Central Portugal

Central Portugal is the region between the two rivers that cross Portugal from east to west: the Tagus in the south, which flows into Lisbon, and the Douro in the north, which reaches the Atlantic at the foot of the city of Porto. Central Portugal is divided in two: the first part runs along the coast, where you’ll find the famous surf towns of Ericeira, Peniche, Nazaré, and the lagoon city of Aveiro. The second part stretches farther inland. Inland are Central Portugal’s main city, Coimbra, and the industrial city of Leiria, with several important religious sites between them. The entire area from there to the eastern border with Spain is mountainous, forested, sparsely populated, and rich in nature. People usually don’t come specifically for Central Portugal, but visit it while traveling between Porto and Lisbon. Still, some visitors come just for the coastal towns, whether for a summer vacation or year-round surfing.

How much time should you spend in Central Portugal?
As mentioned, a trip through Central Portugal is usually done on the way between Portugal’s two largest metropolitan areas. For that reason, travelers generally dedicate no more than two or three days to the region and choose in advance which towns and sites to stop at along the way.
What should you definitely see in Central Portugal?
Along the coast: the town of giant waves, Nazaré; the most famous surf town, Ericeira; Óbidos, the walled medieval town; and the Venice of Portugal, Aveiro.

Inland: the university city of Coimbra, the vast Batalha Monastery near Leiria, the Bussaco Palace and forest near Coimbra, and the city and massive Templar fortress of Tomar.
When is the best time to visit Central Portugal?
The coastal areas are good year-round except in winter, when the region is windy and rainy. If you’re planning to swim in the sea, summer is the only real option. The rest of the region can be visited throughout the year, though spring and summer are preferable.
How should you plan an itinerary in Central Portugal?
An itinerary in Central Portugal will usually start in Lisbon and end in Porto, or vice versa. It’s best to decide in advance which towns and sites you want to visit and work them into the journey between the two main cities. In any case, the main roads pass fairly close to most attractions, so they’re easy to reach without too many detours.

Some cities can also work as day trips from Porto or Lisbon. For example, Aveiro is relatively close to Porto, while Óbidos and Ericeira are relatively close to Lisbon.