By the GoÓbidos Team●24 December 2014
The Narrow Streets of Óbidos: A Walk Through the Village
From the tiled Porta da Vila to Rua Direita: how to explore the cobbled lanes, whitewashed houses and Gothic doorways of Óbidos.
In this article
Be an explorer Porta da Vila Rua Direita Frequently asked questions
The charm of Óbidos comes from its people, its castle, the walls and the landscape around it, but also from its narrow streets.
They are linked by traditional Portuguese cobbles, uneven and full of stories, laid by craftsmen whose hands were shaped by daily work.
Be an explorer
Whitewashed houses with blue, yellow and red trim open their doors to restaurants, bars, shops, museums and galleries. Walking these streets is pure pleasure: a glass of ginjinha (cherry liqueur) here, another photo there.
Porta da Vila
The main of the four gates in the walls, facing south, is the unavoidable entrance for anyone visiting the village. It leads to Rua Direita and welcomes visitors with a remarkable display of 18th-century tiles dedicated to the patron saint of Óbidos, Our Lady of Piety.
Rua Direita
The street that crosses the village has kept its name since the 14th century. Picturesque houses, small shops and restaurants line it side by side, and a series of Gothic doorways reveals that the layout of the town was once different.
To enjoy the main street, walk it slowly with the people and flavours of Óbidos: a glass of ginjinha in hand and a chat with one of the local craftsmen.
Continue with Óbidos Castle and the religious heritage of the village, or plan your visit around the festivals, such as the Chocolate Festival and the Christmas Village.
Guided tour
Óbidos: Medieval Tales & Secret Spots
A local guide takes you through the narrow streets to the stories of the queens, kings and legends of Óbidos.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main street of Óbidos?
Rua Direita, which runs from the Porta da Vila to the castle and has kept its name since the 14th century.
Why is the Porta da Vila famous?
It is the main gate of the walls and is decorated inside with 18th-century tiles dedicated to Our Lady of Piety, patron saint of Óbidos.
Can I drive inside the walls?
Only residents and authorised vehicles. Visitors should park outside the walls and explore the village on foot.
More about Óbidos
- Itineraries in Óbidos
- Óbidos Castle
- Óbidos Religious Heritage
- What to do in Óbidos
- Art and culture in Óbidos
- Explore Óbidos
This article was prepared by the GoÓbidos team, the local tourist guide to Óbidos. Please check dates, opening hours and prices with the organisers before your visit.