32 Enchanting Medieval Towns That Feel Frozen in Time

10. Óbidos, Portugal

Óbidos is a storybook medieval town surrounded by some of the best-preserved medieval walls in Portugal. Given as a wedding gift to Portuguese queens for centuries, Óbidos is filled with romantic charm, historic beauty, and cultural traditions. With its cobbled streets, whitewashed houses decorated with bougainvillea, and an imposing castle, Óbidos looks much as it did in the Middle Ages. One of the most exciting things to do in Óbidos is walking along the medieval walls, which offer stunning views of the red rooftops, church spires, and rolling countryside. The Óbidos Castle, now a luxury hotel, was once a fortress that defended the town from invaders. The Porta da Vila, the town’s beautifully decorated entrance gate, features traditional Portuguese blue azulejos that depict religious scenes. Óbidos is also known for its thriving literary scene, with dozens of charming bookstores tucked away in medieval buildings, including one housed inside a former church. No visit is complete without trying Ginja, a cherry liqueur served in a chocolate cup, a local specialty that perfectly captures the town’s sweet and indulgent charm. Visiting during the Óbidos Medieval Fair, where the town transforms into a medieval spectacle with jousting tournaments, costumed performers, and authentic feasts, makes the experience even more magical.