Best Things to Do in Batalha: Top Activities for Your Visit

Explore the Batalha Monastery and major attractions, and try variable activities on your trip to Batalha

Intro

Batalha is a historical city of great tourist importance in the central part of Portugal. In this place, visitors can delve deeper into the country’s history, study the incredible Gothic architecture, and see the untouched beauty of nature. 

 

The cult place for the tour to Batalha is the monastery of Batalha. However, many hidden gems will suit those who love non-trivial attractions. Below, we have compiled a list of the best things to do in Batalha that are a must for a Batalha day trip for the most curious tourists.

Architectural Treasures of the Batalha Monastery and Capelas Imperfeitas

The historical significance of the Batalha is undoubtful. While coming here, the visitors shouldn't miss the chance to see the main architectural gems, carefully kept till our time.

1. The Batalha Monastery

 

The monastery itself is not a hidden attraction. This is the principal place where most tourists come. However, there are unfinished chapels which are not visited by everyone. Although these attractions are also worthy of the closest attention, both buildings are striking examples of a mixture of the Gothic and Manuelino styles. 

 

The general information suggests that the monastery was built in 1385 as a sign of the Victory of the Aljubarrota Battle. The building is so exquisite that it is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Visitors, both lovers of architecture and curious tourists will enjoy the incredible architectural solutions. 

2. The Capelas Imperfeitas

 

The landmark is at the back of the monastery. Therefore, even if you have very little time on a trip to Batalha, don’t miss this place. Here, the king found his last refuge. 

 

However, after his death, the chapels remained unfinished. Despite this, they are such a striking example of late Gothic architecture that all connoisseurs of this style highlight them as one of the most significant and obligatory places to visit.

 

Travel Tip: Remember comfortable shoes for Batalha, Portugal, tour that allow you to walk around the monastery and its unfinished parts without discomfort.

 

Location: Praca Mouzinho de Albuquerque, 2440-109 Batalha, Portugal

 

Historical Museums and Interpretation Centers

Two critical sites, the museum and interpretation center, are located here. Here, you can get a deeper understanding of the formation of Portugal’s history and the influence of the city battles. 

 

The famous battle of Aljubarrota is displayed in these centers. The museum has expositions covering a more extended period of the region’s history.

1. Centro de Interpretacao da Batalha de Aljubarrota

The interpretation center has many interactive exhibits, which you can visit and examine to recreate the events of the legendary battle of Aljubarrota. This battle is one of the most important in Portugal’s history.

 

In the interpretation center, there are multimedia presentations and many historical artifacts of the species, so on the Batalha day trip you can feel in the Battle of 1385.

 

Location: Av. D. Nuno Alvares Pereira 120, 2440-148 Batalha, Portugal

2. Museu da Comunidade Concelhia da Batalha

This modern museum covers the history of the battle’s formation as one of Portugal’s most important cities. The museum keeps essential artifacts of the Roman era and displays the region’s evolution.

 

In addition, part of the exhibition is dedicated to the construction of the main monastery and its significance in Batalha’s history. To delve into the history when you travel to Batalha, Portugal, it is better to come to the museum with a professional guide, or you can take an audio guide.

 

Travel Tip: Visit both spots on a weekday to avoid crowds.

 

Location: Largo Goa, Damao e Diu, 2440-103 Batalha, Portugal

Natural Attractions: Hiking Trails, Grutas da Moeda and Ecoparque Sensorial da Pia do Urso

The monastery of Batalha is not an only attraction in the city center. If you love nature, come to this region, as its surroundings have an incredible underground cave system. It also has a sensory park, where you can relax in the fresh air and actively take part in the ongoing entertainment.

1. Hiking Trails

If you have a few days to visit Batalha from Lisbon, you have already seen all the main architectural attractions and, interested in unusual things to do in Batalha, go on hiking. Do not deny yourself the pleasure of enjoying the beauty of the region’s untouched nature. 

 

In the vicinity, there are many hiking options at different training levels. Walk along these paths, both beginners and professionals; even if you have never done hacking before, still find one sling on the map and spend at least a few hours. Of course, remember to take comfortable shoes with you, as this is critically important to enjoy the hike.

2. Grutas da Moeda (Coin Caves)

 

The limestone caves are open for visiting. A guide who will lead all visitors through narrow passages and show stunning open halls inside the cave.

 

Also, in 1 day in Batalha you can see stalactites and stalagmites. It is interesting that the constant temperature in the cave rooms is 18 °. Therefore, this place is comfortable at any time of the year.

 

Location: Rua das Grutas da Moeda, 2495-031 Sao Mamede, Portugal

3. Ecoparque Sensorial da Pia do Urso

 

Visit this eco-park for a unique experience of entertainment in the open air. Visitors can stimulate all their senses by walking along pedestrian routes and picturesque places and experiencing various interactive exhibitions.

 

Certainly, you and your children and adults will like this place for the time being. It is not surprising that even residents come here with their entire families to spend time actively on a day off. 

 

Travel Tip: Bring a light jacket with you, as the temperature is never above 18 degrees. 

 

Location: Pia do Urso, 2495-024 Batalha, Portugal

Dining in Batalha

After sightseeing in Batalha all day, you will want to relax and unwind. Here, go to one of the cozy restaurants to enjoy local flavors.

 

The restaurants are in small boutique hotels and separately. In the city, there is a selection of food options. However, the emphasis is on traditional Portuguese dishes. Stop at the cafe near the monastery on a day trip to Batalha from Lisbon, where you’ll easily find a well-known list of various meat and vegetable desserts, such as pastiche de nata and so on.

 

If you don't know where to eat in Batalha, Tasca da Tinouca is the best choice for the first stop in Lisbon, Batalha, a tour known for its tapas and wine. Restaurante Burro Velho serves more traditional Portuguese dishes.

 

Location: 

• Tasca da Tinouca: Rua da Freiria 1, 2440-135 Batalha, Portugal
• Restaurante Burro Velho: Rua da Misericordia, 2440-194 Batalha, Portugal

 

Travel Tip: Try local specialities, as it’s one more way to discover the culture of the region.

Summarize

Batalha is not a trivial location, the visit to which ends only with the inspection of the major attraction. This city is a must-see for all lovers of history and nature.

 

Here, historical places mix with natural wonders against the backdrop of incredible natural landscapes. So this place is attractive for both a beginner and an experienced traveler.

 

If you have time to see the region, be sure to plan your Batalha trip, which will allow you to immerse yourself in Portuguese history, beauty and culture.