Tomar, Almourol and Knights Templar

Discover the Knights Templar with an 8-Hour Excursion from Lisbon

For those interested in Portugal’s medieval past, the Tomar, Almourol, and Knights Templar tour offers an engaging journey through history at a price of $112.17 per person. This full-day experience lasts approximately 8 hours and includes pick-up, group discounts, and mobile tickets for added convenience. The tour departs from Alameda Cardeal Cerejeira in Lisbon and features a small group size, capped at 8 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.

What makes this tour stand out is the comprehensive visit to important Knights Templar sites: the Almourol Castle, the Convent of Christ, and the Church of Santa Maria do Olival. With all entrance tickets included, visitors can explore these iconic locations without worrying about extra costs. The tour is ideal for history enthusiasts, Templar fans, and visitors seeking an in-depth look at Portugal’s medieval heritage.

Key Points

• Price: $112.17 per person, with group discounts available
• Duration: 8 hours from pickup to return
• Small group size: Max 8 travelers, ensuring personal guidance
• All entrance tickets included for Almourol Castle, the Convent of Christ, and the Church of Santa Maria do Olival
• Transport: Air-conditioned minivan with daily disinfection
• Guides: Knowledgeable guides known for storytelling and attentiveness
• Highlights: Visiting Castelo de Almourol, the UNESCO-listed Convent of Christ, and Tomar’s Templar heritage

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at Alameda Cardeal Cerejeira in Lisbon, a location accessible by public transportation. The pick-up service simplifies the start, and the tour ends back at the same point, making it easy to plan your day. Travelers should be prepared for moderate physical activity and wear comfortable shoes, especially since some sites feature cobblestone surfaces and uneven terrain.

Inside the vehicle, face masks are mandatory, and daily vehicle disinfection is maintained. Guests will find hand sanitizer and disposable masks on board for extra safety. It’s recommended to book at least 50 days in advance, as the tour is popular and tends to fill quickly.

Visiting Almourol Castle: A Medieval Fortress on an Island

The first stop is the Castelo de Almourol, set on a small island in the river near the village of Constância. Built in the 12th century by the Templars, this picturesque castle offers stunning views and a tangible sense of medieval military architecture. Visitors can explore the stone battlements and imagine the castle’s strategic role in crusades and defense.

The boat ride to Almourol Castle is a highlight for many, providing a scenic approach to this fortress. The admission ticket is included, and visitors typically spend around 2 hours here. The site’s atmosphere and location make it a favorite among Templar enthusiasts and photography lovers alike.

The Convent of Christ: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Next, the tour visits the Convent of Christ, a massive complex originally established as a headquarters for the Knights Templar. The church within the complex is inspired by the Temple of Solomon, with cloisters, gardens, and the famous Manueline window showcasing intricate stonework.

Guided exploration of the convent lasts about 2 hours and reveals the mystical elements of the Templar order, emphasizing their roles as Knights, Warriors, and Monks. The entrance fee is covered, allowing guests to walk freely through the grounds and admire the architecture and artifacts.

Tomar: The Templar Capital of Portugal

The city of Tomar served as the headquarters of the Knights Templar in Portugal. Built between the 12th and 16th centuries, the castle and surrounding structures now form part of a UNESCO World Heritage site. This historic hub features medieval streets, fortifications, and the original Templar buildings that showcase the city’s importance.

Travelers are given about 1 hour to walk around Tomar’s historic center, soaking in the atmosphere of Portugal’s medieval past. The significance of Tomar as a medieval Templar seat makes it a crucial stop for history buffs.

The Church of Santa Maria do Olival: Templar Gothic Architecture

Venture to the Gothic-style Church of Santa Maria do Olival, a 12th-century church built explicitly for the Knights Templar. This architectural gem features large, pointed arches and panoramic countryside views from its surroundings. The church’s historical and architectural significance lies in its connection to the Templar order.

Guests spend about 1 hour here, exploring the interior and appreciating the medieval craftsmanship. Its scenic setting offers plenty of photo opportunities, especially of the rural landscape that stretches beyond the church.

Guides Known for Knowledgeable Storytelling

The tour features guides recognized for their depth of knowledge and engaging storytelling style. Multiple reviews highlight guides like Leo, Roy, Daniel, and Hugo, who effectively share the history, legends, and intricacies of the Knights Templar. These guides treat the group with warmth, making the experience both informative and enjoyable.

Many guides go beyond simple facts, answering questions with confidence and providing extra context that enriches the visit. Their passion for history creates a lively and memorable atmosphere, making this tour particularly appealing to those eager to learn from passionate experts.

Transport and Safety Measures

Travelers are transported in air-conditioned minivans, with daily disinfection practices in place. Face masks are mandatory inside the vehicle and at each monument, aligning with safety standards. The small group size ensures fewer crowds and a more personalized experience, especially during busy periods.

The tour offers pickup from Lisbon, simplifying logistics and allowing guests to relax from the start. The comfortable and safe transport helps keep the pacing steady, with enough time allocated for each site.

Flexibility and Booking Preferences

This tour appeals to those who prefer advance planning, as bookings are typically made 50 days in advance. It’s suitable for individuals with moderate physical fitness, given the walking involved and some uneven surfaces. The tour is fully refundable if canceled more than 24 hours before the start, providing peace of mind.

Though lunch is not included, guests have ample time to find local eateries for a break during the day. The flexibility combined with included entrance fees makes this experience both comprehensive and convenient.

Final Verdict: A Well-Rounded Templar Adventure

The Tomar, Almourol, and Knights Templar tour offers a deep dive into Portugal’s medieval Templar history with stunning castles, iconic architecture, and engaging guides. It is especially suitable for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and those curious about medieval military orders.

While the tour is well-paced and comprehensively guided, it requires moderate physical activity and early booking due to its popularity. The small group size and included tickets add to its value, making it a stress-free way to explore these historic sites.

This tour stands out for its knowledgeable guides, beautiful locations, and immersive experience, providing a rewarding glimpse into Portugal’s Templar past.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, transport by air-conditioned minivan is included, with pickup and drop-off at the meeting point in Lisbon.

Are entrance tickets to the sites included?
All entrance tickets to Almourol Castle, the Convent of Christ, and the Church of Santa Maria do Olival are included.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with specific site visits totaling around 6 hours, plus travel time.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there is enough time during the day to find a local restaurant.

What is the group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Are safety measures in place?
Yes, daily vehicle disinfection and the mandatory use of face masks inside the vehicle and monuments are enforced.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled more than 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What kind of physical activity is involved?
Moderate walking and standing are involved at each site; comfortable shoes are recommended.

Who is this tour best suited for?
This experience is ideal for history lovers, architecture fans, and those eager to learn about Portugal’s medieval Knights Templar.

How far in advance should I book?
It is recommended to book at least 50 days in advance due to high demand and limited group size.