From Lisbon: Tomar, Convent of Christ & Almourol Castle

Key Points

• Price and Duration: This full-day tour costs $91 per person and lasts 8 hours, making it an engaging yet manageable trip from Lisbon.
• Highlights: You’ll explore Almourol Castle, accessible via boat ride, and visit the Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning architecture.
• Historical Focus: The tour centers on Knights Templar legends, medieval architecture, and Portugal’s Templar legacy, making it ideal for history enthusiasts.
• Transport and Guides: Travel in comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles with a professional guide who explains the sites in English, Spanish, or Portuguese.
• Optional Pickup: The tour offers pickup and drop-off options at selected Lisbon locations, either privately or in small groups, enhancing convenience.
• Reviews: Boasts a high 4.8/5 rating from over 500 reviews, with praise for the knowledgeable guides and well-organized itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Tour Starts with Scenic Drive from Lisbon

The journey begins with a 1.5-hour van ride from Lisbon, taking travelers out of the city into Portugal’s striking Norte region. The drive offers glimpses of the lush landscape and prepares visitors for a day filled with history and scenery. Those who choose the private option benefit from pick-up at their accommodation, ensuring a smooth start.

Almourol Castle: A Fairytale Fortress on an Island

The first major stop is Almourol Castle, perched on a small island in the middle of the Tagus River. A boat ride included in the tour takes guests across the water to this 12th-century fortress, famous for its dramatic setting and medieval walls. The guide explains its strategic role during the Christian Reconquest and its connection to the Knights Templar, adding depth to the visit.

The castle’s location makes it a striking photo opportunity, and exploring its stone towers offers a tangible sense of Portugal’s military history. The boat ride is quick but memorable, giving visitors a chance to enjoy the river views and imagine the castle’s past defenses.

Exploring Tomar, Portugal’s Templar Capital

Next, the tour proceeds to Tomar, the historic city once central to the Templar Order in Portugal. Here, visitors have around 1.5 hours of free time for lunch and exploring the charming streets. Tomar’s cobbled alleys and lively squares invite wandering, with plenty of options for local food and drinks.

During the guided part of the visit, the Church of Santa Maria do Olival takes center stage. This Gothic church served as the final resting place for warrior monks and Grand Masters of the Templar Knights. The guide shares insights into its architecture and the symbolism behind its layout, enriching the experience.

Travelers can also visit the Church of São João Batista in the main square, known for its Manueline details and peaceful atmosphere, providing a glimpse into the town’s religious and cultural significance.

The Convent of Christ: Portugal’s Templar Masterpiece

The highlight of the afternoon is the Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Portugal’s most remarkable monuments. Originally built by the Templars and expanded by the Order of Christ, this site combines various architectural styles and symbols.

Inside, visitors see the Charola, a Templar rotunda inspired by Jerusalem’s Holy Sepulchre, with intricate carvings that evoke the religious fervor of the Knights Templar. The cloisters, chapter houses, and secret passageways reveal layers of history, showing how the site functioned as both a religious and political hub.

The guide’s explanations help connect the architecture to the symbolism and rituals of the Templar Knights, making this visit a real highlight for history buffs.

More Great Tours Nearby

Comfortable Transportation and Expert Guidance

Throughout the day, travelers enjoy transport in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The tour is led by professional guides who are fluent in English, Spanish, or Portuguese, depending on the group composition. The guides are praised for their knowledgeability and engaging storytelling, making complex history accessible and lively.

Small group sizes of up to 8 participants ensure a relaxed atmosphere, though the tour may occasionally operate with larger vehicles depending on the time and demand. The pickup and drop-off options at Lisbon accommodations or designated points add a layer of convenience, especially for those staying centrally.

Practical Details and Tips for Travelers

This tour is designed for people with comfortable shoes and clothes, due to some walking and uneven surfaces at the sites. The rustic nature of some paths, particularly at Almourol Castle, might pose challenges for those with mobility issues. The tour explicitly states that wheelchair and stroller use are limited, and pregnant women or those with heart or respiratory conditions should consider their comfort.

The tour does not include meals or drinks, so travelers can enjoy lunch at their leisure during the free time in Tomar. It’s advisable to bring water, sunscreen, and a hat for the outdoor parts of the day.

High Praise for Guides and Overall Experience

Based on over 500 reviews, the tour consistently receives praise for its informative and passionate guides. Names like Hugo, Leo, Francisco, and others frequently come up as knowledgeable, friendly, and humorous, making the day both educational and fun.

Many reviewers highlight the well-organized itinerary, interesting commentary, and beautiful scenery. The inclusion of the boat ride at Almourol Castle is often mentioned as a memorable feature. Some note that visiting in the morning avoids crowds and enhances the experience.

Who Will Most Appreciate This Tour?

This experience appeals most to those interested in medieval history, the Knights Templar, or Portuguese cultural heritage. The small group sizes and expert guides make it suitable for curious travelers who enjoy storytelling and detailed explanations. It’s especially good for history enthusiasts and families with older children who can manage walking and uneven paths.

However, travelers with mobility limitations or who prefer less walking** might find some parts challenging. The 8-hour duration suits those comfortable with full-day excursions and who want a comprehensive look at Tomar’s medieval sites.

Final Thoughts on the Tomar and Almourol Castle Tour

This full-day tour from Lisbon delivers a richly detailed look at the Knights Templar’s influence in Portugal. The visits to Almourol Castle, the Convent of Christ, and Santa Maria do Olival Church are thoughtfully curated, offering both spectacular scenery and deep historical context.

Priced at $91, the tour provides excellent value considering the entrance fees, boat ride, guided commentary, and transport included. The high praise from hundreds of reviews confirms it as a reliable and engaging choice for travelers eager to explore Portugal’s medieval past.

While some may wish for more accessibility or shorter options, the overall experience makes it well worth the time for those interested in knights, castles, and historic architecture. With friendly guides, scenic views, and immersive storytelling, this tour stands out as an enriching day trip from Lisbon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour involves some walking and uneven paths, so children over 1 year old and under 12 should use a child seat. The experience is best suited for older children and teenagers interested in history.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Spanish, and Portuguese, depending on the group.

Are there options for pickup?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off at selected Lisbon locations, either privately or as part of a small group.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but there is free time in Tomar to find local food options.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes, sun protection, and any personal items. The tour does not provide luggage or large bags.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Some parts of the sites involve rustic paths and stairs, so it is not fully accessible for wheelchair users or those with significant mobility limitations.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby