Things To Do
in Santarém
Santarém is a hilltop city perched above the Tagus River, offering sweeping views, Roman and medieval heritage, and a calm, intimate atmosphere. Its well-preserved historic center is a labyrinth of cobbled lanes, arched doorways, and sunlit plazas. The city serves as a gateway to the Ribatejo region, combining riverside charm with rich religious and cultural landmarks.
In addition to its history, Santarém is a welcoming base for exploring nearby nature and traditional Portuguese cuisine.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Santarém and check into your hotel, where you'll receive a warm welcome from the local staff. Take some time to relax and freshen up after your journey. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, soaking in views of the surrounding countryside.
Venture out to explore the charming streets of the city center. Visit the stunning Igreja de São João Baptista and learn about its rich history. Stop by a local café to indulge in a Pastel de Nata, a beloved Portuguese pastry.
Dine at a traditional Portuguese restaurant, where you can savor local specialties such as bacalhau à brás. Enjoy a glass of Vinho Verde, a refreshing wine that pairs perfectly with your meal. As the sun sets, take a serene stroll along the Tagus River with its beautiful vistas.
Start your day with a visit to the magnificent Castle of Santarém, where you'll gain insight into the city's strategic historical importance. Enjoy panoramic views from the battlements that showcase the breathtaking surrounding landscapes. Afterward, explore the picturesque Praça do Municipio with its charming architecture.
Discover the Convento de San Francisco, an impressive 13th-century convent that now houses fascinating exhibitions. Spend time wandering through the shops and galleries that line the streets, mingling with local artisans. Take a break at a riverside café, watching the world go by.
Attend a traditional Fado performance in a local tavern, immersing yourself in the soulful melodies of Portugal's music. Share this cultural experience with fellow travelers while enjoying a selection of appetizers. Reflect on the day while savoring a delicious dessert under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🍺Local beer | $2-4 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨1-night hotel in mid-range | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and architecture
- Beautiful riverside scenery
- Friendly locals
- Accessible day trips from Lisbon
- Can be hot in summer
- Nightlife is more low-key than bigger cities
- Some streets and viewpoints involve stairs and uneven surfaces
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Desculpe" - Sorry
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Pode recomendar um restaurante?" - Could you recommend a restaurant?
- "Fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Santarém
Visit one of these nice places.
A classic overlook above the Tagus with sweeping views of the river, the bridge, and the city rooftops—ideal for sunset shots.
Hilltop castle ruins and ramparts offering dramatic cityscapes and historical textures for wide-angle and detail photography.
A terraced garden with vantage points, flowering plants, and stairways that frame the river and town in photos.
Promenades along the Tejo with boats, fishing scenes, and reflections—great for golden-hour photography.
Food in Santarém
Santarém Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Shredded cod with eggs, onions, and fried potatoes, typically served with olives and parsley.
Must-Try!
A comforting kale and potato soup with chouriço (sausage)—perfect starter on cooler days.
Grilled or flame-seared Portuguese sausage, often served with bread and vinho tinto.
Octopus rice cooked with tomatoes, garlic, and herbs for a hearty seafood option.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market hall offering fresh produce, seafood, cheese, bread, and regional specialties—great for sampling and picking up picnic ingredients.
Casual stalls and small eateries along the river where you can grab quick bites like grilled sardines, bifana sandwiches, and seasonal snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common when meeting someone; in casual circles, a warm greeting with a friendly tone is appreciated.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or sacred sites; speak softly in these places and observe local norms.
Dining is relaxed; wait to begin eating until everyone is served, and compliment the cook or host when appropriate.
Safety
Tipping in Santarém
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. A small 5-10% tip for good service at restaurants and cafes is common if a service charge isn’t included.
Cash and cards (credit/debit) are widely accepted; contactless payments are common in shops and restaurants. ATMs are plentiful in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days and sunny skies; carry water, wear sunscreen, and enjoy outdoor cafés and riverfront views. Evening strolls remain pleasant.
Mild temperatures with pleasant light for photography and wandering through historic streets; expect occasional showers.
Cool to mild days with a chance of rain; layers are essential and indoor cultural sites become especially appealing.
Bright, mild days with blooming flowers and lively streets; ideal for walking tours and riverside photography.
Santarém at Night
Hiking in Santarém
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic, mostly flat route along the river offering birdwatching and tranquil scenery.
Dramatic limestone karst landscapes with caves and hillside trails within a reasonable drive.
Low-elevation rural paths through olive groves, cork oak woodlands, and farmland near the city.
Airports
How to reach Santarém by plane.
Main international gateway; about a 60-90 minute drive to Santarém depending on traffic.
Alternative major gateway in the north; longer drive but good flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Portuguese families, retirees, and long-time residents in the city core and surrounding areas.
People studying in nearby Lisbon or Coimbra regions who commute for classes or internships.
Domestic and international travelers exploring the Ribatejo culture and river scenery.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed with local clubs and matches; part of daily life in towns and bars.
Growing presence with youth programs and local clubs.
Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy the river from nearby launching points.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santarém.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian options such as grilled vegetables, soups, salads, and meat-free plates; when in doubt, ask for pescatarian dishes or vegetable-forward options, and request olive oil-based preparations.