Known as Viva Mundo, the project was unveiled on 11 June and represents a private investment of €450 million. If completed as scheduled, the park will open on 29 April 2030 and could become one of the largest tourism developments ever launched in the region.

Spanning around 80 hectares, the attraction is expected to create between 800 and 1,000 direct jobs and aims to welcome approximately 1.5 million visitors annually.

Global appeal of football

Designed with the global appeal of football in mind, NiT says the park will feature 28 attractions, including roller coasters, water rides, carousels, live entertainment spaces, and fan-focused experiences. Visitors will move through six themed districts, each inspired by a different aspect of football culture, from the sport's history and traditions to its atmosphere, food and entertainment.

At the heart of the development will be Football World, an area dedicated entirely to the game itself, offering immersive experiences centred on the world's most popular sport.

Local officials believe the project could become a significant tourism draw thanks to Santarém's strategic location near Lisbon. The site is also within easy reach of western Spain, helping position the attraction as an international destination.

Hotel accommodation

The development will include a 300-room hotel, allowing visitors to stay on-site and enjoy the park over several days.

According to the project's promoters, Portugal's deep connection with football played a key role in the concept. The country will co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup, and organisers hope the new attraction will become a lasting legacy of the tournament.

Celebrating football

While football-themed attractions already exist elsewhere, including the Real Madrid World in Dubai, the Portuguese project aims to celebrate the sport as a whole rather than focusing on a single club or team.

If realised as planned, Viva Mundo could become one of Europe's most ambitious football-inspired leisure destinations and a new tourism landmark in central Portugal.