Tourist Attraction: Over Half a Million Visitors Drawn to Tomar's Landmarks
In the picturesque town of Tomar, Portugal, a surge in visitor numbers was recorded in 2024, marking a significant milestone for the city's tourism industry. According to the Tomar City Council, a total of 195,540 visitors were registered in the cultural facilities under its management, a figure considered "very significant" by the council.
The United States of America accounted for the largest percentage of foreign visitors, making up 21.52% of the total, followed closely by Spain (14.62%) and France (11.98%). Interestingly, Brazil accounted for 9.89% of the foreign visitors, while the home country, Portugal, accounted for a whopping 57.49% of the total visitors.
One of the key attractions that drew visitors was the Levada Cultural Complex, which represented 20.9% of the total visits in 2024. This cultural hub, home to the Tomarense Foundry and Power Plant Museum Centres, the Tomar Templário Interpretive Centre, Moagem A Portuguesa, and the "Fábrica das Artes | Tomar" project, attracted 40,848 visitors across its various spaces.
The Synagogue, another popular attraction managed by the Tomar City Council, was the most visited monument in 2024, with a total of 47,841 entries. The Synagogue's Interpretive Centre also saw a substantial number of visitors, with 27,096 visits in 2024, of which 15,336 were from foreigners.
The Chapel of Santa Iria, while primarily visited by Portuguese tourists, registered a total of 31,261 visitors in 2024. The Convent of Christ, a World Heritage Site not under the supervision of the Tomar City Council, saw more visitors in 2024 than the 311,879 registered in 2023, according to Museus e Monumentos de Portugal.
Tomar, with its authentic old town, charming cobbled streets, and a lively atmosphere, continues to attract both international tourists and those seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences. The city’s proximity to other notable destinations like Fátima and Óbidos, and its unique heritage and natural assets, make it an attractive destination for day trips and cultural tours.
The city's tourism industry has seen a continued post-pandemic recovery, with foreign residents and tourists contributing significantly to economic activity. As Tomar remains less commercialized than some Portuguese cities, it offers a unique and authentic Portuguese experience for visitors.
In 2024, Portugal, being a home country, accounted for an impressive 57.49% of the total visitors in Tomar, making it a significant player in the city's tourism industry. Curiously, the home-and-garden section, specifically the Levada Cultural Complex, drew the attention of 20.9% of the visitors, showcasing Tomar's diverse lifestyle offerings to both local and foreign tourists.
