Tomar

The Basics

Located just two hours from Lisbon, Tomar is an ideal day trip destination from Portugal’s capital. Stroll through the city’s stone streets on your own, or opt for a guided tour to learn about Tomar’s storied past. A typical full-day excursion delves into the history of the Knights Templar, stopping at Tomar Castle, Almourol Castle, and Obidos Castle. Some Tomar tours also include a stop in Fátima to visit the Sanctuary of Fátima, an important Catholic pilgrimage site. Other tours visit Tomar along with Mafra, where the star attraction is the magnificent Mafra National Palace; Coimbra, which has one of the oldest universities in the world; or Alcobaça, with its UNESCO-listed monastery.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Tomar is a must-see for history lovers.

• Due to its small size, Tomar’s historic center is easy traverse on foot.

• Wear comfortable shoes—the town is full of cobblestone streets and steep lanes.

• Some parts of the Convent of Christ are wheelchair accessible.

How to Get There

Tomar is located in central Portugal, roughly two hours from both Lisbon and Porto. Trains connect Tomar to Lisbon’s Santa Apolonia and Oriente train stations, and it’s also possible to arrive by private transport or guided tour.

When to Get There

Summer (particularly July and August) is the most popular time to visit, when Tomar can get very busy. To avoid crowds, opt for a private tour or arrive early in the morning.

The Architecture of the Convent of Christ

The vast Convent of Christ showcases a mix of Gothic, Romanesque, and Renaissance architecture, including some unique Manueline characteristics influenced by the Portuguese Age of Discovery. This mix of styles is one of the reasons why the convent is so impressive—centuries of Portuguese styles and influences can be viewed in a single monument.

Ways to explore

Located just two hours from Lisbon, Tomar is an ideal day trip destination from Portugal’s capital. Stroll through the city’s stone streets on your own, or opt for a tour to learn about Tomar’s storied past. A typical full-day excursion delves into the history of the Knights Templar, stopping at the Castle of Tomar, Almourol Castle (Castelo de Almourol), and Óbidos Castle (Castelo de Óbidos).

Some Tomar tours also include a stop in Fátima to visit the Sanctuary of Fátima, an important Catholic pilgrimage site. Other tours visit Tomar along with Mafra, where the star attraction is the magnificent Mafra National Palace; Coimbra, home to one of the oldest universities in the world; or Alcobaça, to see its UNESCO–listed monastery.

Accessibility

Due to its cobbled streets and historic buildings, Tomar can pose some challenges for visitors with limited mobility; accessible routes can be found online, depending on where you’re keen to visit. Check accessibility before specific attractions; for example, the Convent of Christ is only partially accessible to wheelchair users.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Take layers regardless of the season, as most Tomar attractions are outdoors.

What to wear

Wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders to visit the Convent of Christ.

Not allowed

Flash photography or loud noise in religious attractions

Amenities

Hotels, restaurants, cafés, ATMs, visitor center

Address

Tomar is located in central Portugal, roughly two hours from Lisbon and Porto. While it’s relatively easy to reach on your own, sightseeing tours typically stop at significant sights along the way to break up the journey.

Driving

Get on the A1 highway heading north toward Porto, and drive for around 62 miles (100 kilometers) on the A1. Take the A23 exit toward Torres Novas/Tomar/Abrantes. A free parking lot is at Varzea Grande Square, close to Tomar station.

Public transportation

Trains connect Tomar to Lisbon’s Santa Apolonia and Oriente train stations. You can also take the coach, which departs several times throughout the day from Lisbon.

Best times to visit

Most Tomar attractions and stores don’t open until 10am, so arrive then to beat the Lisbon day trip crowds.

Best days to visit

Check opening days for the attractions you’d like to visit. For example, the Convent of Christ, the town’s star attraction, is closed on some public holidays

Best months to visit

The shoulder season months of May and October offer fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.

Special events

Performances, markets, and historical reenactments bring Tomar to life in July during the Templar Festival.