Already explored the captivating beaches, thrilling surf spots, and dramatic coastal cliffs of Nazaré itself? If you’ve already dived into our comprehensive guides, Is Nazaré Portugal Worth Visiting? and Things to Do Near Nazaré Portugal, and you’re now ready to broaden your horizons, then you’re absolutely in the right place for an unforgettable itinerary!
Nazaré is truly famous for its giant waves and vibrant culture, but its central location also makes it a fantastic base for discovering the hidden gems of central Portugal. Whether you’re into medieval castles, scenic surfing spots, or postcard-perfect villages, there’s something nearby for every kind of traveler.
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Discover the Best Day Trips near Nazaré
Ready to discover incredible spots just a stone’s throw away? Here’s a quick guide to the best places to visit near Nazaré:
1. São Martinho do Porto – Family-Friendly Shell-Shaped Bay
Less than 30 minutes from Nazaré, São Martinho do Porto is a charming seaside town famous for its unique shell-shaped bay, offering calm, shallow waters ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and family-friendly beach days.
This naturally protected bay is perfect for a relaxing escape, with a scenic promenade lined with cafes, fresh seafood restaurants, and stunning sunset views. The peaceful vibe makes it a favorite for couples, families, and anyone looking to unwind by the sea.
Want to make the most of your visit? Explore this coastal gem with ease:
Discover central Portugal’s highlights in a full-day guided tour from Lisbon, including the shell bay of São Martinho.
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Ride along the stunning Atlantic coast on an electric bike from Nazaré to São Martinho do Porto, passing by cliffs, hidden beaches, and panoramic viewpoints.
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Travel the scenic coastal road with stops in São Martinho before arriving at the medieval town of Óbidos.
Don’t miss this unique shell-shaped bay!
2. Óbidos – A Fairytale Walled Town
Just 45 minutes from Nazaré, Óbidos is one of the most picturesque medieval towns in Portugal. This enchanting village invites you to stroll along castle walls, explore cobbled streets filled with artisan shops, and sip the iconic Ginja de Óbidos — a cherry liqueur traditionally served in a chocolate cup.
Beyond its postcard-perfect charm, Óbidos holds the distinction of being a UNESCO Creative City of Literature. The town transforms into a literary haven during annual book fairs and festivals, with bookstores hidden inside ancient churches and historic buildings — a true delight for book lovers.
Ready to visit this magical place? Explore Óbidos with one of our top-rated guided tours:
Experience the wild beauty of Portugal’s coast and the charm of its countryside in a single day. From the dramatic ocean vistas of Nazaré to the fairytale village of Óbidos.
Discover one of Portugal’s most charming and historically rich medieval villages. Visit all the must-sees, go off the beaten track, and taste the famous “Ginjinha de Óbidos” in a chocolate cup.
Explore the best of the Atlantic coast on this excursion. Discover the majestic Alcobaça Monastery, the beaches of Nazaré, the beauty of the Atlantic, and the enchanted village of Óbidos.
Don’t miss out on this medieval gem!
3. Peniche – Surf and Island Adventures
This coastal town is a true haven for surfers, home to world-class waves like Supertubos. But Peniche is not just about surf — it also serves as the gateway to the Berlengas Islands, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This protected archipelago offers crystal-clear waters and rugged cliffs, perfect for hiking, snorkeling, and birdwatching.
For more on what makes this town special, check out our full guide: Is Peniche Worth Visiting?
Ready to dive into coastal adventures? Explore Peniche with our top recommended tours:
Hop aboard a vintage Portuguese UMM Jeep and discover Peniche’s hidden spots with a local guide. This fun and relaxed tour includes stops you wouldn’t find on your own, plus a tasting of delicious regional sweets.
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Explore Peniche on foot with a local expert. Stroll through lesser-known trails, learn fascinating stories about the area, and enjoy traditional sweet tastings. Perfect for travelers who love nature and culture.
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Take a scenic day trip from Lisbon to Berlenga Grande, the largest of the Berlengas Islands. With a local guide, explore walking trails, visit sea caves by boat, and tour the historic Fort of São João Baptista.
Whether you’re chasing waves or craving wild nature, Peniche offers an unforgettable escape from Nazaré.
4. Alcobaça – The Monastery That Changed History
A short 25-minute drive inland brings you to Alcobaça, home to one of Portugal’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Mosteiro de Alcobaça. Founded in the 12th century, this Gothic masterpiece is the final resting place of King Pedro I and Inês de Castro — the protagonists of Portugal’s most legendary and tragic love story.
A must-see for history lovers and architecture enthusiasts, Alcobaça is a cultural gem that richly rewards a visit.
Ready to explore this historic site? Discover it and more with our top recommended tours:
Embark on a full-day journey through Portugal’s medieval heart. Visit four UNESCO World Heritage Sites in one tour: Convent of Christ (Tomar), Batalha Monastery, Alcobaça Monastery, and the storybook village of Óbidos.
Take a private tour to 3 UNESCO World Heritage sites. You’ll learn about the Knights Templar at the Convent of Christ, admire an original Gothic at Batalha, and a Cistercian masterpiece at Alcobaça.
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Discover three top destinations on a flexible private day trip. Visit romantic Óbidos, the wave capital Nazaré, and the majestic Monastery of Alcobaça — all with the comfort of a personal guide and transport.
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Don’t miss this chance to uncover the powerful stories and architectural grandeur of Alcobaça.
5. Tomar – The Templar Legacy
For a longer day trip (around 1h15 from Nazaré), Tomar is the ultimate destination to dive into the mystical history of the Knights Templar in Portugal. The iconic Convento de Cristo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a testament to centuries of religious and architectural grandeur.
Built by the Templars and expanded over generations, this monumental site weaves together Romanesque, Gothic, Manueline, and Renaissance elements in stunning detail. It’s a journey into Portugal’s most enigmatic past.
Make the most of your visit with these top-rated guided experiences:
Explore the Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Discover the Templar Castle and Renaissance convent, and marvel at the Pegões Aqueduct.
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Immerse yourself in the history of the Knights Templar and follow their footsteps in Portugal. The Templars were a powerful Catholic religious-military order full of mysteries.
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Travel to Tomar on a tour from Lisbon and discover the history of the Knights Templar, the holy order of warrior monks. Spend the day visiting castles and convents with a knowledgeable guide.
Don’t miss the chance to walk in the footsteps of the Knights Templar.
6. Grutas de Mira de Aire – Underground Wonder
Just under an hour from Nazaré, the Grutas de Mira de Aire are one of the most impressive natural wonders in Portugal. These ancient caves feature spectacular underground chambers, stalactites, and rock formations that have been sculpted over tens of thousands of years.
With pleasant temperatures year-round and safe, guided walkways, the caves offer a refreshing break from the sun—and a journey deep into the Earth’s geological past.
Ready to discover Portugal beneath the surface? Make your visit unforgettable with one of these top-rated guided experiences:
Descend into the Mira de Aire Caves, where stalactites over 80,000 years old await. This relaxed and informative tour also includes a visit to the magnificent Monastery of Batalha, one of Portugal’s most stunning Gothic monuments.
Escape the city and experience Portugal’s natural and cultural highlights in one day. Discover the largest caves in the country, stroll through the charming fishing village of Nazaré, and explore the fairytale town of Óbidos with a private guide.
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Experience a well-rounded journey through central Portugal. Visit Fátima, Batalha, the Mira de Aire Caves, Nazaré, and Óbidos — with historical insights, local drinks, and scenic views along the way. Hotel pick-up included.
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Ready to discover Portugal beneath the surface?
Plan Your Day Trips from Nazaré
Whether you’re into hiking, surfing, biking, or simply soaking up scenic views, there’s no shortage of epic things to do near Nazaré.
Need help planning your trip?
Check out our Plan Your Trip to Nazaré page for tips on where to stay, how to get around, and hidden local gems.
Ready for your next adventure?
Discover top-rated activities on trusted platforms:
Where to Stay in and Around Nazaré
Looking for the perfect place to stay while exploring Nazaré and its surroundings? Whether you’re planning a relaxing beach escape, a surf-focused adventure, or day trips to the region’s historic villages and natural wonders, Nazaré offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every type of traveler.
You can book directly through trusted platforms like Booking.com for general stays, or use BookSurfCamps.com if you’re looking for surf-specific lodging and packages.
Prefer curated suggestions?
Don’t miss our feature article 10 Most Popular Places to Stay in Nazaré Right Now — where we highlight the top-rated stays by category, from romantic escapes to surf hostels.
Still shaping your itinerary?
Check out Things to Do Near Nazaré, Portugal — full of day trip ideas, scenic spots, and cultural must-sees.
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FAQ About Visiting Top Spots Near Nazaré
Here are answers to some of the most common questions travelers ask about visiting Nazaré and exploring its beautiful surroundings:
How far are these places from Nazaré?
São Martinho do Porto – ~25 minutes
Óbidos – ~45 minutes
Peniche – ~1 hour
Alcobaça – ~25 minutes
Tomar – ~1 hour 15 minutes
Grutas de Mira de Aire – ~55 minutes
Are these destinations family-friendly?
Yes! Especially:
São Martinho do Porto (calm beach and promenade),
Óbidos (fun for kids and adults alike),
Mira de Aire Caves (educational and exciting underground adventure).
Do I need a car to visit these places?
While some tours offer hotel pickup or group transportation, renting a car gives you more flexibility — especially if you’re planning multiple stops or traveling with kids. Most places are easily accessible by road.
Can I book tours from Nazaré or Lisbon?
Yes. Many guided tours are available from both:
Lisbon (ideal if you’re based in the capital),
Nazaré (perfect for short trips without needing to change accommodation).
Check out options on GetYourGuide or Viator — most include transportation, local guides, and skip-the-line tickets.
What’s the most unique experience near Nazaré?
It depends on your interest:
For history buffs: Alcobaça Monastery or the Convent of Christ in Tomar.
For nature lovers: Berlengas Islands or Mira de Aire Caves.
For culture and charm: Óbidos is unforgettable.
For relaxation: São Martinho do Porto is a peaceful seaside escape.
When is the best time to explore these nearby spots?
The best time to explore these destinations is generally from spring (April-May) through early autumn (September-October), when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Summer (June-August) is peak season, offering great weather but also more crowds. For experiencing Nazaré's giant waves, the winter months (October-March) are ideal.
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