Tomar, Portugal Travel Guide

Discover Tomar, a historic gem in central Portugal, renowned for its Convent of Christ, charming old town, and vibrant festivals, rooted in the legacy of the Knights Templar.

Tomar is a city that feels like a journey through time. Nestled in central Portugal, it is steeped in history and brimming with architectural marvels. The city's crown jewel is the Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This stunning monument, founded by the Knights Templar in the 12th century, is an intricate blend of Gothic, Manueline, and Renaissance styles. Wandering through its cloisters and halls, you can almost hear the whispers of centuries past. The historic center of Tomar is a delight to explore. Cobbled streets wind through picturesque squares and past charming buildings adorned with traditional azulejos (ceramic tiles). The Praça da República is the heart of the city, where you can relax at a café and take in the view of the 17th-century church of São João Baptista. Just a short stroll away, the Mata Nacional dos Sete Montes offers a tranquil escape with its lush greenery and scenic walking trails. Tomar is also a city of festivals. The Festa dos Tabuleiros (Festival of the Trays), held every four years, is a spectacular event where locals parade through the streets with towering trays of bread and flowers on their heads. This vibrant celebration reflects the deep-rooted traditions and community spirit of the city. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or a fan of cultural festivities, Tomar has something to captivate every visitor.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Tomar.

Visit the Convent of Christ early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Wear comfortable shoes as the cobbled streets of the historic center can be uneven.
Try the local delicacy, 'Fatias de Tomar,' a unique egg-based dessert with a rich history.
If visiting during the Festa dos Tabuleiros, book accommodations well in advance as the city gets very busy.
Explore the Mata Nacional dos Sete Montes for a peaceful retreat and beautiful hiking paths.

Explore Tomar: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Tomar

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Best Attractions

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Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima

Experience the spiritual serenity of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima, a world-renowned pilgrimage site rich in history and beauty.

4.8

Batalha Monastery

Explore the stunning Batalha Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing exquisite Gothic architecture in the heart of Portugal.

4.7

Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity

Explore the grandeur of the Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity, a modern marvel in Fátima and a significant pilgrimage site attracting visitors worldwide.

4.8

Convent of Christ

Discover the Convent of Christ in Tomar, a UNESCO World Heritage site that blends history, architecture, and stunning landscapes in Portugal.

4.7

Best landmarks in Tomar

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Convent of Christ

Explore the stunning Convent of Christ in Tomar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases Portugal's rich history and architectural beauty.

4.7

Hotel dos Templários

Discover the charm of Tomar, Portugal, at Hotel dos Templários, where history meets modern comfort in a picturesque setting.

4.5

Aqueduto do Convento de Cristo - Troço Pegões Altos

Experience the grandeur of the Aqueduto do Convento de Cristo, a stunning historical landmark in Tomar, showcasing Portugal's architectural heritage.

4.6

Church Santa Maria do Olival

Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Church Santa Maria do Olival, a captivating landmark in Tomar, Portugal, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

4.6

Best restaurants in Tomar

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Taverna Antiqua

Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Taverna Antiqua in Tomar – where tradition meets flavor in every bite.

4.6

O Tabuleiro

Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at O Tabuleiro in Tomar – where tradition meets taste in every dish.

4.5

Fernandos' Brewery

Experience the essence of Portuguese craft beer at Fernando's Brewery in Tomar - where tradition meets taste.

4.4

Sabores ao Rubro

Savor authentic Portuguese cuisine at Sabores ao Rubro in Tomar - where every dish tells a story.

4.5

Best bars in Tomar

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Taverna Antiqua

Savor authentic Portuguese cuisine in the charming heart of Tomar at Taverna Antiqua, where tradition meets taste in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.6

O Tabuleiro

Experience the flavors of Portugal at O Tabuleiro, a charming restaurant in Tomar offering authentic dishes and a warm atmosphere.

4.5

Fernandos' Brewery

Discover the heart of craft brewing at Fernando's Brewery in Tomar, where tradition meets innovation in every sip and bite.

4.4

Sabores ao Rubro

Experience the rich flavors of Portugal at Sabores ao Rubro, a culinary gem in the heart of Tomar, perfect for food lovers and cultural explorers.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Tomar

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Seven Discoteca

Discover the electrifying nightlife of Torres Novas at Seven Discoteca, where music and dance unite for unforgettable experiences.

3.9

Discoteca Emotion

Unleash your inner party animal at Discoteca Emotion, the ultimate disco club in Torres Novas, where unforgettable nights await!

4.3

Arco Pub

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious local cuisine at Arco Pub in Tomar, a must-visit spot for every tourist.

4.6

Café Bar Mouchão

Experience the delightful ambiance of Café Bar Mouchão in Tomar, offering a perfect blend of café charm and vibrant bar culture.

4.3

Best shops in Tomar

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Lidl Tomar

Explore Lidl Tomar, your friendly discount supermarket offering a blend of local and international products in the heart of Portugal.

4.3

Fatima Shopping Center

Discover the vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment experience at Fatima Shopping Center in the heart of Fátima, Portugal.

4.2

Forum Oriente

Discover the vibrant flavors of China at Forum Oriente, Tomar's premier Chinese supermarket offering a wide range of authentic Asian ingredients and snacks.

3.7

Mercado de Santarém

Experience the vibrant Mercado de Santarém, where local flavors and crafts come together in a lively atmosphere, perfect for food lovers and cultural enthusiasts.

4.0

Explore Tomar on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Tomar, mapped for you.

Tomar Essentials

Tomar is located in central Portugal, approximately 135 kilometers north of Lisbon. The nearest airport is Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS). From Lisbon, you can take a direct train to Tomar; the journey typically takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes. Alternatively, you can drive from Lisbon to Tomar via the A1 and IC3 highways, which takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Tomar is a small city, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips within the city, local taxis are available and relatively inexpensive. Public buses operate within Tomar and connect to nearby towns. Renting a car is a convenient option if you plan to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace.
The official currency in Portugal is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in Tomar. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments or markets. ATMs are available throughout the city for cash withdrawals.
Tomar is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Tomar. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your shoulders and knees when entering churches and monasteries. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake; a friendly 'bom dia' (good day) is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Tomar like a local, visit the weekly market held every Friday where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Portuguese goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Festa dos Tabuleiros, a unique festival held every four years. For a relaxing experience, take a stroll along the Nabão River and enjoy a coffee at one of the riverside cafes.

When is the best time to visit Tomar?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Tomar

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Tomar. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloOlá
  [oh-lah]
- GoodbyeAdeus
  [ah-deh-oosh]
- YesSim
  [seem]
- NoNão
  [now]
- Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [por fah-vohr/deh nah-dah]
- Thank youObrigado
  [oh-bree-gah-doo]
- Excuse me/SorryCom licença/Desculpe
  [kohm lee-sen-sah/deh-skool-peh]
- How are you?Como está?
  [koh-moh ehs-tah]
- Fine. And you?Bem. E você?
  [behn/eh voh-seh]
- Do you speak English?Fala inglês?
  [fah-lah een-glehsh]
- I don't understandNão entendo
  [now ehn-tehn-doo]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseGostaria de ver o menu, por favor
  [goh-stah-ree-ah deh vehr ooh meh-noo/por fah-vohr]
- I don't eat meatNão como carne
  [now koh-moh kahr-neh]
- Cheers!Saúde!
  [sow-deh]
- I would like to pay, pleaseGostaria de pagar, por favor
  [goh-stah-ree-ah deh pah-gahr/por fah-vohr]
- Help!Socorro!
  [soh-koh-roh]
- Go away!Vai embora!
  [vah-ee ehn-boh-rah]
- Call the Police!Chame a polícia!
  [shah-meh ah poh-lee-see-ah]
- Call a doctor!Chame um médico!
  [shah-meh oom meh-dee-koo]
- I'm lostEstou perdido
  [ehs-toh pehr-dee-doo]
- I'm illEstou doente
  [ehs-toh doo-ehn-teh]
- I'd like to buy...Gostaria de comprar...
  [goh-stah-ree-ah deh kohm-prahr]
- I'm just lookingEstou só a ver
  [ehs-toh soh ah vehr]
- How much is it?Quanto custa?
  [koo-ahn-toh koosh-tah]
- That's too expensiveIsso é muito caro
  [ee-soh eh moo-ee-toh kah-roo]
- Can you lower the price?Pode baixar o preço?
  [poh-deh by-shahr ooh preh-soo]
- What time is it?Que horas são?
  [keh oh-rahz sow]
- It's one o'clockÉ uma hora
  [eh ooh-mah oh-rah]
- Half past (10)Meia (10)
  [meh-ee-ah (deh-eez)]
- MorningManhã
  [mah-nyah]
- AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
- EveningNoite
  [noh-ee-teh]
- YesterdayOntem
  [ohn-tehm]
- TodayHoje
  [oh-zheh]
- TomorrowAmanhã
  [ah-mah-nyah]
- 1Um
  [oom]
- 2Dois
  [doh-eez]
- 3Três
  [trehsh]
- 4Quatro
  [kwah-troh]
- 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
- 6Seis
  [saysh]
- 7Sete
  [seh-teh]
- 8Oito
  [oy-toh]
- 9Nove
  [noh-veh]
- 10Dez
  [dehsh]
- Where's a/the...?Onde fica o/a...?
  [ohn-deh fee-kah oh/ah]
- What's the address?Qual é o endereço?
  [kahl eh ooh ehn-deh-reh-soo]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Pode mostrar-me (no mapa)?
  [poh-deh moh-strahr-meh/noh mah-pah]
- When's the next (bus)?Quando é o próximo (autocarro)?
  [kwan-doo eh ooh proh-ksih-moo/ow-toh-kah-roo]
- A ticket (to ....)Um bilhete (para ....)
  [oom bee-lyeh-teh/pah-rah]

History of Tomar

Tomar was founded in 1157 by Gualdim Pais, the fourth Grand Master of the Knights Templar in Portugal. The land was granted to the Templars by King Afonso I of Portugal, and the town quickly became a prominent center for the order. The construction of the Convento de Cristo, initially a Templar stronghold, began in 1160 and played a pivotal role in the region's development.
The Convento de Cristo is one of Tomar's most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Initially serving as a fortress for the Knights Templar, it later underwent significant expansions and renovations, reflecting various architectural styles including Romanesque, Gothic, Manueline, and Renaissance. The Charola, a round church inspired by the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, is particularly noteworthy.
In 1312, the Knights Templar were disbanded by Pope Clement V under pressure from King Philip IV of France. However, in Portugal, the Templar assets were transferred to the newly established Order of Christ in 1319, largely preserving the Templars' legacy. The Order of Christ played a crucial role in Portugal's Age of Discoveries, providing both financial support and navigational expertise.
Tomar is renowned for its Manueline architectural style, a Portuguese Gothic that incorporates maritime elements and symbols of the Age of Discoveries. The window of the Chapter House in the Convento de Cristo is a prime example, featuring intricate carvings of ropes, corals, and other nautical motifs. This style flourished under King Manuel I, who was a former Grand Master of the Order of Christ.
The Order of Christ was instrumental in Portugal's Age of Discoveries during the 15th and 16th centuries. Many famous explorers, including Vasco da Gama and Pedro Álvares Cabral, were associated with the order. Tomar, as the headquarters of the order, became a hub of maritime knowledge and innovation, contributing significantly to Portugal's global exploration efforts.
Constructed in the mid-15th century, the Synagogue of Tomar is one of the best-preserved medieval synagogues in Portugal. It was built by the Jewish community, which played a significant role in the town's economic and cultural life. Today, it houses the Museu Luso-Hebraico de Abraão Zacuto, which showcases Jewish artifacts and history.
The Festa dos Tabuleiros, or Festival of the Trays, is one of Portugal's oldest and most vibrant festivals, held every four years in Tomar. The festival's origins date back to pagan rituals celebrating the harvest, later Christianized to honor the Holy Spirit. During the festival, local women carry tall trays of bread and flowers on their heads in a colorful procession through the town, accompanied by various traditional events and performances.
Today, Tomar is a charming blend of historical significance and modern vibrancy. The town preserves its rich heritage while offering contemporary amenities and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore its picturesque streets, dine in local restaurants, and engage with its thriving arts scene, all while being surrounded by centuries of history.

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