Dinosaurs in Lourinhã: Portugal’s Real-Life Jurassic Coast

Lourinhã isn’t just another pretty Silver Coast town. It’s one of the most important dinosaur discovery sites in the world. Yes, really — this quiet coastal area has produced some of the best-preserved fossils ever found in Europe.

A Hotspot for Prehistoric Giants

The cliffs and rock formations around Lourinhã have been giving up secrets for decades. Palaeontologists have uncovered bones, footprints, eggs, and even entire nests from species that once roamed the region 150 million years ago. Think giant carnivores, long-necked herbivores, and predators that would make a T-Rex think twice.

The Lourinhã Museum

At the centre of it all is the Museu da Lourinhã — a must-visit for families, fossil fans, or anyone who loves a good “I didn’t know that” moment. You’ll find real dinosaur bones, reconstructed skeletons, eggs, and life-size models. It’s small enough to enjoy in an hour, but impressive enough to stick in your memory.

Why Lourinhã?

Simple geology. The coastal cliffs naturally erode and reveal new fossils year after year. Locals regularly spot fragments washed out by the sea — it’s one of the only places in Europe where discoveries still happen naturally.

A Fun Extra for Your Silver Coast Trip

Most visitors come for the beaches, food, and sunshine… then get surprised by the dinosaur history sitting right on their doorstep. It adds a completely different layer to the area — one you won’t get anywhere else in Portugal.

Stay with Dino Property — Yes, the Name Makes Sense

We picked the name for a reason. The region’s prehistoric past is part of its charm, and staying here puts you right next to some of Europe’s most remarkable fossil sites.

Short, surprising, and unforgettable — just like Lourinhã itself.