How to Have the Best Weekend in Ericeira
Ericeira, a small coastal town on the west coast of Portugal, is renowned as the surfing capital of Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This charming town, once a quaint fishing village, has evolved into a vibrant surf town that attracts digital nomads, surfers, and tourists from around the world. With its stunning beaches like Praia de São Sebastião and Praia da Ribeira d’Ilhas, Ericeira offers some of the best waves and surf conditions, making it the perfect place for surfing enthusiasts. Whether you’re taking surf lessons or seeking a surf camp experience, it’s a great spot for all levels of surfers, from beginners to seasoned pros. The town center, with its white buildings and narrow streets, is full of great cafes and delicious food, making it a great find for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.
The summer months are the best time to visit, with plenty of places to explore within walking distance. The water temperature remains comfortable, and the surf conditions are ideal for catching world-class waves. But even in the quieter shoulder season or winter months, Ericeira still offers a great way to experience the beauty of the town and its surrounding areas. A short drive from Lisbon and a quick Lisbon day trip away, Ericeira is easily accessible by public transport and is a great base for those who want to explore the nearby beaches or take a guided tour of the old town. Whether you’re looking to experience the heart of Ericeira, enjoy the ocean views, or just unwind in a surf camp, this little town is truly worth visiting.
This blog post is about how to have the best weekend in Ericeira. It includes what to do, where to stay, and where to eat vegan food in Ericeira.
How to get to Ericeira from Lisbon
Getting to Ericeira from Lisbon is quite easy and can be done in several ways, depending on your preference for comfort, speed, and cost:
- By Bus: The most convenient and affordable way to travel from Lisbon to Ericeira is by bus. You can take a direct bus from the Campo Grande bus station in Lisbon to Ericeira, with the journey typically taking around 45 minutes to 1 hour. The buses are operated by Mafrense, and tickets can be purchased at the station or online in advance. The bus is a great option if you’re looking for an economical way to travel.
- Via Car: If you prefer flexibility and want to explore the surroundings at your own pace, driving is a good option. The drive from Lisbon to Ericeira takes about 40 minutes via the A21 highway. There are plenty of parking spaces available in and around Ericeira, including at the beaches. Renting a car is ideal if you plan to explore the surrounding areas, such as the nearby beaches or attractions.
- By Taxi or Ride-Sharing: A taxi or ride-sharing service (like Uber) is a more comfortable, though more expensive, option. The journey typically takes about 40 minutes, and the cost will vary depending on traffic and your exact pickup location. This option is ideal if you prefer door-to-door service.
- Via Private Transfer: For a more personalized and hassle-free experience, you can arrange a private transfer from Lisbon to Ericeira. Many services offer door-to-door transfers, which can be a great option for those traveling in groups or with lots of luggage.
- By Train and Bus Combination: Although there is no direct train to Ericeira, you can take a train from Lisbon’s Rossio Station to Mafra and then transfer to a bus to Ericeira. This option may take a little longer but offers a scenic route.
Overall, the bus is usually the most practical and affordable way to reach Ericeira from Lisbon, but renting a car or taking a taxi can provide more comfort and flexibility.
renting a car in Portugal
We have rented cars numerous times in Portugal and have had amazing experiences with DISCOVER CARS. We highly recommend that you use this aggregator to find great deals on rental cars.
WHAT TO DO IN ERICEIRA (best weekend in ericeira)
Go to the beach. There are 5 beaches to choose from and they are all outstanding. The choices are: Praia dos Pescadores, Ribeira d’Ilhas (the best surfing beach), Praia da Foz do Lizandro (farther away), Praia de Sul, Praia do São Sebastião, and Praia do Algodio. Keep in mind that the Atlantic Ocean is very cold so if you are going to surf or spend a lot of time in the water, you will most likely want to use a wetsuit. You might want some water shoes too. Checking out several (or all) of these spectacular beaches will encourage you to have the most amazing weekend in Ericeira. If you are going to spend all day at the beach, don’t forget your beach umbrella. This one is awesome.
Explore the historic center. The white-washed buildings with royal blue trim are adorable and definitely emblematic of the area. It’s also enjoyable to roam around while breathing the fresh sea mist and see the decorative buildings, some covered in creative azulejos.
What to do beyond the ERICEIRA center (best weekend in ericeira)
Explore Jose Franco village. 116 National Road, no. 34, Sobreiro. This captivating spot is a museum and a recreated ethnographic village. It’s an enjoyable way to spend an hour exploring the way life used to be in typical Portuguese villages.
Take a surfing class. There are myriad surfing schools in the area. This would be a super fun way to spend the day in Ericeira.
ericeira nature:
Hike the cliff tops for memorable views of the beaches. Don’t forget your light hiking or trail running shoes! These are our favorites: Merrell women’s light hiking shoes – these are amazing because they are lightweight, but are extra grippy and helpful! I also have this pair. Fernando loves his Asics trail runners which are also grippy and perfect for walking on cobblestone streets.
Ericeira views (best weekend in ericeira)
Passadiço de Ribeira D’ilhas. This wooden staircase to the beach is gorgeous and affords spectacular views of the beach below.
Catch the idyllic sunset. It’s a must-do! Stay the night in Ericeira or the entire weekend to really absorb the energy and vibe and of course, stay for the epic sunsets.
Best Time to Visit Ericeira
The best time to visit Ericeira largely depends on what you’re looking to experience. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons:
Summer Months (June to August):
This is the high season in Ericeira, with warm weather, plenty of sunshine, and bustling streets. The beaches are at their most vibrant, and the surf conditions are great for all levels, particularly for experienced surfers looking for world-class waves. The town center and restaurants are lively, and there’s a festive atmosphere. However, this also means more crowds, higher prices, and limited accommodation availability. If you’re planning a beach-focused trip or want to enjoy the surf camps and surf lessons, summer is the best time, but be prepared for more tourists.
Shoulder Season (May and September):
The shoulder months are ideal for a balance of good weather, fewer crowds, and still excellent surf conditions. The beaches are less crowded than in peak summer, and you’ll find that accommodation rates are more affordable. The surf conditions are still great, with smaller waves ideal for beginners, and the water temperature remains comfortable. This is a great time to visit if you want to enjoy the outdoor activities, scenic views, and delicious food in a more relaxed atmosphere.
Winter Months (November to March):
Winter offers a quieter and more peaceful experience in Ericeira, with cooler weather and fewer tourists. If you’re a surfer, this is a great time to catch the best waves, as Ericeira is known for its consistent surf year-round. The water temperature is cooler, but wetsuits can keep you warm. While some restaurants and businesses may close or operate on reduced hours, the town still has a cozy charm during these months. This is also a great time for digital nomads or those looking for a tranquil getaway to avoid the crowds and high prices of the summer months.
Spring (April and May):
Spring is another fantastic time to visit Ericeira, with mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and fewer tourists. Surf conditions are still favorable, and the town comes to life with a more relaxed vibe than in the summer. It’s an ideal time to explore the outdoors, enjoy the local cafes, and experience the town’s slower pace.
In summary, May to September is the best time for warm weather, great surf, and a lively atmosphere, while April, October, or the winter months offer fewer crowds and a more peaceful experience.
WHERE TO STAY IN ERICEIRA for the best weekend in ericeira
- Perfect location + emblematic hotel
- Fantastic location + sustainable hotel
- Surf hotel + walking distance to beach/town
- Gorgeous pool + sea view hotel
- Budget-friendly + ultra comfy hotel
WHERE TO EAT IN ERICEIRA
- Be U: This is a vegan deli shop that is a short walk from town, but definitely recommended. We’ve been there a couple of times and their daily menus are fantastic!
- Sunset Bamboo Bar: Omni restaurant with decent vegan option.
- Tiki Healthy Food Cave: omni restaurant with healthy vegan options.
- Nutwood: ice cream shop with vegan sorbet options.
- Souldough Pizza: a bit further away, but comes highly recommended for vegan pizza.
FUN PAID ACTIVITIES IN ERICEIRA
- All Day Tour from Lisbon of Ericeira, Mafra and the Coastal Villages – this would be an epic tour!
- Ericeira, Mafra and Queluz tour – this would be epic! If you don’t want to drive but want to enjoy the sights, this is a perfect tour for you. This would definitely help you have the best weekend in Ericeira!
- Private tour from Lisbon to Sintra, Ericeira and more. This is a splurge-worthy private tour from Lisbon where all you have to do is enjoy the trip!
- Ericeira + Mafra tour with wine tasting – if you like wine, beaches, and gorgeous countryside, then you will love this tour!
Final Thoughts on Ericeira
Ericeira, a surfing mecca and world surfing reserve, is truly a surfer’s paradise, offering some of the best beaches on the west coast of Portugal. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer looking for the perfect wave at Praia de Ribeira d’Ilhas or a beginner surfer taking lessons at one of the many surf schools, this small town has something for everyone. The beautiful beaches, such as Matadouro Beach and the beaches surrounding Ericeira village, are perfect for soaking up the sun or catching some waves. The city center, with its charming narrow streets and fresh fish markets, offers a range of excellent restaurants and cafes. Many places offer great deals on surf packages, and for those looking to relax after a day on the water, there are five-star hotels and accommodations with outdoor pools, all within an easy walk from the center of town.
With its laid-back atmosphere, friendly locals, and sea views at every turn, the town is a perfect mix of a small fishing village and a vibrant beach town. The close proximity to Lisbon makes it a great choice for a day trip or a longer stay. You can explore the skate park, discover the hidden gems of the old town, or enjoy the local specialty, tik tapas, in the heart of the town. Whether you’re a digital nomad, a surfer, or someone looking to unwind in a beautiful setting, Ericeira is one of the best places to experience the charm of Portugal’s coastline, making it a place worth visiting numerous times.
This post contains affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you.
We would be thrilled if you would use our Affiliate links attached here. If you buy something using our links, we receive a small commission. This helps us to continue creating amazing content on the blog for free. Thank you so much!
AFFILIATE LINKS – CLICK HERE
THE 5 ITEMS WE WERE SO HAPPY TO HAVE FOR ALL OF OUR TRIPS:
- Merrell women’s light hiking shoes – these are amazing because they are lightweight, but are extra grippy and helpful! I also have this pair that I always get compliments on: Merrell Rainbow shoes. Fernando loves his Asics trail runners which are also grippy and perfect for walking on cobblestone streets.
- Thermoflask water bottle – like a Hydroflask, but more affordable! We don’t go anywhere without these water bottles full of purified water.
- North Face Aphrodite 2.0 capris – Seriously, I wear these pants every.single.day! I couldn’t live without these ultra-comfy, lightweight pants that dry so quickly. They are 100% worth the money!
- Osprey Day Pack – this is an awesome lightweight backpack! We easily put the belongings we need at hand for traveling around the city and on public transportation.
- Travel-friendly chewable toothpaste tablets – these are so fantastic for keeping your teeth clean on the go!
OUR FAVORITE EUROPEAN SERVICES:
- DISCOVER CARS – If you want to rent a car while you’re in Europe, our favorite car rental aggregator is Discover Cars. We frequently rent cars and they always have the best prices and great quality vehicles.
- iTalki – if you want to learn another language before traveling to Europe or while you’re there, we love iTalki. We highly recommend their language services.
- NORD VPN – perfect to use your technology in other countries!
- Airalo E-Sim – this let’s you use your phone anywhere in the world without having to get a physical sim! We use this all the time when we travel outside Europe!
- Big Bus Tours – the perfect way to see the city when you first arrive!
- Get Transfer – transfers between all of the airports and cities
RELATED POSTS:
22 Travel Hacks to Save Money While Traveling
The Top 10 Most Underrated Places to Visit in Europe
Fall Travel Guide to Europe’s Most Enchanting Cities
As you can see, Ericeira is no longer the sleepy fishing village it once was. it’s now a hotspot for those in the know! Ericeira has epic beaches known as surfing meccas and inspires a laid-back, environmentally-conscious vibe. It’s definitely a must-visit if you are in Portugal, esp if you are in Lisbon! All of the activities mentioned above will allow you to have the most amazing weekend in Ericeira.
Have you been to Ericeira? Do you agree with my recommendations on what to do in Ericeira? I’d love to hear back from you.
Have you read our other Portugal posts? Here are links to some of the other highly recommended blog posts:
If you love the beach, then you will definitely love the Arrábida beaches near Sétubal: How to Have the Most Amazing Weekend in Sesimbra, Portugal
15 Awesome Day Trips from Lisbon
The Best Things to Do in Lisbon, Portugal
Vegan Guide to Lisbon, Portugal
How to have the most amazing trip to The Algarve, Portugal
How to have an amazing trip to Coimbra and Aveiro
[…] How to have an insanely fabulous weekend in Ericeira […]