Santarem Portugal offers a surprisingly rich variety of tours that cater to history lovers, spiritual seekers, nature enthusiasts, and cultural explorers alike. The town’s location in the Norte Region makes it a perfect base for exploring significant religious sites, ancient caves, and the surrounding natural parks. We particularly like the Lisbon: Fátima and Santarém Day of Spirituality and History tour for its in-depth look at religious miracles and stunning viewpoints, while the Private Day Trip to Belmonte and Almourol offers a fascinating mix of Jewish heritage and medieval castles. Whether you’re interested in spiritual pilgrimages, geological wonders, or historical discoveries, Santarem’s tours have something for every type of traveler.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of the top six tours that showcase the best experiences around Santarem, ranked by their uniqueness, reviews, and overall value. These include full-day trips, private explorations, and niche adventures like goat herding and cave exploring. Each offers a distinctive window into what makes this region special.
1. Lisbon: Fátima and Santarém Day of Spirituality and History
At number one, this 9-hour day trip from Lisbon combines deeply spiritual and historical sights into one seamless experience. The tour explores the Eucharistic Miracle of Santarém from 1247 and includes visits to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Rosary and the Chapel of the Apparitions in Fátima. It’s perfect for those wanting a comprehensive religious journey, filled with iconic sites and panoramic vistas.
What sets this tour apart is its well-rounded itinerary that balances guided visits with free time for shopping and regional foods. You’ll enjoy spectacular views from the Porta do Sol Garden in Santarém, and explore the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Conception. The tour is highly rated for its knowledgeable guide, Pedro, who goes above and beyond, providing little details that enhance your understanding. Guests praise the pacing, cultural richness, and the inclusion of less “touristy” elements. At approximately $108 per person, it offers tremendous value for a full day of immersive experiences.
Bottom Line: This tour is best suited for travelers wanting a full, well-organized religious and historical day trip with a local guide who makes the experience special.
2. Serra dos Candeeiros: Shepherd for a Morning
For those looking for a genuine connection with nature, the Shepherd for a Morning tour is a wonderful choice. At just $20 per person for 2.5 hours, it offers an intimate experience following goats in the Serra de Aire e Candeeiros Natural Park. The highlight is walking with a shepherd, learning about his daily routine, and holding a baby goat—a memorable perk that makes this tour stand out.
What makes this experience unique is its focus on local farming traditions and simple pleasures like panoramic mountain views. The guide is highly knowledgeable, making this tour engaging and authentic. It’s perfect for those who want a quick, genuine taste of rural Portugal without too much fuss or time commitment.
Guests enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and the chance to connect with animals and nature in a hands-on way. It’s a fantastic choice for families, animal lovers, or anyone wanting a peaceful morning outdoors.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a brief but meaningful encounter with Portugal’s countryside, this tour offers excellent value and a one-of-a-kind experience.
3. Serra dos Candeeiros: Alcobertas’ Cave and the Natural Park
The Cave and Natural Park Tour provides a deeper dive into the geological marvels of the region. Priced at $17 per person, this three-hour adventure explores Alcobertas’ limestone caves and the surrounding Serra de Aire e Candeeiros Natural Park. Expect panoramic mountain views, fascinating rock formations, and insights into the area’s biodiversity.
The guide is praised for being knowledgeable and friendly, sharing detailed info about the area’s geological features and ecological significance. This tour is ideal for those interested in geology, natural history, and discovering Portugal’s protected areas. It’s a shorter option but packed with educational value and scenic beauty.
Guests note that the guide’s engaging storytelling makes the experience memorable, and the natural phenomena uncovered in the caves leave a lasting impression. It’s suitable for families, geology buffs, or anyone curious about Portugal’s subterranean treasures.
Bottom Line: For a budget-friendly, compact adventure into caves and mountain views, this tour offers solid value and unique insights.
4. From Lisbon: Santarém, Tomar, and Fátima Private Day Trip
At number four, this private day trip from Lisbon combines Santarém’s medieval charm, the famous Convent of Christ in Tomar, and the Fátima pilgrimage site. Costing around $375 per group, it’s ideal for travelers who prefer a personalized, flexible experience with a professional driver and guide.
The tour includes visiting UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Convent of Christ, known for its Moorish and Gothic architecture, and exploring the Fátima Sanctuary. It’s a comprehensive itinerary that balances cultural heritage with spiritual sites, making it perfect for history and religion enthusiasts.
Guests appreciate the customizable pace and the chance to skip the crowds with a private guide. The tour’s intimate nature allows for deeper engagement, and the driver’s local knowledge adds extra value. This trip offers excellent value for those who want an all-in-one, stress-free day tailored to their interests.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking a private, flexible journey that combines iconic religious sites with Portugal’s medieval history.
5. Lisbon: Holy Miracle Church Santarem & Fatima Private Tour
This 8-hour private tour is perfect if you want to focus on religious miracles and the spiritual energy of Portugal’s most revered sites. For around $364 per person, the experience takes you to the Church of the Most Holy Miracle in Santarém and the Sanctuary of Fátima.
The tour includes visiting the Church of the Most Holy Miracle, one of Portugal’s oldest worship sites, and the Sanctuary of Fátima, where the Virgin Mary is believed to have appeared. You’ll also explore Lucia’s House and Valinhos, giving you a deeper understanding of the Eucharistic Miracle and Marian apparitions. This tour is ideal for faith-based travelers or those interested in religious history.
Guests praise the personalized attention and the comprehensive itinerary that covers many key sites, including the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary. It’s a full day of spiritual discovery, with private transport and guides making it both comfortable and informative.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting a deep, private religious experience with a detailed focus on Portugal’s Marian miracles.
6. Private Day Tour Belmonte Museum Discoveries & Jewish Museum
Rounding out our list, this 11-hour private tour offers a fascinating journey into Jewish heritage and Portuguese history. For $716 per group, you’ll explore Belmonte’s Jewish Museum, learn about the Age of Discoveries at the Museum of Discoveries, and visit the medieval fortress of Almourol.
The tour also includes a visit to Pedro Álvares Cabral’s tomb, the navigator credited with discovering Brazil. The Jewish Museum in Belmonte reveals the long-standing Jewish community that thrived here despite historical challenges, making this a meaningful experience. The guide is praised for being knowledgeable and engaging, providing historical context that enriches the visit.
This full-day experience is perfect for history buffs, cultural enthusiasts, and those interested in Portugal’s diverse heritage. The itinerary balances heritage sites, scenic views, and local stories, offering a comprehensive look into the region’s past.
Guests appreciate the opportunity to explore lesser-known stories, and the personal touch of a private guide enhances the overall experience. The tour is well worth the cost for those eager to understand Portugal’s multicultural history.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers interested in cultural history, Jewish heritage, and exploring Portugal’s discoveries and castles.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Santarem Portugal
Choosing among these options depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. If you want a full religious experience with guided visits and scenic views, the Lisbon: Fátima and Santarém Day of Spirituality and History is hard to beat. For a shorter, authentic outdoor activity, the Shepherd for a Morning offers a hands-on encounter with rural life.
If geological wonders fascinate you, the Alcobertas’ Cave and Natural Park tour impresses with its subterranean formations, while history buffs will love the Private Day Trip to Belmonte and Almourol, which ties together Jewish heritage and medieval castles. For a personalized spiritual journey, the private Lisbon: Holy Miracle Church Santarem & Fatima tour delivers an intimate experience.
Consider your budget, interest in religion, history, or nature, and how much time you have. Booking early is advisable, especially for private tours or popular day trips, as they fill quickly.
In Summary
Santarem Portugal offers a variety of tours suited for different interests. If you’re drawn to religion and history, the Lisbon: Fátima and Santarém tour delivers a comprehensive experience. For those seeking a more intimate, personalized trip, private options like the Belmonte Museum Discoveries & Jewish Museum or the Fátima private tour are excellent choices. Nature lovers will appreciate the Cave and Mountain Tours, which combine scenic beauty with geological intrigue.
No matter your preference, these tours provide meaningful ways to explore Portugal’s rich cultural, religious, and natural heritage. Be sure to book early, especially if you’re traveling during peak season or want a private experience, to ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable adventures.
