Sights and landmarks in Caldas da Rainha

64 sights worth seeing in Caldas da Rainha: landmarks, galleries, monuments and viewpoints.

Ranked with the travel guide's picks and well-known places first. Showing the top 40 of 64.

Photo: Carlos Luis M C da Cruz, Public domain

SeePublic art
Museu José Malhoa
Located in the Parque Dom Carlos I, this small yet intriguing museum displays painting and sculpture from the 19th and 20th centuries, with emphasis on Portuguese naturalism and the works of José Malhoa (1855–1933). The collection includes pieces by Raphael Bordallo Pinheiro, such as the evocative sixty-sculpture set Passion of Christ. You won't find world-famous works here, but many pieces are fascinating and make the museum worth a visit. Don't miss the bas-relief figures on the façade of the building, which was Portugal's first purpose-built museum. The building is classified as Imóvel de Interesse Público (Property of Public Interest). A handheld English audioguide is available.
May–Sep: Tue–Sat 10:00–12:30 & 14:00–18:00, Sun & holidays 10:00–14:00 & 15:00–18:00; Oct–Apr: Tue–Sat 10:00–12:30 & 14:00–17:30, Sun & holidays 10:00–14:00 & 15:00–17:30; closed Mon, 1 Jan, Easter Sun,1 May, 15 May, 25 DecGeneral admission EUR 3; 50% discount for 65+, student & youth cards, and others; Su & holidays until 14:00: free for age 12 & under and resident citizens. See complete admission details · Entry 5.00 EUR · Wi-Fi
SeePublic art
Chafariz das Cinco Bicas
The grandest of Caldas' fountains, this baroque waterworks was built in 1749 and is noted for the five spigots from which its name derives. The five stars surrounding the spigots represent five of the seven Pleiades of Greek mythology. The other two Pleiades are represented on the other 1749 baroque fountains: Chafariz da Estrada da Foz and Chafariz da Rua Nova. This fountain and its sisters were constructed to provide water to the populace. They were not primarily initially decorative, though they are so now. Cinco Bicas remains in good working order, but don't drink. The fountain is classified as Imóvel de Interesse Público (Property of Public Interest).
24 hours dailyFree
SeeMuseum
Centro de Artes
Arts Centre
The arts centre is a collection of five museums, largely dedicated to sculpture, but also including paintings, drawings, and prints. The museums are Atelier-Museu António Duarte, Atelier-Museu João Fragoso, Museu Barata Feyo, Museu Leopoldo de Almeida, and Espaço da Concas. Beyond the works in the museums, there are numerous sculptures displayed throughout the grounds. The centre hosts temporary exhibits in galleries in the museums. Guided tours are available by appointment.
Mon Wed–Fri 09:00–12:30 & 14:00–17:30, Sat Sun 09:00–13:00 & 15:00–18:00; closed Tue, 1 Jan, Easter, 1 May, 25 DecFree
SeeMuseum
Museu do Hospital e das Caldas
Museum of the Hospital and of the Hot Springs
Housed in the Caza Real (royal house), this museum presents the history of the thermal hospital and its hot springs. Until the end of the monarchy, the building served as home to the hospital directors as well as lodging for the royal family when they visited Caldas. In 1992, restoration was undertaken, along with installation of the museum. The museum offers tours of the hospital and its associated heritage.
Tue–Sat & holidays 10:00–12:30 & 14:00–17:30, Sun 09:00–12:00, closed MonEUR 3, EUR 1.50 for retirees and youth card holders, free to age 14
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Hospital Termal Rainha D. Leonor
Queen Leonor Thermal Hospital
The raison d'être of Caldas da Rainha, the thermal hospital was founded by Queen Leonor after experiencing the healing properties of the sulfurous hot springs on this site. The older building (labeled Hospital Termal above the glass entrance doors) was begun in 1485, and the newer one (labeled Balneário Novo) was completed in 1750. The hospital continues to operate to this day, subject to closures when impurities are found in the water. The waters are rich in minerals, particularly sulphur, and are prescribed to treat joint and respiratory ailments. Tours can be arranged through the Museu do Hospital e das Caldas.
SeePublic art
Jardim da Água
Water Garden
A whimsical "garden" with water features, accented with ceramics, tiles, and towering sculptures. It was designed by master ceramicist Luis Ferreira da Silva (1928-2016) and built in the 1990s. This installation is one of the country's largest urban ceramic works. It honors two of the city's iconic symbols: water and ceramics.
24 hours dailyFree
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Parque Dom Carlos I
Parque D. Carlos I, King Charles I Park
This delightful park serves as the main green space in Caldas da Rainha. The paths through the flowerbeds and trees make for a pleasant walk. Visitors can rent a rowboat to circumnavigate the small lake around a little island. The boathouse is now used for art exhibitions, as is the Céu de Vidro ("glass sky"), a skylight-covered pathway between two old buildings that connects the park to the thermal hospital. The Museu José Malhoa sits in the middle of the park. The park contains numerous statues and sculptures, some of historical figures, others more whimsical and fun. The Pavilhões do Parque ("park pavilions") are several interconnected buildings, originally intended as a spa resort for the thermal hospital. They served various purposes in the past. These lovely buildings, which serve as a sort of emblem of the park, have unfortunately been allowed to decay and are on the verge of ruin. Their beauty is still evident, however, and their reflection on the lake makes for a popular photo opportunity. Word is the buildings will be revived as a hotel. The park's amenities include a playground, picnic area, tennis courts, and restrooms. The park is named for King Carlos I (Charles) who reigned from 1889 until his assassination in 1908 at the age of 44. In January 2021, Evasões magazine called the park, "One of the most beautiful parks in the country (perhaps the entire world)".
Open now · closes 10 pm
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Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Pópulo
Church of Our Lady of the Pópulo
Built in 1500 as the royal chapel associated with the thermal hospital, this church features Late Gothic, Manueline, and Mudéjar styles. At the behest of Queen Leonor, Pope Julius II elevated the chapel to mother church of Caldas. The interior is lined with tiles, including original Hispano-Arab tiles on the side altars. The Passion triptych over the triumphal arch has drawn the interest of art historians. Since 1910, the church has been a National Monument, the only one in Caldas. Tours can be arranged through the Museu do Hospital e das Caldas.
Visit: Tue–Sat 14:00–17:00, closed Mon & holidays; Mass: Mon–Sat 11:00, Sun 09:00
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Museu da Cerâmica
Ceramics Museum
Situated in a late Romantic manor house, the Ceramics Museum displays a wide collection from Caldas, from around Portugal, and from other places on the globe. The museum holds pottery pieces from the 17th through early 20th centuries, with emphasis on local artist Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro. The collection also includes tiles and tile panels.
May to Sep: Tue–Sat 10:00–12:30 & 14:00–18:00, Sun & holidays 10:00–14:00 & 15:00–18:00; Oct–Apr: Tue–Sat 10:00–12:30 & 14:00–17:30, Sun & holidays 10:00–14:00 & 15:00–17:30; closed Mon, 1 Jan, Easter Sun, 1 May, 15 May, 25 DecEUR 3; 50% discount for 65+, student & youth cards, and others; free for age 12 & under, resident citizens Su & holidays until 14:00; complete admission details
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Museu do Ciclismo
Cycling Museum
This small museum is dedicated to the history of cycling in Portugal. Several historical bicycles are on display.
Tue–Fri 10:00–12:30 & 14:00–17:30, Sat Sun 10:00–12:30 & 14:30–17:00, Mon closedFree
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Praça da República
Republic Square
The city's grandest public square hosts the daily farmers' market and is called Praça da Fruta (Fruit Square) by the locals. The plaza is surrounded by many examples of fine architecture. Don't miss the lovely pink old city hall and several Art Nouveau buildings. You can find a respite from urban explorations with drinks and pastries at the kiosk on the plaza's southwestern end or at one of the area's many cafés. You might wish to also visit the square after the farmers' market finishes for the day, in order to appreciate the beautiful patterns of the stone calçada portuguesa pavement.
24 hours dailyFree · Wheelchair accessible
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Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Conceição
Church of Our Lady of the Conception
Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Conceição is a modern church built in the early 1950s to accommodate the city's growing population. Construction began on 20 August 1950, with a blessing from the cardinal–patriarch of Lisbon and the presence of the minister of public works. The cardinal–patriarch inaugurated the church 14 months later on 21 October 1951. The façade and décor aren't as bleak as other mid-century houses of worship, but compared with older churches in Portugal, Nossa Senhora da Conceição seems plainer and less elaborate. Its interior is mostly bright white sparingly adorned with some blue azulejo tiles, statues, and stations of the cross. This does give it an airy, open, and sunny look.
Visit: Mon–Sat 09:00–20:00, Sun 08:30–13:00 & 17:00–19:00; Mass: Mon–Sat 19:00; Sun 09:00, 10:15, 12:00, 18:00; 1st Sat of month 09:00Free
SeeHistoric site
Queen Leonor Statue
Estátua de Rainha Dona Leonor
The Queen stands regally in a roundabout, facing the park and welcoming visitors to the city centre. The statue was created by sculptor Francisco Franco (no, not the Spanish dictator) and was inaugurated 15 September 1935.
24 hours dailyFree
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Casa Museu São Rafael
Museu Galeria São Rafael
This museum is dedicated to the ceramic works produced by the Raphael Bordallo Pinheiro factory next door (Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro under current Portuguese spelling rules), including some original pieces by Bordallo Pinheiro from the late 19th century.
Mon–Fri 09:00–12:30 by appointment, closed Sat Sun & holidays
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Chafariz da Estrada da Foz
Built in 1749, this fountain was built in conjunction with Chafariz das Cinco Bicas. While not as grand, the fountain's age and good condition make it an interesting stop for visitors who enjoy baroque waterworks. It is also more integrated into the urban fabric, less standalone than Cinco Bicas. The fountain no longer functions; its purpose now is decorative and historical. The fountain is classified as Imóvel de Interesse Público (Property of Public Interest).
24 hours dailyFree
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Chafariz da Rua Nova
Caldas' third baroque fountain built in 1749, not as grand as the Cinco Bicas fountain, but still a pleasant sight. When you first approach the underused but lovely square, you will see a fountain in the centre, but this is not your target. Chafariz da Rua Nova stands against a wall near a staircase leading to an upper lane. The fountain is classified as Imóvel de Interesse Público (Property of Public Interest).
24 hours dailyFree
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SILOS Contentor Criativo
SILOS Creative Container
Opened in 2010 in disused grain silos near the train tracks, SILOS provides ateliers, working space for artists, most of whom are students at Caldas' art and design school (ESAD). You can visit the artists' creations at the on-site Gallery Farinha, which can be booked on their Facebook page.
Mon–Sat 10:00–20:00, closed Sun
See Not mapped
Ermida de São Sebastião
Hermitage/Chapel of Saint Sebastian
16th-century mannerist and baroque chapel. Remodeled in the 18th century, the chapel is covered in tiles depicting the life of Saint Sebastian. The building is classified as Imóvel de Interesse Público (Property of Public Interest). Tours can be arranged through the Museu do Hospital e das Caldas.
See Not mapped
Ermida do Espírito Santo
Hermitage/Chapel of the Holy Spirit
Mannerist and baroque chapel built in the 16th century and rebuilt in the 18th century. The building is classified as Imóvel de Interesse Público (Property of Public Interest).
See Not mapped
Mata Dona Leonor
Queen Leonor Woods
If the park is too urban for your taste, visit the adjoining Mata Dona Leonor. Tree-lined trails make for quiet, pleasant walks. You can also find picnic facilities. Planted during Queen Leonor's era, the forest was meant to protect the source of the hospital's hot springs. Trees include pine, oak, sycamore, and acacia.
24 hours dailyFree
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Reserva Natural Local do Paul de Tornada
Tornada Marsh Local Natural Reserve
The Paul de Tornada is a marsh with an ecosystem containing protected flora and fauna.
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Fonte Luminosa
Luminous Fountain
Although Bairro dos Arneiros is a lively residential area, Fonte Luminosa is one of Santo Onofre's few sights of interest for most visitors. This modern fountain, renovated in the summer of 2020, shoots jets of water illuminated by coloured lights. While you're here, check out some of the restaurants, cafés, and shops around and near the square.
24 hours dailyFree
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Largo Frederico Ferreira Pinto Bastos
You will find this small, pleasant square in the Bairro Além da Ponte section of Santo Onofre. Away from the usual tourist track, this urban pocket provides a glimpse of typical life in a Portuguese neighbourhood. You may wish to sit at one of the outdoor cafés, or you can grab a beverage or light meal at one of the surrounding eateries and enjoy it on a public bench. The disused water pump served as the population's source of well water back in the days before homes had indoor plumbing. A few trees lend the square a feeling of city oasis. On Saturdays, the square hosts Mercadinho Das Águas Santas, a small market of handicrafts, culture, and food.
24 hours dailyFree
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Largo Rainha Dona Leonor & Largo Dom Manuel I
These two adjacent squares lie in the heart of Caldas' Historic Zone. Largo Rainha D. Leonor—also known as Largo da Copa—houses both buildings of the thermal hospital and provides access to the park. Largo D. Manuel I has the Chafariz da Rua Nova water fountain as well as a more modern fountain. Both plazas are picturesque and offer excellent viewpoints for photos. You can find a few cafés and restaurants on or just off the squares.
24 hours dailyFree
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Penedo Furado de Foz do Arelho
This huge boulder with an arched opening was formed by rain and wind erosion. It is millions of years old and dates back to the Jurassic period.
24 hours dailyFree
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Praça 25 de Abril
This square acts as a civic centre of sorts and hosts three "great powers": the brutalist modern city hall building (Câmara Municipal), the mid-century Church of Our Lady of the Conception (Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Conceição), and the courthouse (Palácio da Justiça). This plaza holds the city's huge artificial Christmas tree each year and is a primary meeting point for the annual Carnaval (Mardi Gras) parade. The square's name refers to 25 April, the date of the Carnation Revolution in 1974 that overthrew Portugal's authoritarian Estado Novo government.
24 hours dailyFree
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Praça 5 de Outubro
Antiga Praça do Peixe
This square used to host the fish and seafood market until it moved indoors elsewhere in town. Nowadays, the plaza is a centre of dining and nightlife, with numerous restaurants, cafés, and bars. Many feature outdoor seating. Music and other entertainment often grace the square. The square's name means 5 October and commemorates the 1910 revolution in which King Manuel II was deposed and Portugal was established as a republic.
24 hours dailyFree
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Raphael Bordallo Pinheiro and Zé Povinho Statues
Take a selfie with illustrator, caricaturist, sculptor, and ceramicist Raphael Bordallo Pinheiro and his homage to the Portuguese everyman, Zé Povinho. Raphael sits on a wooden bench with enough room for you and a friend, and Zé stands behind him.
24 hours dailyFree
See Not mapped
Art Nouveau Architecture
Arquitetura Arte Nova
Caldas da Rainha is home to many fine examples of Art Nouveau buildings. This style was popular worldwide between 1890 and 1910, but it flourished in Portugal from 1905 to 1920. You can identify Art Nouveau by its beautiful tile façades, ornate wrought iron embellishments, and decorative stonework. Walk around the city centre to find many more gems.
24 hours dailyFree
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Rota Bordalliana
Bordallo Pinheiro Route
This collection of 20 ceramic art works inspired by Raphael Bordallo Pinheiro are spread throughout the city centre. The human figures are about life size, while the animals and plants are mostly larger than life. See a list of pieces and their locations here or here.
24 hours dailyFree
See Not mapped
Antiga Câmara Municipal
Old City Hall
The lovely pink old city hall stands on Praça da República (Praça da Fruta). The seat of the municipal government was moved to a larger brutalist building, and the old edifice now houses civil parish offices of the União das Freguesias das Caldas da Rainha - Nossa Senhora do Pópulo, Coto e São Gregório. The building was dedicated in 1750, as indicated by the "MDCCL" etched on its façade. An inscription above the clock shows "1841", when the clock and bell were added. The building is classified as Imóvel de Interesse Público (Property of Public Interest).
SeePublic art
1.º Peça da R.B. Rãs de Boca Aberta
1ª Peça Rota Bordaliana – Rãs de Boca Aberta e Rã Gigante A Rota Bordaliana começa frente à Estação de Caminho de Ferro da cidade, este ponto é emblemático pois o comboio era o transporte usado por Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro nas suas deslocações entre Lisboa
SeePublic art
10ª Peça Rota Bordaliana – Ama das Caldas
Deixa para trás o edifício d’Os Sardões, seguindo para a esquerda, andas 50 metros e sobes a rua estreita que te faz dar de “caras” com o Centro Cultural e Congressos (CCC). Sobe as escadas e à tua direita logo encontras a Ama das Caldas. Esta personagem
SeePublic art
11ª Peça Rota Bordaliana – Polícia Civil
Esta réplica agigantada do modelo de 1901 faz parte das figuras de movimento de que já falámos e representa uma vez mais uma das figuras populares da época.
SeePublic art
13ª Peça Rota Bordaliana – Caracol
O Caracol é uma réplica agigantada do modelo de 1889 e tem a particularidade de assim como a Vespa ter estado na Exposição Universal de Paris.
SeePublic art
14ª Peça Rota Bordaliana – Grupo de Cogumelos
O Grupo de Cogumelos é uma réplica agigantada do modelo de 1895 e fazem parte do universo naturalista de Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro.
SeePublic art
16ª Peça Rota Bordaliana – Folha de Couve
Réplica agigantada do modelo do ano 1901, a Folha de Couve faz parte do universo Naturalista do mestre Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro. É natural também encontrar peças parecidas como esta em várias lojas de artesanato espalhadas pela cidade. Depois de veres a F
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17ª Peça Rota Bordaliana – Aldeia dos Macacos
A Aldeia dos Macacos é um modelo do ano 1902. O Macaco agarrado a uma corda faz parte da produção do mestre Bordalo Pinheiro é a nossa penúltima peça da Rota Bordaliana! Deves descer agora a alameda principal do parque até ao coreto e quando estiveres
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18ª Peça Rota Bordaliana – Saloia com Cesto
Após a visita ao número anterior sais do parque pela porta em frente ao Coreto e logo encontras a última peça – Saloia com Cesto, uma réplica agigantada de cerca de 1907 da autoria do filho Manuel Gustavo Bordalo Pinheiro.
SeePublic art
2ª Peça Rota Bordaliana – Vespa
Segue a avenida que se estende à tua frente (Avenida 1º de Maio) até ao momento que à tua direita encontras uma outra avenida (da Independência). Corta e logo encontras um parque infantil. No topo do edifício onde está o café, encontras “A Vespa”, cuja o

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Listings from the Wikivoyage guide to Caldas da Rainha (CC BY-SA 4.0). Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL). Place data from Overture Maps.