Daytrip is a platform that connects you with local drivers who will transport you door-to-door, from one city to the next. We also give you the opportunity to explore sights/attractions along the way. We drive, you discover.
All Daytrip bookings are one way. If you need a return trip on a different date, simply book this as a separate one-way trip. For a same-day excursion, please request a custom trip. If you plan to stay more than a couple hours, we still recommend booking two one way trips so you're not paying a driver for waiting.
For Daytrip’s private service, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before departure. For the Daytrip Pool shared shuttle, we offer 3 ticket options when booking: Non-refundable, Flexible with cancellations 24-hours before departure, and Super-flexible with cancellations up to 15-minutes before departure. While you can cancel your booking for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance, changes requested under 36 hours are subject to driver availability, especially in the high season.
Simply choose your origin and destination via our homepage and enter your departure date and time. Browse and add sightseeing stops along the way by following the booking instructions provided on screen. It's a simple, easy, and fun way to book your next adventure! And if you don’t see your desired route on our website, you can request a custom trip. You can even book without knowing your exact pick-up or drop-off address - we let you add these later!
Each passenger is allowed one large bag (29" x 21" x 11" / 74 x 53 x 28 cm) and one small bag (22" x 14" x 9" / 56 x 36 x 23 cm). Luxury sedans can only accommodate 2 large bags. We always send the vehicle that is the best fit for you and your luggage, so make sure to select the actual amount of luggage you are traveling with when booking. If you have oversized luggage, or are unsure if your luggage will fit, contact us.
Everywhere except the USA, drivers will supply appropriate child seats (just let us know during booking). In the USA, certain states require you to supply your own child seats.
Obidos is often considered a day trip from Lisbon, the most visited city in Portugal. Despite its small size, Obidos is definitely worth more than just a quick stopover, especially if you are traveling from Porto. The distance from Porto to Obidos is approximately 148 miles (239 km), and you can travel this route in around 2 hours and 20 minutes. However, you can extend your trip by exploring other cities and landmarks along the way.
The best way to do this is by securing a private car service like Daytrip. Begin your journey with a stop in Aveiro, known as Portugal’s ‘Little Venice’. Next, explore the charming university town of Coimbra and soak in medieval history at the well-preserved Castle of Montemor o Velho. Wrap up your journey by visiting the UNESCO-listed Monastery of Batalha or the Monastery of Alcobaca, and don’t miss the impressive waves along the coast of Nazare.
About Obidos
Just 50 miles (80 km) west of Portugal’s capital city lies the enchanting town of Obidos, perched on a hill. It is known for its highly well-preserved medieval architecture, charming cobblestoned streets, and the impressive 12th-century castle, where you'll find the best panoramic views of the city.
As you admire the city from above, you will see the typical white-washed houses with yellow and blue accents, the iconic terracotta roof tiles, and the walls that extend from the castle and surround the entire city.
Although it was once common to build walls around cities, many have lost their fortifications over the centuries. However, Obidos has managed to preserve its walls that now tell stories from the city’s past which makes it feel like you are walking through a museum.
Like many other parts of the Iberian Peninsula, Obidos was under Moorish rule until 1148, when Portugal’s first king, Afonso I, captured the town during the Christian Reconquista. In 1210, King Afonso II gifted Obidos to his wife, Queen Urraca. From the 12th to 14th century, Obidos’ symbol, the castle, was built.
Today, Obidos is known for its well-preserved medieval charm, but the city went through a period of neglect from the 19th to the mid-20th century. During these years, Portugal was undergoing economic and political changes, and Obidos was no longer used as a strategic site. It was not until the second half of the 20th century that the restoration works began and the city started attracting visitors ready to get transported back to medieval times.
From Porto to Obidos: travel tips
Even with the brief distance from Porto to Obidos, there are a couple of things to consider before you begin your journey:
Spend the night in Obidos
Obidos is more than just a quick stop, so plan an overnight stay. Spending the night allows you to beat the crowds at the main attractions like the castle and make the most of your visit by exploring the key landmarks first thing in the morning.
Parking is limited
Given that Obidos is a small town and a popular day trip destination, finding a parking place can be challenging. To avoid that, consider using alternative transportation options, such as Daytrip’s private car service.
Bring comfortable footwear
It is not just the lack of parking space that makes driving to Obidos less ideal. The town is perched on a hill, so expect many steep climbs. Make sure to wear comfortable footwear, although you should already be prepared after visiting Porto.
How to get from Porto to Obidos
Although Obidos is well-connected to Lisbon, it is a bit of a hassle to travel from Porto to Obidos, unless you opt for a straightforward mode of transportation. Here are the options you can choose from:
From Porto to Obidos by bus
There are no direct buses from Porto to Obidos. You first have to travel to Lisbon and then take a bus that goes from Lisbon to Caldas da Rainha with a stop in Obidos (so don’t miss it!).
For the first part of your trip (Porto to Lisbon), you can take a bus operated by Rede Expressos that will get you to Lisbon in 3.5 hours. Tickets cost around $6 (€5.45).
Once you reach Lisbon, take the Lisbon to Caldas da Rainha bus operated by Rodotejo. You can check the timetable online, however, bear in mind that you can only buy the tickets directly from the bus driver. It takes around 1 hour to reach Obidos.
From Porto to Obidos by rental car
If you would rather avoid taking multiple buses to Obidos, renting a car is a more convenient option. There are several car rental companies available, so it is a good idea to compare them to find the best deal. Just be aware that the route includes tolls.
From Porto to Obidos by private car service
Daytrip’s private car service is the best choice for those who want to avoid the hassle of buses and prioritize their comfort. Your driver will gladly pick you up from your accommodation in Porto, handle your luggage, and take you on a comfortable, nearly 2.5-hour drive to Obidos. Our cars are clean and well-maintained, equipped with air conditioning for summer travel, and we provide bottled water for your convenience.
While comfort is the core of our service, one of our main advantages is the option to include sightseeing stops. When you book with us, you can add any stops you like along the way from Porto to Obidos. Whether it is the stunning canals of Aveiro, Coimbra’s historic university, or the impressive city of Alcobaca, you will find something that suits your interests.
Things to do when you get to Obidos
Sometimes the tiniest towns offer the most memorable experiences, and Obidos is a perfect example. After exploring on your way from Porto to Obidos, get lost in this town’s charming streets. If you need some ideas, here we have summarized our favorite things to do or visit:
Admire the medieval castle
One of the main reasons many visit Obidos is its impressive, well-preserved Castle of Obidos. Although you cannot explore the interior of the castle since it has been transformed into a luxury hotel, you can visit the garden and walk along the castle walls, which stretch approximately 5,134 feet (1,565 meters). Be aware that some sections of the walls lack protective barriers, so exploring them may not be suitable for families with small children.
Explore the literary heritage
Obidos is undoubtedly a paradise for literature lovers. It is quite fitting, as the town itself looks like it is straight out of a fairytale. In 2015, Obidos hosted its first International Literature Festival (known as FOLIO in Portuguese), and the town has since been recognized by UNESCO as a City of Literature
As you explore the castle walls that surround the city, you will encounter a surprise—the Santiago Bookstore. Obidos truly takes literature to the next level, with even a book-themed hotel available for accommodation. If you’re a book lover searching for a place to stay in Obidos, look no further!
Sample the famous cherry liquor
Although you can find cherry liquor, or _ginja _as the locals call it, in other parts of Portugal, sampling it in Obidos is a unique experience—it is served in chocolate cups! While you can enjoy the drink without the chocolate cup, tasting it this way adds a special touch. Search for the street of Rua Direita where cups of _ginja _can be found for just over $1 (€1)!
When is the best time to visit Obidos
If you want to experience one of Obidos’ iconic events, be sure to check the exact dates and book everything in advance. However, if you prefer to explore the town’s medieval charm without the added buzz, the best time to visit Obidos is from March to September.
During these months, there is a lower chance of rain, and the temperatures are pleasant. Make sure to check the dates of the events mentioned above to avoid any overlap with your visit. Since Obidos is a popular day trip destination from Lisbon, try to avoid visiting on weekends if you prefer to escape the crowds.
However, Obidos is a city that offers something in each season. Here are a few of the special events:
Spring: the Chocolate Festival
Summer: the Medieval Fair
Fall: Literary Festival
Winter: “Christmas Village”
关于从 Porto 到 Obidos 旅行的问答
While it is possible to travel between these cities by train, it involves several transfers, slow rides, and wait times. You would first take a train from Porto to Lisbon, then transfer to another train from Lisbon to Caldas da Rainha, and finally take a third train to Obidos.
Traveling from Porto to Obidos can be quite complicated unless you choose a straightforward mode of transportation, such as a rental car or private car service. Taking the train is not very convenient, and buses typically involve multiple transfers.
There is no direct bus from Porto to Obidos. To travel by bus, you first need to take a bus to Lisbon and then transfer to a bus heading to Caldas da Rainha, which will stop at Obidos.
The fastest way to travel from Porto to Obidos is by rental car or private car service, such as Daytrip. This allows you to go directly to your destination without worrying about transfers or potential delays. The drive takes approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes.
The easiest way to travel from Porto to Obidos is with Daytrip’s private car service. You won’t have to worry about finding the right bus station, dealing with delays or missed buses, or the risks associated with renting a car. A local driver will be assigned to take you to your destination and stop at any sightseeing stops you might want to explore along the way.
Absolutely! Although Obidos is quite touristy, it is for good reason. This charming town transports you back to medieval times, offering a unique experience.
沿途参观这些景点
Aveiro
Dubbed “the Venice of Portugal” because of its canals and gondola-like boats, visitors will find Aveiro has its own unique identity. The “Venice” of Portugal
Coimbra
Halfway between Lisbon and Porto, this varied and captivating city has a long history and vibrant atmosphere built around the country's oldest university. The Medieval Capital of Portugal
Montemor-o-Velho castle
Originating as an Islamic fortification, this imposing fortress is predates the very concept of Portugal as a nation. Older than Portugal Itself
Batalha
Dominated by the great Dominican monastery of Santa Maria da Vitória, Batalha was developed alongside the Monastery after securing Portugal's independence. A City Built on Victory
Alcobaca
This medieval city is inextricably linked to its UNESCO-protected Monastery. Monk Made
Nazare
This historic fishing village attracts beach-goers, culture-lovers, and surfers, who come to ride its record-breaking waves. A Real Catch
“Gonzalo from daytrip was our driver and he was absolutely amazing. He went over and beyond trying to locate us as our service wasn't so good on our phones. He patiently awaited our arrival to the lobby so he could take us from Tulum Dreams Resort to our other hotel in cancun an hour and a half away near the airport prior to our departure flight home. He was polite, respectful and kind. Made sure we were comfortable during our long ride. Fast and to the point. I recommend this company as finding a one way ride from Tulum to Cancun isn't easy or cheap and this company provides a great service for a great price. I will definitely be using them again whenever I'm in the Cancun/Tulum area. Thank you DayTrip and Gonzola.”
“This was our first time using Daytrip (from Obidos to Porto with stops at Coimbra and Aveiro) and the overall experience is great. We booked our trip only 2 days in advance and felt a sense of relief after getting the confirmation within an hour. The driver information was clear and we managed to contact the driver on the day of our trip. Our driver Mauricio A. was very friendly and professional, speaking fluent English and we did have a good conversation. We got an upgrade on the vehicle class which had plenty of space for two of us and our bulky luggage. A convenience and hassle free door-to-door transfer which allows you to add stops.”
“We used Daytrip in Portugal - from Obidos to Porto and then Porto to Lisbon. Excellent service - from hotel to hotel. My wife and I have always used train or bus in Europe - but this sure made life easier and convenient. to be able to set your own schedule on a vacation can be priceless.”
