Private Tour to Tomar, Almourol Castle and the Templars

Aiming to explore Portugal’s medieval past and Templar heritage in a single day, the Private Tour to Tomar, Almourol Castle, and the Templars offers an engaging journey. Priced at $204.66 per person, this tour spans approximately 9 to 10 hours, making it an ideal day-trip for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. It departs from Lisbon at 9:00 am, with a pick-up service included for added convenience. The tour is completely private, ensuring an intimate experience tailored to your group, with group discounts available.

The tour’s highlights include a boat ride to Almourol Castle, a visit to the Convent of Christ, and time exploring Tomar’s medieval streets and Jewish heritage sites. The detailed itinerary ensures a well-paced and enriching day, with stops that showcase Portugal’s Templar and Jewish history, stunning architecture, and scenic landscapes. The only additional costs are modest admission fees for Almourol Castle and the Convent of Christ, totaling €15.

This experience is particularly suitable for those who prefer a structured day with expert guidance, and it appeals most to visitors eager to combine history, architecture, and scenic views into one memorable outing.

Key Points

• Private and personalized tour experience exclusive to your group
• Visit Almourol Castle by boat, an iconic medieval fortress on a river island
• Explore the Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage site and former Templar headquarters
• Wander through the medieval streets of Tomar, including its 15th-century synagogue and Jewish museum
• Includes scenic views from the old Aqueduct that supplied water to the Convent
• Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

Discover Almourol Castle by Boat on a Scenic River Ride

The day begins with a boat ride to Almourol Castle, a striking medieval fortress perched on a small river island. This important defensive site along the Tagus River dates back to 1129, when it was given to the Templar Knights. The magnificent appearance of the castle rising from the water offers perfect photo opportunities. The visit is done by a small boat, which enhances the intimacy and allows for a closer look at this historic site.

While the admission ticket for Almourol Castle is not included, the boat ride costs €5 and provides a memorable introduction to Portugal’s medieval military architecture. The castle’s location and design make it a highlight, especially for those interested in the Templar role in Portuguese history.

Exploring the Convent of Christ, Portugal’s Templar Heartland

Next, the tour moves on to Convento de Cristo in Tomar, a UNESCO World Heritage site that served as the headquarters for the Knights Templar in Portugal. The site was given to the Templars in 1159 after the conquest of Tomar from the Moors. Inside the castle walls, visitors find a medieval castle and a remarkable convent.

The Charola, a round chapel from the 12th century, is a key attraction. Its medieval architecture and renaissance art highlight Portugal’s religious and military history. The entrance fee for the Convent of Christ is €10, but the architectural splendors and stories of the Templars make the ticket worthwhile.

Strolling Through Tomar’s Medieval Streets and Jewish Heritage Sites

After exploring the convent, the tour continues with two hours in Tomar’s old town. The medieval layout features cross-shaped streets, leading up to the castle hill, giving a sense of stepping back in time. The 15th-century synagogue offers a glimpse into the Jewish community that thrived here until the early 16th-century expulsion ordered by King D. Manuel I.

Adjacent to the synagogue, the Abraham Zacuto Museum provides further insight into Jewish history and contributions. Visitors get to enjoy free admission to these sites, making this segment an enriching and accessible experience.

Walking the Old Aqueduct and Enjoying Panoramic Views

As the day winds down, guests walk along the old Aqueduct, a monumental structure historically used to bring water to the Convent of Christ. This spot offers spectacular panoramic views of the town and the river, perfect for photography and absorbing the scenic beauty of Tomar.

The aqueduct walk combines history with visual appeal, allowing visitors to appreciate the engineering marvels and landscape that shaped the daily life of medieval Tomar.

Meeting Point and Transportation Logistics

The tour begins promptly at 9:00 am, with pick-up included, near public transportation options in Lisbon. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort throughout the day, especially during the transfer between sites. The private nature of the tour guarantees that only your group participates, allowing for personalized attention and flexibility.

Practical Considerations: Admission Fees and Duration

The admission tickets for Almourol Castle and the Convent of Christ are not included in the base price, adding about €15 to the total cost. Travelers should budget accordingly and be prepared for optional fees at each site.

The entire experience lasts around 9 to 10 hours, with plenty of time allocated to each stop to avoid feeling rushed. The tour is well-paced for most travelers, including those who prefer a moderate walking pace and comfortable transportation.

Guided Expertise and Guest Experience

While specific guide names are not mentioned, the review mentions an excellent guide named Frederico, noting his proficiency in English and attentiveness. The tour’s flexibility and smooth logistics highlight the professionalism of EpiTravels Portugal as the experience provider.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This private tour suits history lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and those interested in the Templar legacy. The combination of scenic boat rides, walking tours, and cultural insights makes for a comprehensive day out. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a personalized experience with flexible scheduling and avoidance of large group crowds.

Visiting Almourol, the Templars’ Fortress on the River

The highlight for many remains the boat trip to Almourol Castle, which offers a unique vantage point to appreciate this medieval monument. Its strategic location and impressive appearance make it a must-see for history buffs. While the admission ticket for the castle isn’t included, the €5 boat ride provides an easy and scenic way to access it.

The Significance of the Convent of Christ

The Convent of Christ stands out as a symbol of Templar influence in Portugal. Its combination of medieval fortifications and Renaissance artistry illustrates the architectural evolution over centuries. Visiting this site gives tangible insights into the power and spirituality of the Templar Knights and their lasting imprint on Portuguese culture.

Exploring Tomar’s Jewish Heritage and Medieval Streets

Walking through Tomar’s old town reveals a medieval layout, with cross-shaped streets and historic buildings. The 15th-century synagogue and Abraham Zacuto Museum highlight the Jewish community’s presence until the early 16th century, adding depth to the historical narrative. The free access to these sites makes this part of the tour both educational and accessible.

Panoramic Views from the Old Aqueduct

The walk along the old Aqueduct offers stunning views of Tomar’s landscape. This structure once supplied water to the Convent and remains a monumental feat of engineering. Visitors appreciate the opportunity to take photos and enjoy the scenery at this elevated vantage point.

Final Thoughts on the Private Templar Tour from Lisbon

This private day-trip presents a compelling mix of history, architecture, and scenic beauty. Its flexible schedule, expert guidance, and personalized experience make it an attractive choice for those who prefer an intimate and well-organized tour. The modest additional fees for admission tickets are well worth the access they provide to Portugal’s rich medieval sites.

Best suited for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and anyone interested in the Templar legacy, this tour balances cultural insights with comfortable transportation and scenic stops. While it requires a full day, the experience offers a deep dive into Portugal’s medieval past with plenty of memorable sights.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in this tour?
The air-conditioned vehicle and private group experience are included. Admission tickets for Almourol Castle and the Convent of Christ are not included but are available for an additional €15.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 9 to 10 hours, starting at 9:00 am from Lisbon.

Is this a physically demanding tour?
The tour involves walking through historic sites and some outdoor exposure, but overall, it is suited for most travelers with moderate mobility.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility in planning.

Who guides this tour?
While specific guides are not named, the experience is led by professional guides from EpiTravels Portugal, known for attentive service.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, this tour is often booked 320 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. Booking early is recommended to secure your preferred date.