Santarém travel guide

Santarém's rich history dates back to pre-Roman times, with evidence of human settlement as early as the Iron Age. The Romans recognized its strategic importance and named it Scalabis, transforming it into a bustling administrative center. During the Visigothic era, it was known as Sancta Irene, which eventually evolved into Santarém.

In the 8th century, the Moors conquered the city, leaving behind a legacy of architectural and cultural influences. Santarém was reclaimed by the Christians in 1147 under the leadership of Afonso I, the first King of Portugal. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of a new golden age for the city, as it became a favored residence of Portuguese royalty.

The medieval period brought prosperity, with the construction of grand churches and convents that still dot the cityscape today. Santarém also played a significant role in the Age of Discoveries, contributing to Portugal's maritime expansion.

Modern-day Santarém is a blend of historical and contemporary influences, offering visitors a unique glimpse into centuries of cultural evolution. Its well-preserved historical sites and vibrant local traditions make it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.

Santarém, a historic city in Portugal's Ribatejo region, is rich in cultural traditions that reflect its deep-rooted heritage. One of the most notable customs is the annual Santarém Fair, known as the Feira Nacional de Agricultura, which showcases local agriculture, crafts, and cuisine. This event, held in June, is a vibrant expression of the region's rural culture and an excellent opportunity for visitors to experience traditional Portuguese life.

The city is also known for its devotion to religious festivals, particularly the Festa de Nossa Senhora da Piedade. During these events, you might witness processions, traditional music, and folk dances, which are integral to the local culture. Respect for these customs is appreciated, so dress modestly and behave reverently in religious settings.

Dining in Santarém often involves hearty local dishes like 'migas' and 'feijoada.' When invited to a local's home, it is customary to bring a small gift, such as wine or flowers, as a token of appreciation. Additionally, greeting people with a friendly 'Bom dia' (Good morning) or 'Boa tarde' (Good afternoon) is a polite way to start interactions.

Understanding these customs will enrich your experience in Santarém, allowing you to connect more deeply with its vibrant local culture.

The best time to explore Santarém is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) months. During these periods, the weather is pleasantly mild, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Springtime brings blooming flowers and green landscapes, enhancing the natural beauty of the region, while autumn offers a picturesque setting with colorful foliage and comfortable weather.

Summers in Santarém, from July to August, can get quite hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). While this season is perfect for enjoying the local festivals, such as the Festa de São José in March and the Feira Nacional de Agricultura in June, it can also mean larger crowds and higher accommodation prices. If you prefer a quieter experience, visiting during the shoulder seasons will provide a more relaxed atmosphere and easier access to attractions.

Winter (December to February) is less crowded, but temperatures can drop to around 10°C (50°F), and some attractions may have limited hours. However, if you don’t mind cooler weather, this can be a peaceful time to enjoy the town’s historic sites and local cuisine. Planning your visit around these periods will ensure the best conditions for exploring Santarém.

When visiting Santarém, an insider tip is to explore the lesser-known traditional taverns, known as 'tascas,' scattered throughout the city. These charming spots offer an authentic taste of local life and cuisine, far removed from the more touristy establishments. One such gem is 'Tasquinha do Lagarto,' tucked away in a quiet alley. Here, you can savor regional delicacies like 'migas' and 'enchidos,' accompanied by locally produced wine. What makes this experience truly special is the warm, welcoming atmosphere, often with live fado music in the evenings. Engaging with the friendly locals and the tavern's owner can provide insights into Santarém's rich cultural heritage, enhancing your travel experience. Remember, these tascas tend to fill up quickly, so arriving early is advisable to secure a spot. This delightful detour promises a memorable and immersive experience in the heart of Santarém's community life.

On this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Santarém, Portugal. Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Santarém, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place.

Discover the cheapest and most popular flights offered by a variety of airlines that fly to Portugal. Check out the best things to do in Santarém. Compare the rates and services of the 7 types of stays and 2 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage.

Experience the best of Santarém with an expertly curated and fully customizable itinerary. Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Santarém from our free 24/7 customer support. We make it easy for you to find and book every detail of your trip to Santarém with this travel guide.

Continue reading this Santarém travel guide to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Santarém!

With destinations such as Santarém, a trip to Portugal needs no further explanation. Spanning over 92,225 square kilometers, Portugal is an expansive playground of discovery, offering a wealth of diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and captivating experiences awaiting exploration. From bustling metropolises to historic towns and modern urban hubs, Portugal has something to enchant every traveler.

In Santarém alone, travelers are spoiled for choice with an array of experiences and world-famous attractions such as Jardim das Portas do Sol, St. Bento Viewpoint, and Cathedral of Our Lady of the Conception. Thus, a trip to Portugal becomes essential. Whether you're drawn to historical sites, natural wonders, or vibrant cultural experiences, Portugal offers an abundance of treasures waiting to be discovered.

There's so much to explore and uncover in Portugal. Click or tap the link below to discover more about Portugal and its offers.

Expect an exhilarating journey through Santarém, a haven brimming with attractions to suit every traveler’s taste. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, and delectable cuisine, Santarém offers an abundance of experiences waiting to be discovered. Dive into this ultimate Santarém travel guide to uncover must-visit spots and get the scoop on what makes the city so special.

Booking a vacation package to Santarém means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accommodation, and a rental car to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Santarém to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing everything you need to travel comfortably, travel packages to Santarém also offer full customization. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

Continue to the next section of this complete Santarém travel guide to explore further details about the vacation options available for your trip to the city.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a city as fantastic as Santarém is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience. The best place to stay in Santarém usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodations in central Santarém offers a ton of benefits.

Staying in the heart of the city allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Santarém and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Santarém planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Santarém, you'll find 7 different types of places to stay, catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Portugal can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the luxury hotels in Santarém. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range and budget-friendly hotels in the city, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Santarém.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Santarém in the following sections.

To navigate Santarém effortlessly, renting a car is an excellent choice. With your own wheels, you can explore every nook and cranny of the destination without relying on public transportation and even venture off the beaten path. On our website, you'll discover a selection of over 2 car rental companies in Santarém, ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

If you prefer driving a manual car, you'll find multiple options for rent in Santarém, starting at 15 EUR per day or 106 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Fiat 500.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Santarém, Portugal below.

The city of Santarém is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Portugal. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Portugal has it all.

Each destination in Portugal offers something unique to experience! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Portugal that are as magical as the city of Santarém. The most popular travel destinations in Portugal are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

Santarém offers a range of transportation options to help you explore the city and its surroundings. The city is well-connected by public transit, with a reliable bus network that operates frequently, making it easy to navigate between key attractions and neighborhoods. For those preferring rail travel, the Santarém Train Station provides regular services to Lisbon and other major cities, making it a convenient choice for intercity travel.

Taxis are readily available and provide a comfortable and efficient way to get around Santarém. You can easily hail a taxi on the street, find them at designated stands, or book one via phone or mobile apps. For more flexibility, consider renting a car. Several car rental agencies operate in Santarém, offering a wide range of vehicles to suit different needs.

Unique to Santarém, you might also enjoy a scenic ride on the Tagus River via local boat tours, providing a different perspective of the city and its picturesque surroundings. Whether you choose public transit, taxis, rental cars, or a leisurely boat ride, getting around Santarém is straightforward and enjoyable.