Óbidos: Medieval Tales & Secrets Spots Guided Walking Tour

Key Points

• Price and Duration: This guided walking tour costs $40 per person and lasts about 2 hours.
• Start Point: It begins at the Óbidos Tourist Office, making logistics straightforward.
• Highlights: Includes visits to Óbidos Castle, two beautiful bookstores, and the Town of the Queens.
• Taste of Local Culture: Enjoy a free Ginjinha de Óbidos tasting, served in a chocolate cup.
• Expert Guides: The guides are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and engaging storytelling.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for those with mobility impairments or recent surgeries, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Óbidos with a Focus on History and Art

This 2-hour guided walking tour of Óbidos, located in the Norte Region of Portugal, offers an immersive look into one of Portugal’s most charming medieval villages. For $40 per person, travelers are led by experienced guides who bring the town’s history and secrets to life through stories, art, and visits to significant landmarks. The tour strikes a nice balance by visiting the main sights while also taking you off the usual tourist path, making it ideal for those who want an authentic experience.

The tour’s highlights include a visit to the 1300-year-old Moorish Castle of Óbidos, along with several important churches, historic neighborhoods, and two stunning bookstores. Notably, the tour features a tasting of Ginjinha de Óbidos, a sour cherry liqueur served in a chocolate cup, which offers a sweet reminder of local flavors. While the tour doesn’t include meals, the liquor tasting is a distinctive and well-loved part of the experience.

This activity is perfect for visitors seeking a compact, informative overview of Óbidos’s history, arts, and local customs, with the advantage of a friendly guide who can answer questions and share stories along the way. However, it’s important to note that the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or recent surgeries, as the streets are cobbled and walking is involved.

Key Points

• Includes a cherry liqueur tasting in a chocolate cup, a signature local treat.
• Guides are known for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling flair.
• Visit the Castle of Óbidos, a key highlight with a history dating back over a millennium.
• Enjoy walking through the medieval streets and hidden alleys of the “Town of the Queens.”
• The tour starts and ends at the Óbidos Tourist Office, making logistics simple.
• Not suitable for those with mobility issues due to cobblestone streets and walking terrain.

Starting at the Óbidos Tourist Office

The tour kicks off in the front of the Óbidos Tourist Office, conveniently located near the main parking and outside the city walls. The meeting point is easy to find, and the tour includes a guided tour of the castle, which is the centerpiece of Óbidos’s historic appeal. The castle has Moors origins and has been a key part of the town for over 1300 years, offering impressive views and a chance to understand the medieval defenses.

The guided walk through the castle grounds covers its fortifications, towers, and history, giving a strong sense of the town’s strategic importance in Portugal’s past. The guides are praised for their ability to explain historical details simply and engagingly, making the castle a highlight that appeals to history buffs and casual visitors alike.

Discovering the Art of Josefa de Óbidos

A unique aspect of this tour is the opportunity to see five original paintings by Josefa de Óbidos, a celebrated local artist from the 17th century. She was the first Portuguese female artist to exhibit in the Louvre, and her works are included in the tour’s itinerary. These paintings provide a window into the artistic style and religious themes of her era, and guides are enthusiastic about sharing her story.

Along With these masterworks, the tour visits a superb Renaissance Pietà by Nicolau de Chanterene. These art pieces help visitors connect with the town’s cultural heritage and appreciate the artistic talents that have thrived in Óbidos for centuries.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting Two Gorgeous Bookstores

Óbidos is known for its charming bookstores, and this tour takes you inside two particularly beautiful ones. One is the Market Bookstore (Livraria do Mercado), which doubles as an organic products shop, blending literature with local food culture. The other is São Tiago Bookstore, located in a former church and royal chapel, adding historic ambiance to your browsing.

The Ler Devagar bookstore, located inside a former royal chapel, stands out for its design and atmosphere. It’s a trendy spot that combines literature, art, and a creative vibe, giving visitors a chance to relax and browse after exploring the city’s streets.

Walking Through the “Town of the Queens”

Óbidos earned the nickname “Town of the Queens” because several Portuguese queens, including Catherine of Austria, Isabel of Aragon (also known as Queen Saint Isabel), and Leonor de Avis, left their mark here. The tour explores sites related to their legacies, such as the Holy House of Mercy, founded by Queen Leonor, which is the oldest surviving hospital and a symbol of her lasting influence.

Walking through the medieval streets, visitors see the Moorish and Jewish neighborhoods, which reflect the town’s diverse past. The Saint Peter Church and Saint Mary Church are notable religious sites, showcasing architecture and art from different periods.

Exploring the Moorish and Jewish Quarters

A significant part of the tour involves walking through the historic Moorish and Jewish districts, offering insights into the multicultural past of Óbidos. These neighborhoods retain their medieval charm and feature narrow, winding streets, stone walls, and centuries-old buildings.

While these areas may require careful walking on cobblestone streets, they are rich with stories and hidden spots rarely seen by casual visitors. Guides are known for their ability to share local stories and secrets, making this walk especially memorable.

Visiting the Castle of Óbidos

The Castle of Óbidos is the focal point of the tour. Its moorish origins date back over 1300 years, and it has served as a fortress, royal residence, and now a major tourist attraction. The guided tour covers its towers, walls, and the history of its strategic importance.

From the castle walls, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Inside, the guide explains the castle’s evolution through centuries, highlighting its role in Portuguese history. This visit offers a tangible connection to the town’s medieval past.

Inside the São Tiago Bookstore in a Historic Setting

The São Tiago Bookstore is located on the site of a former church and royal chapel, making it a special place to browse books. The building’s historic architecture adds ambiance, while the collection offers a mix of local and international titles.

The guide discusses the significance of the building’s history, making this stop a blend of literature and architecture. Visitors can enjoy a moment of quiet with a book in hand, surrounded by centuries of history.

Off the Beaten Path and Ginjinha Tasting

One of the tour’s most distinctive features is the ginjinha tasting, where visitors sample Ginjinha de Óbidos, a sour cherry liqueur. This tasting opportunity is included and served in a chocolate cup, adding a delightful touch to the experience.

The tour also takes you off the main streets, revealing secret spots and lesser-known areas that most travelers miss. These quiet corners and scenic views allow for great photo opportunities and a more personal connection to Óbidos.

Practical Details and Reservation Info

The tour departs from the Óbidos Tourist Office, located outside the town walls, making it easy to access. It ends back at the same location, keeping logistics simple.

Reservations are flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve now and pay later. The tour is conducted in English and Portuguese, with friendly, knowledgeable guides who are praised for their storytelling and passion.

Óbidos: Medieval Tales & Secrets Spots Guided Walking Tour — Final Words

This well-rounded tour offers a compact, engaging exploration of Óbidos, perfect for visitors interested in history, art, and local traditions. The knowledgeable guides and careful attention to hidden gems set it apart from more generic visits. The inclusion of the Ginjinha tasting and visits to historic sites make it a memorable experience without feeling rushed.

While the cobbled streets and walking terrain may not suit everyone, most will appreciate the depth of storytelling and access to secluded spots. For those wanting a deeper understanding of Óbidos’s past and present, this tour delivers in both content and atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is primarily designed for adults and older children, especially since it involves walking on cobblestone streets and visiting historic sites.

Are there any restrictions for mobility?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or those with recent surgeries because of uneven cobblestone streets.

What is included in the price?
The guide and the Ginjinha de Óbidos tasting are included in the $40 fee. Food is not included in the tour.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at the Óbidos Tourist Office, located outside the city walls.

How long is the tour?
The duration is approximately 2 hours.

Is the tour available in languages other than English?
The tour is conducted in English and Portuguese.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to cobblestone streets.

Is this tour good for art lovers?
Absolutely, the tour features original paintings by Josefa de Óbidos and a Renaissance Pietà, making it appealing to art enthusiasts.

Are there options for customizing the tour?
The provided data does not specify customization options, but the tour’s flexibility and knowledgeable guides often allow for questions and personal interests to be addressed during the walk.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby