Just 30 minutes northwest of Lisbon, Mafra is a charming town studded with fascinating heritage edifices. One for romantics and history aficionados, the town is home to one of Europe’s most magnificent Baroque palaces. Skip the coastal crowds and look to book one of the best places to stay in Mafra for a sense of authentic Estremadura — history, culture and cuisine.
Mafra’s crowning glory, the sensational Palace-Monastery complex, boasts no fewer than 1,200 rooms, as well as a grand monastery and ornate basilica. Built between 1714 and 1755, this dazzling edifice also houses an impressive library with a collection of over 36,000 ancient books. Tour the palace with an expert guide before venturing into the beautifully maintained formal Jardim do Cerco gardens. The expansive Tapada Nacional de Mafra, a former royal hunting ground that now serves as a natural park, will be a sure-fire hit with hikers, cyclists, keen archers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Appealingly laid-back, Mafra will delight relaxed amblers, who can wander along meandering lanes lined with curious boutiques and traditional eateries. Pick a perch for a coffee and a still-warm pastry, or sip wine from nearby vineyards over dinner with friends. Market days are not to be missed — perfect for picking up fresh produce to cook up a storm at our pick of the best places to stay in Mafra.