Things to do in Beira Interior
Discover the best attractions and experiences Beira Interior has to offer
Historic Monuments
Beira Interior is studded with hilltop castles and fortress towns that tell the story of medieval Portugal.
Castelo de Castelo Branco
Medieval fortress overlooking the Tejo valley with history dating back to the border wars.
Castelo de Monsanto
Iconic hilltop fortress guarding a village famed for its rock houses and dramatic scenery.
Castelo de Belmonte
Well-preserved castle dominating Belmonte’s skyline and offering sweeping views.
Castelo de Pinhel
Fortified hill town ruins with panoramic viewpoints and a strong medieval character.
Castelo de Linhares da Beira
Ruined fortress within a scenic Beira interior town offering a sense of frontier history.
Museums
Regional museums celebrate explorers, textiles and local history across Beira Interior.
Casa Museu Pedro Álvares Cabral
House museum in Belmonte dedicated to the explorer Pedro Álvares Cabral.
Museu Municipal de Castelo Branco
Municipal museum with local history and archaeology displays.
Museu do Lanifícios da Covilhã
Exhibits on Serra da Estrela’s textile heritage and weaving traditions.
Religious Monuments
Religious architecture ranges from Gothic cathedrals to traditional parish churches across the region.
Sé da Guarda
Gothic-style cathedral in the historic center of Guarda with impressive interior spaces.
Igreja Matriz de Belmonte
Traditional parish church reflecting local religious culture in Belmonte.
Igreja Matriz de Castelo Branco
Historic church showcasing the region’s architectural styles.
National & Theme Parks
Serra da Estrela is Portugal’s highest range, offering alpine landscapes and year‑round activities.
Parque Natural da Serra da Estrela
Portugal’s premier natural park with peaks, glacial valleys and scenic trails.
Poço do Inferno
Famous waterfall and natural pool in the Serra da Estrela region.
Vale Glacial do Zêzere
Glacial valley near Manteigas offering easy hikes and dramatic scenery.
Neighborhoods
Explore distinctive quarters and village cores that define Beira Interior’s character.
Monsanto Village
Iconic rock village famous for its stone houses and dramatic setting.
Covilhã Historic Center
Revitalized old quarter with cobbled streets and stairways.
Guarda Old Town
Compact medieval core with narrow lanes and scenic city walls.
Free Things to Do
Many of Beira Interior’s charms can be enjoyed without a ticket, from hikes to strolls.
Hike in Serra da Estrela
Explore alpine meadows, granite terrain and panoramic vistas on foot.
Explore Monsanto on foot
Walk through the rock-strewn streets and take in striking viewpoints.
Stroll the streets of Belmonte
Meander through historic lanes and enjoy panoramic overlooks.
Gastronomy
Beira Interior’s flavors center on hearty regional ingredients and traditional methods.
Queijo Serra da Estrela
The region’s iconic creamy sheep’s milk cheese with a distinct flavor.
Chanfana
Slow-cooked goat or lamb dish steeped in red wine and herbs.
Medronho liqueur
Fruit brandy made from the indigenous arbutus tree fruit.
Nightlife
Relaxed evenings in historic towns offer bars, cafés and live music in a friendly setting.
Evening in Guarda’s historic center
Casual bars and cafés offering a laid-back night out.
Covilhã night cafés and small venues
University-town atmosphere with late-night coffee and music.
Castelo Branco terrace evenings
Simple, scenic spots to enjoy a drink at sunset.
Entertainment
Cultural hubs host performances, cinema and community events across the region.
Teatro Municipal da Guarda
City venue for plays, concerts and touring companies.
Centro Cultural de Covilhã
Cultural center hosting exhibitions, concerts and shows.
Sports
Active options abound, from winter sports to mountain hiking.
Skiing in Serra da Estrela
Winter slopes and alpine scenery for sliding sports.
Hiking and trekking
Numerous trails across granite hills and forested valleys.
Mountain biking around Covilhã
Rugged trails with rewarding views over the countryside.
Off the Track
Discover less-visited corners and authentic local experiences.
Monsanto rock-houses experience
Explore the village’s unique architecture and landscape.
Linhares da Beira castle ruins walk
Quiet exploring of hilltop ruins with countryside views.
Pedro Álvares Cabral heritage in Belmonte
Absorb the explorer’s legacy through a stroll around his hometown.