Things To Do
in Torres Novas
Torres Novas is a charming inland town in central Portugal, known for its well-preserved historic center and relaxed pace. Nestled near the Serra de Aire e Candeeiros limestone region, it serves as a convenient base for cave visits and countryside walks. The town blends Romanesque and medieval landmarks with leafy plazas, traditional taverns, and a welcoming, family-run atmosphere.
Visitors can wander its narrow streets, enjoy riverside parks, and use Torres Novas as a rewarding stop on a broader tour of the Santarém district.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Torres Novas and settle into your hotel near the historic center. Enjoy a cup of Portuguese coffee at the local café on Praça Pedro de Santarém. Take a leisurely stroll up to the Castle of Torres Novas and admire the panoramic view of the town.
Explore the castle museum and wander through the well-preserved medieval walls. Visit the Torre de Menagem and learn about the town’s strategic history in Portugal. Pause for a light snack at a nearby pastelaria with local specialties.
Dine at a riverside restaurant serving fresh fish and regional wines. Walk along the banks of the Almonda River to watch the sunset. Sample local desserts like doces conventuais before calling it a night.
Start your day with breakfast at a bakery near Jardim Manuel Brito offering fresh pastries. Take a scenic riverside walk along the Almonda River valley. Board a small boat for a guided ride and learn about the local flora and fauna.
Enjoy a picnic lunch on the riverbank surrounded by lush greenery. Visit the Parque da Cidade for birdwatching and photography opportunities. Relax under the shade of cork oaks while sampling artisanal snacks.
As dusk falls, dine at a family-run taverna overlooking the water. Try the local bacalhau specialties paired with a crisp white vinho verde. Finish the evening with a peaceful promenade under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨Hotel per night (mid-range) | $60-120 |
| ☕Coffee or pastry | $2-4 |
| 🚖Taxi ride within town | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, authentic small-town atmosphere with easy access to nature
- Pleasant mix of history, culture, and countryside
- Compact center makes most sights walkable
- Good base for exploring the Serra de Aire e Candeeiros karst region
- Limited high-energy nightlife and bigger dining options
- Some facilities may feel a bit low-key compared to bigger cities
- Public transport options outside peak hours can be sparse
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado(a)" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Onde fica o …?" - Where is the …?
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Não falo Português bem" - I don’t speak Portuguese well
- "Pode recomendar um restaurante?" - Can you recommend a restaurant?
Places to Visit in Torres Novas
Visit one of these nice places.
A vantage point that offers sweeping views over the town and surrounding countryside, especially striking at sunrise or sunset.
Photogenic streets with traditional facades, arcades, and cobbled lanes that capture the essence of a Portuguese town.
An example of local religious architecture framed by quiet squares and park spaces.
Riverside paths and green spaces ideal for golden-hour photography and reflections.
Food in Torres Novas
Torres Novas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Shredded cod, potatoes, eggs, and onion sautéed together; a staple dish found in many taverns across central Portugal.
Must-Try!
Rich duck rice baked with a crisp top layer; a comforting choice in family-run restaurants.
Traditional Portuguese stew with a mix of meats, sausages, and vegetables, reflecting regional home cooking.
Crispy migas (bread crumbs) softened with garlic and olive oil, typically served with pork or sausage.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A traditional market offering fresh produce, meats, fish, bread, and regional snacks; a great place to observe daily life and sample small bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly “Bom dia/Boa tarde” and a polite handshake; address people with titles when appropriate.
Public spaces are typically calm; avoid loud conversations in residential areas and respect siesta times in the afternoon.
Safety
Tipping in Torres Novas
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants and cafés.
Cash and credit/debit cards are widely accepted; smaller shops may prefer cash. ATMs are common in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming landscapes; great for outdoor walking, photography, and early-season markets.
Warm to hot days; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak heat; stay hydrated.
Pleasant days with cooler evenings; harvest flavors appear in markets and restaurants.
Cool and wetter weather is possible; cozy taverns and cafés are good for shelter and local cuisine tasting.
Torres Novas at Night
Hiking in Torres Novas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest and limestone karst scenery around the Mira de Aire area, with easy to moderate trails and cave viewpoints.
Extensive network of trails through limestone landscapes with viewpoints, caves, and birdlife; suitable for various fitness levels.
Low-difficulty routes through olive groves, cork oaks, and fields, ideal for a relaxed day hike or cycling day.
Airports
How to reach Torres Novas by plane.
Major international gateway about 100 km from Torres Novas; accessible by road or rail via Lisbon and Connect-CP services.
Alternative international gateway about 230 km from Torres Novas; best reached by road or train with transfers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily Portuguese families and retirees, with a smaller number of young professionals commuting to nearby towns for work.
Seasonal travelers exploring the Centro region, caves, and countryside; a growing number of EU nationals relocating or spending extended stays.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport across the region with local clubs and community fields available for casual play.
Parks and open spaces support jogging, cycling, and outdoor workouts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Torres Novas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many tavernas and cafés in Torres Novas offer vegetable-based dishes, salads, and legumes. Ask for seasonal vegetables or arroz de legumes (vegetable rice) as a main, and consider small plates or sides to round out the meal.