Templar River: Tomar and Almourol Private Tour

This private Templar River: Tomar and Almourol Tour offers an engaging journey into Portugal’s medieval past for just $200.62 per person. Spanning 8 hours, this tour departs from Lisbon with hotel pickup and drop-off included, making it a convenient way to explore some of the country’s most iconic historic sites. The tour receives a perfect 5.0 out of 5 rating based on 6 reviews, highlighting its popularity among those eager to understand Portugal’s Templar history and medieval architecture.

Designed for history enthusiasts and curious travelers, this private experience packs in visits to the UNESCO-listed Castle of Tomar, the Convent of Christ, and the old synagogue of Tomar—Portugal’s oldest. The tour also features a scenic boat ride to Almourol Castle island and drives along the Ribatejo plains, passing through charming towns and offering captivating river views. The combination of guided storytelling, scenic stops, and exclusive access makes this a standout choice for those interested in Portugal’s medieval legacy.

Key Points

• Private, guided experience with hotel pickup and drop-off in Lisbon
• Includes visits to the Castle of Tomar, Convent of Christ, and Almourol Castle
• Boat ride to Almourol Castle island offers scenic views and exploration time
• Ideal for history lovers wanting a personalized, in-depth tour
• 8-hour duration balances sightseeing with leisure, with free time at key stops
• Cost of $200.62 per person, booked on average 82 days in advance

Starting Point: Hotel Pickup in Lisbon

The tour begins at 9:00am with a pickup from your Lisbon accommodation. You’ll board a private, air-conditioned minivan and meet your local guide, who brings the history of the Knights Templar to life during the one-hour drive to Tomar. This setup provides a smooth start and private atmosphere, perfect for those who prefer tailored experiences over group tours.

The guide’s commentary enhances the journey, creating an engaging atmosphere for learning about the Order of the Knights Templar and how they influenced Portugal’s cultural landscape. This personalized approach is a major advantage over larger group tours, allowing for flexible stops and questions.

Discovering the Castle of Tomar and Convento de Cristo

The first major stop is at the Castle of Tomar, where admission is included. This medieval fortress was the Templars’ headquarters, making it a must-see for history buffs. The Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage site, served as the Templars’ religious and administrative center.

Your guide leads a thorough exploration of these monuments, explaining their historical significance and architectural features. The convent’s hilltop setting provides sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, adding a scenic element to the visit. Expect about 2 hours at this site, giving ample time for sightseeing and photography.

Exploring Tomar’s Old Town and Portugal’s Oldest Synagogue

After touring the castle and convent, you’ll descend into the historic Old Town of Tomar for a free walk. This area showcases quaint streets and unique buildings, providing a glimpse into the town’s medieval charm.

A highlight here is visiting Portugal’s oldest synagogue, which is part of the town’s rich Jewish heritage. This brief 20-minute stop allows visitors to appreciate the diverse cultural influences that shaped Tomar. The synagogue’s historic significance and architecture offer a compelling insight into early Portuguese Jewish life.

Scenic Drive to Constância and River Views

Following the town exploration, the tour proceeds to Constância, a town famous for being the presumed residence of Luis de Camões, Portugal’s renowned poet. Here, scenic views of the Zêzere and Tejo rivers dominate the landscape, providing picturesque photo opportunities.

The drive between sites offers relaxing vistas along the Tagus River, setting the stage for the next adventure: a boat ride. This part of the tour is ideal for those who appreciate natural beauty combined with history.

The Boat Ride to Almourol Castle Island

Central to this experience is the boat ride across the calm waters of the Tagus River. The 45-minute cruise takes visitors to the Almourol Castle, a striking medieval fortress located on a small island. This boat trip is praised for its peaceful atmosphere and scenic views of the surrounding plains.

Once at the island, visitors have free time to explore the castle’s well-preserved walls and towers, soaking in the medieval ambiance. The admission to Almourol Castle is included, and the short exploration offers plenty of viewpoints for photos and appreciation of the castle’s unique setting.

Crossing the Ribatejo Plains and Seeing Santarém

After visiting Almourol, the route follows the beautiful roads along the Tagus River, passing through the Ribatejo plains. This landscape is known for its lush fields and traditional horse riding culture, especially in the town of Golegã.

The tour then passes through Santarém, Portugal’s Gothic capital, notable for its Gothic architecture. While this stop is primarily scenic, it offers a chance to admire the historic town’s architecture from the vehicle, rounding out the day’s culture.

Return to Lisbon with a Complete Overview

The journey back to Lisbon retraces the scenic route along the river and plains, arriving by the end of the day. The return drop-off at your hotel or accommodation completes this comprehensive 8-hour experience.

This itinerary balances guided storytelling, free exploration, and scenic drives, making it suitable for those who enjoy a mix of history, culture, and nature without feeling rushed.

Unique Features of This Private Templar Tour

The private nature of this tour ensures personalized attention, with guides who are knowledgeable and personable. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off simplifies logistics, especially for travelers unfamiliar with the area.

The tour’s emphasis on the Knights Templar’s history, combined with visits to historic sites like the synagogue and Almourol Castle, makes it especially appealing for history lovers. The boat ride adds a memorable element, offering a peaceful alternative to walking and driving.

Who Should Book This Tour

This private tour is perfect for those interested in medieval history and Portugal’s Templar legacy. It suits adults and older children comfortable with walking and scenic drives. The 8-hour schedule provides a full-day experience but includes plenty of free time for exploration and photos.

It is also well-suited for travelers who prefer customized experiences with local guides and want to avoid large groups. The tour’s scenic river views, historical monuments, and personalized approach make it a highly recommended choice for a culturally rich day outside Lisbon.

The Sum Up: A Rich Templar Adventure Close to Lisbon

The Templar River: Tomar and Almourol Private Tour offers a well-rounded exploration of Portugal’s medieval heritage with convenient hotel pickup, expert guides, and carefully chosen stops. The $200.62 price provides access to UNESCO sites, scenic river cruises, and the charm of historic towns, making it a worthwhile experience for history buffs and curious travelers alike.

While the tour is quite full, the personalized nature and scenic highlights ensure a memorable day. The combination of monument visits, scenic drives, and boat rides delivers a comprehensive look at Portugal’s Templar past in a relaxed, intimate setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is suitable for older children and adults who enjoy history, scenic views, and walking. It involves walking around sites and a boat ride, but no strenuous activity.

What is included in the price?
The admission tickets to the Castle of Tomar, Convent of Christ, and Almourol Castle are included, as well as hotel pickup and drop-off, a local guide, and transport by air-conditioned minivan.

How long is the boat ride to Almourol Castle?
The boat ride lasts approximately 45 minutes and provides scenic views of the river and the castle.

Can I purchase lunch during the free time in Tomar?
Yes, you can buy lunch during the 1 hour 30 minutes free period in Tomar; however, food and drinks are not included in the tour price.

Is this tour private or group-based?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group participates, offering a more personalized experience.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made around 82 days in advance, ensuring availability and a smooth planning process.

What makes this tour different from others in Lisbon?
Its focus on Knights Templar sites, the scenic boat ride, and the private, personalized experience set this tour apart from larger group options.

What’s the best time of year to take this tour?
While the data doesn’t specify seasons, the scenic drives along the river and outdoor visits are generally enjoyable from spring through early fall.

Is the tour physically demanding?
It involves walking around historic sites and some standing, but no strenuous activity. Comfortable shoes are recommended for exploring the castles and town streets.

Can I customize the itinerary?
As a private tour, there’s potential for some flexibility, especially with the guide’s input during your day.