Every year, the medieval town of Óbidos in Portugal transforms into a true Christmas wonderland. From 28 November 2025 to 4 January 2026, the town’s ancient walls will sparkle with lights, wooden chalets, festive music, artificial snow, and family-friendly activities.
Some 17,500 square metres of the historic centre are dedicated to festive fun, including play areas, performances, and 2,400 m² of “snow” for the whole family to enjoy at Óbidos’ Vila Natal.
Main attractions of Óbidos Vila Natal
One of the village’s star attractions is its Christmas market. Filled with charming stalls, the market offers handmade crafts, unique gifts, traditional sweets, and, of course, the famous ginjinha served in a chocolate cup. You simply can’t walk past without sampling a local treat, such as homemade filhós or pão de ló, which are perennial favourites.
The market also showcases traditional gifts and handcrafted wooden toys, reflecting a growing emphasis on sustainability, surrounded by the city's fairytale Christmas lights.
Local favourites include:
- Óbidos Ginjinha (renowned nationwide)
- Homemade liqueurs from Western Portugal producers
- Ceramic pieces crafted by regional artists
Activities for the whole family
The fun never stops within the medieval walls. Visitors can enjoy daily children’s theatre, live music, magic shows, and one of the highlights: the eco-friendly ice rink.
Another traditional favourite is the Parisian carousel, adored by the younger guests. There are also craft workshops where families can create personalised Christmas decorations.
How is Vila Natal in Óbidos prepared?
Preparations for the festival begin two months in advance. Every part of the setup follows strict heritage guidelines, as Óbidos has been a National Monument since 1951. Structures are dismantled each year, and decorations refreshed to ensure that every edition brings something new. Typically, the build-up takes six to eight weeks and involves dozens of technicians, designers, and local artists.
Special attention is given to lighting, ensuring that the medieval buildings remain undamaged, and there is a strong focus on using recyclable and reusable materials.
When can you visit Óbidos Vila Natal?
In 2025, Óbidos Vila Natal will welcome visitors from 28 November to 4 January. During this period, the medieval town is transformed into a magical world brimming with colour, festive displays, and activities for all ages. The event stands out for its unique attractions, including magical shows, rides, and experiences designed for both children and adults.
Opening hours 2025:
- Monday to Thursday: 11:00 – 20:00
- Friday to Sunday: 10:00 – 21:00
- 24 & 31 December: 11:00 – 18:00
- 25 December & 1 January: Closed
Admission prices for 2025
Ticket prices vary by age and visitor type:
- General admission: €10
- Children (3–11 years): €8
Tickets can be purchased online, making it easier to plan your visit, especially during busy periods.
Group rates:
- 25+ people: €9 per ticket
- 100+ people: €7.50 per ticket
- School groups: €6 per student
Tickets give access to most attractions, including performances, themed areas, and experiences for all ages. Some activities may incur additional costs.
How to get to Vila Natal
Óbidos Vila Natal is located in the historic centre of Óbidos, in the Leiria district. Travel options include:
- By car: Take the A8 motorway and exit at Óbidos. There are five car parks nearby—three paid and two free—with space for over 4,000 vehicles.
- By bus: Rodoviária do Oeste operates several daily connections between Lisbon (Campo Grande Terminal) and Óbidos. The bus stop is only 100 metres from the historic centre.
- By train: Óbidos railway station is on the Linha do Oeste. The journey from Lisbon takes around two and a half hours, and the station is about 1 km from the historic centre.