From Lisbon: Knights Templar Day Tour in Tomar

The Knights Templar, a legendary military order, left an indelible mark on Portugal’s history. Now, travelers can uncover their rich legacy on a day tour from Lisbon to Tomar. This immersive experience explores the UNESCO-listed Convento de Cristo, a 12th-century stronghold, and the majestic Almourol Castle, offering a glimpse into the Templar’s influence. With knowledgeable guides and stunning historical sites, this tour promises an engaging adventure for history enthusiasts. But what secrets lie waiting to be discovered within these hallowed walls?

Key Points

• This day tour from Lisbon focuses on the history and heritage of the Knights Templar, visiting the UNESCO-listed Convento de Cristo and Almourol Castle.
• The 8-hour tour includes guided visits, entrance fees, transportation, toll fees, fuel, lunch, and a local pastry treat.
• The tour is led by live guides fluent in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, and has a maximum group size of 8 persons.
• The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility issues, and participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring necessary items.
• The tour has received positive reviews for the extensive knowledge and engaging presentations of the tour guides.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This day trip from Lisbon to Tomar explores the rich history of the Knights Templar.

The 8-hour tour costs from $101.50 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can reserve now and pay later.

The tour visits the UNESCO-listed Convento de Cristo in Tomar, the Templar capital, and Almourol Castle, historically controlled by the Knights.

Entrance fees, guided visits, and local pastry are included. Transportation, toll fees, fuel, and lunch are also provided.

The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues. Group size is limited to 8 persons.

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins with a visit to Tomar, the historic capital of the Knights Templar in Portugal and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Explore the impressive Convento de Cristo, the heart of the Templar order.

Explore the impressive Convento de Cristo, the heart of the Templar order.

Next, travel to Almourol Castle, a fortress once controlled by the Knights Templar.

The guided tour includes entrance fees to both sites and a local pastry.

Pickup is at 8:00 AM from Praça da Figueira, and drop-off is at Restauradores or Marquês de Pombal, providing a convenient start and end to the 8-hour experience.

Tour Features

Although the tour is led by live guides available in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, it accommodates a maximum of 8 persons per vehicle.

The tour includes:

• Transportation, toll fees, fuel, and lunch

• Entrance fees to the Convento de Cristo and Almourol Castle

• Guided visits at both historical sites

• A local pastry treat

However, the tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes, bring water, sunscreen, and a jacket, as the tour will proceed in adverse weather conditions unless official warnings are issued.

Customer Feedback

Based on the 435 reviews, travelers have consistently praised the Knights Templar Day Tour in Tomar.

The tour guides receive high marks for their extensive knowledge and engaging presentations. Participants highlight the variety of lunch options available in Tomar, allowing them to sample local cuisine.

Reviewers also note the diverse group experiences, with the small group size contributing to a more personalized and intimate tour.

More Great Tours Nearby

Important Information

Participants must wear comfortable shoes and bring bottled water, sunscreen, and a jacket (seasonal) to ensure a pleasant and comfortable experience on the Knights Templar Day Tour in Tomar.

The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. Infants and children require a seat, and infant seats are available upon request.

The tour won’t be canceled for adverse weather unless official warnings are issued, and the tour partner isn’t responsible for traffic congestion due to events, with alternatives provided if necessary.

• Comfortable shoes

• Bottled water

• Sunscreen

• Jacket (seasonal)

Exploring Tomar and the Convento De Cristo

The tour begins with a visit to Tomar, the historic town that served as the capital of the Knights Templar in Portugal.

Travelers explore the Convento de Cristo, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the remarkable architecture and history of the Templar order.

The guided tour takes visitors through the impressive castle, with its distinctive Manueline and Romanesque styles, and the round church, a unique feature of Templar churches.

Participants learn about the Templars’ influential role in Portugal’s history and their lasting legacy through the insightful explanations provided by the knowledgeable guide.

Uncovering the History of Almourol Castle

After exploring the historical Convento de Cristo, the tour proceeds to Almourol Castle, another significant site with deep ties to the Knights Templar.

This imposing 12th-century fortress sits atop a small island in the Tagus River, once controlled by the Templar knights.

Visitors can:

• Marvel at the castle’s distinctive granite walls and towers, a testament to the Templar’s military prowess.

• Imagine the strategic importance of the castle’s location, guarding a crucial river crossing.

• Discover the castle’s role in the Reconquista, the Christian campaign to retake the Iberian Peninsula from Moorish rule.

• Gain insights into the Templar’s influence and legacy in the region.

Templar Legacy in Portugal

Although the Knights Templar‘s influence in Portugal was relatively short-lived, their legacy has left an indelible mark on the country’s history and culture.

The Templar capital of Tomar, with its Convento de Cristo, stands as a testament to their architectural prowess and religious devotion. Almourol Castle, once a strategic Templar stronghold, remains a captivating relic of their military might.

The Templar capital of Tomar and Almourol Castle stand as lasting reminders of the order’s architectural and military prowess.

Beyond these physical reminders, the Templars’ impact can be seen in Portugal’s rich traditions, from the unique Templar-inspired cuisine to the enduring mystique surrounding their secretive order.

Even centuries later, the Templar legacy continues to fascinate and inspire visitors to this day.

Since You Asked

Can We Stop for Souvenirs or Shopping During the Tour?

The tour does not explicitly include time for souvenir shopping or other stops beyond the scheduled itinerary. However, participants may have the opportunity to explore Tomar independently during the free time allotted for lunch.

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Convento De Cristo?

Photography is generally allowed inside the Convento de Cristo, though visitors may be asked to refrain from using flash. Tripods and video recording may be restricted in certain areas to preserve the site’s historical integrity.

Do We Have Time for Lunch on Our Own in Tomar?

Yes, the tour includes time for lunch in Tomar. The itinerary states that the tour "includes… local pastry" and notes "positive remarks on the variety of lunch options in Tomar" from past customers.

Can the Tour Accommodate Gluten-Free or Vegetarian Dietary Requirements?

The tour can accommodate gluten-free and vegetarian dietary requirements with advance notice. The local lunch options in Tomar offer a variety of dishes to cater to different dietary needs, according to customer feedback.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour With Additional Activities?

Yes, the tour offers an option to extend the trip with additional activities like visiting a local winery or exploring more of Tomar’s historic sites. Guests can customize their experience by speaking with the tour provider.

The Sum Up

Enjoy the captivating history of the Knights Templar on this day trip from Lisbon. Explore the UNESCO-listed Convento de Cristo and Almourol Castle, uncover the Templar legacy in Portugal, and enjoy a guided tour with transportation and lunch. This small-group experience offers a personalized and enriching adventure for history enthusiasts.

You can check availability for your dates here: