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Ericeira is one of those places that captivate at first sight: cobblestone streets that wind down to the sea, white houses with blue accents, and a relaxed atmosphere that blends fishing tradition with surf vibes. Located just 45 minutes from Lisbon, this coastal village is world-renowned as Europe’s only World Surfing Reserve, but it is far from being just a destination for surfers.

If you are planning a three-day getaway, prepare for an experience that combines beach, gastronomy, culture, and nature. Here is the perfect itinerary to make the most of it.

Day 1: Historic Centre and First Waves

Morning:

Start the day by exploring Ericeira’s historic centre. Wander through the narrow streets of Portuguese pavement, step into artisan shops, and discover cozy cafés where time seems to slow down.
Pass by Largo do Jogo da Bola, the village’s most emblematic square, always lively with outdoor seating, street artists, and locals.

Afternoon:

Head to Praia dos Pescadores (Fishermen’s Beach), in the heart of the village. It is one of the most iconic, perfect for relaxing, taking a dip, or simply watching the traditional boats.
If you can’t resist the waves, go to Praia de Ribeira d’Ilhas, home to international surf championships. Even if you don’t surf, it’s worth sitting at the terrace and watching the surfers in action.

Evening:

End the day with a dinner of fresh fish or seafood at one of the village’s typical restaurants. 
Suggestion: Polvo à Lagareiro (Octopus Lagareiro Style) or Arroz de Marisco (Seafood Rice).

Day 2: Nature, Trails, and Local Flavours

Morning:

Start with a walk along the coast. The trail that connects Praia de São Sebastião to Ribeira d’Ilhas offers incredible viewpoints over the cliffs and the Atlantic.
Visit the São Sebastião Viewpoint, where the panoramic view calls for a mandatory photograph.

Afternoon:

Explore Santa Marta Park, a green space next to the beach, ideal for relaxing.
If you enjoy history, visit the Archive-Museum of the Santa Casa da Misericórdia da Ericeira, in the village centre, dedicated to preserving local memory. Entrance is free.

Evening:

Experience Ericeira’s nightlife. From relaxed bars to spots with live music, there are always options to extend the day.

Day 3: Surroundings and Must-Do Experiences

Morning:

Take the opportunity to discover the surroundings. Just 10 km away, you will find the majestic Mafra National Palace, one of the most impressive works of European Baroque.
If you prefer contact with nature, the Tapada Nacional de Mafra is ideal for walks and observing animals such as deer and wild boars.

Afternoon:

Back in Ericeira, taste the local cuisine at one of the village’s seafood restaurants. Try açorda de marisco (seafood bread stew) or sea urchins, one of the region’s most typical delicacies.
Spend the afternoon enjoying another one of the local beaches — such as Foz do Lizandro, with an extensive sandy area and excellent conditions for families.

Evening:

To end the trip on a high note, watch the sunset by the sea. The orange colours reflecting on the cliffs are one of Ericeira’s signature images.

Practical Tips for Your Stay in Ericeira

Where to Stay: Holidays in Ericeira offers comfortable and well-located local accommodations and short-term rentals in Ericeira, perfect for those seeking an authentic stay with all the amenities.

How to Get There: From Lisbon, just follow the A8 and then the A21 — you’ll be by the sea in about 45 minutes.

When to Go: The village is vibrant all year round. Summer is ideal for the beach and surfing, but spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and less crowd.

Live the Full Experience with Holidays in Ericeira

Ericeira is a destination that wins people over with its authenticity: world-renowned beaches, excellent gastronomy, and a relaxed lifestyle that attracts travelers from all over the world. But to fully experience this, choosing the right home is essential.

If you are just visiting or want to spend a season by the sea, Holidays in Ericeira offers fully equipped local accommodations and short-term rentals, perfect for stays of a few days, weeks, or months. Comfort, location, and the feeling of being at home, even away from it.

And if the idea is to take the next step and permanently move to the village, A Casa das Casas, a local reference real estate agency, can help you find the ideal apartment or house — whether to buy or rent a long-term home in Ericeira.