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Nazare is a charming seaside town located on the west coast of Portugal, just a short drive north of Lisbon. With its picturesque streets, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage, it is no surprise that Nazare is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. In this travel guide, we will explore the best things to do, see, and experience in Nazare, Portugal.
Introduction to Nazare
Nazare is a small town on the Atlantic coast of Portugal, located approximately 120 km north of Lisbon. It is known for its stunning beaches, picturesque streets, and unique culture. The town has a rich fishing tradition, and many of the local restaurants serve fresh seafood caught that very day. Nazare is also known for its big wave surfing, with waves reaching up to 80 feet in height during the winter months.
Getting to Nazare
The easiest way to get to Nazare is by car, as it is located just off the A8 motorway that connects Lisbon to Porto. The journey from Lisbon takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. There are also regular bus services from Lisbon and Porto, with several departures per day. The journey by bus takes around 2 hours from Lisbon and around 3 hours from Porto. Alternatively, you can take the train from Lisbon to Leiria and then transfer to a bus to Nazare.
When to visit Nazare
The best time to visit Nazare is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the sea is calm. However, this is also the busiest time of the year, and the town can get crowded with tourists. If you want to avoid the crowds, you can visit Nazare in the spring or autumn when the weather is still pleasant, and the town is quieter. If you are interested in big wave surfing, the best time to visit Nazare is during the winter months, from October to March, when the waves are at their biggest.
Where to stay in Nazare
Nazare has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay in Nazare:
Hotel Miramar Sul: This modern hotel offers stunning views over Nazare and the Atlantic Ocean. It has a rooftop pool and terrace, a spa, and a restaurant serving traditional Portuguese cuisine.
Hotel Praia: This family-run hotel is located just a few steps from Nazare's main beach. It has comfortable rooms, a bar, and a restaurant serving fresh seafood.
Hotel Mar Bravo: This charming hotel is located in the heart of Nazare's historic center, just a short walk from the beach. It has cozy rooms, a bar, and a restaurant serving traditional Portuguese dishes.
Casa da Avó: This guesthouse is located in a traditional Portuguese house in the historic center of Nazare. It has simple but comfortable rooms, a shared kitchen, and a terrace with views over the town.
What to do in Nazare
There are plenty of things to see and do in Nazare, whether you are interested in culture, history, or outdoor activities. Here are some of the best things to do in Nazare:
Visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazare: This 14th-century church is the most important religious site in Nazare. It is dedicated to Our Lady of Nazare, the patron saint of the town. The church has a beautiful baroque interior and is home to a statue of Our Lady of Nazare that is said to have miraculous powers.
Explore the historic center: The historic center of Nazare is a maze of narrow streets and whitewashed houses. It is full of traditional Portuguese restaurants, charming shops, and historic buildings. Be sure to visit the Praça Sousa Oliveira, a square in the heart of the town that is home to a traditional market selling fresh produce and local crafts.
Take a walk along the beach: Nazare has several beautiful beaches, including Praia do Norte, which is famous for its big waves. Take a stroll along the promenade, relax on the golden sand, or try your hand at surfing.
Visit the Museum of Nazare: This museum is dedicated to the history and culture of Nazare. It has exhibitions on the town's fishing tradition, the big wave surfing culture, and the local handicrafts. The museum is housed in a 19th-century mansion with stunning views over the ocean.
Take a day trip to Obidos: Obidos is a medieval town located just a short drive from Nazare. It is known for its picturesque streets, historic castle, and traditional handicrafts. Be sure to try the local cherry liqueur, known as ginjinha, and visit the chocolate festival, which takes place every year in March.
Try the local cuisine: Nazare is known for its fresh seafood, particularly the grilled sardines and the caldeirada, a fish stew made with tomatoes and potatoes. Be sure to also try the local pastries, including the pastel de nata and the pão de ló.
Surfing in Nazare
Nazare is one of the best places in the world for big wave surfing, with waves reaching up to 80 feet in height during the winter months. The town has become famous among surfers thanks to its iconic break, known as Praia do Norte. The big wave season in Nazare runs from October to March, and during this time, surfers from all over the world come to test their skills on the massive waves.
If you are not an experienced surfer, don't worry. Nazare has plenty of surf schools that offer lessons for all levels. You can also watch the surfers from the safety of the beach, or from one of the many restaurants and cafes that offer stunning views over the ocean.
Festivals and Events in Nazare
Nazare is a town that loves to celebrate, and there are plenty of festivals and events throughout the year. Here are some of the most popular:
Festas de Nossa Senhora da Nazare: This is the most important festival in Nazare, and it takes place every year in September. The festival celebrates the town's patron saint, Our Lady of Nazare, and includes a procession, fireworks, and live music.
Festival Internacional de Gigantes: This festival takes place every year in July and brings together giants and big heads from all over the world. The event includes parades, dances, and performances, and is a great way to experience Nazare's unique culture.
Carnaval de Nazare: This carnival takes place every year in February and is one of the biggest carnivals in Portugal. The event includes parades, music, and lots of colorful costumes.
Nazare is a town that offers something for everyone, from beautiful beaches to rich culture and history. Whether you are interested in big wave surfing, traditional Portuguese cuisine, or simply relaxing in the sun, Nazare is the perfect destination. With its friendly locals, charming streets, and stunning scenery, it is easy to see why Nazare is such a popular destination for tourists from all over the world.
