Leiria used to be one of Portugal’s most important towns, but these days, life in Leiria is calm. The old town is focused on the Praça Rodrigues Lobo, with many bars and restaurants.

The town’s greatest attraction is the medieval castle which commands a great view of Leiria from its hill-top site.

While visiting the castle’s ruins, I befriended this beautiful butterfly. It went into my hair, it played with my watch and it even sat on my camera for a while.

There are quite a few interesting buildings in the historical center.

I really liked these façades…

And this cute bridge.

This is the market. Unfortunately, it was closed so I didn’t get to see it from the inside.

Leiria is also a student town and there are many international students.

The cathedral and Capela de Nossa Senhora da Encarnação are also worth a visit.

Besides, Leiria makes a convenient base for visiting Batalha, Fatima and Alobaça.

Published by natalyadrian

I am a writer, a teacher, a translator and a digital nomad. View all posts by natalyadrian