Things To Do
in Ericeira
Ericeira is a scenic fishing town on Portugal's Atlantic coast, renowned for its preserved medieval center and sweeping sea views. Its cobbled lanes, whitewashed houses, and seafood taverns give it a classic Portuguese charm, while the long beaches and surf culture provide a modern edge. The town sits within reach of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, offering easy access to coastal cliffs, fishing coves, and hiking routes.
With friendly locals, a relaxed pace, and a calendar filled with surf competitions and coastal markets, Ericeira feels like a gateway to both culture and the sea.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Settle into your accommodation and savor a freshly baked pastel de nata with a strong Portuguese coffee at a local café. Wander through Ericeira’s winding cobblestone streets, admiring the whitewashed houses trimmed in blue. Pause at a viewpoint to gaze over the Atlantic surf rolling in toward the rugged cliffs.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch of grilled sardines and mixed greens at a seaside restaurant near the marina. Visit the Museu Municipal to learn about Ericeira’s fishing heritage and traditional crafts. Wander down to the old fort walls for panoramic vistas of the bay and watch local fishermen mend their nets.
Dine in a family-run tasca, sampling octopus arroz followed by a slice of creamy pudim abade de priscos. Stroll along the waterfront promenade as the sun dips below the horizon. Stop at a wine bar to taste Portuguese vinho verde under the soft glow of street lamps.
Start with a hearty bowl of açorda de marisco at a beachside café before heading to Praia dos Pescadores. Join a beginner’s surf lesson and feel the rush as you catch your first wave on Ericeira’s renowned breaks. The instructor will guide you through safety tips and basic techniques on the golden sand.
Refuel with a picnic of charcuterie, local cheese, and crusty bread under the shade of a tamarisk tree. Spend the afternoon practicing your surf moves or simply snorkeling over rocky reefs teeming with marine life. Relax on the shore with a good book as the Atlantic breeze cools your skin.
Join a beachfront yoga class at sunset to stretch out tired muscles and find inner calm. Head to a trendy seafood grill and indulge in freshly caught bass drizzled with olive oil and garlic. Cap the night with live fado music echoing through Ericeira’s narrow alleys.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚇One-way local transport | $1.50-2.50 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $70-150 |
| 🧊Bottle of water (1 L) | $0.50-1.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-class surfing beaches and coastlines
- Charming, walkable historic center
- Excellent seafood and coastal cuisine
- Easy access to Sintra-Cascais Natural Park and nearby towns
- Summer crowds can be heavy on beaches and town center
- Many traditional dishes emphasize seafood; vegetarian options can be limited
- Some quieter streets can be steep and hilly
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Ericeira
Visit one of these nice places.
Cliff-top fortress with sweeping views of the town, marina, and Atlantic.
Long beach with dramatic cliffs and consistent surf—great for sunrise or golden-hour photography.
Colorful boats, whitewashed houses, and trawlers create lively harbor scenes.
Scenic coastal paths offering panoramic ocean shots and rugged cliffs.
Coastal rock formations and sea caves provide dramatic compositions.
Food in Ericeira
Ericeira Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty fish and potato stew that showcases the catch of the day.
Must-Try!
Chargrilled sardines, often served with bread, tomatoes, and peppers.
Seafood bread soup with garlic, cilantro, and olive oil.
Shredded cod with potatoes, eggs, and onions.
Lightly battered green bean or vegetable fritters, a Portuguese classic.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Daily market with fresh seafood, produce, and local specialties; best early in the morning.
Casual bites of grilled seafood, octopus, and shrimp with a view of the Atlantic.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly “bom dia” or “boa tarde” when entering shops; handshakes are common.
The town values a relaxed pace; avoid loud, disruptive behavior in residential areas.
Wait to be seated in many tasquinhas; sharing dishes is common and children are welcome.
Safety
Tipping in Ericeira
Ensure a smooth experience
A small tip (5-10%) for good service is appreciated in restaurants; rounding up the bill at casual spots is common.
Cards are widely accepted in restaurants and shops; carry some cash for markets, small cafés, and rural visits.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures (15-22°C), lush landscapes, good for hiking and outdoor dining.
Hot and dry, peak surf season, busy beaches, seas are warm enough for swimming.
Cooling temperatures, fewer crowds, great for long coastal walks and photography as swells persist.
Cool and wetter, stronger Atlantic winds, the town feels quiet but colorful during stormy skies.
Ericeira at Night
Hiking in Ericeira
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Stunning cliff top paths linking Ericeira to seaside towns and viewpoints.
Green, forested routes near Mafra with shady lanes and wildlife.
Coastal path connecting beaches with ocean vistas and photo spots.
Airports
How to reach Ericeira by plane.
Main international gateway for the region; about 40-50 minutes by car to Ericeira, depending on traffic.
Second major Portuguese airport; much farther from Ericeira (roughly 3-4 hours by car or rail), suitable for longer trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-standing families living in the town center and along the coast.
A significant portion of the population is connected to surfing culture and tourism.
International residents drawn to the climate and rural scenery, often living in/around the town.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ericeira is famous for world-class waves and surf towns; Ribeira d'Ilhas hosts competitions.
Casual games and organized play along the beaches in summer.
Popular among locals and visitors; pick-up games in parks or at beaches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ericeira.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many traditional dishes center on seafood, but there are vegetarian options: look for salads, grilled vegetables, soups, and vegetable-based dishes; ask for ‘pratos sem peixe’ and check for dairy or egg inclusions.