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How to Get to Tomar

How to Get to Tomar

Tomar Central Portugal, Portugal Travel Guide

Air Travel to Portugal

Major Airports & Airlines

The closest and most convenient major international airport for Tomar is Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS), also known as Humberto Delgado Airport. It is Portugal's largest and busiest airport. Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) in Porto is another option.

Airline Connections to Lisbon LIS

  • North America: TAP Air Portugal, United, Delta, American Airlines, Air Canada.
  • Europe: Ryanair, easyJet, Wizz Air, Lufthansa, Air France, KLM, British Airways, Iberia, TAP Air Portugal.
  • South America: TAP Air Portugal, LATAM, Azul.

Flight Availability & Pricing

Flight prices vary significantly by season. Booking in advance, especially for peak travel, often yields better rates.

Seasonal Price Trends

  • Highest Prices: Peak summer (June-August), major holidays (Christmas, New Year's, Easter).
  • Better Value: Shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) offer pleasant weather and moderate prices.
  • Lowest Fares: Low season (November-March) generally presents the lowest fares.

Lisbon Airport LIS Services

Lisbon Airport is a modern facility with dining, shopping, car rental, financial services, luggage services, and free Wi-Fi.

Finding Flight Deals

Utilize flight deal services like Dollar Flight Club or flight comparison sites like Skyscanner for the best prices.

Accessibility at LIS

The airport offers accessible facilities for travelers with reduced mobility, including ramps, lifts, and accessible restrooms.

Transfers from Lisbon LIS to Tomar

Train Recommended

  • LIS to Oriente Station: Take the Metro's Red Line directly to Oriente Station (Estação do Oriente). (3-5 minutes).
  • Oriente to Tomar: Take a direct Intercidades (IC) train (1h 40m - 2h) or a Regional train. Book tickets via Comboios de Portugal (CP) website.
  • Pre-booking: For stress-free arrival, pre-book your train or bus ticket, especially during peak hours.
  • Cost & Time: €10-€15 (one-way train ticket). Total travel time from LIS to Tomar by train is efficient.

Bus & Car Options

  • Bus: From LIS, Metro (Blue Line) to Sete Rios bus terminal (20-25 min). Take a direct Rede Expressos bus to Tomar (1h 45m - 2h 15m).
  • Car Rental: Agencies at LIS. Drive to Tomar (1.5-2 hours) via A1 and A13 highways. This option provides flexibility for regional exploration. Consider DiscoverCars.com.
  • Private Transfer/Taxi: Pre-book a private transfer or arrange a taxi at the airport. Most convenient but also the most expensive (€150-€200+).
  • Toll Roads: Remember to consider toll roads if driving, as many are electronic.

Land Transportation within Portugal

Train Connections

Tomar is served by Comboios de Portugal (CP). Direct connections to Lisbon (Santa Apolónia and Oriente stations) via Intercidades (IC) and Regional trains. Tomar's station is centrally located.

Long-Distance Buses

Rede Expressos, the main intercity bus company, provides comprehensive connections to Tomar from various parts of Portugal, including Lisbon (Sete Rios) and Porto. The bus terminal is centrally located.

Self-Driving & Road Conditions

Drive on the right. Highways are tolled (often electronic). Road conditions are generally good, especially on major highways. Secondary roads can be narrower. Standard speed limits: 50 km/h (urban), 90 km/h (rural), 120 km/h (highways).

Travel from Neighboring Countries

Border Crossing from Spain

Tomar is within Portugal. If traveling from Spain, both countries are part of the Schengen Area. This means no routine border checks when crossing by land.

Border Notes

  • Always carry your passport and other required travel documents.
  • Occasional random checks can occur at land borders.
  • Driving under the influence is heavily penalized in Portugal (0.05% BAC limit).

Sea & River Travel

Tomar is an inland city on the Nabão River, which is not navigable for large vessels or public transportation services. Sea or major river arrivals are not directly relevant for reaching Tomar.

Local Waterways

  • The closest major cruise port is Lisbon. Travelers arriving by cruise ship would use land transportation to Tomar.
  • The Nabão River is mainly for recreational purposes (rowing, kayaking, small seasonal boat tours).
  • No public boat taxis or regular water transportation services.

Parking in Tomar

Street parking can be limited and may require payment. Paid parking areas and underground garages are available, especially near the river and Praça da República.

Driving Style

Portuguese drivers are assertive. Defensive driving is a helpful approach. Headlights are often recommended, or sometimes required, during the day.

Central Location

Tomar's train station is centrally located, offering a convenient arrival point. The city center and many accommodations are within a short walking distance.

Departure Information

Exit Procedures & Timing

Portugal does not levy separate exit fees or taxes upon departure for tourists; any applicable taxes are typically included in your airline ticket price.

Lisbon Airport LIS Departure

  • Timing: Arrive at LIS at least 2 hours before Schengen flights, 3 hours for non-Schengen.
  • Online Check-in: Complete online check-in if offered; saves time, especially with carry-on luggage.
  • Travel from Tomar: Factor in 1.5-2 hours travel time from Tomar to Lisbon, plus airport transfer.

Airport & Station Facilities

Familiarize yourself with the facilities at your departure points.

Departure Point Services

  • Lisbon (LIS): Offers duty-free shopping, numerous dining options (restaurants, cafes, fast food), lounges, and free Wi-Fi.
  • Tomar Train & Bus Stations: Provide basic facilities: ticket counters, waiting areas, often a small cafe or vending machine. They are clean and functional.
  • Reconfirm: Reconfirm your flight or train/bus schedule 24-48 hours before departure.

Departure Checklist

Before Heading Out

Check luggage weight limits and security screening rules for liquids and electronics.

Documents Ready

Passport, boarding pass, and any necessary travel documents readily accessible.

Local Currency

Spend remaining local currency or exchange it before leaving.

Final Preparations

A well-organized departure concludes your Tomar journey smoothly, allowing for a relaxed transition to your next destination.