Knights Templar Private Tour

Unravel the captivating history of the Knights Templar on this private tour through Portugal. Set out on a journey that explores iconic sites linked to this legendary order, from the majestic Convent of Christ to the impressive Almoural Castle. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll explore the Templar legacy and discover the fascinating stories that have endured for centuries. This immersive experience offers a chance to step back in time and witness the enduring influence of this medieval military order.

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Key Points

A private tour from Sintra or Lisbon focusing on the history of the Knights Templar in Portugal.
The full-day itinerary includes visits to the Convent of Christ, Almoural Castle, Batalha Monastery, Tomar Castle, and Obidos Castle.
A local driver-guide provides insights into the Templar legacy during the journey.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and entrance fees to the monuments.
Meals and tips are not included, allowing participants to choose their own dining options.

Tour Overview

This private tour from Sintra or Lisbon allows visitors to explore the rich history of the Knights Templar in Portugal.

The full-day tour includes key sites like the Convent of Christ, Almoural Castle, Batalha Monastery, Tomar Castle, and Obidos Castle. A local driver-guide provides insights into the Templar’s legacy throughout the journey.

This full-day tour visits key Templar sites, including the Convent of Christ, Almoural Castle, Batalha Monastery, Tomar Castle, and Obidos Castle, with insights from a local guide.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an air-conditioned vehicle, and entrance fees to the monuments. Meals and tips aren’t included.

The tour operates with a start time of 8:30 am and may be conducted in English, Spanish, French, or Portuguese, with other languages available upon request.

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Inclusions

The Knights Templar Private Tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, providing a seamless start and end to the day’s exploration.

A professional driver-guide accompanies guests throughout the day, sharing insights on the history and significance of the key sites visited. Transportation is provided in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.

Entrance fees to the Convent of Christ, Almoural Castle, Batalha Monastery, Tomar Castle, and Obidos Castle are included, allowing hassle-free access to these remarkable landmarks.

Meals and tips aren’t covered, giving participants the flexibility to enjoy local cuisine at their own pace.

Pickup Information

Pickup for the Knights Templar Private Tour begins with providing the hotel information where guests will be collected.

The tour starts at 8:30 am, though pickup may require a short walk to the standard boarding point in downtown areas.

Guests can choose from English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese guides, with Italian, Russian, and Romanian available upon request.

The tour operates rain or shine unless there are official weather warnings, so travelers with certain medical conditions should take note of the guidelines.

Contact the company 24 hours prior to confirm the exact pickup time.

Participant Guidelines

Who’s this Knights Templar Private Tour suitable for?

The tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, heart conditions, or pregnant women.

However, it does accommodate infants, service animals, and strollers (though not wheelchairs).

Children will occupy a dedicated seat.

This tour may not be ideal for those with mobility issues or physical limitations.

Key considerations include:

No issues with back, heart, or pregnancy
Infant seats available upon request
Service animals allowed
Stroller accessible, not wheelchair accessible
Children will have their own seat

The tour provides a comprehensive exploration of Knights Templar history in Portugal for able-bodied participants.

Convent of Christ

One of the key sites visited on this Knights Templar private tour is the Convent of Christ in Tomar. This religious complex dates back to the 12th century when it was the headquarters of the Knights Templar in Portugal.

Visitors can explore the impressive Manueline-style architecture, including the towering round church. The convent’s highlights include the Charola, an octagonal Templar church, and the Chapter House with its intricate carved ceilings.

Guests will learn about the critical role the Knights Templar played in Portugal’s history and their enduring legacy at this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site.

There's plenty more to explore in Sintra

Almoural Castle

Almoural Castle, another highlight of the Knights Templar private tour, stands as a testament to the order’s military might and strategic prowess.

This 12th-century fortification served as a crucial outpost, guarding the region from potential threats. Visitors can explore the castle’s sturdy walls, towers, and dungeons, seeing the Templar’s storied past.

The site offers a glimpse into:

The Templar’s advanced engineering and construction techniques
Their role in defending Portugal’s borders and securing trade routes
The castle’s strategic location overlooking the surrounding countryside
Architectural features reflecting the Templar’s distinctive style
The castle’s evolution over the centuries as a symbol of Templar power.

Batalha Monastery

From the majestic walls of Almoural Castle, the Knights Templar tour continues to the awe-inspiring Batalha Monastery.

This 14th-century UNESCO World Heritage site boasts exquisite Gothic architecture, including its famous Royal Cloister and Unfinished Chapels.

Visitors can marvel at the intricate stone carvings and explore the ornate tombs of Portuguese royalty.

The monastery’s impressive scale and attention to detail showcase the Knights Templar’s reverence for religious architecture.

With its historic significance and breathtaking design, the Batalha Monastery stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Knights Templar in Portugal.