Templar Knights Route – Discover the secret of Almourol and Tomar

Discover the Templar Knights Route in Portugal for an Enchanting Day Trip

The Templar Knights Route offers an engaging journey through historic Portugal, starting at the stunning Almourol Castle on the Tagus River. For $287.35 per person, this private tour provides an approximately 9-hour experience packed with castles, medieval architecture, and stories of the Templar Knights. The tour includes private transportation, boat rides, and tickets to key sites, with the flexibility to extend to 11 hours for an extra charge.

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on history and culture, with knowledgeable guides leading the way. The tour’s highlight is the boat crossing to Almourol Castle, complemented by visits to Tomar’s UNESCO-listed Convent of Christ and optionally to the historic Battle of Aljubarrota site in Batalha.

While the lunch isn’t included, the tour offers a full medieval experience at Taberna Antiga in Tomar, giving travelers a taste of local cuisine in an atmospheric setting. Thanks to group discounts and mobile tickets, this tour is both practical and engaging for those eager to learn about Portugal’s Templar legacy in a single day.

Key Points

• Price: $287.35 per person for a comprehensive 9-hour private tour.
• Highlights: Almourol Castle, Tomar’s Convent of Christ, optional Batalha extension.
• Includes: Tickets, private transport, bottled water, and live guide commentary.
• Not included: Lunch, giving flexibility for personal preferences.
• Unique feature: Boat ride across the Tagus River to Almourol Castle.
• Tour length: Around 9 hours with optional extension to 11 hours.

Starting Point and Transportation Details

The tour departs from the Hard Rock Cafe in Lisbon, located on Av. da Liberdade. From there, travelers are transported in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort during the approximately 9-hour journey. The private transportation allows for a relaxed pace and personalized commentary from an experienced guide. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed and near public transportation options for ease of access.

Exploring Almourol Castle by Boat and Foot

Almourol Castle captures the imagination with its medieval walls and strategic position on the Tagus River. The tour includes a scenic boat crossing, giving visitors the chance to appreciate the castle from the water and learn about its historical significance. Once on land, the guide provides vivid explanations of the castle’s history, architecture, and role during the Templar period. The 40-minute visit offers a good balance of sightseeing without feeling rushed.

The Historic Charm of Vila Nova da Barquinha

Before reaching Almourol, the tour visits Vila Nova da Barquinha, a quaint village that offers insights into the region’s strategic importance for the Templar Knights. This 45-minute stop provides a glimpse into local life and the area’s medieval past, setting the stage for the castle visit. The stop is admission ticket-free, making it a practical and atmospheric introduction.

Discovering Tomar’s Unique Heritage

The town of Tomar serves as the heart of the tour, showcasing its vital role in Portugal’s history. Visitors explore Gualdim Pais’s legacy and understand why Tomar became a hub for the Templar Knights. The 1-hour stop grants time to appreciate the town’s charming streets and historic ambiance, making it ideal for photos and casual exploration.

Visiting the UNESCO-listed Convent of Christ

The Convent of Christ in Tomar is renowned for its Manueline architecture and as the headquarters of the Templar Knights. The tour includes a 1-hour visit to this UNESCO World Heritage site, where travelers can admire the Gothic, Renaissance, and Moorish influences. The guide highlights the monastery’s history, architecture, and importance in Portuguese history, providing context for its religious and military functions.

Tasting Medieval Flavors at Taberna Antiga

Instead of a standard lunch, the tour offers a special medieval-themed experience at Taberna Antiga in Tomar. While lunch is not included in the base price, this stop transforms dining into a cultural feast, with traditional dishes served in an atmospheric setting reminiscent of historic taverns. This addition enhances the overall experience, making the meal part of the journey through Portugal’s medieval past.

Optional Extension to Batalha and Its Historic Battle Site

Travelers interested in Portugal’s military history can extend the tour to the Battle of Aljubarrota in Batalha. This additional hour (with extra charge) allows a visit to the Batalha Monastery and the battlefield, where the decisive battle shaped Portugal’s future. The free admission during the extension offers insight into the country’s formation and the legend surrounding this pivotal event.

Practicalities and Booking Flexibility

The tour provides mobile tickets and group discounts, making it accessible and cost-effective. The cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, offering peace of mind. The meeting point at the Hard Rock Cafe is close to public transportation, simplifying logistics for visitors. The duration balances sightseeing with comfort, providing enough time at each stop without feeling rushed.

Why Choose This Tour?

This private Templar Knights Route is ideal for those who want an intimate, guided experience that combines history, architecture, and local culture. The inclusion of boat rides and a medieval-themed lunch makes the tour engaging and memorable. The expert guide ensures detailed storytelling, bringing the sites to life and making the history accessible.

The tour’s flexibility, including the option to extend, appeals to travelers who want a deeper dive into Portugal’s medieval past. Its value is clear with all tickets included and comfortable transportation, making it a smooth and enriching day out from Lisbon.

Summary of the Templar Knights Route Experience

The Templar Knights Route from Lisbon delivers a well-rounded exploration of Portugal’s medieval sites with expert guidance, scenic boat rides, and a taste of local life. The 9-hour itinerary, priced at $287.35, suits visitors eager to discover castles, religious sites, and historic battles in a single day. The private nature of the tour allows for personalized attention and flexibility, especially with the optional extension to Batalha.

While lunch is not included, the medieval dining experience at Taberna Antiga enhances the cultural authenticity of the trip. The combination of history, architecture, and storytelling makes this tour a comprehensive and satisfying way to learn about Portugal’s Templar legacy.

This tour is best suited for history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and those interested in Portugal’s medieval period. Its engaging stops and knowledgeable guides ensure that each moment is both educational and enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, as most travelers can participate, and physical requirements are generally minimal. The tour includes boat rides and site visits that are accessible for most.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes tickets to Almourol Castle and the Convent of Christ, private transportation, bottled water, GST, and live guide commentary.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours before the start of the tour.

Is lunch provided?
No, lunch is not included, but there is an option to enjoy a medieval-themed meal at Taberna Antiga.

How long is the tour?
The standard tour lasts approximately 9 hours, with an optional extension to 11 hours available for additional cost.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Hard Rock Cafe in Lisbon and ends back at the same location.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, private, air-conditioned transportation is included for the entire day.

What makes this tour unique?
The boat crossing to Almourol Castle, the medieval dining experience, and the focus on Templar history give it a distinctive flavor compared to typical sightseeing tours.