Things To Do
in Odivelas

Odivelas is a charming municipality located just north of Lisbon, Portugal. Known for its rich history and vibrant community, it offers a blend of urban and suburban living. The area is dotted with beautiful parks and historical sites, making it an attractive destination for both locals and tourists.

Odivelas is well-connected to the capital, providing easy access to the city's cultural and culinary delights.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Odivelas
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Odivelas Monastery, a stunning historical site with beautiful architecture.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local café before heading to the Parque da Juventude for a leisurely walk and some relaxation in nature.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Portuguese restaurant and experience the local cuisine.

day 2
Day 2: Day Trip to Lisbon
morning
:

Take a short metro ride to Lisbon and visit the iconic Belém Tower.

afternoon
:

Explore the Jerónimos Monastery and indulge in the famous Pastéis de Belém.

evening
:

Return to Odivelas for a quiet evening at a local wine bar.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$2.50
🚉Metro ticket$1.50
🛒Grocery shopping (weekly)$50
🏨Budget hotel (per night)$60

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Proximity to Lisbon for easy day trips.
  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Family-friendly atmosphere with parks and activities.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to Lisbon.
  • Public transport can be crowded during peak hours.
  • Some areas may lack English signage.
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado/a" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Desculpe" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "Onde fica...?" - Where is...?

Places to Visit in Odivelas

Visit one of these nice places.

Odivelas Monastery

Capture the stunning architecture and serene surroundings.

Parque da Juventude

A picturesque park with beautiful landscapes and sculptures.

Viewpoint at Odivelas

A fantastic spot for panoramic views of the city, especially at sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Odivelas

Odivelas boasts a delightful culinary scene that reflects the rich flavors of Portuguese cuisine, with an array of local dishes and specialties to satisfy every palate.

Odivelas Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bacalhau à Brás

A traditional dish made with shredded cod, onions, and potatoes, bound together with eggs.

Must-Try!

Sopa da Pedra

A hearty stone soup made with a variety of meats, beans, and vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Odivelas

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and baked goods.

Street vendors near the metro

Offering quick bites such as bifanas (pork sandwiches) and pastéis de nata (custard tarts).

Climate Guide

Weather

Odivelas has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Average summer temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), while winter temperatures average between 5°C and 15°C (41°F to 59°F). Rainfall is most frequent from November to February, while summer is mostly dry.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting Customs

A friendly handshake is common, and it's polite to greet shopkeepers when entering.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal before you begin eating.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Odivelas is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Keep an eye on personal belongings and avoid poorly lit streets at night.

Tipping in Odivelas

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Practices

It's customary to leave a 5-10% tip in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying cash is advisable for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm and sunny, perfect for enjoying parks and outdoor dining.

Autumn

Cooler weather and beautiful fall foliage, ideal for hiking and exploring.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional rain; it's a good time for indoor activities and cozy cafés.

Nightlife Guide

Odivelas at Night

Odivelas has a relaxed nightlife scene with a variety of bars and small clubs. Most locals enjoy socializing in bars that offer live music and local wines. While it may not be as vibrant as Lisbon, it's a great place to unwind after a day of exploring.

Hiking in Odivelas

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cascais-Sintra Natural Park

Located a short drive away, offering diverse trails with coastal and mountain views.

Serra de Montejunto

Features various trails that provide stunning vistas and opportunities for birdwatching.

Airports

How to reach Odivelas by plane.

Humberto Delgado Airport (Lisbon Airport)

Located approximately 10 km from Odivelas, this is the main international airport serving the Lisbon metropolitan area, offering numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Odivelas is quite walkable, with many amenities within a short distance. The town center is pedestrian-friendly, featuring sidewalks and paths that make it easy to explore on foot. Public transport is available for longer distances, but walking is the best way to experience the local charm.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Odivelas is home to many young families drawn to its parks and community-oriented atmosphere.

Elderly Residents

The area has a significant population of elderly residents, who often participate in community events and activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Odivelas, with local teams competing at various levels.

Basketball

Basketball enjoys a strong following, with community leagues and youth programs available.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Odivelas can be moderate, especially during rush hours when commuting to Lisbon. Public transportation, including metro and buses, is efficient and a popular choice for locals. The metro connects Odivelas directly to Lisbon, making it easy to navigate the region without a car.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Odivelas.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to inquire about specific ingredients.

Gluten-Free Choices

Gluten-free options are available, particularly in larger restaurants.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Odivelas is accessible, with several public and private hospitals and clinics available. The public healthcare system provides services to residents and visitors, but private insurance is recommended for non-EU travelers to ensure quicker access to services.

Discover Portugal

Read more in our Portugal 2025 Travel Guide.

Portugal Travel Guide