Experience in Santarém, Portugal by Fernanda

How it is to live in Santarém? Would you recommend it? How's the city?

City, capital of Gothic stile in Portugal, famous for its monuments, roman alleys, gastronomy and confectionery.

It is easy to live in the city, due to its accessibility, since it has a train station.

The Gastronomy festivals are important (the biggest one in the country), as well as the Agriculture Fair that moves thousands of people every year.

Vivid in folklore.

Beautiful with Tejo river beneath it, with boat tours and river beaches.

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How is the student life in Santarém?

Fun environment, but civilized.

On average, how much did you spend living in Santarém?

Santarém has a lot of restaurants, with good prices.

In accommodation you can find good prices, as well.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Santarém? Do you have any advice?

When the Gastronomy Festival or the Agriculture National Fair comes it is extremely difficult to find accommodation in Santarém, I suggest for you to look in Almeirim, a few kilometers from Santarém, quiet city, capital of "Sopa da Pedra" (Stone Soup), situated in the lowlands with great transport access.

How is the food? What is your favorite delicacy?

The food is excellent and with good prices.

Besides "Sopa da Pedra" Almeirim traditional dish, I recommend "medalhões de vitela grelhados" (grilled veal medallions), "molhinhos", "ensopado de borrego" (lamb stew), with some excellent Almeirim wines'.

What places would you recommend to visit in Santarém?

Besides the monuments, I would recommend a tour by the medieval alleys and villages, and an indispensable visit to "Portas do Sol" (Sun's Doors).

How is the quality of the restaurants in Santarém? Can you tell us which ones are the best?

There are excellent restaurants and with reasonable prices, it is just a matter of what you are searching for and where.

How is the night life in Santarém? Which are the best places to go?

Night life with some entertainment: there are shows and bars with live music.

What is your advice for future students that will go to Santarém?

I could advice them to visit Almeirim and, if possible, to choose this place to live. This city, "Sopa da Pedra" capital's, is the Portuguese city with more restaurants per m2. This will allow accessible prices, for workers and students mainly. Few kilometres from Santarém, situated in the lowlands, it offers peace and harmony needed to who studies or works.

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