Lourinhã combines dinosaur-themed attractions, a Gothic monument and natural heritage. Dino Parque and the Mostra Urbana de Dinossauros offer two different ways to explore the subject of dinosaurs: a theme park and a trail through the town. They are joined by the Igreja de Santa Maria do Castelo, beaches, sea cliffs, viewpoints and Jurassic remains. If you are planning a trip with accommodation in Lourinhã, this selection can help you decide what to focus on: dinosaurs, architectural history, or trails and landscapes.

Dinosaurs in Different Formats

Dino Parque is a dinosaur theme park in Lourinhã. Younger visitors can take part in the “A Day as a Palaeontologist” activity, which has an educational focus. Alongside the general dinosaur theme, the park therefore also features a specific learning activity and participation in it. The activity offers younger visitors an introduction to palaeontology.

A description from 2021 places the Exposição de Dinossauros da Lourinhã at Dino Parque and lists original dinosaur eggs and replicas from the Museu da Lourinhã among the exhibits. This makes it possible to distinguish between different emphases: the description characterises the exhibition through specific objects, while “A Day as a Palaeontologist” refers to an activity for younger visitors. This can help you decide what kind of dinosaur-themed experience to include in your travel plans.

The Mostra Urbana de Dinossauros follows a trail through Lourinhã. Along the way, you can discover thirteen life-size dinosaurs and reptiles. Unlike the exhibition at Dino Parque, the focus here is on a walking route featuring a specific sequence of figures. You can request a Peddysaurus booklet for the Mostra at the Lourinhã Tourist Office; it is available in Portuguese and English. This practical guide is another feature of this option. The park, exhibition, educational activity and trail offer different ways to explore the subject of dinosaurs.

Cultural Heritage, Nature and Walking Trails

The Igreja de Santa Maria do Castelo offers a different cultural focus. It is a Gothic monument dating from the second half of the 14th century. This places its architectural significance apart from the themes of dinosaurs and palaeontology. If you would like to explore culture beyond dinosaurs, the church offers a clearly identifiable connection to Gothic architecture and a specific historical date range.

Lourinhã’s natural heritage includes beaches, sea cliffs, viewpoints and Jurassic remains. The Mata da Quinta da Moita Longa is home to examples of Lourinhã’s native fauna and flora. Together, these features show how the natural heritage extends beyond a single theme: the coast and its views sit alongside palaeontological remains and examples of flora and fauna.

Four walking trails have been established in Lourinhã, allowing you to explore the area. This sets them apart from the clearly themed Mostra Urbana trail: the walking trails are for exploring the wider area, while the Mostra focuses on dinosaurs and reptiles. This makes it easier to choose between a dinosaur trail and a more general way to discover Lourinhã on foot.

Discover more destinations: Ribamar, Reguengo Grande, Marteleira, Atalaia De Cima, Santa Bárbara, São Bartolomeu Dos Galegos.

Go to the main travel overview: Lourinhã.