Óbidos, Portugal has been inhabited since the stone age. Romans, Visigoths, and Moors made it their home before the first king of Portugal captured it in 1148. The castle and defensive walls have been constructed and reconstructed multiple times.
Many tourists visit this well-preserved, medieval, walled town. Most come by tour bus, walk up and down the two commercial main streets, and are gone in less than three hours. I stayed in Óbidos for two days, exploring and taking photos.
Exterior view of the walled, hilltop city of Obidos, Portugal.
One of the entrances to the walled city.
There is an ancient aqueduct just outside of Obidos.
Another view of the aqueduct.
Hiking into the countryside outside of Obidos.
The Obidos train station was empty, closed, and looked abandoned when I visited. It’s easier to get to the city by bus.
Typical blue and white Portuguese mosaic tile work.
Several signs throughout the town requested visitors not write on the walls.
The castle on the hill in Obidos is now a hotel for visitors.
Dried, salted cod is a staple in Portugal. This stinky display was fund in a nearby grocery store. It actually tastes pretty good once cooked.
Amazingly clean and modern hostel in Obidos. I had it all to myself!
Courtyard in the back of the Vila Obidos Hostel.
The Basics: Obidos, Portugal
Currency: Euro
Thank you: If you are a man say, “Obrigado.” If you are a woman say, “Obrigada.”
Water: Tap water is ok to drink, bottled water tastes better.
Local Coffee: “Bica” is small back espresso. “Garoto” is half espresso, half milk.
Restaurant Customs: Say “No” to the cover (bread, olive, snacks, etc… that the waiter puts down without ordering them) if you don’t want to pay for it.
Tipping: Round up for a sandwich or coffee. 5-10% tip in restaurants if a service charge is not included on the bill.
Accommodations: Vila Obidos Hostel