Watch the waves — safely
The headland fort, Forte de São Miguel Arcanjo, holds the Farol da Nazaré lighthouse and a small surf exhibition. It’s the best and safest place to watch Praia do Norte break. Never climb down onto the rocks — the sea here is deadly.
Up in Sítio
The clifftop old town rewards a wander: the Miradouro do Suberco viewpoint, 110 m above the beach; the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Nazaré; and the little Ermida da Memória chapel, lined with blue-and-white azulejo tiles.
Down in town
The long golden Praia da Nazaré, the municipal market and the seafront tavernas are the heart of town. Try the local seafood — grilled fish, percebes (goose barnacles) — and look out for the women in the traditional seven skirts (sete saias).
Ride the funicular
The Ascensor da Nazaré has climbed from the beach to Sítio for more than 130 years — a short, steep ride and the easy way up to the viewpoints.
With kids
In summer, the Norpark water park is a good rainy-swell-day alternative, and the sheltered town beach is calm and family-friendly.