The Ascensor da Nazaré, inaugurated on July 28, 1889, is a historic funicular that connects the lower town of Nazaré with the upper district of Sítio, perched atop a 110-meter cliff. Originally powered by steam, it was electrified in 1924. The funicular covers a distance of 318 meters, with a journey time of approximately three minutes, offering passengers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the town below.
As of June 2024, a round-trip ticket costs €4.00 for a single adult. The funicular operates daily from 7:15 AM to midnight, with departures every 15 minutes.  This historic mode of transportation not only facilitates movement between the two parts of the town but also stands as a testament to late 19th-century engineering, continuing to serve both locals and tourists with its scenic and efficient service.
Start your journey at Nazaré’s beach, where the scent of the sea and the bustle of fresh seafood restaurants set the tone. From here, make your way to the historic funicular, a 19th-century marvel connecting the lower town to Sítio, the cliffside district perched high above.
At the top, visit Ermida da Memória, the small chapel tied to the legend of Dom Fuas Roupinho. In 1182, while chasing a deer on horseback, he narrowly avoided plunging off the cliff when he prayed to the Virgin Mary, who miraculously stopped his horse. Nearby, the Fort of São Miguel Arcanjo, built in the 16th century, stands as a guardian over Praia do Norte, where the world’s largest waves draw surfers from across the globe.
On your descent, stroll through the nostalgic streets of Nazaré’s lower town, where tiled facades, narrow alleys, and the rhythm of local life immerse you in the town’s enduring spirit. This walk captures Nazaré’s dual essence: the raw power of the ocean and the intimate charm of its community.