Things To Do
in Ourém

Panoramic views over the town and surrounding countryside, atmospheric medieval walls and narrow streets—best at golden hour for warm light.

Whitewashed houses, azulejo tiles, steep lanes and small plazas offer intimate urban scenes and texture-rich compositions.

Famous pilgrimage site with grand basilicas, open esplanade and night processions—powerful subject for documentary and low-light photography.

Water reflections, wooded banks and boat activity provide landscape and nature photography opportunities, especially at sunrise.

A classic Portuguese cod dish shredded with potatoes, eggs and parsley — widely available in Ourém’s restaurants and a must-try.

Must-Try!

A roast pork specialty from the nearby Bairrada/central region often served at celebratory meals — look for restaurants advertising 'leitão' on the menu.

A simple marinated pork sandwich served in many cafés and snack bars — great for a quick, inexpensive meal on the go.

Portugal’s famous custard tarts available at local pastelarias for breakfast or a sweet treat with coffee.

Weekly market stalls and a municipal market selling fresh produce, cheese, olives and bread — ideal for assembling a picnic or sampling local flavors.

Local street markets (days vary) offering seasonal fruit, vegetables, regional cheeses and sometimes small food vendors with quick bites like bifanas and pastries.

Greet shopkeepers and hosts with 'Bom dia' (good morning) or 'Boa tarde' (good afternoon); polite, friendly interaction is valued.

When visiting churches or the Sanctuary of Fátima, dress modestly and keep noise to a minimum—respect candlelight processions and prayer spaces.

Service is generally relaxed—be patient and queue in an orderly fashion; direct but polite requests are appropriate.

Ask permission before photographing people, especially during religious ceremonies or private family moments.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; leaving loose change or rounding up in cafés is common, and 5–10% for table service is appropriate for good service.

Cards (Visa/Mastercard) are widely accepted in restaurants and shops; small vendors and some tascas prefer cash. ATMs are common — carry some euros for markets and rural stops.

Mild temperatures and blooming countryside make spring ideal for hiking and photography; expect pleasant days and occasional rain—wildflowers in the park are a highlight.

Hot and dry, especially in July and August; town life slows in the hottest afternoons but evenings are lively. Bring sun protection and plan outdoor activities for mornings or evenings.

Mild temperatures and harvest activities; autumn brings good conditions for walking, fewer tourists than summer and attractive autumnal colors in rural areas.

Winters are cool and wetter but generally mild compared with northern Europe; occasional cold snaps occur—some smaller businesses may reduce opening hours outside the tourist season.

Main international gateway — about 1 hour 15 minutes to 1.5 hours by car depending on traffic (approximately 120–130 km). Regular buses and car rental options make it the most convenient airport for international travelers.

Further north (about 2.5–3 hours by car); useful for those combining visits to northern Portugal but less convenient for short trips to Ourém.