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Santarém

Santarem, Santarem, Portugal

Step Back in Time in Santarém, Portugal: A City Steeped in History and Charm Perched on a hilltop overlooking the rolling plains and the majestic Tagus River, Santarém is a captivating blend of ancient history and modern…

#historic city#architecture#cultural heritage#Tagus river#Portugal

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Santarém.

Top Hotels in Santarém

Top Flights to Santarém

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Santarém.

Tours

Discover Gothic Architecture at Santarem Cathedral

Explore the beautiful Santarem Cathedral, known for its stunning Gothic architecture and rich history.

Explore Convent of St. Francis

Visit the historic Convent of St. Francis, featuring Baroque architecture and serene gardens.

Shopping

Shopping at CNEMA Market

Experience the vibrant CNEMA Market, offering local crafts, foods, and more.

Outdoor

Tejo River Kayaking Adventure

Enjoy a kayaking adventure on the scenic Tejo River, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Santarém.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

62200.0

Languages

Portuguese, Portuguese

Average weather

Santarém

Jan

31°23°

Feb

31°23°

Mar

31°23°

Apr

31°23°

May

31°23°

Jun

31°23°

Jul

32°23°

Aug

33°23°

Sep

33°23°

Oct

33°24°

Nov

32°24°

Dec

31°24°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Santarém.

What people love

Santarém, located in the Santarém district of Portugal, offers several advantages for travelers:

Historical and Cultural Attractions: Santarém is known for its rich historical and cultural heritage, with attractions such as the Santarém Cathedral, the Church of Santa Clara, and the Portas do Sol viewpoint providing insights into the city's past.
Gastronomy: Santarém is famous for its traditional Portuguese cuisine, with local dishes such as Sopa da Pedra (Stone Soup) and Pastéis de Feijão (Bean Pastries) being popular among visitors.
Natural Beauty: The surrounding region of Santarém boasts stunning landscapes, including the Tagus River and the Lezíria plains, offering opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and river cruises.
Festivals and Events: Santarém hosts several annual events and festivals, such as the National Agricultural Fair and the Gothic Festival, providing visitors with the chance to experience local traditions and cultural celebrations.
Accessibility: Santarém is conveniently located within easy reach of Lisbon, making it a great day trip destination for those staying in the Portuguese capital.

Overall, traveling to Santarém offers a blend of history, culture, gastronomy, and natural beauty, making it a worthwhile destination for visitors looking to explore the heart of Portugal.

What to know

Santarém, located in Portugal, is a beautiful and historic city with a lot to offer visitors. However, like any destination, there are some potential drawbacks to traveling to Santarém. Here are some cons to consider:

Limited public transportation: Santarém is not as well-connected by public transportation as some larger cities in Portugal. While there are buses and trains available, the frequency and reliability of these services may not meet the expectations of all travelers.
Limited nightlife: Santarém is known for its historical sites and traditional charm, but it may not offer as vibrant a nightlife scene as other cities in Portugal. If you're looking for a bustling nightlife with clubs and bars, you may find Santarém lacking in this regard.
Seasonal crowds: During peak tourist seasons, Santarém can become crowded with visitors, which may detract from the peaceful and authentic experience some travelers seek. If you prefer to avoid crowds, you may want to plan your trip during the off-peak season.
Limited English spoken: While many locals in Santarém may speak English to some extent, it is not as widely spoken as in more touristy areas. This could potentially pose a challenge for English-speaking travelers who do not speak Portuguese.
Limited accommodation options: Santarém is a smaller city compared to popular tourist destinations like Lisbon or Porto, so the range of accommodation options may be more limited. Additionally, during peak tourist seasons, finding available and affordable accommodation could be a challenge.

Overall, while Santarém has plenty to offer in terms of history, culture, and natural beauty, these potential drawbacks should be considered when planning a trip to the city.

Santarém is a city located in central Portugal, within the district of Santarém. It has a rich history that dates back to ancient times, with significant cultural and historical developments throughout the centuries.

Ancient and Medieval History

Roman Period: Originally settled by the Lusitanians, Santarém became an important Roman settlement known as "Scallabis." It served as a strategic point due to its location on the Tagus River, facilitating trade and communication.
Visigothic and Moorish Rule: After the fall of the Roman Empire, the Visigoths controlled the area until it was taken over by the Moors in the 8th century. Under Moorish rule, Santarém was an important fortress and cultural center.
Reconquista and Portuguese Kingdom: The city was reconquered by the first King of Portugal, Afonso I (Afonso Henriques), in 1147. This event was significant in the Christian Reconquista movement that aimed to recapture territories from Muslim rule. Santarém became a royal residence and a key political center during the early years of the Portuguese kingdom.

Renaissance and Early Modern Period

15th and 16th Centuries: Santarém flourished during the Age of Discoveries, benefiting from the wealth that flowed into Portugal. The city saw the construction of many churches and palaces, reflecting its prosperity.
Earthquakes: Santarém, like many places in Portugal, has been affected by earthquakes, notably the 1531 Lisbon earthquake, which caused significant damage.

Modern History

19th Century: The Peninsular War saw Santarém occupied by Napoleonic forces. The city was involved in various military strategies due to its strategic location.
20th Century: Santarém continued to develop as an agricultural and industrial center. It played a role in the broader political and social changes in Portugal, including the revolution of 1974, which ended decades of dictatorship.

Significant Landmarks

Church of Santa Maria de Marvila: Known for its stunning azulejos (ceramic tiles) that date from the 17th century.
Church of São João de Alporão: A Romanesque-Gothic church that now houses the city’s archaeological museum.
Porta do Sol: The city’s castle and fortifications are located here, providing panoramic views over the Tagus River.
Cathedral of Santarém: An 18th-century cathedral that replaced an earlier structure, it is an important religious site in the city.

Historical Figures

Pedro Álvares Cabral: While not directly from Santarém, this explorer, who discovered Brazil, is associated with the region and spent time there.
Luís de Camões: Portugal's national poet, who wrote "Os Lusíadas," is said to have connections to Santarém.

Santarém's historical significance is marked by its strategic location and its role in the cultural and political evolution of Portugal. The city’s landmarks continue to attract visitors interested in its rich heritage.