Nestled in the heart of Portugal’s Centro region, Tomar offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern living for expats and retirees. This charming town of approximately 40,000 residents is steeped in medieval history, most notably as the former stronghold of the Knights Templar. The UNESCO World Heritage Site, Convento de Cristo, stands as a testament to this rich past and serves as a focal point for the town’s cultural identity.
Living in Tomar means immersing yourself in a lifestyle that balances small-town tranquillity with access to modern amenities. The picturesque town centre, with its cobbled streets and ancient buildings, exudes an old-world charm that’s complemented by a range of cafes, restaurants, and local shops. The Nabão River, which runs through the town, provides a scenic backdrop for daily life, with its bridges and riverside parks offering idyllic settings for relaxation.
For expats and retirees, Tomar presents an opportunity to become part of a community that values tradition while embracing the present. The town hosts several annual festivals, including the renowned Festa dos Tabuleiros, celebrating local culture and agricultural abundance. While not as popular with expats as coastal areas or larger cities, Tomar is gaining recognition among those seeking an authentic Portuguese living experience away from tourist hotspots.
Renting & Buying Property
When considering a move to Tomar, understanding the local property market is crucial for both renters and buyers. The town offers a range of options, from apartments in the historic centre to houses with gardens in the surrounding areas.
Buying
Property prices in Tomar are generally more affordable compared to larger Portuguese cities or coastal regions. You can find a range of properties, from historic buildings in need of renovation to modern, ready-to-move-in homes. Prices for apartments in the town centre typically start around €80,000, while larger houses or renovated properties can range from €150,000 to €300,000 or more, depending on size, location, and condition.
For those interested in renovation projects, Tomar and its surrounding areas offer opportunities to purchase older properties at lower prices, with the potential to create a unique home. However, it’s important to factor in renovation costs and potential restrictions on modifying historic buildings.
Search properties for sale in Tomar
Renting
Renting in Tomar can be a good option for those looking to get a feel for the area before committing to a purchase. Monthly rents for a one-bedroom apartment in the town centre typically range from €350 to €500, while larger apartments or houses can cost between €500 and €800 per month.
Long-term rentals are available, but the market may be more limited compared to larger cities. It’s advisable to start your search well in advance and consider working with a local estate agent who can help navigate the rental process.
For more information on renting in Portugal, including legal considerations and tips, visit Portugalist’s guide to renting in Portugal.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Tomar is generally lower than in larger Portuguese cities like Lisbon or Porto, making it an attractive option for expats and retirees on a budget. Here’s a breakdown of some typical costs:
- Groceries: A couple can expect to spend around €250-€300 per month on groceries.
- Dining out: A meal for two at a mid-range restaurant might cost €30-€40.
- Utilities: Monthly utilities (electricity, heating, water) for a small apartment typically range from €80-€120.
- Transportation: If you rely on public transport, a monthly pass costs around €30-€40.
Property costs, whether renting or buying, will likely be your largest expense. However, the overall lower cost of living in Tomar compared to more popular expat destinations can provide a comfortable lifestyle on a modest budget.
Can I Move to Tomar?
Portugal offers several visa options for those looking to make Tomar their home:
- EU/EEA/Swiss nationals can move to Portugal without a visa. It’s also possible to bring certain non-EU family members.
- The D7 Visa: Ideal for retirees or those with passive income, such as a pension, social security, dividends, or rental income.
- The D8 Visa: Suitable for digital nomads, freelancers, and remote workers.
- The Golden Visa: For those willing to make a significant investment (or donation) in Portugal. This is typically an investment of €500,000, however, there are a number of paths that you can take.
- The D2 Visa: For entrepreneurs planning to start a business in Portugal or transfer an existing business here.
Attractions
Living in Tomar means having access to numerous historical and cultural attractions:
Convento de Cristo
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the town’s crown jewel. As a resident, you’ll have the opportunity to explore its intricate architecture, spanning Romanesque to Renaissance styles, at your leisure. The complex includes the iconic Charola, ornate Manueline window, and various cloisters, offering a deep dive into Portugal’s rich history.
Igreja de Santa Maria do Olival
This 12th-century church, once the pantheon for the Knights Templar, showcases a blend of architectural styles. Its serene atmosphere and historical significance make it a perfect spot for quiet contemplation or historical exploration.
Pegões Aqueduct
An impressive 16th-century structure spanning 6 kilometres, the aqueduct offers a unique walking experience with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. As a local, you can enjoy regular walks along its upper path, appreciating both the engineering marvel and the natural beauty of the area.
Expat Life
While Tomar isn’t as popular with expats as coastal areas or larger cities, it offers a genuine Portuguese living experience. The expat community is small but growing, primarily consisting of British, Dutch, and German residents but also increasingly those from the US and Canada. This smaller community often leads to closer connections among expats and better opportunities for integration with local Portuguese residents.
Expats in Tomar often cite the authentic lifestyle, lower cost of living, and rich cultural heritage as major draws. The town’s size makes it easy to become part of the community, whether through local events, language exchanges, or participating in cultural activities.
Retiring Here
Tomar presents an attractive option for retirees seeking a peaceful yet culturally rich lifestyle. The town’s compact nature makes it easy to navigate, with most amenities within walking distance. The mild climate, with warm summers and mild winters, is comfortable for year-round living.
Healthcare is a crucial consideration for retirees. Tomar has a public hospital and several clinics, providing good basic care. For more specialised treatments, larger cities like Coimbra (about 80 km away) offer excellent medical facilities.
The cost of living is significantly lower than in many other European retirement destinations, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle on a modest pension. The town’s rich history, beautiful surroundings, and cultural events provide plenty of activities to keep retirees engaged and entertained.
Food
Tomar’s culinary scene reflects its rich history and agricultural surroundings. Here are some regional specialities:
- Fatias de Tomar: A sweet egg-based dessert, similar to French toast.
- Cabrito Assado: Roasted young goat, often served during Easter.
- Morcela de Arroz: A type of blood sausage made with rice.
- Bacalhau à Convent de Cristo: A local take on Portugal’s famous codfish dishes.
You’ll also find national Portuguese dishes like caldo verde, grilled fish, and pastel de nata in most traditional restaurants.
For vegans and vegetarians, options are increasing, especially in cafes and more modern restaurants. However, traditional Portuguese cuisine heavily features meat and fish, so some adaptation may be necessary. Gluten-free options are becoming more common but will require some research.
Upsides & Downsides of Living Here
Pros
- Rich historical and cultural heritage
- Lower cost of living compared to larger cities
- Authentic Portuguese lifestyle
- Beautiful natural surroundings
- Friendly local community
Cons
- Limited job opportunities
- Distance from the beach
- Smaller expat community
- Less diverse dining and entertainment options compared to larger cities
- May require learning Portuguese for daily life
- Limited public transportation options
Climate
Tomar enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures average around 28°C (82°F), while winter temperatures typically range from 5°C to 14°C (41°F to 57°F).
The town experiences about 2,800 hours of sunshine per year. While Tomar isn’t coastal, the nearby Castelo do Bode reservoir offers opportunities for water activities during hot summer days. In addition, the region boasts several river beaches (praias fluviais) for cooling off.
Will I Need to Learn Portuguese?
While English is widely spoken in major Portuguese cities, in Tomar, knowing some Portuguese will significantly enhance your daily life and integration into the community. Many locals, especially older generations, may not speak English fluently.
Learning Portuguese is crucial for fully immersing yourself in the local culture, handling administrative tasks, and building relationships with neighbours. It’s also a requirement if you plan to apply for Portuguese citizenship in the future, as you’ll need to pass an A2 level language exam.
To start learning Portuguese, check out Portugalist’s guide to learning Portuguese.
Schools
Tomar offers a range of educational options:
- Public schools: Free education for residents, teaching in Portuguese.
- Private schools: A few options available, some offering bilingual programs.
- International schools: The nearest international schools are in Coimbra or Lisbon, about an hour’s drive away.
Tomar is home to the Polytechnic Institute of Tomar, offering higher education in various fields including art, engineering, and technology.
For more information on schooling options in Portugal, visit Portugalist’s guide to schools in Portugal.
Getting Around
Tomar is a compact town, making it easy to navigate on foot or by bicycle. The historic centre is walkable, though some areas can be hilly.
- Train: Tomar has a train station with regular connections to Lisbon (about 2 hours) and other major cities.
- Bus: Local and regional bus services connect Tomar to nearby towns and cities.
- Car: Many residents find having a car beneficial for exploring the region and accessing larger cities. The A13 motorway provides easy access to Lisbon and other parts of Portugal.
- Taxis and ride-sharing: Available in town, though not as prevalent as in larger cities.
The nearest major airport is in Lisbon, about 130 km away. Lisbon offers flights to most European destinations as well as international destinations such as the US, Canada, Brazil, and the rest of the world.
Day trips from Tomar are plentiful. You can explore nearby towns like Fátima (30 km), known for its religious significance, or visit the beautiful beaches of Nazaré (80 km). The historic university city of Coimbra is about an hour’s drive away, offering a glimpse into Portugal’s academic tradition.
Similar Locations
When comparing Tomar to other Portuguese locations for living:
- Coimbra: Larger, with more amenities and a significant student population. Better for those seeking a livelier atmosphere with more job opportunities.
- Caldas da Rainha: Coastal town with a similar size to Tomar, offering beach access but less historical significance.
- Óbidos: Another historical town, smaller than Tomar, with a more touristy atmosphere.
- Leiria: Slightly larger than Tomar, with more modern amenities but less historical charm.
Tomar stands out for its unique blend of history, affordability, and authentic Portuguese living experience, making it an attractive option for those seeking a quieter lifestyle immersed in Portuguese culture and history.