Nestled along Portugal’s Silver Coast, Nazaré is a traditional fishing village famous for its strong cultural identity. Here, you’ll see colorful fishing boats pulled onto the beach, narrow cobblestone streets, and locals preserving customs passed down for generations. The village is especially known for its women dressed in traditional attire, often wearing seven skirts, a unique local symbol. It’s an ideal place to experience authentic Portuguese coastal life.

The Nazaré Funicular connects the lower part of the village (Praia) to the upper district known as Sítio. Built in the 19th century, this short but steep ride offers spectacular views of the beach and ocean as you ascend the cliff. It’s not only a practical mode of transport but also a charming and historical experience, giving you a sense of how the locals have navigated this terrain for generations.

At the top of the funicular, you’ll find yourself in O Sítio, a clifftop neighborhood that offers one of the most iconic panoramic views in Portugal. From the Miradouro do Suberco, you can gaze over the sweeping coastline, red-roofed village below, and vast Atlantic Ocean. It’s the perfect spot for photos and to appreciate the dramatic beauty of Nazaré’s geography.

Perched dramatically on the edge of a cliff, this 17th-century fort was originally built to protect the coast from pirates. Today, it’s most famous as a lookout for the enormous waves of Praia do Norte and has become a symbol of Nazaré’s connection to big wave surfing. The fort has been preserved and adapted to house exhibitions related to the sea and surf culture.