32km (20 miles) N of Alcobaça; 129km (80 miles) N of Lisbon
On the road to Coimbra, Leiria rests on the banks of the Liz and spreads over the surrounding hills. Though the modern-day town is industrial, it's still an inviting stop, with its hilltop castle, old quarter, and cathedral. Leiria is also the center of an area rich in handicrafts, such as hand-blown glassware. Its folklore is comparable to that of neighboring Ribatejo. This city of 110,000 is an important transportation hub and a convenient point for exploring Nazaré or Fátima or the Atlantic coast beaches.
