Ourém - Discovering Portugal

Travelling to Ourém

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Ourém, a pretty good destination in Portugal (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Ourém and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Ourém, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Portugal, here's everything to know about Ourém for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Ourém

Ourém is a municipality in the Santarém District of Portugal. It is located in the center of the country and covers an area of approximately 416 square kilometers. The municipality is known for its picturesque medieval castle, which has been designated a National Monument. Other points of interest include the Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the world, and the Natural Park of Serra de Aire e Candeeiros, which is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. The population of Ourém is around 45,000 people, with the majority living in the city of Fátima, which is the most popular tourist destination in the region. Overall, Ourém is a charming and historic destination that attracts visitors from all over the world.

What to visit in Ourém

Sure, here are some tourist attractions to visit in Ourém (Portugal) with information about each one: 1. Castle of Ourém: The Castle of Ourém is a notable fortification that dates back to the 12th century. It was built to defend the surrounding area from invading Moors. The castle is located on a hilltop and provides a panoramic view of the surrounding valley.
2. Sanctuary of Fátima: This world-renowned Catholic pilgrimage site is located just a few kilometers from Ourém. The Sanctuary of Fátima attracts millions of visitors each year who come to pay homage to the Virgin Mary and witness the alleged apparitions that took place here in 1917.
3. Grottoes of Mira de Aire: Located in the neighboring town of Mira de Aire, the Grottoes of Mira de Aire are a stunning natural wonder. They are the largest caves in Portugal, and visitors can explore the underground chambers and admire the impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
4. Convent of Christ in Tomar: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located about 60km from Ourém, near the town of Tomar. It is a former Templar stronghold that was later converted into a stunning Renaissance-style convent. Visitors can explore the chapel, cloisters, and other areas of the complex and get a glimpse of Portugal's rich history.
5. Natural Park of Serra de Aire e Candeeiros: The Natural Park of Serra de Aire e Candeeiros is a protected area of great natural beauty. It is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including various species of birds and mammals. Visitors can explore the park on foot or by bike, taking in the stunning scenery and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
These are just a few of the top tourist attractions that you can visit in Ourém, Portugal. Each one offers something different, from historical landmarks to natural wonders, making it easy to plan a memorable and diverse trip.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Portugal, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Ourém.

When to go on holiday to Ourém

The best time to visit Ourém and enjoy a pleasant weather is during the summer months from June to early September. During this time, the temperatures are warm and you will be able to enjoy outdoor activities and explore the scenic beauty of the region. Additionally, the summer months also coincide with several cultural and religious festivals that take place in the area, offering visitors a unique and immersive experience. However, if you prefer fewer crowds and more affordable prices, the months of March to May and September to November are also a great time to visit Ourém.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Ourém

There are several ways to get to Ourém in Portugal: 1. By car: You can rent a car or drive your own car to Ourém. The town is located about 135 km (84 miles) north of Lisbon and can be reached via the A1 highway.
2. By bus: There are several bus companies that operate daily services between Lisbon and Ourém. The journey takes about 2 hours and tickets can be purchased online or at the bus station.
3. By train: The nearest train station to Ourém is in nearby Caxarias. The train journey from Lisbon takes around 1.5 hours and tickets can be purchased at the station or online.
4. By taxi: You can also get a taxi from Lisbon to Ourém, although this can be a more expensive option. It is recommended to negotiate the fare before starting the journey.
Overall, the best option for you will depend on your budget, schedule and preferred mode of transportation.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Ourém, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Ourém

Certainly! Here are some of the typical foods you can find in Ourém, Portugal: 1. Bacalhau Assado - This is a dish made with salt cod that's been marinated and then roasted in the oven. It's often served with potatoes and vegetables.
2. Leitão - Leitão is a roasted suckling pig that's a popular dish in Ourém. The meat is tender and juicy and is often served with potatoes and a side salad.
3. Caldo Verde - Caldo Verde is a popular Portuguese soup made with potatoes, kale, and sausage. It's a hearty and comforting dish that's perfect for a chilly day.
4. Arroz de Pato - This is a savory rice dish that's made with duck meat and flavored with garlic, onions, and tomato sauce. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that's perfect for a special occasion.
5. Açorda de Marisco - Açorda de Marisco is a seafood soup made with bread, tomatoes, onions, and various types of seafood. It's a delicious and filling dish that's perfect for seafood lovers.
6. Queijadas de Ourém - These are a type of sweet pastry that's made with eggs, sugar, and flour. They're similar to mini cheesecakes and are a popular dessert in the region.
7. Bolo do Caco - Bolo do Caco is a type of bread that's popular in the Madeira Islands, including Ourém. It's made with sweet potato and is often served grilled with garlic butter.
You can find general info about typical foods in Portugal here.

Is Ourém an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to some other destinations in Portugal, Ourém can be considered a bit more expensive. However, it's still relatively affordable when compared to other European destinations. Prices will depend on the time of year you visit, as peak tourist season (July and August) will naturally have higher prices. Additionally, prices will vary depending on the type of accommodation, activity, and restaurant you choose. Overall, it's always a good idea to research and compare prices before booking anything to ensure you're getting the best value for your money.

Where to find accomodation in Ourém

There are a few different areas where you can find accommodations to visit Ourém, Portugal. One popular option is to stay within the historic city center of Ourém itself, as this allows you to easily explore the town's many attractions and landmarks. Another option is to stay in one of the nearby towns such as Fátima or Leiria, which are located just a short drive away and offer more modern amenities and services. Finally, if you're looking for a more rural experience, you may want to consider staying in one of the many charming villages that surround Ourém, which often offer picturesque landscapes and traditional Portuguese architecture.
You can check hotel prices at Ourém here:
Booking.com

Is Ourém a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Ourém (Portugal) is considered a safe place for tourists. Portugal is known for being one of the safest countries in Europe, with low levels of crime and a friendly, welcoming population. However, like in any city, it's always important to take basic safety measures such as keeping an eye on your belongings, avoiding isolated and poorly lit areas during the night, and being aware of your surroundings.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Portugal here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Ourém.

What type of travelers will enjoy Ourém the most?

Ourém is a great destination for families and couples who are looking for relaxation, outdoor activities and historical sights. This charming town is located in central Portugal and is known for its beautiful castle, which is the major attraction of the town. Families can enjoy exploring the castle and its gardens, as well as visiting the nearby nature reserve and the caves of Mira de Aire. Couples can enjoy the romantic atmosphere and picturesque scenery of Ourém, while exploring the town's charming restaurants and cafes. While there are some entertainment options in the town, young people looking for nightlife and parties may want to consider other destinations in Portugal, such as Lisbon or Porto.

How to get around Ourém

In Ourém, you can use several modes of transportation to move around, including: 1. Bus: The town has a local bus service that connects it with neighboring villages and towns.
2. Taxi: Taxis are available throughout the town, and they are a convenient option for short journeys within the town or to nearby places.
3. Car: If you prefer to drive, you can hire a car from the car rental companies located in the town center.
4. Bicycle: If you enjoy cycling, you can rent a bicycle to explore the town and surrounding areas.
5. Walking: Ourém is a compact town, and most of the attractions are located within walking distance. Walking is a great way to explore the town and enjoy the scenic beauty.

What to see around Ourém

Certainly! Here are some nice day trips from Ourém, Portugal: 1. Batalha: Visit the impressive gothic Batalha Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in the 14th century.
2. Tomar: Explore the historic city of Tomar and its impressive Convent of Christ, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
3. Fátima: Visit the world-renowned Catholic pilgrimage site of Fátima and see the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima.
4. Nazaré: Enjoy the beautiful beach town of Nazaré, famous for its big wave surfing and fresh seafood.
5. Coimbra: Visit the charming city of Coimbra and its famous University, one of the oldest in Europe.
6. Alcobaça: Explore the Alcobaça Monastery, another impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest gothic churches in Portugal.
7. Óbidos: Wander through the picturesque medieval village of Óbidos, surrounded by castle walls.
I hope you find these suggestions helpful for planning your day trips from Ourém!
For every travel information about Portugal you can click here.

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