Tourism in Portugal
Center of Portugal: the heart of Christmas !
The light of Christmas shines brighter in Center of Portugal ! This is the home of quite unique Christmas celebrations that take place all over the region from the coastline to the inland. It's time to embrace the magic of the season in all its timeless splendour.
Where to go
Center of Portugal destinations
Aveiro
Christmas train
Vouga Historical Train is back on track for memorable train journeys taking place on Saturdays and Sundays until January 4th 2026. Feel the Christmas magic on board of one of Portugal's most remarkable trains!
Christmas train
What to do
The best things to do in Center of Portugal
Articles
Discover Center of Portugal
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Religion & Spirituality
A light that never goes out
The snail procession held every year in September in the tiny village Reguengo do Fetal, near Batalha, is a timeless tradition that has crossed the centuries and, certainly, one of the most eye-catching religious processions in Portugal. An incredible tapestry of lit snail shells leading the ways of the faith!
Beaches & Surf
Our islands
Heavenly placed on the shore of Peniche, Berlenga archipelago is the only island reserve in the Portuguese mainland. Berlenga, Estelas and surrounding islands were classified Berlenga Natural Reserve on September 3rd 1981.
Religion & Spirituality
Easter traditions in Center of Portugal
Being Portugal a dominantly Catholic country, Easter time has a deep-rooted meaning with several celebrations taking place in all regions. Center of Portugal is no exception. From the coastline to the inland, namely in Ovar, Fundão and Idanha-a-Nova, locals live this time of the year with great devotion and spirit of community. A celebration filled with meaningful rituals, heart-felt religiosity and enduring traditions whose origins get lost in time.
Beaches & Surf
West Coast Beaches of Center of Portugal: Surf, Nature and Hidden Gems
Explore the amazing beaches of Portugal's Silver Coast! Wild and scenic beaches along Portugal's thrilling west coast amidst welcoming coastal towns and mandatory gastronomic spots by the sea. Hand in hand with some of the most spectacular surf beaches in Portugal.
Magazine
Edition 99 - Travelling with purpose
15.09.2025 • 06.10.2025
Travelling is all about making meaningful connections and feeling the spirit of the place. Talking to locals, sharing life stories, unveiling the secrets of a soul-soothing Mother Nature, making a positive impact on the surrounding environment. Feeling close to what really matters. The world needs lasting bonds. And every step counts.
Edition 98 - Ocean: Blue Dialogue
14.04.2025 • 28.04.2025
Dedicated to the theme “Ocean: Blue Dialogue”, World Expo Osaka 2025 will be held from April 13th to October 13th. Portugal and Japan share a 500 years-old History, along with a common concern for the sustainability of our oceans and the urgent need to foster a blue economy. This edition follows an inspirational journey across the Atlantic coastline, unveiling its iconic coastal cities, jaw-dropping surf spots and welcoming fishing towns.
Edition 97 - Weddings
31.03.2025 • 14.04.2025
Center of Portugal has all it takes to be a perfect wedding destination: breath-taking venues, unique natural landscapes along with top-professional wedding planners who put all their passion into every single detail. Because love will always be the secret ingredient.
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Beaches of Alcobaça
Discover the dazzling sandy beaches in the region of Alcobaça. The perfect destination for your Summer vacations ! Very close to the stunning World Heritage Monastery of Alcobaça.
Eating in Alcobaça
The city of Alcobaça is famous for its renowned restaurants, opulent tables and the quality of its endogenous products. Traditionally, this region has always been highly fertile. In ancient times, the monks cultivated these lands and founded an important agricultural school. Comfort food that is good for the soul.
Sleeping in Alcobaça
The pleasant city of Alcobaça offers its visitors surprising options in terms of accommodation. Travellers can stay at the brand new 5-star hotel Montebelo Alcobaça Historic Hotel, located in a wing of the stunning UNESCO World Monastery of Alcobaça or at other renowned hotels that provide all the modern comfort and a dedicated service, committed to excellence.
Monastery of Alcobaça UNESCO World Heritage
Listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage site, in 1989, this magnificent monastery is one of the finest and most impressive examples of Cistercian architecture in Europe. Although it was built almost 900 years ago, the monastery still preserves the set of its mediaeval buildings. The church is the largest primitive Gothic church built in Portugal in the Middle Ages.
Montebelo Mosteiro de Alcobaça Historic Hotel
Benefiting from a monumental location, Montebelo Mosteiro de Alcobaça Historic Hotel opens its doors as the newest 5-star hotel of Montebelo Hotels & Resorts group.
Your Hotel & Spa Alcobaça
The Your Hotel & Spa Alcobaça is a 4-star hotel with 62 rooms in the vicinity of the historic town of Alcobaça, just one hour ride from Lisbon Airport.
Alcobaça
Beautifully placed between the mountains and the coastline, the soul of the charming city of Alcobaça is deeply defined by the monumentality of the brilliant cistercian Monastery of Alcobaça, World Heritage site since 1989. A stronghold of History and cultural richness, hand-in-hand with heart-felt hospitality.
Alcobaça brands
Alcobaça is owner of prestigious superbrands that have conquered the heart of consumers throughout the years.
Alcobaça with (he)art
Beautifully placed between the mountains and the coastline, the soul of the charming city of Alcobaça is deeply defined by the monumentality of the brilliant cistercian Monastery of Alcobaça, World Heritage site since 1989. A stronghold of History and cultural richness, hand-in-hand with heart-felt hospitality.
Sweet Alcobaça
It seems that the Cornucópias were created in 12th century. These sweets are stuffed with soft eggs, made with yolks and sugar.
Cistermúsica - 29th Alcobaça Music Festival
Cistermúsica - Alcobaça Music Festival is a true reference in the classical music panorama in Portugal. Driven by the motto "A classic for all", this prestigious music festival presents renowned classical music artists and ensembles who perform in the most outstanding spots of the historical heritage of Alcobaça. The epicentre of Cistermúsica - Alcobaça Music Festival is the stunning UNESCO World Heritage Monastery of Alcobaça.