Timeline
08:30
Grab a coffee and a regional sweet at Pastelaria Baía. The plaza outside is the perfect spot to watch the city wake up before the crowds arrive.
08:45
Walk seven minutes to Museu José Malhoa in Parque Dom Carlos I. Even if you do not enter the museum, the park grounds are home to several of Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro’s giant ceramic figures.
09:00
17ª Peça Rota Bordaliana – Aldeia dos Macacos
Head to the 17th piece of the Rota Bordaliana, Aldeia dos Macacos. This 1902 model features a monkey clinging to a rope, a playful nod to the artist's satirical style.
09:15
Walk back toward the center to see Chafariz das Cinco Bicas. This grand 1749 baroque fountain features five spigots representing five of the seven Pleiades stars. It is the anchor of the city's historic waterworks.
09:30
End your walk at Café Central on the main square. Founded in the 18th century, it is the ideal place to sit and reflect on the baroque architecture and artistic history you just saw.
Local tip
The park is best explored in the morning light. The fountains are accessible 24/7, but the cafes open early, making 08:30 a quiet time to start.
Check before you go
- Pastelaria Baía opens at 07:30.
- Café Central opens at 08:00.
- Museu José Malhoa may have specific opening hours for entry; check the park signage if you wish to go inside.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Caldas da Rainha (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).