a mini guide to Mafra

Mafra is a Portuguese town close to Lisbon, which makes it a tourist hotspot due to its good accessibility.

Mafra is surrounded by towns of equal tourist interest, Torres Vedras, Arruda dos Vinhos, Loures and Sintra. 

Mafra also has a spectacular climate! Due to the oceanic influence, it is moderately rainy and pleasant. The combination of the climate and the fantastic history that has passed here gives Mafra beautiful natural and historical landscapes that reflect the characteristic countryside atmosphere of these lands. 

We can say that Mafra is a small piece of a big culture.

Why go there?

Mafra has much to explore. Here we find the Tapada de Mafra, the largest walled natural area in Portugal, and the majestic Mafra Palace and Convent, which has one of the most beautiful and envied libraries in the world. 

In addition, because of the town’s privileged location, it is surrounded by places to visit like Torres Vedras, Arruda dos Vinhos, Loures and Sintra. Mafra also offers very good beaches for surfing. Here you can wander, do cultural activities and have a good time. 

What to do?

The National Palace of Mafra is a baroque architectural ensemble, formed by a Royal Palace, a Basilica and a Convent. It exhibits important collections of sculpture and painting, Portuguese and Italian, a magnificent library, as well as two carillons, six historical organs which are unique in the world, and an 18th century hospital. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit such a monument! 

The Tapada de Mafra is a green space dedicated to exploring environmental and sustainable resources. Here you can take, for example, a train ride to meet the enchanted forest and the animals that inhabit it. It is a very good space to explore with the family. A place with history. 

Aldeia Típica de José Franco was built by the sculptor and potter José Franco and represents the typical occupations of the old Portugal in miniature sceneries, with the respective work instruments – a village for the little ones. 

Aldeia da Mata Pequena is a small rural village, with thirteen houses, located a few kilometers from the village center. So close and so far away from the stress and stress of the city. Take a peaceful stroll through the streets of this hillbilly village! 

The Carvoeira viewpoint is the right place if you are looking for a good spot to contemplate the sea. This belvedere is located between the Sul beach and the Foz do Lizandro, take a walk there.

where to stay?

Quinta de Sant’Anna | Vila Galé Ericeira | You and the Sea (see more options with exclusive Discounts with our BPH CARD!)

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where to eat?

Don’t leave Mafra without tasting the incredible conventual sweets at ‘Fradinho’ pastry shop. Therefore, on your way to Ericeira, try the famous Pão com Chouriço in the typical village of José Franco. Then, taste the classic Seafood of the area at ‘Restaurante Sul’ or choose the best typical dishes at ‘Restaurante Avó’.

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