Getaway to the Medieval City Obidos, Portugal

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Have you ever seen a castle wrapped in a big red bow? Well, during Christmas, you will be in Obidos! This fairytale town is a great day trip from Lisbon, as it is only one hour by train. Or, if you feel like getting away from the bigger cities, consider staying overnight inside the castle walls. Every Portuguese local that I met had nothing but great things to say about Medieval City Obidos. And they were right! It is a small, walled city that takes you back in time.

Built in the Roman era, it was overtaken by England and expanded by multiple kings throughout history. Outside the city walls, you can travel 20 minutes to the beach of Foz do Arelho during the warm weather seasons. During the Christmas holiday, be sure to stay for the medieval festival without the major crowds of other European cities.

The Medieval City Obidos, Portugal

SEE

The entire city: There are bars and restaurants sprinkled around the city, but even the grocery store is not located inside the walls, making it truly feel right out of a medieval story.

You can walk the walls if you feel risky: There are ‘danger’ signs everywhere because the walls aren’t well enclosed on either side but it was well worth the view.

We went during Christmas and the city was perfectly decorated. Complete with a medieval festival, ice rink and magic show that brought people from all over.

STAY

Airbnb is inside the castle walls. If you want to get a true Obidos experience, this is the way to go. We had our own kitchen, which came in handy on Christmas day when no restaurants were open. Take a look at our Airbnb -> Airbnb Obidos

EAT

Indulge in all the sweets Obidos has to offer. The chocolate delicates filled with a variety of goodness from Fabrica das Bombokas are the perfect treat- you can’t just have one! Fabrica das Bombokas
Fruit cake—no, not like the ones in the plastic wrap from the gas station at home. These fruit cakes are for real! You can find them throughout every pastry shop in Portugal during the Christmas season, but something about the one we had on Christmas morning with our coffee was so special.
Ginja, is a sour cherry liquor that is available in almost every bar and restaurant in the city. It is best served in a chocolate shot glass, of course.