Templar’s Castle, Nazaré and Obidos

Key Points

• Exclusive private tour with personalized attention, led by knowledgeable guides
• Visit iconic sites like the Templar’s Castle in Tomar, Nazaré’s coastal cliffs, and Óbidos’ medieval walls
• Flexible itinerary offering an optional visit to Fatima or Tomar Castle
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, with bottled water included
• Duration of approximately 9 hours, starting at 8:30 am from Lisbon
• Highly praised guides known for their friendliness, historical expertise, and engaging storytelling

An In-Depth Look at the Templar’s Castle in Tomar

The tour begins with a visit to Castelo de Tomar, a 900-year-old fortress built by the Knights Templar. This site offers a glimpse into Portugal’s medieval past and the influence of the Templars on Portuguese history. While admission tickets are not included, the architecture and history make this stop a highlight for history buffs.

Guides lead you through the site, explaining the castle’s significance and its connection to the Knights Templar. Expect to see the fortress’s ancient walls, the cistern, and the surrounding architecture that has stood for nearly a millennium. The stop lasts about an hour, providing enough time to appreciate the grandeur and historical details.

Nazaré’s Coastal Beauty and Surfing Fame

After exploring Tomar, the tour heads to Nazaré, a lively fishing village famous for its massive waves and spectacular cliffs. The two-hour stop includes a visit to Nazaré’s funicular, which offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the town’s colorful streets.

Here, the scenery is striking—cliffs tower above the beach, and the sea’s power is visible in the waves that attract world-class surfers. Travelers get to walk along the waterfront, soak up the fishing village vibe, and admire the natural beauty of Portugal’s Atlantic coast.

Óbidos: Medieval Charm and Cherry Liqueur

On the return to Lisbon, the bus makes a scenic stop at Óbidos, a medieval walled town that dates back centuries. The town’s castle walls, cobblestone streets, and charming architecture create a storybook setting.

Visitors can stroll through the town’s narrow streets, visit the medieval castle, and taste traditional cherry liqueur (Ginjinha). The two-hour visit offers a relaxed pace to admire the architecture and enjoy some local flavors. The town’s quaint shops and historic atmosphere make it a favorite for many.

Flexible Optional Visits to Fatima or Tomar Castle

This tour offers an option to visit the sacred sanctuary of Fatima or Tomar Castle during the day. If you choose Fatima, you’ll see the renowned religious site with its basilicas and spiritual ambiance. Alternatively, the Tomar Castle provides an in-depth look at the Knights Templar’s legacy.

This flexibility allows travelers to tailor the experience based on personal interests or spiritual inclinations. The guide customizes the day, ensuring that each group gets the most meaningful experience.

Convenient Transportation and Personal Comfort

The tour includes air-conditioned transportation for the entire day, ensuring comfort while traveling between sites. Bottled water is provided, helping you stay refreshed during the approximately 9-hour adventure. The tour picks up directly from Lisbon, with near public transportation options available for easy access.

The private nature of this tour means only your group participates, allowing for a more intimate and flexible experience. Guides are praised for their friendliness, extensive knowledge, and engaging storytelling, making the day both educational and enjoyable.

The Experience of the Guides

Reviews consistently highlight the guides’ expertise and personable approach. Guides like Gui, João, and Miguel are noted for being knowledgeable, friendly, and accommodating. They often go beyond the scheduled stops, offering extra insights into Portugal’s history and culture.

Many reviews mention the guides’ ability to explain complex historical facts clearly and connect with guests, making the experience lively and personalized. Their stories and recommendations significantly enrich the tour, creating a memorable day.

Timing, Pacing, and Logistics

The tour starts promptly at 8:30 am, giving a full day to explore. The stops are well-paced, with two hours typically allocated for Nazaré and Óbidos, and about an hour for Tomar Castle. The flexible schedule allows for a relaxed experience without feeling rushed.

Since this is a private tour, the itinerary adapts easily to your interests, and the pickup from your accommodation simplifies logistics. The most travelers can participate, making it a suitable choice for a wide range of visitors.

What’s Included and What to Bring

Included in the price are bottled water and transport in an air-conditioned vehicle. The tour does not include lunch, so it’s advisable to bring snacks or plan to dine at one of the local spots during the stops.

The tour is designed for comfortable walking, but no specific physical requirements are mentioned. Accessibility should be checked if mobility is a concern, though the stops mainly involve walking through historic towns and sites.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

The tour can be booked 71 days in advance on average, with full cancellation free of charge up to 24 hours before the start. This flexibility adds peace of mind in case plans change. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

The price of $162.55 per person reflects the comprehensive experience, guided service, and transportation, making it a good value for those seeking a detailed overview of central Portugal’s highlights.

Final Thoughts: A Well-Rounded Day Trip from Lisbon

This private tour offers a personalized experience of central Portugal’s most iconic sites, with an emphasis on history, scenery, and local culture. The flexibility to choose between optional visits like Fatima or Tomar Castle allows customization for different interests.

The highlight remains the knowledgeable guides, whose storytelling, friendliness, and local insights elevate the day beyond just sightseeing. The stops at Nazaré and Óbidos are particularly well-loved for their natural beauty and medieval charm.

While it doesn’t include lunch, the convenience of door-to-door pickup, air-conditioned transport, and bottled water make it a comfortable, hassle-free option. This tour suits anyone looking for an engaging, flexible day exploring Portugal’s historic towns, coastal vistas, and castle ruins with expert guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate. The tour involves walking through towns and sites but does not specify any physical restrictions.

Can I customize the stops?
Since this is a private tour, guides are typically flexible and can adapt the itinerary based on your interests, including the choice of visiting Fatima or Tomar Castle.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting at 8:30 am from Lisbon.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included. It’s recommended to bring snacks or plan to dine during the stops.

What is the price per person?
The tour costs $162.55 per person, with private service ensuring an intimate experience.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour includes air-conditioned transportation and bottled water for the day.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked 71 days in advance, but it can be booked closer to your preferred date if available.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.