Fundao is a down-to-earth city set between the Gardunha Mountains and the Cova da Beira plains. In the historic town centre, you’ll be charmed by the stone churches, centuries-old mansions and leafy plazas. Venture into the countryside to discover lush chestnut forests and sprawling cherry orchards.
Things to do in Fundão
Exploring the historic centre on foot is one of the best ways to enjoy Fundao. Stop to admire landmark buildings like 18th-century Casa dos Maias, a handsome Baroque villa with beautiful stone porticos. Museu Arqueológico José Monteiro occupies a 16th-century mansion and charts the rich history and heritage of the town. Inside you can see ancient Roman artefacts and relics from the Bronze Age.
Castelo Novo clings to the slopes of the Gardunha Mountains and is one of the most atmospheric historic villages in Portugal. Get lost in the maze of alleys and marvel at the houses built from locally quarried granite. An ancient stone road runs through the village and dates back to Roman times.
The countryside surrounding Fundao is dominated by sprawling cherry orchards. The stone fruits are a local specialty and can be enjoyed fresh or in imaginative dishes such as cherry-crusted cod and duck served with sauteed cherries. Wash down your meal with a glass of sweet cherry liqueur.
Fundao is a popular launchpad for outdoor adventures in the Gardunha Mountains, Serra da Estrela and Cova da Beira plains. Discover hundreds of kilometres of waymarked hiking trails and exhilarating mountain biking routes.
Getting around Fundão
Fundao is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot, especially in the historic district. The city is a three-hour drive from Porto and Lisbon. Rental cars offer the freedom to explore the region at your own pace. Trains run between Lisbon and Fundao in around 3.5 hours and Humberto Delgado Airport in Lisbon is a three-hour drive away.