Private Tour Almourol-Tomar, Templars c/pickup at the Hotel

Explore Portugal’s Templar Legacy on a Private Sintra Tour

The Private Tour Almourol-Tomar, Templars c/pickup at the Hotel offers an engaging journey through Portugal’s history, costing $183.42 per person and lasting around 8 hours. This tour is designed for those eager to explore the roots of the Portuguese kingdom, with a focus on the legendary Templar Knights and their influence. It departs from Sintra, an ideal starting point for discovering the historic treasures in this region.

The tour’s highlights include visits to Almourol Castle, accessible via a boat trip, and the Convento de Cristo, a monumental Renaissance site. The tour includes private transportation, all vehicle expenses, and a knowledgeable guide. Review scores are perfect, and the tour is highly recommended for fans of history, architecture, and scenic views. While it doesn’t include lunch or entry fees, the comprehensive itinerary and private setting make it a great value for a full-day experience.

Key Points

• Private, fully customized experience with a knowledgeable guide
• Duration of approximately 8 hours, with pick-up at your hotel in Sintra
• Visits to Almourol Castle, Convento de Cristo, and Tomar’s charming historic center
• Boat trip included for the castle visit, with entrance tickets to Convento de Cristo included
• Remarkable views at Jardim das Portas do Sol and the Pegões aqueduct
• Tour is best suited for those with moderate physical fitness and interest in history and architecture

Convenient Pick-up and Private Transport in Sintra

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Sintra, offering a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle to maximize your comfort throughout the day. The private nature of this experience ensures an exclusive journey, with all vehicle expenses covered. This allows for flexible pacing and personalized attention from your guide, making it ideal for small groups or individual travelers.

The pickup service emphasizes ease, especially since the tour covers multiple locations across the region. Travelers can expect a smooth start, with the vehicle ready to take you from Sintra’s central points directly to each stop, saving time and effort.

Impressive Views at Jardim das Portas do Sol

The first stop, Jardim das Portas do Sol, offers an outstanding viewpoint overlooking the Tagus River and the Ribatejo plains. The garden provides a breathtaking panorama, perfect for photos and soaking in natural beauty. This stop is brief but memorable, setting the tone for the day with scenic vistas and a peaceful atmosphere.

While no admission is required, the viewpoint remains a favorite for its stunning landscape and the chance to appreciate Portugal’s diverse scenery from a gentle walk through the garden.

Visiting Almourol Castle by Boat

The highlight for many is the visit to Almourol Castle, accessed via a boat trip across the river. This fortress is famously associated with the Kingdom of Portugal and the Order of the Templars. The boat ride itself provides a romantic introduction to the castle’s surroundings, offering unique views and a sense of adventure.

Once at the castle, visitors can explore the medieval structure, which is in a typical well-preserved state with a commanding presence on the riverbank. The admission ticket to the castle is included in the tour, allowing for easy access. The boat trip and castle visit are estimated to take about 1 hour.

Discovering the Convento de Cristo’s Renaissance Masterpiece

The Convento de Cristo is the tour’s centerpiece, with 1 hour and 30 minutes allocated for exploration. This site is celebrated as one of Portugal’s most important Renaissance architectural works. The monumental complex features climbs to the Templar castle and detailed stonework, revealing centuries of history.

The admission ticket is included, giving access to the cloisters, chapels, and the iconic Knights Templar Tower. Visitors often find the craftsmanship and historical significance of the site remarkably engaging. Guides typically share stories about the Templar Knights and the building’s role in Portugal’s formation.

Scenic View of the Pegões Aqueduct

A quick 15-minute stop at the Aqueduto dos Pegoes offers a spectacular view of the surrounding countryside. The aqueduct remains in good condition, and visitors are encouraged to climb up and take photos of this impressive engineering feat. There’s no admission fee, making it a hassle-free scenic vista.

This stop is perfect for a short break and appreciation of Portugal’s historical infrastructure, with plenty of photo opportunities of the aqueduct and lush landscape.

Exploring the Historic Center of Tomar

The final destination is the historic center of Tomar, where the tour allows 2 hours to stroll through the charming streets. Highlights include the old bridge, Serpa Pinto street, the Town Hall, and the Church of Saint John the Baptist.

This part of the tour offers a taste of local life, with plenty of opportunities to observe traditional architecture, enjoy the atmosphere, and perhaps browse local shops. The visit emphasizes free attractions, focusing on the town’s medieval character and architectural beauty.

Expert Guides and Enthusiastic Narration

The team behind this tour describes themselves as young, creative, and full of energy, with a passion for sharing Portugal’s hidden secrets. The guides are praised for their knowledgeable storytelling and ability to bring history alive. The tour’s reviewers highlight Jose and Bruno as exceptional guides, with Bruno especially commended for weaving in stories about the Templar Knights during castle visits.

Their approach emphasizes personalized attention, making the experience engaging and informative. The guides’ enthusiasm enhances the tour, especially when explaining the historical significance of each site.

Practical Details and Booking Information

This private tour is recommended to be booked around 104 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. It includes all vehicle expenses, insurance, and tourism licenses, ensuring a smooth and legal experience. The tour does not include lunch or entry fees apart from the specified sites, so travelers should plan accordingly.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before, allowing flexibility if plans change. The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, as some walking and climbing may be involved but no strenuous activity is required.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This experience suits history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and those curious about Portugal’s medieval past. The private setting makes it ideal for small groups or individuals seeking a personalized journey. The combination of scenic views, cultural insights, and well-preserved sites makes it a compelling option for a full-day exploration.

While the tour does not include meals, the focused itinerary allows plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. Its perfect review score and enthusiastic guide descriptions suggest it’s a well-organized, memorable way to understand Portugal’s Templar legacy and historic towns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, private transportation is included, with an air-conditioned vehicle covering all expenses for the day.

Are admission tickets to the sites included?
Yes, the admission tickets for Convento de Cristo and the boat trip to Almourol Castle are included. Other sites, like Jardim das Portas do Sol and the Pegões aqueduct, do not require fees.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Refunds are processed if canceled within this window.

Is this tour suitable for all physical fitness levels?
Yes, but a moderate fitness level is recommended, as some walking and climbing may be involved at various stops.

Does the tour operate in all weather conditions?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

This private tour from Sintra offers a carefully curated exploration of Portugal’s Templar sites, combining scenic views, historical storytelling, and comfort, making it a smart choice for history buffs and culture lovers alike.