It is set to become more popular, especially with younger career-minded people and those interested in the growing tourism markets outside of the Algarve.

Leiria is ideally situated for easy road travel from Lisbon or Porto and is well connected by rail, the coast is 15 minutes away, and the whole region is crammed with places of historical interest.

Hotels and guest houses are plentiful and have a wide variety of prices.

The real estate market is varied throughout the district of Leiria, from the townhouses and apartments of the city itself to the rural properties contained within Leiria's many councils and parishes. 

 The councils or (concelhos) of Leiria are: ALCOBAÇA , ALVAIÁZERE, ANSIÃO , BATALHA, BOMBARRAL, CALDAS DA RAINHA, CASTANHEIRA DE PÊRA, FIGUEIRÓ DOS VINHOS, LEIRIA, MARINHA GRANDE, NAZARÉ, ÓBIDOS, PEDRÓGÃO GRANDE, PENICHE, POMBAL and PORTO DE MÓS.

History of Leiria

Leiria is one of the oldest cities in Portugal and has been inhabited since before the start of Portuguese history when the Celts inhabited the city. The Romans later took over Leiria, and the Celts retreated into the mountains, where they lived in a more primitive manner until the arrival of the Muslims who ruled over the city in the 8th and 9th centuries. There is still plenty of archaeological evidence to go and take a look at the gothic palace in Batalha nearby Leiria is a must-see, as is Nazare and Obidos.

Leiria had its castle built to prevent the Moors from retaking the town once it had been repatriated by Afonso Henriques; it was in the middle ages that the importance of Leiria increased with feudal government factions hosting themselves there.

Leiria has grown through the centuries, the Gothic place built in the 15th century on the Kings orders. Partially restored in the 20th century.

 It is the best example of Gothic architecture in Portugal.

Modern-day Leiria has several industries primarily down to its favourable location; the industries include plastic moulding, chemical, and steel fabrication industries. 

As the Portuguese economy rises to meet its European counterparts, Leiria will become an important centre both economically and politically, and in the meantime, the continued rise in golf courses and other leisure-based industries will continue.

What to Eat

Food is one of the more pleasant things to do and be done in Leiria. The culinary scene in Leiria is known for its fresh ingredients and freshly made pasta, all the better to accompany a wine from the region. The Olive Restaurant is one of the best places to eat in Leiria. It is situated in a historical building that dates back to the 18th century. Located in the middle of the historic core of the city. They have an organic menu that focuses on local produce. Especially popular on Sundays when there is a mass in the cathedral. There is also a host of bakeries and restaurants that also specialize in bread and cakes.

Conclusion

Whether you plan a long weekend or a quick trip to the Portuguese Riviera, Leiria will give you everything you want. You can see the city in a day or spend a weekend in the town and then visit other locations during the day. Some hotels are appropriate for a week, so long as you have time on your hands to enjoy the city and its attractions. Have fun and be safe; Leiria is beautiful.

This will fuel the demand for property in Leiria and offer ever better rental returns for the property investors wanting to enter the Leiria property market.