Santarém, located in central Portugal along the Tagus River, offers a blend of historical charm and modern amenities. The city is known for its rich Gothic architecture, with numerous churches and monasteries dotting the landscape. Residents enjoy a relaxed pace of life typical of smaller Portuguese cities, with a population of around 60,000.
The local economy is largely based on agriculture, particularly in the fertile Tagus valley, known for its vineyards and olive groves. This agricultural heritage is celebrated in various festivals throughout the year, including the National Agricultural Fair.
Santarém boasts a pleasant Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The cost of living is generally lower than in larger Portuguese cities, making it attractive for retirees and those seeking a quieter lifestyle.
The city offers good educational facilities, including the Polytechnic Institute of Santarém, which attracts students from across the country. Healthcare is provided by the Hospital Distrital de Santarém, ensuring residents have access to essential medical services.
While not as touristy as some coastal areas, Santarém’s central location makes it easy to explore other parts of Portugal. Lisbon is only about an hour’s drive away, providing access to international travel and more extensive cultural offerings when desired.
Summers are Hot & Winters Are Cold
Santarém has hot summers and cold winters, with a unique microclimate that is characterised by the mountainous terrain which traps clouds and moisture.
During the summer months, temperatures can top 40°C (104°F). There are river beaches (praias fluvias) in the area or alternatively, you should look for properties that have a pool. The drive to Peniche, one of the nearest beaches, takes just under an hour.
For many prospective expats, the summers are too warm and they prefer to stay closer to towns like Caldas da Rainha, Mafria, and Peniche. However, if you’re comfortable with the heat, you’re likely to find more affordable properties around Santarém.
Santarém Has Great Access to Lisbon
There are regular train connections to Lisbon’s Santa Apolonia and Oriente stations, with a journey time that can be as fast as 30 minutes. However, it’s worth noting that Santarém station is around a 25 minute walk from the centre of Santarém.
The journey by bus takes about an hour and departs from the city centre.
The drive from Lisbon to Santarém takes a little over an hour by car.
Life Moves Slowly
Life in Santarém moves at a leisurely pace, making it an ideal setting for those who revel in the simple pleasures of life, such as tending to a garden or enjoying a quiet afternoon stroll through its historic streets. The city’s remoteness is not a drawback but rather an invitation to immerse oneself fully in the local culture and community, offering a chance to live in a place that remains connected to its roots while being within easy reach of the attractions and amenities of the wider region.
There are fewer expats
Despite its proximity to Lisbon, Santarém remains largely undiscovered by tourists and other expats, preserving its serene and untouched charm. There are even fewer digital nomads or remote workers, which could make it difficult if you work in tech or are only planning on living in the area for a few months.
This can make moving to a new place a challenge, however, it also means that you are less likely to live in an expat bubble and more likely to learn Portuguese and integrate.
Property is More Affordable
Thanks to its location inland and its distance from Lisbon, property is understandably more affordable here. This is compounded by the hot summers, which means there is less demand to live here. If you’re looking for an affordable part of Portugal that’s still within a short distance of Lisbon, Santarém is worth exploring.