From Lisbon: Tomar, Christ Convent & Almourol Castle Tour

Explore Portugal’s rich Templar heritage on this captivating full-day tour from Lisbon. Explore the UNESCO-listed Convento de Cristo in Tomar, a stunning medieval fortress and former headquarters of the Knights Templar. Then, embark on a leisurely boat ride to the iconic Almourol Castle, nestled along the Tagus River. With knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through Portugal’s history. What secrets and stories will you uncover?

Key Points

• This tour takes visitors from Lisbon to explore the historic Convento de Cristo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Almourol Castle on the Tagus River.
• The tour includes a visit to Tomar’s old town, where visitors can see the 15th-century synagogue, the oldest in Portugal.
• Visitors can enjoy a boat ride to Almourol Castle and learn about the Knights Templar legacy in the Tomar region.
• The tour provides transportation in an air-conditioned van with pickup and drop-off from centrally located accommodations in Lisbon.
• The tour has an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars, with positive feedback on the knowledgeable guide and enjoyable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour, titled "Tomar, Christ Convent & Almourol Castle Tour," is priced from $87.23 per person and lasts 8 to 9 hours.

Explore the Knights Templar legacy with the Tomar, Christ Convent & Almourol Castle Tour, priced from $87.23 per person for 8-9 hours.

It’s available in English and French, with pickup included from central Lisbon accommodations. Guests can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance, and there’s a "pay later" option.

The tour explores the Knights Templar legacy, visiting the UNESCO-listed Convento de Cristo, Tomar’s 15th-century synagogue, and taking a boat ride to Almourol Castle on the Tagus River.

Transportation is by air-conditioned van with free Wi-Fi, and lunch is included.

Highlights and Activities

Though the tour highlights the Knights Templar legacy in the Tomar region, it also allows visitors to discover other noteworthy attractions.

Key highlights include:

1. Exploring the Convento de Cristo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the architectural and artistic influences of the Knights Templar.

2. Wandering through the historic town of Tomar, including the 15th-century Synagogue, the oldest in Portugal.

3. Enjoying a boat ride to Almourol Castle, perched on an island in the Tagus River, and admiring the natural beauty of the river’s confluence.

Itinerary Details

As the tour begins, participants meet the local guide for a one-hour road trip to the historic town of Tomar.

The first stop is the Templar Castle and Convento de Cristo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Next, the group explores Tomar’s old town and visits the 15th-century Synagogue, the oldest in Portugal.

After free time for lunch, they head to Constância, associated with the famous poet Luís de Camões.

Finally, they take a boat ride to Almourol Castle on an island in the Tagus River.

The comfortable van ride back to Lisbon completes the day’s activities.

Inclusions

This tour includes pickup and drop-off from centrally located accommodations in Lisbon.

The package covers:

Transportation in an air-conditioned van, entrance fees to historical sites, complimentary bottled water, and a included lunch.

• Transportation in an air-conditioned van with free Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable journey.

• Entrance fees to the Convento de Cristo and Almourol Castle, allowing guests to fully experience these historical sites.

• A complimentary bottle of water to keep hydrated during the day.

• Lunch is also included, providing a chance to savor local cuisine and recharge during the tour.

Altogether, these inclusions create a seamless and enjoyable sightseeing experience.

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Customer Feedback

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised this tour, with an impressive overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars based on 47 reviews.

According to feedback, the tour guide Oleander received a perfect 5/5 score, with reviewers describing him as "superb" and "passionate about the Templars."

The transportation received a 4.8/5 rating, and the tour was deemed excellent value for money at 4.9/5.

As one tourist from Estonia remarked, it was a "very nice day with a knowledgeable guide."

An Australian visitor highlighted the guide’s fantastic knowledge of the Templar legacy.

Important Information

Before embarking on the tour, visitors should bring their passport or ID, wear comfortable shoes, and pack suitable clothing for the weather conditions.

Visitors should bring identification, wear comfortable shoes, and pack appropriate clothing for the tour’s weather conditions.

Smoking isn’t allowed during the tour.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, the tour company follows strict health precautions, including:

1. Daily disinfection of the transportation vehicle.

2. Enforcement of social distancing measures.

3. Mandatory use of face masks.

Hand sanitizer is readily available throughout the tour.

These measures prioritize the well-being of both your and the tour guide, providing a responsible and COVID-conscious experience.

Getting to Tomar

Since Tomar is located approximately 150 kilometers northeast of Lisbon, the tour begins with a comfortable one-hour van ride from the capital city.

Along the way, travelers can gaze out the window and admire the picturesque Portuguese countryside, dotted with vineyards, olive groves, and charming villages.

The air-conditioned van is equipped with free Wi-Fi, allowing guests to stay connected and share their excitement on social media.

Upon arrival in Tomar, the group disembarks and meets the knowledgeable local guide, who’s ready to lead the exploration of the historic city and its remarkable Templar legacy.

Exploring the Templar Legacy

As the group steps into the historic heart of Tomar, they’re immediately captivated by the town’s Templar legacy. The star attraction is the majestic Convento de Cristo, a UNESCO World Heritage site that was once the headquarters of the Knights Templar.

The group explores:

1. The Templar Castle, with its impressive medieval architecture and strategic hilltop position.

2. The ornate Manueline-style cloisters, adorned with intricate carvings and symbolism.

3. The Charola, an impressive circular church built in the style of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem.

The Templar influence is palpable, transporting the group back to the order’s heyday in the 12th century.

Since You Asked

Is There an Option to Add a Wine Tasting to the Tour?

There’s no mention of a wine tasting option in the tour details provided. The tour focuses on historical sites and activities, with inclusions like transportation, entrance fees, and lunch. Adding a wine tasting may require booking a separate excursion.

Can We Visit Any Other Nearby Towns or Villages?

The tour does not explicitly mention visiting any other nearby towns or villages besides Tomar, Constância, and Almourol Castle. However, the tour operator may be able to accommodate requests to visit additional sites if time allows.

Is There an Opportunity to Take Photos During the Boat Ride?

Yes, there is an opportunity to take photos during the boat ride to Almourol Castle. The tour includes a scenic boat trip across the river, allowing participants to capture the castle’s picturesque setting and the surrounding natural beauty.

Does the Tour Accommodate Dietary Restrictions for the Included Lunch?

The tour accommodates various dietary restrictions for the included lunch upon request. Customers are encouraged to inform the tour operator of any dietary needs when booking to ensure a suitable meal is provided.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Tomar Region?

The best time to visit the Tomar region is typically spring and fall when the weather is mild and pleasant. The region experiences hot, dry summers and cool, wetter winters, making these shoulder seasons ideal for exploring the area.

The Sum Up

This tour offers an immersive exploration of Portugal’s Templar heritage. Visitors can marvel at the UNESCO-listed Convento de Cristo, stroll through a historic synagogue, and embark on a serene boat ride to the iconic Almourol Castle. With knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation, this day trip from Lisbon promises an unforgettable journey into Portugal’s rich past.

You can check availability for your dates here: