Medieval Magic in the Village of Óbidos

For practical details and last-minute changes, use Visit Nazaré.

For official information, visit Lonely Planet Nazaré Guide.

Try the local cherry liqueur served in chocolate cups. Children will love the handmade crafts sold in small shops. The town is very safe and easy to navigate on foot. Plan for about four hours to see everything properly.

Parking outside the walls costs around five euros per day. Arrive early to avoid the largest tour groups. You can check the Visit Portugal website for seasonal event dates. Most shops open around 10:00 AM daily.

• Walking the castle walls (best for ages 8+)
• Chocolate and candy shops
• Traditional bookshops in old churches

Calm Waters at São Martinho do Porto

São Martinho do Porto is famous for its shell-shaped bay. The water here is very calm and safe for toddlers. It is much gentler than the big waves in Nazaré. This makes it one of the safe swimming spots for toddlers in Nazaré beach area.

A wooden boardwalk runs along the entire length of the bay. You can walk or push a stroller easily across the sand. There are many ice cream parlors along the main road. The beach is perfect for building sandcastles all afternoon.

Train travel from Nazaré to São Martinho is very affordable. Check the CP - Comboios de Portugal website for the 2026 schedule. The ride takes less than twenty minutes each way. It is a stress-free way to travel with kids.

History and Sweet Treats in Alcobaça

Alcobaça is just a short 15-minute drive from Nazaré. The Monastery of Alcobaça is a massive and impressive UNESCO site. Kids often enjoy seeing the giant kitchen and its huge chimney. The open spaces are great for curious young explorers.

Entry for children under twelve is usually free in 2026. Adult tickets cost approximately ten euros for the main areas. You can find many pastry shops right outside the monastery. These shops sell famous sweets made by local monks.

The town square is perfect for a relaxed family lunch. Many restaurants offer high chairs and kid-friendly menus. It is a very flat area, making it ideal for strollers. This trip is easy to combine with other nearby stops.

Consider booking educational tours for children in Nazaré museums before leaving town. These tours help kids understand the local history before visiting Alcobaça. It makes the ancient buildings much more interesting for them.

Island Adventures at the Berlengas Biosphere

Take a boat from Peniche to reach the Berlengas Islands. The boat ride takes about forty minutes across the Atlantic. This trip is best for families with older, adventurous children. You will see crystal clear water and rugged sea caves.

The island features a historic fort and a beautiful lighthouse. You can go snorkeling to see colorful fish in the bay. Make sure to book your boat tickets several weeks in advance. Space on the island is limited to protect the environment.

Pack plenty of water and sunscreen for the whole family. There are only a few small cafes on the main island. Wear sturdy shoes because the paths are quite steep and rocky. Check the weather on the IPMA website before booking your trip.

1. Book boat tickets early
2. Pack a picnic lunch
3. Bring snorkeling gear
4. Wear comfortable walking shoes