Nazare Guided Tours

Yes, you can come to Nazare for half, or maybe a quarter of a day, if you want to see only the main attractions. Use the Miradouro do Suberco, a good viewpoint from which you can appreciate the view of Funchal and the sea. From there, you can walk through the cobblestoned streets of the old town to get a feel for the local people. A walk along the beach and an excursion to the Sítio architectural area are also advised. As mentioned above, if properly managed in terms of timetable you will have a good impression of this city and some attractions. Yet, if one needs to grasp the atmosphere and feel the energy of the city to measure, it is better to spend more time.

If you want to visit Nazare with absolutely no rush, one day should be enough, however, to get the most out of it, you should dedicate at least two to three days to the visit. This will afford you ample time for sightseeing, dining, and leisure on the beach. Regarding the options for the first day, the historical and politically exciting places can be mentioned, including the Sítio district, the church of Nossa Senhora da Nazare and the fort of São Miguel Arcanjo. Thus, the second day will be dedicated to beaches and the coast, perhaps a boat trip, and, if desired, watch the famous Nazare waves. If one wishes to venture out of the city, then the visitor can also stay for up to a week and have day trips to other towns and nature reserves. This way, you have enough time to have a good, relaxed look at the local color and to get the most out of the town of Nazare.

It is recommended that tickets to the most visited places in Nazaré be ordered in advance, especially during peak season and on weekends and public holidays. The lovers of waves, history, and beautiful coast will always desire to visit Nazare. Booking in advance ensures a place is booked, and one can get one or two price rebates. Last but not least, most attractions provide the convenience of booking the place in advance to save time and make the proper schedule. Thus, you can receive additional information to determine the time that will be enough to visit all the places to the maximum.

The local cuisine mainly consists of fish and seafood, which you should take advantage of. An absolute must-try is the “caldeirada”, a fish casserole that prepares fish and seafood. The other ordinary course is the ‘Bacalhau à Nazarena’ – Nazaré-style cod, prepared with potatoes, vegetables, and much more. Sardinhas assadas are a straightforward yet delicious dish that arrives directly from the Atlantic. For sweets, the “Pão-de-ló de Alfeizerão” is recommended, a light and delicate angel cake accompanied very well by a cup of Portuguese coffee. These experiences are a must and will make you understand the cultural and traditional meal practices.

The best way to transport itself in the surroundings of Nazare is by availing a guided tour. Local guides are far from just providing historical and cultural information. They will also teach you valuable and sometimes even funny anecdotes you would ignore being a stranger in the city. There are optional packages, and if you are interested in history, food, and nature, these arrangements can be made to suit that specific tour. One can also rent a bicycle or walk, which is another exquisite way of moving around on excellent roads with great coastal views and scenery. There are many exciting and beautiful places in the town, one can find many corners and opinions that are truly picturesque, and the freedom of walking or cycling means that you get to feel the spirit of Nazare.

Nazare is a very walk-friendly city, and most of the sunset points, restaurants, and beaches are within walking distance. The town is small, and there are many beautiful strolls through the shoreline and along the entertaining and winding small alleys of the historical part of the town. Walking around is an excellent way of feeling the entirety of the aesthetics surrounding Nazaré and stumbling upon exciting places. Its beautiful scenery in the hobby fascinates fans of long walks; the fresh sea air also contributes to the appeal of walking. You also can pause whenever you wish and look at the city's details and pleasant aspects.