The Portuguese Knights Templar PRIVATE Full Day Tour

The Portuguese Knights Templar PRIVATE Full Day Tour offers an engaging journey into the history of the legendary Templar Knights. Priced at $338.19 per person, this 7 to 9-hour experience departs from Lisbon and takes visitors northward to explore some of Portugal’s most significant medieval sites. With hotel pickup and drop-off included, the tour ensures a comfortable, personalized day for anyone interested in history, architecture, and legendary tales.

A key feature of this tour is its private setting, meaning your group dictates the pace and the itinerary’s focus. The air-conditioned minivan keeps travel comfortable, while the group discount options and mobile ticket make planning straightforward. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a flexible, in-depth look at the Templars’ impact on Portugal, with enough time for lunch (not included) between visits. The tour’s high 5.0/5 rating from 8 reviews underscores its popularity and the satisfaction of those who participate.

Key Points

• Private full-day experience exploring Templar sites in Portugal, led by a professional guide and driver
• Visits to Almourol Castle and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tomar with its historic churches and Templar Castle
• Flexible itinerary allowing customization to suit your interests
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, with hotel pickup and drop-off included
• All travel expenses covered, including fuel, tolls, and parking
• Time for lunch between site visits (lunch not included)

The Starting Point: Hotel Pickup and Northward Journey

This private tour departs from your Lisbon accommodation, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, making the day seamless from start to finish. The journey takes you northward, where the first major stop is the Almourol Castle. This castle is one of Portugal’s most iconic, perched on a small island, and was a strategic fortress to defend against invasions.

Weather and river conditions influence the visit: if the boat crossing is unavailable, visitors still get close enough to admire the walls and take photos. This flexibility ensures that even in less favorable weather, the experience remains memorable. The guide provides context about the castle’s role in Templar history, setting the tone for the day ahead.

Visiting Almourol Castle: A Fortress on the River

Almourol Castle is a highlight of this tour, renowned for its picturesque setting and medieval architecture. Its location on a river island makes it a striking photo opportunity, whether from the boat or the surrounding banks.

While the boat ride may be canceled during low season or due to weather, the view of the walls from nearby vantage points still offers a glimpse into its defensive design. The site’s history as a key Templar fortress adds depth, making it a must-see for those interested in medieval Portugal.

Exploring Tomar’s UNESCO World Heritage Historic Centre

Next, the tour guides you into Tomar, a town famous for its Templar connections and beautifully preserved UNESCO World Heritage sites. Here, visitors have time to explore several key locations:

• The Convent of Christ and Templar Castle: This sprawling complex was a major commandery of the Templar Order. Its architecture combines Gothic, Manueline, and Renaissance styles, reflecting centuries of history.
• The Santa Maria do Olival Church: Known for its connection to the Templar Knights, this church is an important spiritual site.
• The São João Baptista Church: Another significant religious building, adding to the historic tapestry of Tomar.
• The Jewish Synagogue (currently under renovation): Artifacts are displayed at a temporary exhibition center, giving insight into the Jewish community’s history in Tomar.

The time spent here lets visitors walk through cobbled streets, admire historic buildings, and absorb Portugal’s medieval and religious heritage.

Templar History at the Convent of Christ and Templar Castle

The Convent of Christ is a central stop within Tomar, notable for its Templar Castle and the Charola, a circular church with a stunning rotunda. The site’s significance as a Templar stronghold means visitors learn about their strategic, religious, and political influence in Portugal.

The guide offers insights into the Templar’s defense tactics and their role in shaping the region, making this a must-see for those interested in medieval military architecture and religious orders.

Flexible Itinerary and Personalization Options

Since this is a private tour, there is ample opportunity to tailor the day to specific interests. Visitors can choose to spend more time at particular sites or explore additional nearby attractions with the help of the guide.

This flexibility is especially valuable for those with specific questions or areas of interest, like the Templar’s role in Portuguese history or architecture. You can also decide on the pace, making the experience either more relaxed or more comprehensive.

Lunch Break and Site-Seeing Pace

The tour allows time for lunch between the castle and city visits, although the meal itself is not included in the price. This break offers a chance to relax and enjoy local cuisine or a quick snack.

The overall pacing balances sightseeing with leisure, ensuring visitors do not feel rushed during their exploration of sites like the UNESCO heritage center or the castle complex.

Comfort and Convenience: Transport and Amenities

Traveling in a private vehicle with professional driver and guide enhances the experience, especially with Wi-Fi and bottled water provided throughout.

These amenities, along with the all-inclusive travel expenses (gas, tolls, parking), create a hassle-free day. The air-conditioned minivan ensures comfort, regardless of weather or season.

Tour Duration and Suitable Audience

The 7 to 9 hours length of the tour makes it a full but manageable day. It is suitable for most travelers who are comfortable with walking and exploring historical sites.

Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, it’s advisable to dress appropriately for the day’s weather. The experience is designed for most travelers, with the only restrictions being children must be accompanied by an adult.

Guides and Reviews: Knowledge and Personalization

The guide is praised for being knowledgeable, with excellent English communication skills. They are attentive to guest interests and flexible enough to adjust the itinerary as needed.

Multiple reviews highlight the guide’s storytelling ability, making the history of the Templars come alive through engaging commentary and personalized recommendations.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

The tour is available for advance booking with an average lead time of 51 days. It features a free cancellation policy if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for changing plans.

This arrangement ensures peace of mind for those planning ahead, especially during busy travel seasons.

Visiting the Templar Legacy: Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This private full-day experience is perfect for history enthusiasts, particularly those fascinated by the Templar Knights and their influence in Portugal. The combination of castle visits, UNESCO sites, and architectural marvels makes it a comprehensive look at medieval Portugal’s heritage.

The personalized approach and comfortable transport suit travelers seeking a relaxed, informative day tailored to their interests. It is especially well-suited for those who appreciate in-depth storytelling and flexible scheduling.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $338.19 per person, including all travel expenses and hotel pickup/drop-off.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 7 to 9 hours, depending on the pace and interest level.

What sites are included?
Visitors explore Almourol Castle, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Tomar, including Santa Maria do Olival, São João Baptista Church, and the Convent of Christ with its Templar Castle.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there is time to eat between site visits.

Can the itinerary be customized?
Yes, since it is a private tour, you can adjust the schedule to focus on specific sites or interests.

What transportation is used?
Travel is in a private, air-conditioned vehicle driven by a professional guide/driver.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate if accompanied by an adult.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

How do I book?
Booking is straightforward through the provider, What to do in Portugal, with confirmation received at the time of booking.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for weather conditions, as the tour operates in all weather conditions.

Who provides the tour?
The tour is operated by What to do in Portugal, with contact via +351911542421 or [email protected].