Just 120 km from Lisbon, Nazaré is a beautiful coastal town that’s perfect for a day trip. Famous for its stunning beach and huge waves, it’s a great place to relax or watch surfers take on some of the biggest waves in the world. You can easily get to Nazaré from Lisbon in about 1.5 hours by car or bus. While you’re there, don’t miss the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazaré and enjoy a walk along the beach. Whether you’re looking to explore, enjoy the sea or just soak up the local atmosphere, Nazaré is a must.
How to Travel from Lisbon to Nazaré
If you’re planning to travel from Lisbon to Nazaré, there are several convenient options to suit different preferences and budgets. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the best one.
Getting from Lisbon to Nazaré is simple, with a few great options to choose from.
The quickest way is by car, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours along the A8 motorway. This option gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, with the chance to visit nearby towns like Alcobaça.
You can also take a bus from Sete Rios station in Lisbon. The journey takes around 2 hours and is a budget-friendly choice.
For a more relaxed trip, consider booking a guided tour. Many tours include transport, visits to top spots like the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazaré, and a chance to explore the beautiful beach and cliffs. It’s a stress-free way to enjoy your day.
Best Things to Do and See in Nazaré
See the world's biggest waves
Nazaré is famous for its giant waves, attracting surfers and visitors from all over the world. These massive waves, sometimes reaching over 30 meters, are created by the unique underwater Nazaré Canyon. The best time to see them is between October and March at Praia do Norte. For amazing views, visit the São Miguel Arcanjo Fort or the viewpoints in Sitio. Whether you’re admiring the fearless surfers or simply taking in the awe-inspiring power of the waves, it’s a sight that will stay with you forever.
Discover the lively beach of Nazaré
Praia da Nazaré is one of Portugal’s most famous beaches, with its wide golden sands, colourful fishing boats and traditional beach tents in summer. Located in the centre of the city, it’s perfect for relaxing, swimming or walking along the picturesque seafront. Surfers and bodyboarders also love the waves here, making it a lively spot all year round. Don’t miss the wooden fishing boats on display or the dried fish market, which show Nazaré’s deep connection to the sea.
Visit the Nazaré Sanctuary
The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazaré is a beautiful Baroque church located in the heart of Sítio, overlooking the town and the sea. It houses a famous statue of the Virgin Mary, believed to have come from Nazareth, giving Nazaré its name. Inside, golden altars and stunning blue and white tiles tell stories from the Bible. Full of history and charm, the church is a must see. To get there, take the funicular from the beach for a fun ride with amazing views.
Rise on the funicular
The Nazaré Funicular connects the beach area to the Sítio district at the top of the cliff, offering amazing views along the way. Running every 15 minutes, it’s a quick and easy way to get from the town center to the higher part of Nazaré. The funicular has been modernized, making it smooth and accessible for everyone, including wheelchairs and bikes. For just a few euros, you can enjoy a scenic ride with breathtaking views of the village and coastline. It’s a must-try experience when visiting Nazaré!
Discover Nazaré's sun-dried fish tradition
The Sun-Dried Fish Museum in Nazaré is a unique place to learn about one of the village’s oldest traditions. Located right on Nazaré Beach, it shows how fish are preserved using the sun and sea breezes. Inside the museum you can discover the history of this fascinating practice, while outside you can see fish drying on wooden racks. This tradition has been passed down from generation to generation and is still part of everyday life in Nazaré. Take some photos and, if you feel adventurous, try a piece of dried fish for a real local experience.
Dine in a local restaurant
Nazaré is a seafood lover’s dream, with some of the freshest fish and shellfish you can find. Many restaurants serve dishes made from the day’s catch, bringing the true flavours of the sea to your plate. Try local favourites such as grilled sardines, octopus or the famous caldeirada (fish stew). Some places even let you choose your fish before it’s cooked, ensuring a meal that’s as fresh as it gets. Whether you prefer a simple, cosy place or a restaurant with stunning views of the sea, eating in Nazaré is an experience you won’t forget.
Visit the Chapel of Memory
The Ermida da Memória is a small but fascinating landmark in Sítio, Nazaré. Built in 1182, it marks the spot where, according to legend, Our Lady of Nazaré saved D. Fuas Roupinho from falling off a cliff while hunting. Inside, you’ll find beautiful tiles that tell the story and a small window overlooking the beach at Nazaré. This chapel is also associated with the Black Madonna, an ancient statue brought to the region in 711. Located close to the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Nazaré and the Miradouro do Suberco, it’s a worth a visit for anyone exploring Nazaré.
Enjoy the views from the Miradouro do Suberco
The Miradouro do Suberco is one of the best places in Nazaré to enjoy stunning views of the beach, the city and the Atlantic Ocean. Located 110 metres above sea level, it’s a short walk from the funicular station in Sítio. The viewpoint is decorated with traditional Portuguese cobblestones, giving it a unique charm. You can also see landmarks such as the Nossa Senhora da Nazaré Sanctuary and the Memória Chapel nearby. Whether you visit at sunrise or sunset, this is the perfect place to enjoy Nazaré’s incredible scenery and take some amazing photos!
Where to Stay in Nazaré
We have curated a diverse range of accommodation options that cater to every budget and preference, from charming hotels to cozy apartments and enchanting guest houses. Our selection process involved considering the location of the accommodations, reliable reviews from our partner Booking.com, and the opinions of the members of our Facebook group, Lisbon Travel, which has 40 thousand enthusiastic members. These options have been selected carefully to make sure that your stay in Nazaré is truly memorable.
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Transportation in Nazaré
Exploring Nazaré is easy and enjoyable, with a variety of transportation options to help you get around.
The best way to experience the town is on foot, as it allows you to stroll along the beach, explore the charming streets, and admire the views from the top of the cliffs. For a more scenic experience, take a ride on the funicular that takes you from the beach up to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazaré, offering stunning views along the way.
If you want to visit nearby areas or the famous viewpoints, taxis and ride-share services are available for a more comfortable and flexible option. For those looking to explore at their own pace, renting a bike is another great choice. Public buses also connect Nazaré with nearby towns and attractions, making it easy to get around.
Best Tours in Nazaré
We have selected a diverse range of tour options to suit all budgets and preferences. Our selection was based on the reliable reviews of our partner GetYourGuide and the opinions of the members of our Facebook group, Lisbon Travel, with 40,000 passionate members. These options have been carefully selected to ensure that your stay in Nazaré is truly memorable.
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