Every November, the small Ribatejo town of Golegã becomes the centre of the horse world in Portugal. The Feira Nacional do Cavalo runs from Friday 6 to Sunday 15 November 2026, and it is one of the most authentic traditional events you can reach in a day from Lisbon.
What the fair is
Golegã calls itself the capital of the horse, and during the fair the whole town lives up to the name. Riders in traditional Ribatejo dress, with short jackets and wide-brimmed hats, ride Lusitano horses around the Largo do Arneiro, the sand arena at the heart of the town. There are breeding competitions, dressage and equestrian shows, and in the evening the tasquinhas, small temporary taverns, serve wine, grilled meat and roasted chestnuts.
The fair grew out of the traditional São Martinho fair, and 11 November (São Martinho, a Wednesday in 2026) is still the day with the most atmosphere. The municipality is preparing an application to have the fair recognised as intangible cultural heritage.
How to get there from Lisbon
Golegã is about 130 km north-east of Lisbon, roughly 1h20 by car. During the fair the town centre is closed to traffic and parking fills up early, especially at weekends and on São Martinho. With a private driver you are dropped close to the centre and picked up when you are ready, so nobody in the group has to think about parking, or about the wine.
For couples and small families we use an estate car for up to 3 guests; for larger groups, a van for up to 7. A certified guide can join the day for +80€ (half day) or +120€ (full day) per group.
Suggested route: castles, convents and horses
Golegã sits in a part of Portugal that most visitors never see, which makes it easy to build a full day around the fair:
- Almourol Castle, about 15 minutes away: a Templar castle on a small island in the middle of the Tagus, reached by a short boat crossing.
- Tomar and the Convent of Christ, about 30 minutes away: the former headquarters of the Knights Templar and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Golegã in the afternoon and evening, when the riders come out and the tasquinhas fill up.
Prefer something shorter? A half day straight to the fair and back works well, especially on a weekday.
Good to know
- Weekends and 11 November are the busiest days. Weekdays are calmer and better for seeing the horses up close.
- The arena is sand and the evenings are cold in November. Bring closed shoes and a warm layer.
- The programme of shows is published by the municipality closer to the date.
Frequently asked questions
When is the Golegã Horse Fair in 2026?
The Feira Nacional do Cavalo runs from Friday 6 to Sunday 15 November 2026. São Martinho, on Wednesday 11 November, is traditionally the busiest day.
How long does it take to get from Lisbon to Golegã?
About 1h20 by car, around 130 km. During the fair the centre is closed to traffic, so a driver who drops you close to the arena saves a lot of time.
Can we combine the fair with other visits?
Yes. Almourol Castle is about 15 minutes away and Tomar, with the Convent of Christ, about 30 minutes. Both fit into a full day.
Plan your trip to Golegã National Horse Fair
Tell us your date and group. We reply by email within 24 hours with a route and a confirmed price. No payment is needed to enquire.
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Sources and official information: Feira Nacional do Cavalo on Visit Portugal. Dates and programmes can change; always check the official sources before you travel.
