Nazaré Portugal’s most well-known seaside town is exceptional in a variety of ways. It lacks the architectural gems or huge monuments seen in other Portuguese towns. However, it has a nostalgic ambiance, a sense of satisfaction, and traditions still alive, making it a great location to visit. These are just some of the good reasons to visit Nazare.
Where is Nazare?
Nazaré is a Portuguese town that may be found in the Leiria District, the Oeste area, and the former Estremadura province. It is among the most well-liked beach towns on the Silver Coast. Three neighborhoods make up the town of Nazaré: Praia, Stio, and Pederneira. The Nazaré Funicular, a funicular train, links Praia and Stio.
Things to Do at Nazare
Nazaré Beaches
Visit Nazaré beach while you’re there. Praia da Nazaré and Praia do Norte are Nazaré’s two primary beaches.
A lengthy sandy area in the middle called Praia da Nazaré is surrounded by stores and fish restaurants. Many residents and visitors gather here for a swim or to practice water activities like surfing or bodyboarding attracted by the beach’s golden beaches. You’ll come across typical fishing boats and women selling dried fish arranged on shelves as you go along the coast.
The Praia do Norte, where surfers congregate, is located farther north. The beach doesn’t have lifeguards like Praia da Nazare, and it has fewer nearby establishments, giving it a more private vibe. The beach is best known for its Nazare big waves, which entice daring surfers from all over the world. The Nazaré undersea ravine, together with powerful winds and currents, are the main causes of the magnitude of the waves. In the summer, the waves are lower, but the breeze makes it difficult to unwind; instead, travel to Praia da Nazaré.
Nazare Waves
Praia do Norte in Nazare Portugal is the location of the Nazare big waves. The area on Stio da Nazaré closest to the lighthouse (Fort of San Miguel Arcanjo), on the north side, is the finest site to witness. You may also descend to the beach’s sand via a gravel path for a different viewpoint, but you must exercise extreme caution near the water.
Typically, surfers from all over the world are there and the number is growing. Many people have already spent the great wave season at Nazare, thus if there are waves, which is beneficial for tourists as it provides a better understanding of the magnitude of the waves. Wave Nazare Portugal is really worth seeing.
Nazare Surfing
Nazare is the best place to do water sports as the home of surfing. You won’t be getting the huge waves at Praia do Norte unless you’re a skilled surfer. However, it doesn’t indicate that you can’t surf here. Some beaches with lesser waves offer plenty of opportunities for beginning surfers. Individual and group classes at the Nazaré Surf School cost between €25 and €60 per participant. Even programs with five or ten lessons and a mini-surf excursion with lunch are available.
Discover the Municipal Market
The popular Municipal Market is within a short distance from Praia da Nazaré. Fresh food booths featuring anything from cheese and premium fish to vegetables and fruits may be found there. Local retailers will attract you as soon as you enter with their vibrant display of ingredients. Some ladies even dress up in the Nazaré-specific “seven skirts” costume. It is worthwhile to attend the bazaar and enjoy the sights, sounds and smells even if you decide not to make any purchases. Because it is only open in the morning, get there before lunch if possible.
Take on the Hop on the Nazaré Funicular
O Sitio, a neighborhood perched on a cliff with stunning views of the sea, is located high just above the beach of Nazare. Although you may climb here, taking the Nazaré Funicular is the most effective method to get there. This transportation system was created by Raul Mesnie du Ponsard, a pupil of Gustave Eiffel, and it has been in use since then. It used to operate on a steam machine, but it is now entirely electrical. It is available at Rua do Elevador, and a one-way ticket price around is €1.50.
Visit the Church of Nossa Senhora da Nazaré
Visit the Nossa Senhora da Nazaré monastery once you are up in Stio. The church was established in the 14th century, but it was enlarged in the 17th century. Numerous religious activities still take place here, such as the Procession honoring Nossa Senhora da Nazare on September 8th. There is a modest chapel called Ermida da Memória just next to the church. Be sure to enter to view the gorgeous tiled walls.
Where To Eat in Nazaré
Sitiado, Rosa dos Ventos, and Pangeia are three of Nazaré’s top eateries.
Sitiado is a short distance from the church in the Stio neighborhood. This little restaurant specializes in classic Portuguese petiscos, from codfish cakes to octopus salad, and is furnished with vintage items and bouncy seats. You can have a locally brewed beer or wine with your dish.
Rosa dos Ventos is a modest eatery close to Praia da Nazaré that offers mouthwatering plates of grilled fish and shellfish. You can reach here on foot in about 5 minutes from the shore.
The Pangeia restaurant is located a little further away. This one is a little more upscale and has a patio with views of Nazaré and the ocean. You may eat near the window and take in a view of the sea even in the winter. Although there are many seafood meals on the menu, the octopus is their specialty.
Where To Stay in Nazaré
In Nazaré, there are various places to stay, from five-star hotels to individual flats. Booking an apartment with Feel Nazaré – Boutique Apartments or a room at Villamar Style Maison are two options we suggest.
Feel Nazaré is a fantastic choice for a protracted stay. Since the building is in the heart of town, it takes less than 5 minutes to walk to the beach. You may make meals anytime you wish in the tiny kitchenette that comes with each flat. It has a stove and a refrigerator.
The Villamar is a contemporary hotel with a variety of accommodation types that is also near the beach and can house up to four people. You may use the outdoor pool and the late-night bar while you’re there.
Nazare Weather
Nazaré experiences warm summers, nice springs and autumns, and mild but occasionally extremely rainy winters.
Between June and September, Nazare weather is ideal for going to the beach, but since the area is on the Atlantic coast, there is always a danger of windy conditions, fog, or rainfall on either side of the sweltering summer season.
Between October and March, the wind brings moister air with more moisture from the ocean. The strong waves produced by these wintertime Atlantic winds must be funneled up the Nazaré Canyon to reach heights of 30 meters or more for surfing.
Lifestyle of Nazaré
A typical day in Portugal Nazare can start with a warm cup of coffee at a nearby café, then a trip to your preferred nearby flower shop.
The town’s market, where locals and guests alike may buy fresh fruit and veg, meats, seafood, and pastry delicacies like fried pumpkin cake, is conveniently located close to the town center. Even though it is closed on Tuesdays, you still have six other days a week to explore and fill your pantry while mingling with your neighbors.
Small markets, stores, and stalls may be found up here, along with a charming square, a Nazare lighthouse, and a popular church. A wonderful narrative from 1182 surrounds Our Lady of Nazaré, whose name is borrowed from the Israeli city of Nazareth.
Cost of Living of Nazaré
Despite Nazaré’s popularity as a tourist and ex-pat destination, housing costs are remarkably low. At the nearby café, a cup of coffee costs less than one dollar. Lunch normally costs less than $12 and includes soup, a main meal, a dessert, drinks (commonly sparkling water, wine, or beer), and coffee.
If compared to other areas of the nation like the Algarve, Lisbon, and Porto in the north, even dining at the top-rated restaurant in the beach area is affordable.
Here is a summary of two people’s monthly expenses, taken from current property listings and overall budget postings.
| Rent a flat appr. | $575 |
| Utilities | $150 |
| Internet,telephone,cell phones, and cable as a package | $100 |
| Clothing | $200 |
| Grocery | $400 |
| Transportation (tank of gas) | $70 |
| Supper and entertainment | $300 |
Quick Tips for Nazare
- If you want to experience Nazaré, Portugal’s breathtaking large waves at your speed, it is recommended that you go there between October and March.
- To get the best results, you should ideally arrange your vacation a few days in advance or just choose a longer stay as it might be difficult to predict the weather weeks in advance.
- Visit the lighthouse since there is where you may get the most incredible view. From the Lisbon Airport, you may go to Nazaré by vehicle, bus, rail, or other means of transportation.
We hope that you like our guide about Portugal Nazare. Nazare Portugal weather is perfect to visit from June to September. Also, it’s really worth seeing Nazare biggest wave and Nazare lighthouse. Don’t forget to visit them when you go to Nazare city.
Is Nazare a good destination for your holiday?
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday or an action-packed adventure, Nazare is the perfect destination. Situated on the Portuguese coast, Nazare is famous for its long stretches of sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. There’s plenty to keep you entertained in Nazare, from windsurfing and kitesurfing to hiking and cycling. And if you want to explore beyond the city limits, there are plenty of day trips to nearby towns and villages. With its great weather, diverse landscape, and activities, Nazare is the perfect place to enjoy a holiday.
Where is Nazaré and how to get there?
To get to Nazaré, you can take a bus or drive from Lisbon (the capital city of Portugal). The journey takes around 2 hours. Alternatively, you can fly into either the Porto or Lisbon airports and then take a connecting flight or bus to Nazaré.
When can you see giant waves in Nazaré?
Nazaré is a small town in Portugal that is world-renowned for its giant waves. These waves usually occur between October and March, when the town is hit by strong northerly winds. The best place to see the waves is from the promenade, which runs along the beach. From here, you can get a front-row seat to all the action. Just be sure to stay safe and avoid getting too close to the water’s edge!
Where exactly in Nazaré do the waves come?
Nazaré is a Portuguese municipality located in the west-central part of the country, in the district of Leiria. The town’s name is derived from the Arabic word for “watchtower”, nāsir. It is situated on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and is known for its large waves. Nazaré is a popular destination for surfers and has hosted several international surfing competitions. The town’s beach is also a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. To get to Nazaré, you can take a bus or drive from Lisbon (the capital city of Portugal). The journey takes around 2 hours. Alternatively, you can fly into either the Porto or Lisbon airports and then take a connecting flight or bus to Nazaré.
How to get to Nazare?
Nazaré is located about an hour and a half north of Lisbon and can be reached by car or bus.
How to get to Nazare from Lisbon?
There are a few different ways to get to Nazare from Lisbon. The most direct route is by car, which takes just over two hours. However, there is also the option of taking a bus or a train. Both of these options take a bit longer, but they may be more budget-friendly. The bus takes around three hours, while the train takes just over four. Whichever way you choose to travel, make sure to enjoy the scenery along the way. The drive from Lisbon to Nazare is particularly beautiful, and there are plenty of stops along the way where you can explore the coastline and snap some pictures.
How to get Nazaré big waves alerts?
Nazaré is a municipality in Oeste Region, Portugal. The town is famous for its big waves, which attract surfers from all over the world. If you’re interested in catching some of these waves, you can sign up for alerts from Nazaré Big Waves. This service will send you an email or text message whenever the waves are forecast to be high. That way, you can plan your surf session in advance and make sure you’re at the beach when the waves are at their best. So if you’re looking for an adrenalin-pumping surfing experience, be sure to keep an eye on the Nazaré Big Waves alerts.
