Tomar and Almourol tour from Lisbon

Discover the secrets of Portugal’s Knights Templar history with this 7-hour small-group tour from Lisbon, priced at $164.93 per person. This experience takes you to Almourol Castle, the Convent of Christ, and Igreja de Santa Maria dos Olivais, providing a fascinating glimpse into medieval Portugal. The tour is designed for those who prefer a relaxed pace, with transportation included, Wi-Fi onboard, and no guide entering the monuments—giving you the freedom to explore each site at your own speed.

The tour departs from Pç do Marquês de Pombal 8, Lisboa at 8:30 am and lasts approximately 7 hours. It features group discounts, air-conditioned transport, and bottled water, making it comfortable and convenient. While admission tickets to the sites are not included, this setup allows for flexible exploration. The small group size, with a maximum of 8 travelers, ensures a more intimate experience, ideal for history enthusiasts and those seeking a personalized touch.

Key Points

• Duration: 7 hours of sightseeing from Lisbon, covering key Knights Templar sites
• Cost: $164.93 per person, with group discounts available
• Transport: Wi-Fi enabled, air-conditioned van for comfort and scenic views
• Flexibility: No guide enters the monuments; you explore freely at your own pace
• Highlights: Almourol Castle, Convent of Christ, Igreja de Santa Maria dos Olivais
• Booking: Most reservations are made 23 days in advance, ensuring availability

Starting Point and Convenience of Pickup

The tour begins at Pç do Marquês de Pombal 8 in Lisbon, a central and easy-to-reach location. The departure time is 8:30 am, promising a full day of exploration. The pickup option makes it simple to start your day without worrying about transportation logistics. After a day of touring, the experience concludes back at the original meeting point, making it easy to plan your day afterward.

Comfortable and Modern Transportation

Traveling in a Wi-Fi equipped, air-conditioned van allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery between sites. The driver-guide provides interesting commentary during the journey, explaining the historical significance of each stop without entering the sites themselves. This setup appeals to visitors who enjoy a more independent exploration style, with the reassurance of comfortable transportation and expert insights.

Visiting Almourol Castle in Praia do Ribatejo

The first stop is Almourol Castle, located in the parish of Praia do Ribatejo, within the district of Santarém. This medieval fortress is renowned for its picturesque setting on a small island in the Tagus River, providing iconic photo opportunities. While the admission ticket is not included, visitors appreciate the chance to view this well-preserved castle from the outside, learning about its role in the Knights Templar history.

The 2-hour visit allows ample time to admire the castle’s architecture and enjoy the scenic surroundings. Since there are no guided tours inside, you can explore at your leisure, soaking in the views and taking photos.

Exploring the Convent of Christ in Tomar

The Convent of Christ stands as a highlight of the tour, dating from the 12th to the 18th centuries. Located in the city of Tomar, this UNESCO World Heritage site features a blend of architectural styles, including the famous Knights Templar Church and the Romanesque, Gothic, Manueline, and Renaissance elements.

Spending around 3 hours here, visitors can appreciate the historic buildings, the chapel of the Holy Spirit, and the cloisters. The site’s significance in the Templar legacy makes it a must-see. Because entrance tickets are not included, visitors should plan to purchase tickets separately if they wish to go inside, but the outside views and guided explanations add to the experience.

Visiting Igreja de Santa Maria dos Olivais in Tomar

The third major stop is Igreja de Santa Maria dos Olivais, situated on the left bank of the Nabão River. This church of Santa Maria do Olival is notable for its role in the royal and Templar history of the region. The 2-hour visit offers a chance to see its historic façade and interior, appreciating its centuries-old architecture.

This church completes the trio of key Templar sites on the tour and provides insight into the religious and cultural context of medieval Portugal. Again, admission is not included, allowing flexibility for visitors to decide whether to enter.

The Freedom to Explore at Your Own Pace

One of the tour’s most praised features is the lack of a guide entering the monuments. The driver guide offers brief explanations at each site, ensuring you know what makes each location significant. Afterward, you are free to spend as much or as little time as you like exploring each site.

This approach benefits those who prefer to avoid strict schedules and enjoy personalized exploration. The small group size of up to 8 travelers enhances this experience, making it more intimate and allowing for more flexibility.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The included amenities are practical and enhance comfort: Wi-Fi on board, air conditioning, bottled water, insurance, and all taxes. The main expense not covered is the entrance tickets to the sites, so travelers should budget for those separately.

Notably, meals and accommodations are not included, giving you the freedom to choose local options at your own pace. The cancellation policy offers full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This experience is ideal for those interested in the history of the Knights Templar, seeking a relaxed, flexible day trip from Lisbon, and appreciating comfortable transport and personal exploration. The small group size ensures a more personalized service, perfect for history buffs and solo travelers who value independence.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Unlike other group tours that include guided inside visits, this tour emphasizes freedom and comfort. The scenic drive, combined with timed stops at iconic sites, offers a balanced mix of sightseeing and flexibility. The absence of guide entry means you can explore the sites without feeling rushed, making it suitable for those who prefer to set their own pace.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour provides a rundown of Portugal’s Templar sites, the admission tickets are not included, so visitors should plan to purchase these separately. Plus, the driver guide does not enter the monuments, so deeper insights inside the buildings require individual exploration or separate guided tours.

Final Verdict: A Flexible Templar Adventure from Lisbon

This 7-hour tour from Lisbon offers a well-balanced experience of history, scenery, and personal freedom. It suits visitors who want to learn about the Knights Templar without the constraints of a guided inside tour. The comfortable transportation, scenic stops, and small group format make it a reliable choice for history enthusiasts seeking a flexible, enjoyable day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are entrance tickets included in the tour price?
No, entrance tickets to the Almourol Castle, Convent of Christ, and Igreja de Santa Maria dos Olivais are not included in the tour price. Visitors should plan to purchase tickets separately if they wish to enter.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour has a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, travelers are transported in a Wi-Fi-enabled, air-conditioned van from the meeting point in Lisbon.

Can I explore each site at my own pace?
Absolutely. Since the guide does not enter the monuments, you are free to explore each site on your own after a brief explanation at each stop.

What is the best time to book this tour?
Most bookings are made about 23 days in advance, so early reservation is recommended to secure your spot.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not eligible for refunds.