20 Incredible Things to Do in Nazaré, Portugal (Beyond the Giant Waves!)
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If you are planning to visit Nazare, this guide is for you. It includes all the amazing things to do in Nazare and its surroundings all year round, my favorite restaurants, and where to stay. Additionally, since the primary reason I visited Nazare is to watch the waves, I will include information on how, when, and where to observe the Giant Waves.
I stayed in Nazare for fifteen days, and I extended my stay while I was there to increase my chances of seeing the spectacular giant waves. On quiet days, I would explore the spectacular Portuguese landmarks scattered around the surrounding hills and along the coast.
Trust me, the area is a treasure trove of charming medieval towns, old majestic cathedrals, a dramatic coastline, and delicious food. I fell in love with this region of Portugal, and I hope this post shows it.
Keep reading, and this guide will help you plan your amazing trip to Nazare.
Nazare at a glance
Once a quiet fishing village, Nazaré has evolved into one of the world’s most renowned surf destinations. With its colossal waves, picturesque beaches, and rich cultural heritage, Nazaré attracts surfers, history enthusiasts, and seafood lovers alike.
However, Nazare not only attracts those who want to witness record-breaking surf, but also any travelers who want to explore the town’s traditional charm.
Nazaré is, without a doubt, a must-visit spot in Portugal.
In one of the informative boards in the Lighthouse Surf Museum, the inscription of a surfer says, “Climbers have the Everest, Surfers have Nazare”.
I came to Nazare with the sole purpose of photographing the giant waves. But there’s much more you can do in this pretty town, including admiring the spectacular views all around it and learning about the traditional fishing industry.
Where is Nazarè: Nazarè Maps
How to Get to Nazaré From Lisbon and Porto
Nazaré is located on the Silver Coast of Portugal, approximately 120 km north of Lisbon.
Here are all the possible ways to reach Nazaré, although my absolute favorite is by car.
Porto or Lisbon to Nazare by car
From Lisbon is a 1.5-hour drive from Lisbon via the A8 highway. I recommend checking Discover Cars to find the best car rental deals and reading my post on driving in Portugal for smart tips.
From Porto is a little longer, but it’s still a beautiful ride. You can check out my post on traveling from Lisbon to Porto, which includes a stop in Nazare, in case you decide to set off for an adventurous road trip. If you go straight from Porto to Nazare, it’s about a 2-hour drive. However, you could take a couple of days to explore some amazing towns and cities, such as Vila Nova de Gaia, Coimbra, Fatima, Aveiro, and Tomar.
Getting to Nazare by Bus
By bus: Rede Expressos and FlixBus operate direct buses from Lisbon, taking around 2 hours, and from Porto, about 3 hours.
Getting to Nazare by Train
From Lisbon – Taking the train from Lisbon to Nazaré is a slower option compared to driving or taking the bus, with the trip taking at least 3 hours. The journey starts at Sete Rios station, where you’ll take a train to Caldas da Rainha.
From there, you’ll need to transfer to a regional train that goes to Famalicão da Nazaré. Once you arrive, the town center is still about 8 kilometers away, so you’ll need additional transport to get there. A one-way ticket costs €9.65.
By tour – If you prefer a hassle-free visit, joining a guided tour from Lisbon or Porto is a great option. Many tours combine Nazaré with Alcobaça, Batalha, or Fátima, allowing you to explore multiple historical sites in one trip. More about them at the end of the post.
Best Time to Visit Nazaré
The best time to visit depends on your interests. If you want to have beach time and swim, obviously, July and August are the best months, but they will be very crowded and more expensive.
For big wave surfing from November to March, when the waves are at their peak. However, it’s not every day that they get waves; they will know with a week in advance and more precisely closer to the date. The good part is that you don’t have to book way in advance because it’s low season, and you will easily find a place to stay or a car to rent at the last minute.
Shoulder seasons are my favorites in general, particularly May, June, September, and October, when the weather is warm and sunny but the crowds are not as intense. Also, hotel rates are reasonable. However, at this time, you don’t usually have big waves.
An exception can occur, as this year saw a significant swell on August 26th, brought about by a hurricane formation in the Atlantic Ocean. So you can never tell with the weather these days.
Nazaré As a Surfing Destination
Nazaré is a legendary spot for big-wave surfers, drawing professionals from around the world to challenge its monstrous waves.
Why Are the Waves at Nazaré So Big?
The massive waves at Nazaré are caused by the Nazaré Canyon, a deep underwater trench that channels and amplifies ocean swells. This natural phenomenon produces waves reaching 80-100 feet, making it one of the most extreme surf locations globally. If you are interested in the Giant Waves of Nazare, you can read more about them in my dedicated post.
Best Things to Do in Nazaré
1. See the Giant Waves of Nazaré
You can check out some of the local channels for the wave alerts to know when to expect the swells. It’s not every day that you can admire this nature show off. Any time between October and March, there are good chances of seeing the giant waves.
So when you get the alert, head to Praia do Norte through the Sao Miguel Arcanjo Fort and enjoy the views. I went there every time there was a wave alert and spent the entire day watching the show and photographing.
I never get tired of watching them. I am particularly amazed by what humans can physically do, challenging such powerful forces of nature like these giant waves. I hope you enjoy my pictures 🙂
More about it in my dedicated post on the Giant Waves of Nazare.
2. Walk Out to the São Miguel Arcanjo Fort and the Big Wave Museum
This historic fort overlooks Praia do Norte, offering stunning views of the waves. Inside, you’ll find a small surf exhibition with surfboards from record-breaking rides and the big names of the surf world.
Besides the tribute to surfers, this is one of my favorite spots in Nazare for the spectacular views of both the city and beach, and Praia do Norte. I especially love it at sunset and sunrise for the magical light, even when the sea is flat.
To get to the fort, you must park the car in the free parking on top of the hill near the church and plaza. It’s about a half-mile walk to the fort from there, but if you don’t feel like walking, there, during surfing days, you can find a taxi that takes you up and down the hill for a few Euros.
At the top, you can also find day and night food kiosks offering delicious food and drinks, public restrooms, vendors, and music.
3. Relax at Praia do Norte
A rugged and wild beach, Praia do Norte is known for its massive waves and dramatic coastline. It’s not ideal for swimming, but if you love walking on the beach, that’s a good place. You can get there from the main road north to the fort or from the Fort itself, where you can find an easy trail to the beach. This trail is usually crowded during wave days.
5. Explore O Sítio
The clifftop district of O Sítio includes the entire area offers breathtaking views over Nazaré and is accessible by the Nazaré Funicular if you don’t feel like walking.
This is where you will find the cathedral Nossa Senhora da Nazaré (more about it in the box below), cafes and restaurants, besides incredible lookout points over Nazare beach and old town at Miradouro do Suberco.
By the miradouro, you can usually find cute kiosks selling sweets and the famous Ginjinha, the local sweet liquor served in a shot form with a piece of the fruit at the bottom of the cup. They serve it in chocolate-made cups, which makes it even more delicious. It is a favourite liqueur of many Portuguese and a typical drink in Lisbon, Alcobaça, Óbidos, Marvão, Covilhã, and the Algarve.
From the Sitio, you can get to the São Miguel Arcanjo Fort. So you can plan a full visit to the area in one day. Parking spaces are scattered around the area, although it’s difficult to find a space during Big Waves days.
Some Historical facts
The Sítio of Nazaré, perched above the cliffs of Nazaré in Portugal’s Oeste region, is the historic heart of this coastal town. For centuries, it’s been a major pilgrimage site, especially on September 8, the day of Nossa Senhora da Nazaré, attracting thousands of visitors—including Portuguese royalty back in the day.
Legend says the original chapel was built in 1182 by D. Fuas Roupinho, right above the cave where the statue of Our Lady of Nazaré had been hidden during the Muslim occupation. Later, in 1377, King Fernando I founded the sanctuary that still stands today, giving rise to the first homes and community in the area.
Though the sanctuary was looted during the Napoleonic invasions in 1808, the Sítio recovered and became a lively hub for pilgrims and summer visitors well into the 20th century. Today, the area—still surrounded by its old walls—features the sanctuary, a bullring, fountains, and large plazas, keeping its traditions alive during the annual Festas de Nazaré in early September.
6. Ride the Nazaré Funicular
The historic funicular connects O Sítio with Praia da Nazaré, offering not only a means of transportation but also a fun way to enjoy the city’s views. I would recommend taking the ride and walking the stairs even if you have a car.
7. Enjoy Praia da Nazaré
The town’s main beach is perfect for sunbathing and swimming in the summer months, when it will be very crowded. I was there in February and March, and it was absolutely spectacular, especially at sunrise and sunset. A few crazy bodyboarders and surfers were enjoying some small waves. It was fun to watch and photograph.
8. See the Boats of Nazaré
The traditional wooden fishing boats of Nazaré are as iconic as the town’s towering waves.
The boats are a true symbol of the town. Narrow and colorful, with elegant curved prows, these boats are decorated in a style that dates back to the Phoenicians, who settled in the area in pre-Christian times. Still used by some fishermen today, they were once used by generations of fishermen to brave the Atlantic and bring in the daily catch.
With their narrow, curved shape and painted prows—often decorated with symbols of faith, luck, or the sea—they’re a beautiful reminder of Nazaré’s deep fishing heritage.
You can admire these boats lined up on the beach near Praia da Nazaré. They’re no longer used for work but are carefully preserved as cultural treasures. They make a perfect backdrop for photos and give visitors a glimpse of what life was like in this once small, hard-working fishing village.
These boats, combined with Nazaré’s strong ties to the ocean, tell the story of a community that has always depended on the sea—first for survival, and today, as part of its charm for visitors from around the world.
9. Visit Seca do Peixe, the Dried Fish Museum
Learn about Nazaré’s traditional fish-drying methods at this unique open-air museum, right near the conventional boats.
A visit to the Seca do Peixe, the Dried Fish Museum, is a must if you want to truly understand Nazaré’s fishing heritage. This small but fascinating spot sits right on Praia da Nazaré, where generations of women once dried the daily catch in the sun and salty breeze.
Today, you can still see fish laid out on wooden racks, keeping this centuries-old tradition alive. The museum explains the history and techniques of fish drying, which was once the primary method locals used to preserve their food and support their families.
It’s a quick stop, but one that gives you a deeper appreciation of the town’s roots and the hard work that built its reputation as Portugal’s most iconic fishing village.
10. Dine on Fresh Seafood
Nazaré is renowned for its seafood, particularly dishes such as grilled sardines, seafood rice, and caldeirada (a fish stew). Walk around the narrow lanes that lead to the beach or around the plaza in the Sitio and try the restaurants that catch your attention.
14. Visit Miradouro da Pederneira
Another fantastic viewpoint, offering a different perspective of Nazaré. I was actually staying right there by stroke of luck, as I didn’t know at the time of booking. It was a loverly tiny apartment that I can recommend.
Things to Do Near Nazaré
15. Alcobaça Monastery
If you only have time for one day trip from Nazaré, make it the Alcobaça Monastery. Just 15–20 minutes inland, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a masterpiece of 12th-century Cistercian architecture and one of Portugal’s most fascinating historical landmarks.
The monastery’s peaceful cloisters and grand Gothic details make it a must-see, but its most famous attraction is the tombs of Pedro and Inês, Portugal’s legendary star-crossed lovers. Their intricately carved tombs face each other, symbolizing their eternal connection—a story as romantic as it is tragic.
After exploring the monastery, head to the main plaza just outside. It’s surrounded by charming little shops and an award-winning pastry shop where you can treat yourself to some of the best sweets in the region.
If you’re vegan, there’s also a cozy plant-based restaurant just around the corner, perfectly positioned with views of the monastery—an ideal spot for a relaxing lunch before heading back to Nazaré.
Pro tip: Before you leave, take a quick walk to the tower ruins overlooking the town. From there, you’ll get spectacular views of the monastery and the surrounding valley—an unforgettable perspective that’s perfect for photos.
16. Batalha Monastery
If you have extra time, pair your visit with the Batalha Monastery, just a 30-minute drive from Nazaré.
Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, this stunning example of late Gothic and Manueline architecture was built to celebrate Portugal’s victory in the Battle of Aljubarrota in 1385.
Its intricate stone carvings, unfinished chapels, and soaring arches make it one of the country’s most impressive monuments and a perfect addition to your cultural itinerary. Another visit
17. Sanctuary of Fátima
The Sanctuary of Fátima, about an hour’s drive from Nazaré, is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the world. It marks the spot where, in 1917, three shepherd children reported visions of the Virgin Mary. Today, the sanctuary complex is vast, with two beautiful basilicas, a large open square, and the Chapel of the Apparitions, which draws millions of visitors each year.
While it’s undeniably significant from a historical and cultural perspective, the site feels quite commercial with lots of souvenir shops and a busy atmosphere, so I didn’t feel the sense of peace or spirituality some visitors would expect. But maybe it was just me. Still, it’s an interesting stop if you want to understand its role in Portugal’s religious identity.
18. Tomar
The charming town of Tomar, about an hour and a half drive from Nazaré, is one of Portugal’s most fascinating historical gems. Best known for the Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tomar was once the headquarters of the Knights Templar in Portugal.
The convent’s mix of Romanesque, Gothic, Manueline, and Renaissance architecture makes it an absolute masterpiece and a must-see for history and architecture lovers.
Beyond the convent, Tomar’s old town is perfect for wandering, with cobbled streets, traditional cafés, and a relaxed vibe that feels worlds away from the coast.
19. Obidos Castle
The medieval town of Óbidos, just about 40 minutes from Nazaré, is like stepping straight into a storybook. Enclosed by ancient stone walls, this charming village is famous for its cobbled streets, whitewashed houses with colorful trims, and a hilltop castle that now serves as a unique hotel.
Spend a few hours wandering the narrow lanes, browsing the local craft shops, and sampling the region’s famous ginjinha, a cherry liqueur often served in a chocolate cup.
Being a local attraction as well, Óbidos tends to be more crowded on weekends. Regardless, it’s a magical stop and an easy, unforgettable day trip from Nazaré that you shouldn’t miss.
My favorite thing to do was to walk along the city walls and admire the spectacular views of the town, the castle towers, and the surrounding countryside.
If you can splurge, you can spend a night in the charming castle hotel, Pousada Castelo de Obidos.
20. Peniche
The coastal town of Peniche, just about 45 minutes from Nazaré, is a paradise for ocean lovers and surfers.
Known for its rugged cliffs, scenic beaches, and the world-class Supertubos surf break, it’s a hotspot for both professional surfers and those who just enjoy the laid-back vibe of a surf town.
Peniche is also the departure point for boat trips to the Berlenga Islands, a protected nature reserve with crystal-clear waters, perfect for hiking, birdwatching, or simply enjoying a peaceful escape.
Combine that with fresh seafood at one of the town’s many local restaurants, and you’ve got the perfect coastal day trip from Nazaré.
What and Where to Eat (according to Guests’ reviews)
- Best seafood restaurants:
- Tosca Gastro Bar – Great for fresh seafood with a modern twist.
- A Tasquinha – A local favorite for traditional Portuguese dishes.
- Taberna d’Adelia – Cozy atmosphere with excellent seafood options.
- Must-try dishes:
- Grilled sardines
- Arroz de marisco (seafood rice)
- Polvo à lagareiro (octopus with olive oil and garlic)
So, Is Nazaré Worth Visiting? Final thoughts
Absolutely! Whether you’re a surf enthusiast, a history lover, or a foodie, Nazaré has something for everyone. From its world-famous waves to its traditional fishing culture and delicious seafood, this coastal town is a fantastic destination for a day trip or a longer stay.
