Aljezur, a small yet enchanting town in Portugal, is the perfect blend of charm and cool. Imagine strolling through its quaint streets, discovering unique shops, cozy cafes, and inviting restaurants that radiate a hipster ambiance. That’s what you get in Aljezur!
This hidden gem is just a heartbeat away from some of Portugal’s most beautiful beaches, like Praia da Amoreira and Praia de Monte Clérigo, offering a perfect mix of sun, surf, and serenity. Read on and discover what to do and see in Aljezur and beyond.
Where Is Aljezur, Portugal?
Aljezur is a charming town located in the Faro District of the Algarve Region in Portugal. Nestled on the west coast of Portugal, it’s a hidden gem that boasts beautiful coastlines, rich cultural history and stunning natural landscapes. This tranquil town offers a glimpse into the authentic charm of the Algarve, far from the bustling tourist hubs.
Getting to Aljezur is quite straightforward. If you’re travelling from Lisbon, you have several options to consider:
- Train: Catch a train from Lisbon to Lagos, which takes around 3-4 hours. Once you arrive at Lagos, you can take a short bus ride to Aljezur.
- Bus: Alternatively, you can opt for a direct bus from Lisbon to Aljezur, which takes around 4-5 hours.
- Drive: If you prefer having more control over your journey, consider renting a car and driving from Lisbon to Aljezur. The journey should take approximately 3 hours, and you’ll get to enjoy the beautiful Portuguese countryside.
| Month | Average High (°C) | Average Low (°C) | Rain (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 15 | 8 | 100 |
| February | 16 | 9 | 90 |
| March | 18 | 10 | 80 |
| April | 20 | 11 | 60 |
| May | 22 | 13 | 40 |
| June | 25 | 16 | 20 |
| July | 28 | 18 | 10 |
| August | 28 | 18 | 10 |
| September | 26 | 17 | 30 |
| October | 22 | 15 | 60 |
| November | 18 | 11 | 80 |
| December | 15 | 9 | 100 |
Best Hotels in Aljezur
One of the finest hotels in the vicinity, Praia do Canal Nature Retreat, is not exactly in the town center but is conveniently close. It’s a stunning slice of paradise! The hotel boasts a wonderful atmosphere and delightful views, making it a top choice for visitors.
13 Best Things to Do And See in Aljezur
Alright, so Aljezur may not be the largest town in the Algarve, but it’s definitely worth a visit. This charming place is home to quaint local art museums and delightful landmarks that you’ll love exploring.
Aljezur Castle
Begin your adventure at the historic Aljezur Castle. These castle dates back to the 10th century during the Muslim occupation of the Gharb al-Andalus. Archaeological evidence suggests that the site has been occupied since the Iron Age. I
It holds the distinction of being the last castle in the Algarve to fall to Christian forces in 1249, during the reign of King Afonso III.
Stroll around the site, taking in the local history and admiring breathtaking views from the top. Information boards around the castle provide interesting insights for both adults and children.
Museu Municipal de Aljezur (Aljezur Municipal Museum)
Next up, be sure to check out the Municipal Museum. Housed in a beautiful 19th-century building that used to be the Town Hall, this museum features an art gallery with changing exhibits. Inside the same building, you’ll also find an archaeology center displaying local finds and an ethnography center. Here, you can see a replica of a traditional home, complete with a bedroom and kitchen, and a fascinating array of old farming tools.
Pelourinho de Aljezur
The Pelourinho de Aljezur is an amusing sculpture located in front of the Municipal Museum. When I first saw it from a distance, I thought it depicted a man eating a fish. But as I got closer, I realized it’s just a figure with a large mustache.
Casa-Museu Pintor José Cercas
José Cercas (1914-1992), a prominent figure in Portuguese art, spent the last days of his life in Aljezur. In a grand gesture of cultural philanthropy, he bequeathed his house and its contents to the municipality of Aljezur.
This legacy includes not only his own paintings and drawings but also works by other Portuguese artists. Additionally, the house serves as a repository of diverse pieces of art, showcasing various styles of antique furniture, pottery, sculptures, and sacred art.
This collection provides insight into the rich artistic heritage of Portugal and the personal tastes of Cercas himself, reflecting a broad spectrum of national artistry. The José Cercas house now stands as a significant cultural asset for Aljezur, inviting visitors to explore the historical and artistic narrative of the region.
Museu Antoniano
We found a real treasure in Aljezur, a 17th-century building that’s lived many lives. It started as St. Anthony’s chapel, survived a major earthquake, and became the main church until 1809. Fast forward to 1995, it was turned it into a museum for Saint Anthony after a good fix-up. It opened in 1998, and now we all get to enjoy a slice of history right in the heart of Aljezur.
Igreja Misericórdia
This old church is a testament to Aljezur’s deep-rooted religious history. The architecture is simply captivating, and its central location makes it a convenient stop on your itinerary.
Museu de Arte Carca Mons. Manuel Francisco
At the Municipal Museum in Aljezur, we were captivated by the fascinating collection of artifacts that span across many centuries. The experience was greatly enhanced by the dedication and warmth of the museum staff.
Despite the language barriers, a particularly friendly museum worker made the history of Portugal and its artifacts come alive for us. Her passion and willingness to share knowledge, including a tour of the attached church, deeply enriched our visit to this small but treasure-filled museum.
Ponte de Aljezur
Take a moment to appreciate the Ponte de Aljezur, a charming bridge that adds a touch of historical beauty to the town. Snap some photos to remember the picturesque scene.
Igreja Matriz de Aljezur
When exploring Aljezur, we came across the Igreja Matriz de Aljezur, or Aljezur Main Church. This church has an intriguing history, especially since it was rebuilt after the devastating 1755 earthquake. The original medieval building, in the Gothic style, was so severely damaged that Bishop Dom Francisco Gomes de Avelar sponsored the construction of a new Main Church for the town.
The church we see today was built towards the end of the 18th century and into the early years of the 19th century, showcasing a neoclassical style. It features three naves, a chancel, two chancel chapels, and two side chapels. The chancel houses a noteworthy altarpiece from the early 19th century, which includes an exceptional statue of the town’s patron saint, Nossa Senhora da Alva (Our Lady of Dawn).
What’s particularly fascinating is that, in addition to the neoclassical side altars, the church also preserves some Mannerist paintings from the old main church. Moreover, a 16th-century statue of São Sebastião (St. Sebastian) is another significant artifact that speaks to the rich history of this religious site.
Câmara Municipal de Aljezur
As you cross the Ponte de Aljezur bridge heading towards the Igreja Matriz de Aljezur, you’ll come across the Câmara Municipal de Aljezur. At first glance, this building seems a bit out of place amidst the historical ambiance of Aljezur.
It doesn’t have a distinctly modern or ancient look, and initially, it might not catch your eye. However, the unique aspect of this building is revealed when viewed from above: it has a star-shaped design, adding an unexpected and intriguing architectural detail to the town’s landscape.
Get a Coffee at Koyo
After taking in the historical sites, treat yourself to a coffee and snack at Koyo, a cosy café with a delightful ambiance. It’s the perfect spot to recharge before continuing your exploration of Aljezur.
Visit Beaches near Aljezur
Aljezur is blessed with an abundance of stunning beaches, so be sure to spend some time exploring the soft sand and coastal rock formations. Top picks include Praia de Vale Figueira, Praia da Arrifana, and Praia de Monte Clérigo, which all offer lovely picturesque settings and manageable surf for a fun beach day.
Read our article about best beaches in Algarve.
Go Hiking around Aljezur
Finally, take advantage of the natural beauty surrounding Aljezur by embarking on a hike through the lovely countryside. Routes such as the Rota Vicentina and Costa Vicentina offer clifftop rides and stunning natural landscapes. Aljezur also lies within a natural park, making it the perfect destination for those who love the great outdoors.
Best Restaurants and Cafés in Aljezur
I’ve already talked about our favorite café in Aljezur, KOYO. It’s perfect if you’re a fan of specialty coffee or need a spot to work on your laptop.
When it comes to dining in Aljezur, our top pick is Tamrab Thai. Finding a good Thai restaurant in the Algarve can be tough, so this is our go-to spot when we’re in the area. Another fantastic place is Arte Bianca, and don’t forget about Roots. Roots is known for its open kitchen and plenty of vegan options. If you’re looking for a place with a hipster vibe, check out Moagem.
