20 best places to visit in and around Leiria
Are you dreaming of your next exciting getaway? If so, make Leiria your holiday destination of choice!
One of Portugal’s secret treasures, Leiria, is a dynamic and lively city known for its historical heritage. It perfectly combines modern influence with medieval charm for a holiday you’ll never forget.
And in such a wonderful destination, where better to stay than our luxury-boutique holiday villa Nour?
Not to mention that a boutique villa offers peace and privacy, something that many hotels don’t. It’s also ideally located for lots of wonderful sightseeing and adventure days out.
So, if you’re considering staying in our villa for a few days or even a week or two, here’s our helpful guide on the top places to visit in Leiria.
What to do in Leiria
But just before we start to count down the top places to visit in Leiria, let’s get to know a little more about this beautiful city.
Located at the foot of a fortified hill, Leiria was one of the first cities to be occupied by the Moors in the 10th century. This historical city is of special importance to Portugal, and there are plenty of historical sites to visit during your stay.
Leiria became a major place for royalty with the King Dom Dinis (1261-1325) and his wife Isabel having spent the longest from among the different monarchs who lived there. Their lasting impact is present both in the region's geography and culture.
D. Dinis was responsible for the substantial expansion of the pine forest originally planted to act as a barrier to protect the land from the dunes of the coast, 20 miles away from Leiria.
Queen Isabel is known for the miracle of the roses, as it is related that when she was questioned by King D. Dinis when he found her distributing to the poorest, she replied that she was giving roses away. The King suspiciously argued that there could be no roses in January, but when she showed the contents, he found roses in place of bread, thus becoming the legend of the miracle of the roses.
Once a place for royalty, modern-day Leiria is a nice, quiet city with lots of wonderful restaurants and bars, where you can spend your days hanging out in the old centre square.
It is also ideally located for days out to some of Portugal’s other greatest cities. Leiria to Lisbon is an easy journey; you can also visit Porto, Fatima, Coimbra, and more.
Perfect for family getaways or romantic breaks, if you want to know more about what to do in Leiria, read on for our full list of places to see.
Leiria Castle
One of the top places to visit in Leiria is the majestic medieval castle. It is one of the most distinguished in Portugal, originally constructed for King Afonso Henriques during the reconquest of the Moors.
The castle has undergone many different phases of construction, including the addition of Gothic extensions under King D. Dinis in the 14th century and King John in the 15th century.
But after the castle was heavily damaged during the French invasions, it was almost abandoned. Thankfully, the League of Friends of the Castle employed Swiss architect Ernesto Korrodi to restore it.
This decision paid off, and today, you can visit the castle, walk the inner walls, and imagine what it was like to be royalty in Leiria all those centuries ago. And best of all, you can do all this for as little as €2.10.
Check the following link for the latest details, opening hours, and ticket prices:
Leiria Castle – Visit Leiria (visiteleiria.pt)
Paper Museum
These tiles, called azulejo, are typical of Portuguese culture. Here a panel situated on the side of the paper mill, represents the mill in its old days with the Leiria castle in the background.
If you want to get to know a little bit more about the heritage of Leiria, the Paper Mill Museum is a must-visit. Found in the city centre, this is easy to access from the villa and certainly worth the trip.
Museu do Moinho de Papel, or the Paper Mill Museum as it’s known in English, is located in the first known paper mill in Portugal. Found on the River Lis, the museum focuses on the traditional arts and crafts related to paper in the area.
The main idea behind the museum was to preserve the memory and sociocultural heritage of Leiria. As such, the museum takes a look at the traditional methods used to mill wheat, corn and rye grain, as well as the manufacturing of olive oil and of course, the production of paper.
Link to find out more details:
Paper Mill – Visit Leiria (visiteleiria.pt)
Rodrigues Lobo Square (central square)
You have a prominent view of the castle when relaxing at the Square of Rodrigues Lobo
Rodrigues Lob square is at the centre of the old Leiria, having a view of the Leiria castle and the Art nouveau architecture
At the heart of the city is the central square. This is a hub of cafes, bars and restaurants, ideal for socialising and popular for its great nightlife. The square is actually named after one of Leiria’s most famous figures, Rodrigues Lobo and there is a statue commemorating him in the South West corner.
As well as being able to grab some food and a cold drink, you can also sit and enjoy the buzzing atmosphere, friendly locals and view of the walls of Leiria Castle.
Laser Quest
Holidays aren’t just about soaking up the culture, there also needs to be time for some silly fun too! So, if you’re wondering what to do in Leiria to blow off some steam or keep the children entertained.
Just slightly outside the city centre you’ll find Laser Quest. The gaming arena takes place over two floors and the friendly staff are on hand to help you and ensure the fun never stops.
Directions are available on the blog titled: “activities for all ages”
Go-karting or zip lining in Fatima
As well as Laser Quest, one of the top places to visit in Leiria (well, technically just outside of Leiria), for a few hours of energetic fun is zip lining and go-karting. The adventure park, Funpark, offers zip lining experiences and a chance to explore the tree tops.
And if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, why not consider go-karting at the fun park in Fatima. Funpark allows both groups or individuals to get out on the track for a race or just to test out your driving skills.
This can be the ideal day out for groups of friends or perhaps families with children to entertain.
Directions are available on the blog titled: “activities for all ages”
Fatima for Roman Catholics
The Portuguese Roman Catholic Diocese of Leiria–Fatima is a Latin rite suffragan diocese, and the main church, the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Conception, is located in Leiria. The area, particularly to the South East, has become a cherished pilgrimage site, important to Roman Catholics. But even if you’re not religious, the site is still well worth a visit.
Grutas da Moeda (Coin Caves)
Located in Batalha, only 2km from Fatima, Grutas da Moeda, also known as the Coin Caves, is a huge tourist attraction. Discovered in 1971 by two hunters, the beautiful caves are full of breathtaking limestone formations that only become more spectacular with every new gallery you see. Today, scientists are working as hard to carefully persevere this incredible natural wonder, and you should definitely pay it a visit.
Grutas de Mira de Aire
UNESCO heritage sites
Mosteiro da Batalha
Side view of the Mosteiro da Batalha
Side view of the monastery of Batalha
This Monastery is the closest UNESCO heritage site of the three sites that we will cover here and which are all located just about half an hour from the Villa.
The Mosteiro da Batalha (Battle in Portuguese) was erected in commemoration of the 1385 Battle of Aljubarrota, seen as a major battle for Portuguese sovereignty against Hispanic kingdoms, and would serve as the burial church of the 15th-century Aviz dynasty of Portuguese royalty. It is one of the best and original examples of Gothic architecture in Portugal, intermingled with the Manueline style that is unique to Portugal and is influenced by maritime elements reminiscent of the age of Portuguese travels across the oceans.
The monastery is a historic and cultural monument and was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983
The Mosteiro da Batalha is located in the town of Batalha which is less than 10 miles from Leiria. From the villa, you can drive towards Fatima and take the new IC9.
Directions to go to the Batalha monastery from Villa Nour. Go towards Fatima, then take the IC9.
You can also go via the Leiria route as shown below via the National N1. When you are about to reach the town, you will have a unique view of the monastery. Unfortunately as the monastery will be on your left, it won’t be easy to capture the view with a camera, although it’s worth trying, so if you are not driving alone, have someone ready to take the picture, it will be worth.
If you are in Leiria, you can opt to go via the Leiria route as shown below via the National N1. When you are about to reach the town, you will have a unique view of the monastery. Unfortunately as the monastery will be on your left, it won’t be easy to capture the view with a camera, although it’s worth trying, so if you are not driving alone, have someone ready to take the picture, it will be worth.
Alcobaça Monastery
The church and monastery were the first Gothic buildings in Portugal, and it was one of the most important medieval monasteries in Portugal. Due to its artistic, cultural and historical relevance, it was included in UNESCO's World Heritage Site list in 1989. The front of the cathedral is the most impressive and most characteristic part of this monument
Main front entrance of the monastery of Alcobaça
The long facade of the monastery of Alcobaça
Inside the church are located the tombs of King Pedro I and his mistress, Inês de Castro, who was killed in 1355 on orders of Pedro's father, King Afonso IV.
After becoming king, King Pedro had the remains of Inês de Castro transferred to her tomb in Alcobaça and it is said that after her death, he had her crowned as queen of Portugal and ordered court members to pay her homage by kissing her decomposing hand.
These tombs are among the best works of Gothic style in Portugal.
I have mentioned before when describing Nazare beach, that Alcobaça can be visited one the same day as both are in the same regional area. when you arrive at the A8 exit of the motorway, you will see both directions displayed, but opposite each other. If you decide to leave directly to visit the monastery from Villa Nour, it will take around 40min. through the A8.
Tomar Convent
The monument would have been a stronghold of the Knights Templar in the 12th-century. It is in Tomar, 20 miles (30min.) from the villa. The monument was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983. The most prominent feature of the convent is the chapterhouse window ornamented with the distinctive Manueline architectural style which incorporates maritime elements and representations relating to the period of voyages and discoveries called the “age of discovery” referring to the Portuguese discovery of a route to India by sea during the 15th century.
Tomar convent appears to be located inside a castle
The entrance to the Tomar cConvent
Window decoration seafaring Manueline style
At the center of the chapel, there is mixture of colours and shapes that are unique and beautifully crafted
Between Leiria and Lisbon- Going further afield
There are plenty of top places to visit in Leiria, and there are also other places in this region that are worth visiting.
To fully enjoy and explore beyond Leiria,From Leiria to Lisbon and all the small towns in between, we recommend exploring more of Portugal during your stay in the villa, so we’ve pulled together a list of some other great places to visit nearby.
Bussaco & Luso
just over an hour on the A1 north of Coimbra, Bussaco is at the top of a hill surrounded by well preserved green spaces and a unique collection of giant fern make the are so serene for a walk.
Giant ferns fill the area before reaching the Bussaco hotel
the Bussaco hotel has outstanding beauty in its architecture
Before you arrive at Bussaco, you will pass by Luso, where the nationally famous mineral water comes from. You can easily reach the center of the town and fill as many water bottles as you can, with as many as 12 water fountains constantly providing water to anyone who wishes to seek some refreshment.
Óbidos
The romantic medieval town of Óbidos is not far from Leiria and is well worth the drive. This medieval town was originally given as a gift from King Dinis, who lived some time in the Leiria castle, to his queen on their wedding day in 1282 after she fell in love with the place.
Óbidos main entrance decorated with traditional Portuguese azulejo and painted ceiling
Nowadays, you can explore the cobbled streets, walk up to the castle and potter around the quaint souvenir shops. Plus, you can soak up the view of the Baroque church, Senhor Jesus da Pedra, which can be seen from the castle walls.
Óbidos medieval town small narrow cobbled paths white house and pots with flowers
Directions
Óbidos - 70 km - 48 min drive from Villa Nour through the A8 motorway and you can plan your visit for half a day.
Car parking: just as you arrive near the main entrance of the walled town, you will see a large outdoor car park next to and in front of the Tourist Office.
The castle interiors can not be visited, and instead, you may walk on the outdoor premises and enjoy the panoramic view of the surroundings.
Succulent plant hanging on the walls of the medieval castle of Óbidos
Medieval Festival
Portugal has been taking advantage of the opportunities the castles offer to setup several Medieval markets and festival events with the once in Óbidos already announced to be between the 17th to the 27th July 2025. It’s an amazing entertaining experience enjoyed by adults and children. The main ambience is set within the central exterior area of the castle, where you find food with a touch of medieval flavours in old barracks.
I recommend to visit the website of the “medieval market of Óbidos” to find out the events and plays that occur throughout the day.
Santarem
Located on a ridge above the River Tagus, the historic town is one of the oldest and most intriguing in Portugal. Once known as the Portuguese Gothic capital, Santarem has a rich cultural heritage, largely thanks to its different architectural styles.
It’s worth visiting for the beautiful churches and unique buildings covered in azulejo tile panels. These antique tiles are used throughout the town and have become a symbol of its past.
Portugal dos Pequenitos
Portugal dos Pequenitos, which translates as Portugal for the Little Ones, is considered to be the first theme park in the country.
Essentially, it is a pedagogical playground made from miniature reproductions of the Portuguese architectural heritage. For example, there, you’ll find a miniature Mosteiro dos Jerónimos in Lisbon and Convento de Cristo in Tomar, as well as smaller replicas of traditional houses and monuments.
As well as learning about Portugal, children can enjoy exploring and coming in and out of these miniature buildings.
Coimbra
Coimbra is a riverfront city in central Portugal and is also the country’s former capital. The reserved Medieval old town is draped in charm and is home to the 12th-century Romanesque cathedral, Sé Velha.
This ancient history is complemented by the city’s young, vibrant student ideals as it is also home to the historic University of Coimbra. The combination of old architecture and historical culture, mixed with their youthful atmosphere, makes it a very interesting place to visit.
Aveiro
Set along the Ria de Aveiro lagoon, the town of Aveiro is recognised by its network of canals, full of beautifully colourful boats. These were traditionally used to harvest seaweed but have now become somewhat of a photo opportunity for visitors.
It is also known for its art nouveau buildings and the Cathedral of Aveiro with its prominent bell tower. So, if you love interesting architecture and historic towns, it’s certainly worth making the day trip.
Conimbriga Roman ruins
The ancient city of Conimbriga is one of the best Roman ruins Portugal has to offer. This is largely thanks to its mosaics. The incredibly intricate patterned floors still remain intact some 2000 years later, which is impressive enough in itself, but the details and colours will simply blow you away.
This is the ideal day trip if you love ancient history, particularly the Roman period, but it’s also a great day out if you love interesting architecture and mosaics.
Nazare
Finally, although there are plenty of top places to visit in Leiria, there certainly isn’t a beach like that of Nazare. Its mild climate, natural beauty and ancient traditions make Nazare a wonderful place for a day out.
The town itself retains the more colourful fishing traditions, whilst the half-moon-shaped beach is a favourite amongst tourists. The Nazare Canyon, a submarine geomorphological phenomenon, also means the beach sees perfect waves that attract surfers from around the world!