a mini guide to Alcobaça

Alcobaça is a town located in Leiria, in central Portugal. It’s here where the Baça River joins the Alcoa River, which then flows into Nazaré.

This beautiful place is from the 14th century, and has been the scene of several events and even love stories, such as that of Pedro and Inês, the well-known and dramatic portuguese tale of forbidden love. 

Alcobaça is a rich and diverse place, get to know it better with the help of our guide.

Why go there?

In Alcobaça we find a spectacular mix of landscapes, gastronomy and heritage. This is a vast, diverse and beautiful territory, situated between the Candeeiros Mountains and the sea, which results in activities for all tastes. 

Here we notice at first impression a wonderful fusion of what is cultural richness and love. This makes Alcobaça one of the best historical corners of the country! 

What to do?

The Alcobaça Monastery started to be built in the 12th century, but this architectonic set – composed by a church and three cloisters – suffered extensions until the middle of the 19th century. This monastery is all in the Romanesque-Gothic style and presents masterpieces of portuguese sculpture, with the tombs of D. Pedro and D. Inês being worthy of note. 

Praia da Polvoeira has a dazzling beauty that the bravest can observe if they climb the cliff on the north side, which separates it from the next beach. The calm sea allows bathing without danger and concentrates a great biodiversity, which can be seen in the abundance of octopuses (polvo, in portuguese).  

Alcobaça has the house-museum of Vieira Natividade, an illustrious archaeologist from this town. Here we find a very valuable collection of archaeological, ethnographic, photographic and ceramic elements. All items from this local archaeologist. 

The best viewpoint of Alcobaça and surrounding areas, is in the ruins of Alcobaça Castle. It is, without a doubt, a place not to be missed. 

The Monks’ Park is located in A Quinta das Freiras, a theme park full of unique experiences and adventures. It is divided into six sections – environmental, zoological, adventure, thematic, entertainment and accommodation. The most interesting thing is the thematic proposal: to recreate the way of life of the monks of the Cistercian Order, in a fun and interactive way, recommended for all ages!

where to stay?

Real Abadia Hotel | Your Hotel & SPA | Challet Fonte Nova | Parque dos Monges (see more options with exclusive Discounts with our BPH CARD!)

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where to eat?

Visit ‘Fiori di Zucca’ for the best pizza in town. Try the meat and seafood of ‘Taberna Sem Regras’ or your favorite snacks at ‘Pratu’s’. For the best traditional cuisine visit ‘O Castigo’.

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