Nazaré is a small fishing village on Portugal’s Atlantic coast that became famous worldwide for one reason: the biggest surfable waves ever recorded in history. In October 2011, surfer Garrett McNamara surfed a 23-meter wave here — a world record. Since then, Nazaré has become a pilgrimage destination for surf and ocean lovers.
But Nazaré is not only about giant waves. During summer, the peaceful beach attracts Portuguese families, fishermen's wives still wear the traditional seven skirts outfit, and sun-dried fish displayed on the streets of the town center create a scene that feels like stepping back in time. It is a fascinating contrast between the power of the ocean in winter and the peaceful atmosphere of the village in summer.
Essential information about Nazaré
- Country: Portugal
- Language: Portuguese
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- Time zone: GMT+0 (WET) / GMT+1 during daylight saving time
- Location: 135 km from Lisbon (1h30 by car), 170 km from Porto (2h by car)
- Visa: Brazilians do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days in the Schengen Area
- Travel insurance: Mandatory to enter the Schengen Area, with minimum coverage of €30,000. Find your travel insurance here!
Documents required to travel to Nazaré
- Passport: Valid for at least 3 months beyond your return date
- Return ticket: Proof of departure from the Schengen Area
- Proof of financial means: Bank statements or income documents
- Accommodation confirmation: Hotel reservation or invitation letter
- Travel insurance: Minimum coverage of €30,000 for medical expenses
Currency and payments in Nazaré
The currency is the euro (EUR). Nazaré is a small village — some traditional restaurants and shops still prefer cash payments. For currency exchange with better rates, use Wise.
How much does a trip to Nazaré cost?
Nazaré is one of the most affordable destinations in Portugal. Because it is a small village, prices are much lower compared to Lisbon or Porto:
- Budget: €40–60/day (guesthouse, fried fish, and traditional local restaurants)
- Mid-range: €80–120/day (3-star hotel, meals at restaurants with ocean views)
- Comfortable: €150+/day (boutique hotel in Sítio, seafood dining experiences)
Tip: Nazaré can easily be visited as a day trip from Lisbon — around 1h30 by car or bus. If you want to see the giant waves, visit during winter and stay at least one night to catch the sunrise from Sítio viewpoint.
Travel insurance
Mandatory for the Schengen Area, with minimum coverage of €30,000. Find your travel insurance here!
Internet and travel SIM card in Nazaré
- Local SIM card: Available in Lisbon or Porto before arriving. NOS, MEO, and Vodafone offer prepaid plans starting at €10–15.
- International eSIM: A good option to activate before your trip — with good coverage along the Portuguese coast. Discover Airalo, our eSIM partner.
- Wi-Fi: Available in most hotels and restaurants in the village.
