Leiria: Castle Town and Base for Central Portugal

Leiria is a lively small city in central Portugal, crowned by a hilltop castle with a graceful Gothic loggia. It’s a convenient, good-value base for some of the country’s greatest sights, including Batalha, Fátima, Alcobaça, Nazaré and Óbidos.

Quick answer: Leiria is about 1.5 hours north of Lisbon. Climb to the castle for views, stroll the old town and the River Lis gardens, and use the city as a base for Batalha (15 minutes), Fátima (20 minutes) and the Silver Coast. See places to stay in Leiria.

Things to do

• The castle: a medieval fortress with a royal palace and an elegant loggia overlooking the city.
• The old town: squares, cafés and the cathedral.
• The River Lis: riverside paths and parks.
• Museums: the city museum in a former convent.
• Food: try brisas do Lis, the local almond and egg sweets, and regional dishes.

Day trips

• Batalha: see the Batalha Monastery.
• Fátima: see Fátima.
• Alcobaça: see the Alcobaça Monastery.
• Nazaré and São Pedro de Moel: see Nazaré.
• Tomar: see Tomar.

More: castles in Portugal and the Silver Coast.

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