17 Best Things to Do in Ericeira, Portugal 🇵🇹: Top Itinerary + Day Trips

🏠 Where to Stay in Ericeira

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: Immerso Hotel, a Member of Design Hotels, Ericeira
• ✨ 5-Star: Aethos Ericeira, Ericeira
• 🏨 4-Star: Villa Ana Margarida Beach, Ericeira
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Vinnus Guesthouse, Ericeira
• 💸 Cheap: Casa das Aguarelas, Ericeira
• 🏢 Apartment: Nesha Ericeira Flats, Ericeira
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Vila Gale Ericeira, Ericeira
• 🏩 For Couples: Praia FLH Hotels Ericeira, Ericeira

💁 Best Guided Tours

• Surfing Lessons at Ericeira World Surf Recognized from € 45 (⭐4.8/5)
• Ericeira Private Tour: 10 Tastings Food Tour from € 75 (⭐4.9/5)
• Ericeira: Surf School Experience & Equipment Rental from € 35 (⭐4.7/5)
• Ribeira d'ilhas, Surf Lessons at Ericeira WSReserve from € 50 (⭐4.8/5)

Best Things to Do in Ericeira, Portugal

1. Surfing at World Surf Reserve

Surf Paradise. Town of Ericeira holds the prestigious title of Europe’s only World Surf Reserve, and I couldn’t wait to catch some waves here. The 4km stretch of coastline offers seven incredible surf beaches with breaks for every skill level, from total beginners to pros seeking challenging reef breaks.

Wave Options. During my visit, I tried Ribeira d’Ilhas first – it’s the most famous spot and hosts international competitions. Look up from the water and you’ll spot “The Guardian” statue watching over the reserve. The right-handed point break works perfectly for both beginners and advanced surfers.

Lesson Costs. Surf lessons in Ericeira are surprisingly affordable. Group lessons start at €30 per person, while private sessions cost around €70. For families, there are special packages at €200 for two adults and two kids.

Board Rental. If you already know how to surf, renting gear is easy. Most shops charge €25-30 for a daily package including board, wetsuit, strap and booties. Remember to bring your ID as shops require it for deposit, and they generally won’t rent to complete beginners.

Surf Timing. The best surf season runs from October through May when the Atlantic swells are most consistent. I found Praia de São Julião perfect for beginners, while Coxos offers more challenging waves for experienced surfers. Whatever your level, Ericeira’s variety means you’ll find your perfect wave within minutes of the town center.

⭐ Best Activities

• Surf Coaching at the World Surfing Reserve – Catch the waves with expert coaching at Ericeira, one of the world’s top surfing destinations, with sessions available daily from early morning to evening.

2. Seafood Restaurants and Local Cuisine

Fresh Catches. Ericeira’s fishing heritage means incredible seafood is everywhere. I found myself drawn to the harbor each morning, watching fishermen unload their catches that would soon appear on local menus.

Local Specialties. The seafood stew called “caldeirada” became my obsession – a rich mix of whatever fish was caught that day. Another must-try is the “prego roll” – a juicy steak sandwich that locals eat as dessert after seafood meals!

Dining Tips. Most restaurants serve lunch from 12-3pm and dinner from 7-10pm. I learned to make reservations, especially during summer when places fill quickly. Tipping isn’t mandatory but rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is appreciated.

Budget Options. For affordable eats, I discovered the food market where €10 buys a hearty meal. Street food near the beach offers grilled sardines for €5-8, perfect for a quick lunch between activities.

Sweet Treats. Don’t miss trying pastel de nata (custard tarts) from local bakeries for around €1 each. I found the best ones at Padaria Central, where locals queue each morning for fresh-baked treats.

⭐ Best Activities

• Ericeira Private Food Tour: Hidden Gastronomic Treasures – Taste your way through Ericeira with a local guide, sampling 10 delicious specialties and finishing at a traditional fisherman’s tavern.

3. Wine Tasting and Wineries

Local Vineyards. Just a short drive from Ericeira, I discovered the Lisboa wine region with its unique maritime-influenced wines. The cool Atlantic breezes create perfect conditions for crisp whites and complex reds.

Quinta Experience. My favorite discovery was Quinta de Sant’Ana, a family-run estate about 20 minutes from town. Their guided tours include a walk through vineyards, production facilities, and a historic cellar dating back to the 18th century.

Tasting Options. Most wineries offer structured tastings with 4-6 wines for €8-20 per person. I found it worth spending a bit more for premium tastings that include older vintages and limited production wines.

Wine Bars. If you can’t make it to a winery, try Indigo Wine Bar in town. They offer flights of regional wines (€15-25) paired with local cheeses and charcuterie. The staff knows their stuff and can explain each wine’s story.

Transport Tip. Since drinking and driving don’t mix, consider booking a wine tour with transportation included. Local operators charge around €70-90 per person for half-day tours visiting 2-3 wineries with all tastings included.

⭐ Best Activities

• Hiking and Wine Tasting Experience – Combine scenic hiking in the Cascais region with a relaxing wine tasting for a perfect blend of adventure and indulgence.

4. Boutique Shopping and Artisan Stores

Artisan Finds. Wandering through Ericeira’s narrow streets, I stumbled upon countless boutiques selling handmade treasures. The town has attracted artists and craftspeople who create unique items you won’t find elsewhere.

Surf Fashion. As expected in a surf town, there are plenty of surf shops, but with a local twist. Beyond the global brands at Quiksilver Boardriders, I found independent stores like Oslo and Biju offering sustainable surf wear and handcrafted boards.

Souvenir Ideas. The most meaningful souvenirs I found were:

• Hand-painted ceramic tiles (€10-30)
• Locally made surf wax (€3-5)
• Portuguese wool blankets (€40-100)
• Cork products unique to Portugal (€5-50)
• Sea-inspired jewelry (€15-80)

Shopping Hours. Most shops open around 10am and close by 7pm, with many taking a lunch break from 1-3pm. On Sundays, expect limited hours or closures, especially during winter months.

Bargaining Etiquette. Unlike some European markets, haggling isn’t common in established shops. However, at the weekly market, gentle negotiation is acceptable – I managed to get about 10-15% off when buying multiple items.

5. Skate Park Quiksilver Boardriders

Skate Scene. When the waves weren’t cooperating, I headed to the Quiksilver Boardriders skate park – a hub for the local skate community. The park is surprisingly large for a small town, reflecting Ericeira’s commitment to board sports of all kinds.

Park Features. The concrete park offers something for every skill level, from beginner-friendly flat sections to challenging bowls and ramps. I was impressed by the quality of the construction and the well-maintained surfaces.

Skate Culture. What makes this spot special is the mix of locals and visitors. On weekday afternoons, I watched kids getting their first lessons alongside international travelers and seasoned skaters sharing tips and tricks.

Events Calendar. The park hosts regular competitions and demonstrations, especially during summer months. Check their Instagram (@boardridersericeira) for upcoming events – I caught an impromptu demo from a visiting pro team that was a highlight of my trip.

Practical Tips. The park is busiest after school hours (4-7pm) and on weekends. Early mornings offer the most space if you’re a beginner. There’s a small café attached to the Boardriders store where you can grab drinks and watch the action.

6. Paddleboarding and SUP Tours

Water Adventures. Paddleboarding offers a gentler way to enjoy local waters compared to surfing in Ericeira. I tried both ocean paddling and river SUP tours, each providing unique perspectives of the area’s natural beauty.

Location Options. For beginners like me, the Lizandro River mouth provides calm waters perfect for learning. More experienced paddlers can explore the coastline, gliding past dramatic cliffs and hidden coves inaccessible by land.

Equipment Rental. If you’ve paddleboarded before, rentals are available without guides:

• Basic board: €15/hour or €35/day
• Premium board: €20/hour or €45/day
• Full kit (board, paddle, leash, life vest): €25/hour or €50/day

Best Conditions. Morning sessions offer the calmest waters and best visibility. I could see fish swimming beneath my board in the crystal-clear water! Afternoons often bring wind, making paddling more challenging.

Wildlife Encounters. The highlight of my river tour was spotting herons, kingfishers, and even a family of otters. Ocean paddles sometimes include dolphin sightings, though I wasn’t lucky enough to experience this myself.

7. Yoga Classes and Wellness Studios

Wellness Culture. Ericeira has embraced yoga and wellness as the perfect complement to its surf culture. After challenging my body in the waves, I found numerous studios offering classes to stretch tired muscles and calm the mind.

Studio Options. From traditional yoga to more unique offerings like aerial yoga suspended from silk hammocks, the variety surprised me. Many studios welcome drop-ins, making it easy to incorporate wellness into your visit.

Class Experience. Most classes cater to all levels, with English-speaking instructors. I joined a sunset session at Praia do Sul where the ocean soundtrack and golden light created a magical practice environment.

Wellness Beyond Yoga. The wellness scene extends to:

• Massage therapy (€50-80/hour)
• Acupuncture sessions (€40-60)
• Sound healing workshops (€25-35)
• Meditation circles (€10-15)
• Surf-specific physiotherapy (€60-90)

Booking Advice. During high season (June-September), booking classes 1-2 days ahead is recommended. Many studios offer online booking through their websites or Instagram pages. Some beachfront classes have limited spots that fill quickly.

⭐ Best Activities

• Yoga retreat – Immerse yourself in the laid-back yoga culture with a multi-day camp, suitable for all skill levels.

Fun Things to Do in Ericeira with Kids

1. Santa Marta Park and Mini Golf

Family Fun. Santa Marta Park surprised me with its well-maintained facilities perfect for families. Located just outside the town center, this green space offers a welcome break from beach activities when kids need a change of pace.

Mini Golf Challenge. The 18-hole mini golf course became our family competition highlight. With ocean-themed obstacles and varying difficulty levels, it kept both children and adults entertained for hours.

Playground Features. The modern playground includes:

• Swings and slides for different ages
• Climbing structures with safety surfaces
• Seesaw and spring riders for younger children
• Shaded areas for parents to watch
• Water fountain for refilling bottles

Practical Information. The park opens daily from 9am until sunset. We found weekday mornings the quietest time to visit, while weekends get busy with local families. There’s a small café serving ice cream, snacks, and coffee – perfect for bribing tired kids!

Parent Tip. Bring sunscreen and hats even on cloudy days – there’s limited shade in some areas of the park. The mini golf course can be windy, so light jackets might be needed even in summer.

2. Adventure Park Cova da Baleia

Outdoor Excitement. Just a 15-minute drive from Ericeira, I discovered this adventure park hidden in a pine forest. It quickly became our family’s favorite day out, with activities that challenged kids while keeping parents entertained too.

Rope Courses. The park features aerial courses at different heights and difficulty levels. Even my cautious 7-year-old found a route she could manage, while my thrill-seeking 12-year-old tackled the most challenging obstacles.

Additional Activities. Beyond the rope courses, we enjoyed:

• Archery sessions (€10 for 30 minutes)
• Laser tag in the forest (€15 per person)
• Team-building challenges for families
• Nature trails with wildlife spotting
• Picnic areas under pine trees

Safety Standards. I was impressed by the safety briefing and equipment quality. All participants receive thorough instructions and are supervised by trained staff throughout the courses. The double-clip safety system ensured my kids were always secured to the safety line.

Booking Advice. Reservations are essential during summer and weekends. We booked three days in advance through their website and received a 10% discount for booking online.

3. Megacampo Adventure Park

Activity Wonderland. Megacampo offers an impressive variety of activities in one location, making it perfect for families with children of different ages and interests. Located about 20 minutes from Ericeira, it’s worth the short drive.

Inflatable Paradise. My kids couldn’t get enough of the massive inflatable zone with obstacle courses, slides, and bouncy castles. The supervised environment meant I could relax while they burned off energy.

Package Options. We found the combo tickets offered good value:

• Half-day pass (3 activities): €30
• Full-day pass (all activities): €45
• Family package (2 adults + 2 kids): €100

Refreshment Facilities. The on-site café serves reasonably priced meals and snacks. Our lunch of burgers, fries and drinks cost about €30 for a family of four. There’s also a picnic area if you prefer to bring your own food.

Weather Considerations. Many activities are outdoors, but the inflatable zone and trampolines are covered, making this a good option for occasional rainy days. We visited on a cloudy day that turned to light rain and still enjoyed most attractions.

Timing Tip. Arrive early (they open at 10am) to enjoy shorter queues for popular activities. The park gets busiest between 2-5pm, especially on weekends and during school holidays.

4. Horse Riding at Cerro Lusitano

Equestrian Experience. Horse riding at Cerro Lusitano equestrian center provided my family with unforgettable memories of Ericeira’s countryside. Located just 15 minutes from town, the stables offer rides suitable for complete beginners to experienced riders.

Trail Options. We chose the family trail ride through pine forests and open fields with distant ocean views. The gentle Lusitano horses were perfect for my children’s first riding experience.

Horse Selection. The center matches riders with horses based on experience level:

• Gentle, patient horses for complete beginners
• More responsive mounts for intermediate riders
• Spirited Lusitanos for experienced equestrians
• Smaller ponies specifically for young children

Safety Measures. I appreciated the focus on safety. All riders receive helmets, a thorough briefing, and basic instruction before setting off. For younger children, staff members lead the horses personally.

Booking Information. Reservations are essential, especially for morning rides which tend to book up first. We secured our spot three days in advance by phone, with a 30% deposit required to confirm.

5. Urban Park (Trampoline, Climbing Wall)

Active Play. Ericeira’s Urban Park offers modern facilities that kept my kids entertained for hours. Located within walking distance of the town center, it’s a convenient option when you need a break from beach activities.

Varied Activities. The park combines traditional playground equipment with more adventurous options like climbing walls and trampolines, appealing to a wide age range from toddlers to teenagers.

Best Features. My children particularly enjoyed:

• The climbing wall with color-coded routes for different abilities
• Connected trampolines where they could practice jumps and flips
• The modern playground with challenging climbing structures
• Open grassy areas perfect for frisbee or ball games
• Shaded picnic tables for snack breaks

Practical Information. The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset. It gets busy after school hours (4-7pm) and on weekends, so morning visits offer more space and shorter waits for popular equipment.

Parent Tip. There are no food vendors within the park itself, but several cafés and a small supermarket are within a 5-minute walk. We packed water bottles and snacks to avoid having to leave when hunger struck.

Free Things to Do in Ericeira

1. Old Town and Cobblestone Streets

Historic Charm. Ericeira’s old town captured my heart with its narrow cobblestone streets and traditional blue-and-white houses. Dating back to the 12th century, this fishing village retains its authentic character despite growing tourism.

Architectural Details. Walking through town, I noticed the beautiful Portuguese tilework (azulejos) adorning many buildings. Some homes feature intricate balconies and doorways that hint at the town’s prosperous maritime past.

Photo Opportunities. The most picturesque spots I discovered were:

• The colorful fishing boats in the harbor
• Narrow alleyways with laundry hanging between buildings
• Blue-trimmed white houses against the blue sky
• The main square with its traditional bandstand
• Sunset views from the western edge of town

Cultural Insights. Walking through town in the early morning, I watched fishermen mending nets and elderly locals chatting on benches. These everyday moments offered glimpses into authentic Portuguese life that many tourists miss.

Navigation Tip. The old town is small enough to explore without a map, but wear comfortable shoes – those charming cobblestones can be tough on feet after a few hours of wandering!

2. Cliff-Top Coastal Hikes

Dramatic Scenery. The coastal trails around Ericeira offer some of the most spectacular scenery I’ve experienced in Portugal. Rugged cliffs drop dramatically to the Atlantic, with viewpoints that had me constantly reaching for my camera.

Trail Options. The paths range from easy strolls to more challenging hikes, all offering incredible ocean views. Most trails are unmarked but follow natural pathways along the cliff edges.

Wildlife Spotting. Along the trails, I encountered:

• Seabirds nesting in cliff faces
• Wild rabbits darting between bushes
• Native wildflowers (especially beautiful in spring)
• Occasional dolphin pods visible from higher viewpoints
• Lizards sunning themselves on rocks

Safety Considerations. While beautiful, these trails require caution. I learned to stay well back from cliff edges, especially on windy days. There are few barriers, so families with small children should be particularly careful.

Timing Tip. Early morning hikes offer the best light for photography and cooler temperatures. For sunset hikes, I always brought a light jacket – the sea breeze gets chilly quickly once the sun drops.

3. Watch Surfers at Ribeira d’Ilhas

Surf Spectating. One of my favorite free activities was grabbing a coffee and watching surfers tackle the waves at Ribeira d’Ilhas. This world-class break attracts talented surfers from around the globe, creating a natural amphitheater of athletic performance.

Viewing Spots. The beach has several perfect vantage points, from the sandy shore to the cliff-top restaurant terrace. I found the wooden walkway offered the best combination of comfort and proximity to the action.

What You’ll See. Depending on conditions, you might witness:

• Beginners taking lessons in the whitewater
• Advanced surfers performing impressive maneuvers
• Professional photographers shooting from the water
• Occasional pro surfers training (including local hero Joana Andrade)
• Surf competitions during event season

Photography Tips. For the best action shots, I brought a zoom lens and shot during the “golden hour” before sunset when the light bathes surfers in a warm glow. Position yourself so the surfers are backlit for dramatic silhouettes.

Etiquette Note. While watching is free, respect the beach environment by taking any trash with you and staying off restricted dune areas. If you’re watching from the restaurant terrace, purchasing at least a drink is the polite thing to do.

4. Lookout Points: Sala das Visitas, Miradouro da Baleia

Panoramic Views. Ericeira’s position on Portugal’s west coast creates spectacular viewpoints where you can gaze across the endless Atlantic. These miradouros (lookout points) quickly became my favorite spots for contemplation and sunset watching.

Sala das Visitas. This centrally located viewpoint translates to “Living Room,” and it truly feels like the town’s communal space. From here, I could see the entire coastline stretching north and south of Ericeira, with the old town’s rooftops in the foreground.

Photography Opportunities. Each viewpoint offers unique compositions:

• Silhouettes of fishermen against the setting sun
• Waves crashing against dramatic rock formations
• The contrast of white buildings against the blue ocean
• Long-exposure shots of moving water at dawn/dusk
• Star photography on clear nights (minimal light pollution)

Local Interactions. These lookouts aren’t just tourist spots – they’re where locals gather too. I had several spontaneous conversations with residents who shared stories about how the town has changed and pointed out features I would have missed.

Practical Note. None of these viewpoints have facilities like restrooms or food vendors, so come prepared. I always brought water and a light jacket, as the wind can be surprisingly strong even on warm days.

5. Local Markets

Market Culture. Exploring Ericeira’s markets gave me insight into local life while scoring some bargains. The weekly market is a social event where residents catch up on town gossip while shopping for essentials.

Main Market. The largest market happens every Saturday morning at Mercado Municipal, where vendors sell everything from fresh produce to handcrafted souvenirs. I arrived early (around 8am) to watch locals selecting the best seafood and produce.

Food Finds. The markets offered delicious local specialties like:

• Homemade queijadas (sweet cheese pastries)
• Local honey from the surrounding hills
• Fresh goat cheese from nearby farms
• Seasonal fruits (the strawberries in spring were incredible)
• Freshly caught fish sold directly by fishermen

Shopping Tips. I learned to bring my own bag, small bills, and basic Portuguese phrases. While many vendors speak some English, attempting “Bom dia” (good morning) and “Obrigado/a” (thank you) went a long way in building rapport.

Cultural Experience. Beyond shopping, the market provides free entertainment: musicians sometimes play traditional Portuguese music, and watching the animated bargaining between locals and vendors is a show in itself.

6. Beaches: Praia dos Pescadores, Praia do Sul, Praia de São Sebastião

Beach Variety. Ericeira’s coastline offers several beautiful beaches, each with distinct character. The best part? They’re all free to access, making them perfect for budget-conscious travelers like me.

Town Beaches. Praia dos Pescadores (Fishermen’s Beach) is one of the best beaches and sits right below the old town, making it the most accessible. I loved watching the colorful fishing boats coming and going while sunbathing on the golden sand.

Beach Activities. Beyond swimming and sunbathing, I enjoyed:

• Beachcombing for sea glass and shells
• Building sandcastles (the sand quality is perfect)
• People-watching from beach cafés
• Morning yoga sessions on quieter beaches
• Sunset photography sessions

Safety Notes. The Atlantic here can be unpredictable. I always checked the flag system: green means safe swimming, yellow indicates caution, and red means no swimming allowed. Lifeguards are present at main beaches during summer months only.

Local Tip. Portuguese beachgoers tend to arrive later in the day. For a more peaceful experience, I hit the beach before 11am or after 6pm when the crowds thin out and the light is magical for photos.

Seasonal Activities in Ericeira

Christmas in Ericeira (Christmas Market, Festive Lights)

Winter Magic. Experiencing Ericeira during Christmas revealed a charming, intimate celebration far from the commercial excess of larger cities. The town transforms with twinkling lights reflecting in the Atlantic, creating a magical coastal Christmas.

Festive Decorations. From early December, the main square and pedestrian streets come alive with lights and decorations. I was charmed by the fishing boat-shaped light displays – a nod to the town’s maritime heritage.

Market Treasures. The Christmas market features around 20 wooden chalets selling:

• Handcrafted ornaments and gifts
• Local food specialties like bolo rei (king cake)
• Mulled wine and hot chocolate
• Regional cheeses and preserves
• Artisanal Christmas decorations

Local Traditions. I was fortunate to experience some uniquely Portuguese Christmas customs:

• The building of elaborate presépios (nativity scenes)
• Traditional bacalhau (salt cod) Christmas Eve dinner
• Singing of janeiras (January songs) by local groups
• The eating of 12 raisins at midnight on New Year’s Eve

Weather Note. Winter in Ericeira is mild compared to northern Europe, with daytime temperatures around 12-15°C (54-59°F). I needed a warm jacket for evenings, but days were often sunny and pleasant for exploring the festive town.

Summer Festivals and Events (Surf Competitions, Music Festivals)

Festival Season. Summer transforms Ericeira into a hub of cultural and sporting events. The calendar fills with activities that showcase both the town’s surf heritage and Portuguese traditions.

Surf Competitions. As part of the World Surf Reserve, Ericeira hosts several professional competitions. I watched the MEO Pro Portugal (June 24-July 2) where world-class surfers tackled the famous Ribeira d’Ilhas break.

Music Events. The summer soundtrack includes:

• Sumol Summer Fest (July 7-8): Portugal’s biggest reggae festival
• Ericeira Sound Waves (August weekends): Free concerts in the main square
• Sunset Sessions (July-September): DJ sets at beach bars
• Traditional Fado Nights (Various dates): Portuguese soul music performances

Cultural Celebrations. I was lucky to experience local festivities:

• Festas da Vila (June 10-13): Town celebration with parades and food stalls
• Festival do Ouriço do Mar (July 22-23): Sea urchin gastronomy festival
• Festa de São Pedro (June 29): Fishermen’s celebration with boat processions
• Nossa Senhora da Boa Viagem (August 15): Religious procession to bless the fleet

Planning Tip. Accommodation prices spike during major events, sometimes doubling. I booked three months ahead for festival weekends and still paid premium rates. Consider staying in nearby villages if Ericeira prices are too high during peak events.

Spring Blooms in Parks and Gardens

Natural Awakening. Spring (March-May) brought Ericeira to life with wildflowers dotting the coastal paths and parks bursting with color. The milder temperatures and smaller crowds made this my favorite season to explore the outdoor spaces.

Flowering Highlights. The coastal cliffs transform with:

• Wild lavender creating purple carpets
• Yellow gorse brightening the landscape
• Delicate rock roses in white and pink
• Wild orchids in protected areas
• Rosemary and thyme releasing fragrance as you walk

Outdoor Activities. Spring weather is perfect for:

• Photography walks (wildflower macro shots are stunning)
• Birdwatching (migration season brings diverse species)
• Picnics in blooming meadows
• Guided botanical walks (available through the tourism office)
• Sketching and painting sessions outdoors

Weather Considerations. Spring brings changeable weather – I experienced beautiful sunny days interspersed with brief rain showers. Temperatures ranged from 15-22°C (59-72°F), perfect for active exploration without summer’s heat.

Local Tip. The annual “Primavera em Ericeira” (Spring in Ericeira) program includes guided nature walks, outdoor yoga sessions, and environmental workshops. Check with the tourism office for the current year’s schedule.

Autumn Foliage Walks and Harvest Activities

Golden Season. Autumn (September-November) revealed Ericeira’s quieter, more contemplative side. The summer crowds departed, leaving peaceful beaches and forests beginning their colorful transformation.

Nature Trails. While Portugal doesn’t have the dramatic fall foliage of northern countries, the surrounding countryside offers subtle autumn beauty:

• Pine forests with golden light filtering through
• Cork oak trees with russet undertones
• Vineyard landscapes turning amber and red
• Coastal paths with autumn wildflowers

Harvest Experiences. Autumn brings opportunities to participate in:

• Grape harvesting at nearby vineyards (September)
• Olive picking sessions (November)
• Apple and pear harvesting (September-October)
• Mushroom foraging with local guides (October-November)
• Wine production tours showing traditional methods

Seasonal Cuisine. Fall menus showcase harvest ingredients:

• Roasted chestnuts from street vendors (€3 per bag)
• Wild mushroom dishes in local restaurants
• New wine tastings (vinho novo)
• Pumpkin-based desserts and soups
• Game meats like wild boar and rabbit

Weather Advantage. Autumn brings stable weather with temperatures around 18-25°C (64-77°F) in September-October, cooling to 15-20°C (59-68°F) in November. The Atlantic remains warm enough for swimming until mid-October – with far fewer people sharing the beaches.

Day Trips from Ericeira

1. Mafra Palace (UNESCO World Heritage)

Royal Grandeur. Just 15 minutes from Ericeira, the monumental Mafra Palace complex left me awestruck. This UNESCO World Heritage site represents the height of Portuguese royal ambition, built with Brazilian gold during the 18th century.

Architectural Marvel. The sheer scale is impressive – a palace, basilica, monastery, and library all combined in one massive limestone complex stretching across 4 acres. The façade alone extends nearly 700 feet.

Visitor Information:

• Opening hours: 9:30am-5:30pm (closed Tuesdays)
• Admission: €6 adults, €3 students/seniors, free under 12
• Guided tours: €10 (English available at 11am and 3pm)
• Audio guides: €4 in multiple languages
• Photography: Allowed without flash

Historical Significance. My guide explained how King João V commissioned the palace after promising a monastery if his wife bore him children. When she had not just one but twins, he expanded the plans to create this extravagant complex.

Travel Tip. I combined my visit with lunch in Mafra town, where restaurants serve traditional dishes at lower prices than in Ericeira. Try the local specialty “Pão de Mafra” – a dense, crusty bread that’s been baked here for centuries.

⭐ Best Activities

• National Palace of Mafra Tickets – Explore the grand National Palace of Mafra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with these convenient entry tickets.

2. Sintra (Castles and Palaces)

Fairytale Destination. Sintra captured my imagination with its misty forests and fantastical palaces. Located about 40 minutes from Ericeira, this UNESCO World Heritage site feels like stepping into another world.

Palace Collection. The town boasts multiple extraordinary palaces and castles, each with distinct character. I couldn’t see them all in one day, so I focused on the most iconic.

Visiting Strategy. After trying to see too much on my first visit, I learned some key strategies:

• Arrive by 9am to beat tour buses from Lisbon
• Book tickets online to avoid long queues
• Focus on maximum 2-3 sites per day
• Use the 434 tourist bus (€5 hop-on-hop-off ticket) to avoid parking problems
• Wear comfortable shoes for the considerable walking

Personal Favorites. Quinta da Regaleira captivated me most with its mysterious initiation well, underground tunnels, and symbolic gardens. The colorful Pena Palace offers the most dramatic photo opportunities, especially when clouds swirl around its towers.

Practical Advice. Sintra town gets extremely crowded at midday. I found having lunch away from the main square saved both money and frustration – try the area near the National Palace for more authentic options with prices around €12-15 for a main dish.

⭐ Best Activities

• Mafra, Ericeira and Queluz Tour – Discover the highlights of Mafra, the charming fishing village of Ericeira, and the historic Queluz Palace on this guided day tour.

3. Óbidos (Medieval Town)

Walled Wonder. The perfectly preserved medieval town of Óbidos transported me back in time with its complete defensive walls, cobbled streets, and whitewashed houses trimmed with blue and yellow. Located about an hour from Ericeira, it makes an ideal day trip.

Historical Immersion. Walking through the main gate, I entered a world of narrow lanes, Gothic doorways, and bougainvillea-draped walls. The entire town feels like an open-air museum dedicated to medieval life.

Signature Experience. Óbidos is famous for ginjinha (sour cherry liqueur) served in chocolate cups. For €1.50-2, you get a delicious treat and edible souvenir in one! I tried several versions and found the traditional recipe at Bar Ibn Errik Rex most authentic.

Seasonal Events. The town hosts several famous festivals:

• Medieval Fair (July): Historical reenactments, food, crafts
• International Chocolate Festival (March/April): Sweet creations and workshops
• Christmas Village (December): The entire town transforms into a holiday market
• Literary Town events (year-round): Celebrating Óbidos’ UNESCO Creative City status

Visitor Strategy. Arrive early (before 10am) or late (after 3pm) to avoid tour groups. I spent about 4 hours exploring at a relaxed pace, including lunch and shopping time. The town is small enough to cover on foot, but wear comfortable shoes for the cobblestones and hills.

⭐ Best Tours

• Medieval Óbidos: History and Tasting Tour – Step back in time with a guided tour of the medieval village of Óbidos, including tastings of local specialties.
• Óbidos the Museum Village Tour from Lisbon – Visit the enchanting “museum village” of Óbidos on a day trip from Lisbon, exploring its cobbled streets, castle, and vibrant culture.

FAQ about Visiting Ericeira

How do I get to Ericeira from Lisbon?

You can reach Ericeira by car on a day trip from Lisbon in about 40 minutes or take a direct bus from Campo Grande station, which runs frequently and costs around €7. Both options are convenient for a trip to this charming town.

What is the easiest way to get around Ericeira?

Ericeira is a very walkable town, and most places in the heart of Ericeira are easily reached on foot. For areas outside of Ericeira or late at night, local taxis and ride apps like Uber are available.

What are the must-see places in Ericeira town?

Don’t miss the historic center with its whitewashed houses, Republic Square, and the Sea Monument Viewpoint. Exploring around Ericeira’s main square and nearby cafes and restaurants is one of the best things to do if you ask me.

Where can I watch the sunset in Ericeira?

The best place to watch the sunset is from the cliffs near the Sea Monument or at a bar by the water. Praia da Foz do Lizandro is also famous for its sunset views and relaxed atmosphere.

What is Ericeira famous for besides the sea?

Ericeira is known for its best food scene, friendly locals, and unique blend of tradition and modern surf culture. The town draws visitors for its fresh seafood, lively nightlife, and beautiful scenery.

How do I get from Lisbon Campo Grande to Ericeira?

Take the direct bus from Lisbon Campo Grande station, which takes about an hour and is an affordable way to start your trip to Ericeira. The bus is comfortable, and you can store luggage easily.

What are the best beaches in Ericeira for families?

Fisherman’s Beach in the center of Ericeira is calm and safe for children, while Baleia Beach offers gentle waves and plenty of nearby cafes. Both are perfect places to relax and enjoy your time in Ericeira.

Where can I find the best Ericeira food?

Restaurants in Ericeira include Tik Tapas, La Popular Taberna, and Pão da Vila, all offering delicious local dishes and a welcoming atmosphere. Trying a classic prego roll or pastel de nata is a must when you visit Ericeira.

How do I go from Ericeira to Cabo da Roca?

The best way is by car, as Cabo da Roca is about 40 minutes away and makes a great addition to your Ericeira itinerary. You can also join guided tours that include stops at other towns in Portugal.

Is there nightlife in Ericeira?

Ericeira nightlife is lively, with bars like Boardriders, Vibes Ericeira, and the iconic Ouriço nightclub offering music and drinks until late. The atmosphere is friendly, making it easy to meet both locals and visitors.