Tomar and Castle of Almourol Private Full-Day Tour From Lisbon

Set out on a captivating private full-day tour from Lisbon to uncover the rich history and medieval legends of Tomar and the enchanting Castle of Almourol. Explore the well-preserved 12th-century center of Tomar, including the stunning Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then, enjoy a scenic boat cruise to the picturesque island Castle of Almourol as a professional guide shares insights into these remarkable sites. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an immersive adventure, this tour promises to captivate and leave you eager to learn more.

Key Points

• This private full-day tour from Lisbon explores the history of the Knights Templar and medieval myths, focusing on Tomar and the Castle of Almourol.
• Visitors can explore the well-preserved 12th-century center of Tomar, including the Templar Castle and the Igreja de São João Baptista church.
• The tour includes a boat cruise to the island Castle of Almourol, offering panoramic views of the Tagus River.
• The tour is led by a professional guide who provides commentary on the cultural and historical significance of the sites visited.
• The tour includes hotel/port pickup and drop-off in Lisbon, as well as transportation in an air-conditioned, Wi-Fi-equipped vehicle.

Tour Overview

The private full-day tour from Lisbon takes visitors to the historic town of Tomar and the Castle of Almourol, with a focus on the history of the Knights Templar and Middle Ages myths.

Guests will explore Tomar’s 12th-century center and have the option to visit the Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The tour includes a boat cruise to the island Castle of Almourol, offering panoramic views across the Tagus River.

Along the way, a professional guide provides commentary on the rich cultural and historical significance of these iconic Portuguese landmarks.

Inclusions

This private full-day tour from Lisbon includes a professional guide, hotel/port pickup and drop-off in Lisbon, and transportation by air-conditioned, Wi-Fi-equipped vehicle.

The private tour experience allows for a more personalized and focused exploration of the Knights Templar history and Middle Ages myths.

The private tour experience allows for a more personalized and focused exploration of the Knights Templar history and Middle Ages myths.

Entrance fees to the Convent of Christ (approximately €6) aren’t included but can be paid directly at the destination.

Plus, there’s a surcharge for hotel pickup/drop-off from Cascais or Estoril (approximately €20).

Infant seats, stroller accessibility, and wheelchair access are available, ensuring a comfortable experience for all travelers.

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup points are available, which travelers can select during booking.

The tour starts at 9:00 AM, but the exact pickup time and location will be confirmed by the local service provider. Guests should contact the provider to ensure they’re ready at the correct time and place.

The tour includes hotel or port pickup and drop-off in Lisbon. However, there’s a surcharge for pickup and drop-off from Cascais or Estoril, which is approximately €20.

The provider will work with guests to ensure a smooth start to the day’s adventure exploring Tomar and the Castle of Almourol.

Accessibility and Additional Info

Infant seats and stroller accessibility are available for this tour.

Infant seats and stroller accessibility are available for this tour, accommodating families with young children.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing most travelers to participate. It operates in all weather conditions, so appropriate dress is recommended.

The Convent of Christ is closed on select holidays, including New Year’s Day, Easter Sunday, May 1, and Christmas.

Service animals are allowed on the tour.

Exploring Tomar’s 12th-Century Center

What makes Tomar’s 12th-century center so captivating? This historic town boasts a well-preserved medieval core, featuring cobblestone streets and charming architecture.

The Templar Castle, built in the early 12th century, stands as the focal point, its impressive stone walls and towers dominating the skyline. Visitors can explore the castle’s intricate chapels, halls, and cloisters, marveling at the unique Manueline architectural style.

Nearby, the Igreja de São João Baptista church showcases a stunning Romanesque façade, a testament to Tomar’s rich history.

As you stroll through the quaint town center, you’ll be transported back in time, immersed in the essence of Portugal’s medieval past.

Visiting the Convent of Christ (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Although the tour’s itinerary allows for optional exploration, the Convent of Christ represents a highlight for many visitors. This 12th-century UNESCO World Heritage Site served as the headquarters of the Knights Templar.

Guests can wander the cloisters, admire the Manueline-style architecture, and learn about the order’s history. The Convent’s circular church, with its intricate stone carvings, is particularly impressive.

However, visitors should note that the site is closed on select holidays. With advance planning, they can ensure they don’t miss this remarkable medieval landmark during their private tour of Tomar and the Castle of Almourol.

Boat Cruise to the Castle of Almourol

After exploring the historic Convent of Christ, the tour moves on to another iconic landmark – the Castle of Almourol.

Guests will board a boat for a scenic cruise across the Tagus River to reach the island castle. Perched atop a rocky outcrop, the 12th-century castle offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Visitors can wander the castle’s grounds and learn about its strategic importance during the Reconquista period when it served as a stronghold for the Knights Templar.

Visitors can explore the castle’s grounds and learn about its role as a Templar stronghold during the Reconquista period.

The boat cruise provides a unique perspective of this medieval fortress and its picturesque setting along the Tagus River.

Reviews and Ratings

The tour has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3 reviewers.

Travelers praised the knowledgeable and courteous guide, Gustav, for his informative service. Many noted the convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as the comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.

The opportunity to explore the historic Tomar and the picturesque Castle of Almourol was also highly appreciated. Guests enjoyed the private tour experience, with the flexibility to customize the itinerary.

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start further enhances the tour’s appeal. This Tomar and Castle of Almourol tour provides an immersive historical experience.

The Sum Up

This private full-day tour from Lisbon offers a captivating journey through the rich history and medieval legends of the Knights Templar. Explore the well-preserved 12th-century center of Tomar, including the stunning Convent of Christ UNESCO site, and embark on a scenic boat cruise to the picturesque Castle of Almourol. With a professional guide providing insights, this tour immerses visitors in the cultural and historical significance of these remarkable destinations.