its charming boutiques. The street is lined with shops selling everything from handmade jewelry and traditional Portuguese tiles to Ginjinha, the town’s famous cherry liqueur often served in edible chocolate cups. While we didn’t indulge in the liqueur, we relished in the peaceful atmosphere of the town on a mild day in February.

Craft Beer at Leitaria

As the afternoon turned into early evening, we made a stop at Leitaria, a taproom from a Porto-based brewery. This modern craft beer spot was a pleasant surprise amid the medieval surroundings. We sampled a few local brews while the kids enjoyed a break, coloring and snacking on light bites. The relaxed atmosphere made it a great place to unwind before heading back toward the town’s entrance.

Wrapping Up at Prohibition Bar

Before leaving Óbidos, we made one final stop at Prohibition Bar, a stylish eatery with a speakeasy vibe. We ordered a few small appetizers and delicious fish and chips to share. The laid-back setting and tasty food made for the perfect ending to our day in Óbidos.

Final Thoughts

Our family day trip to Óbidos was an unforgettable experience. From walking through medieval streets and exploring the castle to indulging in delicious food and discovering hidden gems along the way, there was something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re traveling with young children, teens, or just looking for a relaxed yet enriching escape, Óbidos offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and family-friendly charm. We left feeling enchanted by this magical town and look forward to returning in the future!