Tomar: The Complete Guide

Tomar offers a range of accommodations suited to visitors looking for historical charm, riverside tranquility, or countryside retreats. The Historic Center (Centro Histórico) is the best place to stay for travelers who want to be immersed in medieval architecture, vibrant squares, and landmarks like the Convent of Christ and Praça da República. Strolling through this district, guests can explore traditional shops, cozy cafés, and museums showcasing the Knights Templar legacy. A great option for accommodations here is Hotel dos Templários, featuring spacious rooms, elegant surroundings, and beautiful river views.

For visitors seeking peaceful riverside stays, the Nabão Riverfront District provides scenic accommodations near lush gardens, picturesque bridges, and relaxing promenades. This area is perfect for travelers looking to enjoy morning walks by the water and easy access to local attractions while staying in a serene setting. A fantastic stay in this district is Thomar Boutique Hotel, offering stylish interiors, modern comforts, and a prime location overlooking the Nabão River.

If countryside tranquility and vineyard retreats are more appealing, staying on the outskirts of Tomar provides breathtaking landscapes with rolling hills, olive groves, and charming rural estates. These accommodations are ideal for those wanting a relaxed escape while still being within a short drive of Tomar’s historic center, perfect for wine tastings and scenic hikes. A recommended stay in this area is Quinta da Graca, featuring a tranquil environment, rustic elegance, and peaceful countryside ambiance. Whether drawn to historic allure, riverside beauty, or countryside serenity, Tomar has accommodations tailored to every traveler’s preference.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Tomar. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Tomar, a captivating town in central Portugal known for its historical and cultural significance, offers a delightful experience year-round. However, the best time to visit Tomar largely depends on the weather and what you want to do during your visit. Here’s a seasonal breakdown to help you plan your trip:

Spring (March to May)

Spring is an excellent time to visit Tomar. The weather starts to warm up, and the landscape is lush and green. Temperatures are comfortable, typically ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). This season is perfect for exploring outdoor attractions like the Convent of Christ and the Templar Castle without the summer crowds. Spring also sees fewer tourists, making it a great time to enjoy Tomar’s sights and local life at a leisurely pace.

Summer (June to August)

Summer is the peak tourist season in Tomar, and it coincides with several local festivals. The most notable is the Festa dos Tabuleiros, held every four years in early July. During this festival, the town celebrates with elaborate processions, traditional music, and cultural performances, which are a fantastic spectacle but also mean larger crowds. Temperatures in summer can get quite warm, often rising above 30°C (86°F). If you’re visiting during this season, be prepared for hotter days and more tourist activity.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is another favorable time to visit Tomar. The weather remains warm in early autumn but cools down pleasantly towards November. The changing colors of the foliage offer a beautiful backdrop for sightseeing and photography. Like spring, autumn provides an opportunity to explore the town in cooler temperatures and with fewer tourists compared to summer.

Winter (December to February)

Winters in Tomar are mild compared to northern Europe, with temperatures rarely falling below 5°C (41°F). While it’s cooler and there might be occasional rain, winter is generally a quiet season, ideal for visitors looking to avoid crowds. It’s a good time to explore indoor attractions like museums and churches at your own pace.

Best Times to Visit

The best times to visit Tomar are during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is most pleasant and the tourist crowds are smaller. If you’re interested in experiencing local culture and don’t mind the busy atmosphere, visiting during the summer to catch the Festa dos Tabuleiros can be a unique and memorable experience. For a quieter visit, consider late autumn or winter, when Tomar showcases a more relaxed side.

Getting to Tomar, a historic town in central Portugal known for its Templar castle and convent, is straightforward whether you’re coming from within Portugal or abroad. Here’s how you can reach Tomar:

By Air

The nearest major airport to Tomar is Lisbon Airport (Lisbon Portela Airport), which is about 135 kilometers away. Lisbon Airport is well-connected to cities across Europe and beyond. From the airport, you can continue your journey to Tomar by train, bus, or car.

By Train

Taking the train is a convenient way to get to Tomar from various parts of Portugal. Tomar is connected by regular train services from Lisbon’s Santa Apolónia or Oriente stations. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours depending on the service. Trains in Portugal are comfortable and offer a scenic way to travel, especially as you move through the Portuguese countryside.

By Bus

Buses to Tomar can be another practical option. Services from major cities like Lisbon are available, although they may not be as frequent as trains. The bus journey from Lisbon to Tomar takes about 2 hours. Buses might be a cheaper alternative to trains, and they can be more direct, depending on your starting location.

By Car

Driving to Tomar offers flexibility to explore the region at your own pace. From Lisbon, the drive takes about 1.5 hours via the A1 and A13 motorways. Renting a car at Lisbon Airport or in the city itself is straightforward, and having a car is particularly useful if you plan to visit other nearby attractions or rural areas where public transport options are limited.

By Taxi or Rideshare

For convenience, you might consider a taxi or rideshare service like Uber from Lisbon or other nearby cities. This is the most expensive option but could be worthwhile if you’re traveling in a group or with lots of luggage.

Local Tips

• Train Travel: Check Comboios de Portugal (CP), the national railway company, for train times and fares.
• Driving Directions: If driving, ensure your GPS is updated as some roads can be narrow and winding, especially in rural areas.
• Public Transportation: Plan ahead if relying on public transport, especially on weekends or holidays when services may be less frequent.

Tomar is a charming town with rich historical significance, and reaching it from Lisbon or other major cities in Portugal is relatively easy with a range of options suited to different travel styles and budgets.