Knights Templar private day tour from Lisbon

Explore Portugal’s Knights Templar Heritage on a Private Day Tour from Lisbon

This private day tour from Lisbon offers an engaging journey through the land of the Knights Templar, blending history, architecture, and scenic views. Priced at $250.17 per person, it spans approximately 6 to 8 hours, making it a perfect full-day experience for those interested in Portugal’s medieval past. The tour departs at 8:30 am and features pickup, WiFi, bottled waters, and the comfort of a Mercedes-Benz vehicle driven by a certified guide. With an average booking window of 94 days in advance, it remains a popular choice for travelers seeking a personalized, insightful exploration of key Templar sites.

While the tour includes all taxes, it does not cover entrance tickets to specific sites, such as Almourol Castle and the Convent of Christ. This allows flexibility for visitors to choose how they wish to approach each attraction. The group size is limited to your private group, creating an intimate setting for detailed explanations and personalized attention.

This journey is ideal for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and those looking for a comfortably guided day out. The professional driver-guide and luxury vehicle promise a smooth experience, with WiFi connectivity making it convenient to share or plan your day further. Keep in mind that entrance fees are not included, so budget accordingly for specific sites you wish to explore more deeply.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with only your group participating
• Departs at 8:30 am from Lisbon with pickup included
• Visits Santarem, Almourol Castle, Tomar, and Convent of Christ
• Cost of $250.17 per person, with all taxes included
• Tour duration of 6 to 8 hours, offering a full-day adventure
• Expert driver-guide with WiFi and bottled waters onboard

Starting Point and Early Morning Pickup in Lisbon

The tour begins promptly at 8:30 am with pickup from your Lisbon accommodation or designated meeting point. This service ensures a hassle-free start, allowing you to relax immediately as your luxury Mercedes-Benz vehicle takes you to your first stop. The small group format guarantees personalized attention throughout the day, with the comfort of air conditioning and WiFi on board to stay connected or capture photos.

Traveling in a high-quality vehicle, the journey feels smooth and quiet, setting the right tone for a day of discovery. The timing allows for a leisurely pace, giving ample opportunity for photos, questions, and absorbing the surroundings without feeling rushed.

Discover Santarem, Portugal’s Gothic Capital

Your first stop is Santarem, a city known for its Gothic architecture and Roman roots. Founded by the Romans in the first century B.C., this city saw its prosperity peak during Moorish rule before being conquered by Portugal’s first king, Afonso I, in 1147.

In about one hour, you will visit the Church of Graça, a notable example of 13th-century Gothic style. The church houses the tomb of Pedro Alvares Cabral, the Portuguese explorer credited with discovering Brazil. Walking through Santarem’s streets offers a glimpse into its medieval past and its importance as a regional center.

This stop provides a cultural and historical foundation, setting the scene for the Knights Templar stories ahead. The visit is straightforward, with free admission, allowing you to explore at your own pace and appreciate the architectural details.

Crossing the Tagus River to Almourol Castle

The highlight of this tour is the boat ride across the upper Tagus River to reach the Castelo de Almourol, a 12th-century fortress built by the Knights Templar. The two-hour visit offers a chance to walk through the castle walls and enjoy breathtaking views of the river winding through the valleys of Ribatejo.

Perched on a small island, Almourol Castle was considered invincible in its time and formed part of a defensive line protecting Coimbra, Portugal’s then-capital. The strategic location and impressive architecture make it one of the most notable Templar-built castles in Portugal, with its medieval design still standing proudly.

Note that admission tickets for Almourol Castle are not included, which offers flexibility—visitors can decide whether to explore further or photograph the scenic surroundings from outside. The boat ride itself is a pleasant experience, providing a relaxed start to the castle visit.

Exploring Tomar, the Templar City

Following the castle, the tour continues to Tomar, a UNESCO World Heritage city founded in the 12th century. This city was directly linked to the Knights Templar and became a spiritual and military hub. Its medieval streets and historic ambiance reflect the influence of the Templar order, making it a compelling stop.

In about one hour, the walking tour explores the charming historic center, characterized by narrow lanes and picturesque buildings. At the heart of the city stands the Convent of Christ, built on a hill overlooking Tomar.

The city’s history is deeply intertwined with the Templars, as Gualdim Pais, a prominent Knight, established the first Templar headquarters in Europe here. The walking tour offers insights into this history, with a focus on the unique architecture and stories that make Tomar special.

Visiting the Convent of Christ, Templar Headquarters

The Convent of Christ is the tour’s most significant site, serving as the Templar headquarters in Portugal. Built after the extinction of the Knights Templar in 1307, this World Heritage Site is filled with legends and stories, making it a must-visit.

Over two hours, you can explore eight cloisters and see the distinctive architectural styles that span from the Romanesque and Gothic to the Manueline. The site’s historical importance and stunning design make it a highlight of the tour, offering a deep look into the religious and military aspects of the Templar order.

While admission tickets are not included, the guided commentary enriches the experience, helping visitors appreciate the site’s significance beyond its visual appeal. The legendary status and architectural detail make this stop memorable.

Comfort and Personal Guidance Throughout the Day

Throughout the tour, a certified professional driver-guide leads the group and provides engaging commentary about each location. The Mercedes-Benz vehicle with WiFi and bottled waters ensures a comfortable and convenient experience, with all taxes included in the price.

The private format allows for tailored questions, flexible pacing, and the ability to focus on specific interests. The pick-up service from Lisbon makes the start seamless, avoiding the need for public transport or additional planning.

The 24-hour cancellation policy offers flexibility, with full refunds available if canceled at least a day in advance. This setup suits those who prefer a personalized, hassle-free experience with professional guidance.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This tour is perfect for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and those curious about Portugal’s medieval past. The expert guide shares insightful stories, making complex history accessible and engaging. The scenic boat ride and visits to iconic sites provide a well-rounded experience.

It suits travelers who want a full-day, private guided experience without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. Those interested in knights, castles, and religious orders will find this tour especially rewarding.

The Sum Up: A Rich Templar History Journey from Lisbon

This Knights Templar private day tour from Lisbon offers an immersive look into Portugal’s medieval heritage, blending architecture, scenic views, and stories. The well-paced itinerary covers key sites like Santarem, Almourol Castle, Tomar, and the Convent of Christ, all guided by an expert driver-guide in a luxury vehicle.

The flexibility of the itinerary, personalized attention, and comfortable transport make this tour a compelling choice for those interested in history and culture. While entrance fees are not included, the value lies in the expert guidance and scenic experiences.

This tour delivers an educational, scenic, and historic adventure that appeals most to those wanting a privately guided, rundown of Portugal’s Knights Templar legacy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $250.17 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 6 to 8 hours.

What locations are included?
Stops include Santarem, Almourol Castle, Tomar, and the Convent of Christ.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour uses Mercedes-Benz vehicles with WiFi and bottled waters, and includes pickup in Lisbon.

Are entrance tickets included?
No, entrance tickets to sites like Almourol Castle and the Convent of Christ are not included.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate; the tour is designed to be accessible and comfortable.

Do I need to book well in advance?
Yes, on average, this tour is booked 94 days ahead, reflecting its popularity.

What makes this tour stand out?
The private setting, expert guides, scenic boat ride, and flexible itinerary make this a unique way to explore Portugal’s Knights Templar history.