If you’re looking for the best things to do in Tomar, this guide will help you plan your visit and discover the city’s main highlights.
Located in Central Portugal, Tomar is a charming and historically rich destination. It may not be one of the largest cities in the country, but it’s definitely one you won’t regret visiting.
If you’re wondering what to see in Tomar, you’ll quickly realize the city is packed with history, from Templar landmarks to scenic viewpoints.
Tomar is known as the Templar City, as it was once the headquarters of the Knights Templar. The city was granted to them by Afonso Henriques after the conquest of the Moors in 1147.
With that in mind, I’ve put together this quick guide to the best places to visit in Tomar. Throughout the article, you’ll also find accommodation suggestions, tips on the best time to visit, and advice on how many days to spend in the city.
How to get to Tomar?
Without a doubt, the best way to get to Tomar is by car. The city is located 206 km/128 mi from Porto (about 2 hours) and 137 km/85 mi from Lisbon (about 1h35).
Besides making the journey easier, having a car gives you much more flexibility to explore not only Tomar but also other interesting places in the Central region, such as Almourol Castle, Dornes, or even some nearby river beaches.
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If you prefer not to drive, several organized tour options from Lisbon make visiting Tomar easier and hassle-free. For example, this tour from Lisbon to Tomar is a great choice, including visits to the Convent of Christ and the Templar Castle with a guide.
It is also possible to travel independently from Porto and Lisbon (and even from other Portuguese cities!) to Tomar. Of course, the journey will take longer, but it is possible. There is both a bus (Rede Expressos) and a train (CP) option.
Accommodation in Tomar
When in Tomar, I chose to stay at Flattered to be in Tomar. The flats have a fantastic location, very close to the city centre. Inserted in an old building but totally renovated, the flats offer a whole set of amenities.
Besides the bedroom(s) and a living room, they have a kitchenette, dishwasher and washing machine, microwave, fridge and all the necessary utensils for those who want to cook. In addition, the flats have a simple and modern decoration.
However, there are more accommodation options in Tomar. Here are some of my favorites:
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Best things to do in Tomar
Before starting the list of places to visit in Tomar, I’ll share a map with the main points of interest in the city.
📌HOW TO USE THE MAP: Click on the top left corner to access the various layers of the map. You can select the layers you’re interested in and also find out more about each point of interest by clicking on it in the left-hand sidebar or on the pin on the map. Add the map to your Google Maps by clicking on the star next to the title. To access the map, simply go to Google Maps ‘Saved’ and click on ‘Maps’!
1. Convent of Christ
Any list of what to visit in Tomar will include the Convent of Christ.
Built between the 12th and 18th centuries, this is easily one of the most iconic Tomar attractions and a must-see on any itinerary.
Its construction is linked to the beginning of the Kingdom of Portugal and also to the Order of the Knights Templar, who were based in Tomar.
Regardless of religion, it is impossible not to be amazed by the incredible details of this Convent.
The fact that it took so long to be built contributed to the incorporation of various architectural styles. After all, the Convent of Christ is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Apart from the Main Cloister or the Crows Cloister, two places on this visit are particularly surprising.
These are the Manueline-style Chapter Window and the Templar Charola – the former private oratory of the Knights Templar.
📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: The Convent of Christ is open from 9 am to 5.30 pm from October to May and until 6.30 pm the rest of the year. The price of the visit is 15€. Check out the most up-to-date information before visiting.
You can also take the opportunity to visit Tomar’s Castle, founded in 1160 and part of the Convent of Christ Complex.
🎫 If you want to better understand the history and secrets of the city, this walking tour in Tomar is an excellent option. Throughout the visit, you’ll explore the main Templar-related sites, including the castle and other iconic landmarks, while learning interesting facts from a local guide.
2. Seven Hills Forest (Mata Nacional dos Sete Montes)
The Seven Hills Forest is another must-visit in Tomar. With 39 hectares, it is the city’s main park. It’s a beautiful place to take your time while enjoying its simplicity.
The forest is connected to Tomar’s Castle and Convent of Christ, as it was used by the Order of Christ. In fact, this forest is also known as “Cerca do Convento de Cristo”.
📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: The visit is free of charge. However, opening hours vary depending on the time of year. Check the most up-to-date information before your visit.
3. Mouchão Park
Mouchão Park is the first place in Tomar’s historic centre that I recommend you visit! It is another of the city’s green spaces, although smaller.
Situated by the Nabão River, one of the main attractions of Mouchão Park is its large wooden water wheel, better known as the Nabão Wheel. This wheel was used to transport water from the river to mills in the old days.
4. Republic Square
Republic Square is one of the most important places in Tomar’s historic centre.
Apart from the square’s inviting outdoor terraces, its main points of interest include the St John the Baptist Church and Paços do Concelho (now Tomar’s Town Hall).
In the centre of the square, we find a statue in honour of the Templar master and founder of the city – D. Gualdim Pais.
5. Corredoura
Located on Serpa Pinto Street, Corredoura is a pedestrian street in Tomar that starts in Republic Square. Here you will find a bit of everything – from traditional commerce to cafés, restaurants and accommodation.
It is here that we find the iconic confectioner’s shop Estrelas de Tomar, where we can taste typical Tomar sweets (e.g. Beija-me Depressa, Queijinhos de Tomar, Fatias de Tomar).
6. Levada de Tomar
Levada de Tomar is adjacent to Nabão River and has been undergoing renovation in recent years.
Many of the buildings there used to be old mills and oil mills, milling factories and even a power plant, where water was the main source of energy.
Some of these spaces have been converted into museums, such as the building of the old power plant.
7. Old Bridge
The Old Bridge, also known as the D. Manuel Bridge, crosses the Nabão River. No one knows for sure the history of its construction, but it is believed to have been a reuse of a bridge dating from the Roman Empire.
8. Synagogue and Jewish Quarter
Located in the Old Jewish Quarter of Tomar, Tomar’s Synagogue was built in the 15th century.
After the banning of Jews from Portugal, it became a prison, a hayloft and even a grocery store. While strolling through the Jewish Quarter, you will want to stop every minute for another photo!
The Interpretative Nucleus of Tomar’s Synagogue opened to the public in 2019. On the visit, we can learn about the origins of Judaism and the presence of Jews in Tomar.
📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: Opening hours vary depending on the time of year. From April to September, visits are from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 1 pm and from 2 pm to 6 pm. In the remaining months, it is open from 10 am to 12 pm and from 2 pm to 5 pm.
9. Pegões Aqueduct
Despite being outside the centre of Tomar, the Pegões Aqueduct is one of the best places to visit in Tomar!
It is also known as the Aqueduct of the Convent of Christ and served as a source of water supply for the Convent of Christ.
Its construction dates back to the 16th century, and the aqueduct is 6 km long. Currently, you can climb to its top and walk over the aqueduct.
Trust me when I say it’s a memorable experience (especially at sunset) 😍!!!
However, I warn you that the aqueduct is over 30 metres high and, therefore, I do not recommend a visit to its top for those with vertigo or with children.
Even so, it is worth the visit, even if only to appreciate it from a lower perspective.
What else to visit in Tomar?
But the list of places to visit in Tomar doesn’t have to end here. If you’re still looking for more ideas on what to see in Tomar, here are a few extra places worth adding to your itinerary.
- Contemporary Art Nucleus Museum
- St Francis Convent, where the Matches Museum is located
- Convent of Santa Iria
- Santa Maria dos Olivais Church
- São Gregório Chapel
- Stairs to Nossa Senhora da Piedade Hermitage
What else to visit near Tomar
If you have more time available, it’s worth exploring some interesting places near Tomar that perfectly complement a visit to the city.
One of the must-see spots is the village of Dornes, located by the Castelo de Bode reservoir and known for its peaceful landscapes. Very close by, you’ll also find Agroal River Beach, ideal for a refreshing swim on warmer days.
Another place worth highlighting is the Fernandaires Viewpoint, which offers stunning views over the dam — perfect for those who enjoy quieter, nature-filled settings. In Vila de Rei, you can also visit the Geodesic Center of Portugal and explore several interesting trails in the area.
Finally, don’t miss Penedo Furado, one of the most beautiful natural spots in the region, featuring a waterfall, walkways, and a river beach.
👉 If you’re looking for more ideas to explore the region, check out this guide with 20+ places to visit in Central Portugal — perfect to complement your itinerary.
How many days do you need to visit Tomar?
Tomar is a small city and, although it has many interesting places to visit, we quickly wander through them. This way, I believe it is possible to visit Tomar in just one day.
However, why not stay a few more days in Tomar and take the opportunity to visit other places nearby that are also very worthwhile?
What is the best time of the year to visit Tomar?
Quite honestly, any time of year is a good time to visit Tomar.
The city has a very pleasant climate, with warm summers and not too harsh winters. Still, to get the most out of your trip when it comes to the weather, I suggest that you visit Tomar between May and September.
There is, however, one event that is worth mentioning when talking about when to visit Tomar.
Every 4 years, Festa dos Tabuleiros de Tomar (Festival of the Trays) takes place in early July. This is a unique festival in Portugal and the most iconic moment of this celebration is the parade where local women march with flowered trays on top of their heads. It’s a party not to be missed 😉.
Another popular event in the city is the Templar Festival. The Templars are the symbol of Tomar and, as such, the city had to celebrate them with various re-enactments, markets, and camps, among others.
Finally, the Tomar ComVida Programme takes place during the summer months, promoting various cultural and entertainment events in the city.
Restaurants in Tomar
- A Lúria (€€): located a few kilometres from the centre of Tomar, I especially recommend “magusto de carne” accompanied by a kind of mushroom “açorda”. The restaurant apparently gets crowded easily, so the best will be to guarantee a table some time in advance.
- A Brasinha (€€): a bit less central (but still in the centre of Tomar), this restaurant offers good grilled options.
- Sabores ao Rubro (€€): it’s best to book a table because the wait can be long. But once inside, the service is fast and the food is tasty.
- Patagonia (€€): escaping the more traditional flavours, this restaurant offers several Argentinean options at a relatively affordable price.
Frequent questions about Tomar
» Is Tomar worth visiting?
Yes, Tomar is definitely worth visiting. The city is known for its strong connection to the Knights Templar and the impressive Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its historic center, green spaces, and relaxed atmosphere, Tomar is one of the best destinations in Central Portugal.
» Can you visit Tomar with kids?
Yes, Tomar is a great destination to visit with kids. There are several family-friendly places, such as Mouchão Park and the Mata dos Sete Montes, where you can enjoy easy walks. Many of the main attractions in Tomar are also accessible for families.
» Is Tomar a good day trip?
Yes, Tomar is an excellent day trip, especially from Lisbon. The city is relatively small, making it easy to visit the main attractions in just one day, including the Convent of Christ and the historic center.
» Is the Convent of Christ worth visiting?
Yes, the Convent of Christ is absolutely worth visiting. It is the most iconic landmark in Tomar and one of the most important monuments in Portugal, famous for its unique architecture and strong connection to the Knights Templar.
Final thoughts
Tomar is one of those destinations that surprises with its rich history and laid-back atmosphere. From Templar landmarks to charming streets and scenic spots by the river, there’s plenty to explore at your own pace.
If you were looking for the best things to do in Tomar, I hope this guide helped you plan your visit and discover the top Tomar attractions without missing anything essential.
If you have any questions while planning your trip, feel free to leave a comment. I’ll be happy to help!
Disclaimer: this post may contain some affiliate links, which means I get a small commission if you buy something through my links. This doesn’t represent any additional cost to you and you’ll be supporting my work here on the blog😊
