When you’re ready to venture out of your holiday rental, there is plenty to keep you entertained. Stroll through shopping streets paved with patterned calcada Portuguesa and take in cultured squares like Praca Sa da Bandeira.
Then visit Torre das Cabacas, whose bell from 1604 once set the rhythm of daily life in Santarem. Also see the church of Nossa Senhora da Conceicao, adorned with 65 000 glazed tiles in various colors.
1. Explore the Town on Foot
Have you ever walked through an unfamiliar city and felt like you’re discovering it for the first time? Well, you’ll find that feeling when you explore the charming town of Vale de Santarem.
Start your walking tour from the square Largo da Alcacova and follow the street Rua Serpa Pinto until you reach the church Misericordia. This magnificent structure has a stunning interior, decorated with 65 000 glazed tiles in different colors.
From there, walk to the Torre das Cabacas, also known as the Clock Tower. This impressive Portuguese monument displays a bell from 1604.
Next, head to the Sao Francisco Convent, where you can admire its cloister. The convent was sponsored by king D. Fernando and features a combination of several architectural styles.
2. Visit the Santarem Castle
Located on the top of a hill overlooking the town, the Santarem Castle is one of the town’s most important sights. It has beautiful walls and an amazing garden that you can enjoy a great view from. The castle also hosts a number of different events throughout the year that you can attend.
It was the home of Portugal’s kings and where the Cortes, the country’s earliest parliament, would meet during the middle ages. This left the city with a stunning ensemble of Gothic architecture, including walls, churches and convents as well as isolated monuments like this church with its sculpted archivolts.
Getting to Vale de Santarem is easy with Moovit. Use the app to get step-by-step directions from your current location or from any public transit station.
3. Enjoy the Outdoors
Whether you’re interested in history or relaxing on the beach, Vale de Santarem has something to offer everyone. Visitors can explore the town on foot, or take advantage of the local transportation options.
The town is home to many museums and attractions, including the Santarem Castle and the Igreja da Graca. The latter features intricate Portuguese Baroque architecture, making it a must-visit for visitors.
There are also several beaches in the area, including Praia dos Estudantes and Praia das Centeanes. The former features a Roman-style bridge over the ocean, while the latter offers a quiet cove ideal for frolicking in peaceful tides.
Those looking to spend more time in the outdoors should consider staying at one of the many vacation rentals available in the area. You can find a range of properties from simple studios to luxurious glamping tents.
4. Try the Local Cuisine
Having been the seat of Portugal’s monarchy and early parliament in the Middle Ages, Santarem offers the best glimpses of medieval splendour anywhere in the country. Wandering its streets paved in patterned calcada Portuguesa and dotted with cultured squares, it’s easy to lose days marvelling at this legacy.
The place to start your journey is Jardim das Portas do Sol (Garden of the Gates of the Sun). A privileged viewpoint, this garden is also home to a Roman ruins and the Urbis Scallabis Museum.
In the city centre you will find a typical Tasca (Portuguese for Tavern) and Dom Vinho, a small wine shop that sells their own brand of homegrown wines. It’s a perfect spot to eat before or after a day of sightseeing and shopping.
5. Enjoy the Holidays
With beautiful surroundings, a rich history, and delicious cuisine, Vale de Santarem is a hidden gem that more and more visitors are discovering. This authentic destination is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the best of Portugal’s culture and tradition.
The town center is full of sights to see including the old castle and a variety of churches in transitional Romanesque-Gothic, mendicant (plain style derived from monastic orders), and late Gothic architectural styles. Visiting during the holidays is also an excellent option, as you’ll get to experience the festive atmosphere and local holiday traditions.
Getting to Vale de Santarem is easy, as most of the top attractions are within walking distance. Moovit offers free maps and live directions to help you navigate your way around Vale de Santarem.
