Tomar the Former City of the Knight Templars | Portugal

Explore the City of the Knight Templars with a Private Guided Day Trip

This private tour from Lisbon offers an immersive day in Tomar, a city famed for its medieval connections and stunning architecture. Priced at $474.14 per group of up to 6 people, it provides a personalized experience led by knowledgeable guides like Fatima, who bring the city’s history to life. The tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a full-day cultural excursion.

What makes this tour particularly attractive is the combination of historical sites, scenic landscapes, and exclusive access. You will visit the Convento of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Almourol Castle, perched on a granite island in the Tagus River. The inclusion of Wi-Fi adds convenience, and the tour is designed for most travelers, with pickup included and flexible cancellation policies.

However, keep in mind that entrance fees to the monuments are not included, so budget for those if you wish to explore every detail. This experience is perfect for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and anyone eager to see more of Portugal’s fascinating past beyond Lisbon.

Key Points

• Private, guided tour from Lisbon for up to 6 people at $474.14.
• Visits to Tomar’s Convento of Christ and Almourol Castle with free admission to the sites.
• Approximate duration of 8-9 hours, including scenic boat rides and city walks.
• Includes pickup, Wi-Fi, and a knowledgeable guide, ensuring a smooth experience.
• Not including entry tickets — plan accordingly.
• Highly rated with a perfect 5-star from all 6 reviews, praised for expert guidance and beautiful scenery.

Discovering Tomar’s Historic Convento of Christ

The Convento of Christ sits at the heart of this tour, showcasing a blend of Gothic, Manueline, and Renaissance architecture. Visitors explore the Church of the Ambulatory, which features structures reminiscent of Jerusalem, adding a spiritual and historical depth. The convent’s walls tell stories of the Knight Templars, who first held the site, and later the Order of Christ, which took over.

The three-hour visit allows ample time to appreciate the intricate details of the architecture and the historical significance of the site. While the tour does not include entrance tickets, the exterior views and museums nearby offer plenty to see and photograph. The guide provides insights into the convent’s role in Portuguese history, making it a highlight of the day.

The city center of Tomar complements the convent, with picturesque houses, gardens, and the Nabão River creating a charming backdrop for photos and strolling. The old town offers a glimpse of local life, with traditional streets and riverside views that are perfect for a leisurely walk.

Visiting the Almourol Castle on a Granitic Island

The Almourol Castle stands out for its unique location atop a granite island in the Tagus River. Access to the castle is by small boat, which adds an element of adventure and allows visitors to enjoy the river scenery during the crossing. Once on the island, the castle’s medieval walls and towers are open for exploration.

The one-hour visit to Almourol provides a chance to walk around the fortress and take in the views of the surrounding riverbanks. Its topology makes it a striking sight, especially for fans of military architecture or those interested in Portugal’s medieval history. The boat ride offers excellent photo opportunities and a peaceful moment away from the city streets.

This stop is a great way to combine history, scenic landscape, and boat crossing, making it one of the most memorable parts of the tour. The free admission makes it accessible for all participants, but remember to check the weather to ensure a smooth boat ride.

Scenic Walk Along the Nabão River and Tomar’s Historic Center

During the three hours in Tomar, the tour includes a walk along the Nabão River and the city’s historic center. The river’s banks are lined with beautiful gardens and traditional houses, giving a relaxing contrast to the more imposing convent and castle.

This part of the tour allows visitors to soak in the atmosphere of Tomar, with plenty of photo opportunities and chances to admire local architecture. The old town features narrow streets and charming squares that reflect the town’s medieval past. The guide shares stories about the city’s development and significance during the 13th century.

While the visit is free, it’s a chance to enjoy the scenic scenery and get a feel for local life. The leisurely pace is suitable for most travelers, and the included Wi-Fi helps in sharing the experience or looking up additional information.

The Adventure of the Boat Ride to Almourol Castle

One of the tour’s highlights is the boat crossing to Almourol Castle. The small boat ride takes you from the riverbank to the island fortress, offering a different perspective of the landscape and castle architecture. This crossing is brief but memorable, adding a touch of adventure to the day.

The boat ride is suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed. The scenery along the riverbanks enhances the experience, perfect for photography or simply enjoying the tranquility of the water. This part of the tour exemplifies the combination of history and nature that makes this trip special.

Since the boat is included in the schedule, participants do not need to worry about extra arrangements, but it’s wise to verify weather conditions, as poor weather could affect the crossing.

Logistics and Practical Details for the Tour

The tour departs from Lisbon at 9:00 am, with pickup included. The private nature of the tour guarantees a personalized experience, and the activity is suitable for most travelers. The tour is conducted by Real Click Tours, a provider known for its attentive service.

Wi-Fi is included, making it easy to stay connected or share moments during the day. The group size, up to 6 people, allows for a more intimate experience with the guide and flexibility in exploring each site.

Participants should plan for entrance fees at the monuments, as these are not included. The tour offers a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind in case of weather issues or schedule changes.

Who Will Most Enjoy this Tour?

This private day trip is ideal for history enthusiasts, architecture fans, and those who enjoy scenic river views. The tour’s pace is suitable for most, with plenty of time at each stop to photograph and absorb the surroundings. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a personalized experience away from crowded group tours.

The combination of cultural sites and natural landscapes makes this tour a well-rounded choice for a full day outside Lisbon. Keep in mind that entrance tickets are extra, so budget accordingly if you wish to explore every interior.

The Sum Up: A Rich Cultural Day with Scenic Charm in Tomar

This 8-9 hour private tour from Lisbon offers a comprehensive look at one of Portugal’s most historically significant towns. The Convento of Christ stands as a testament to medieval architecture and religious history, while the Almourol Castle provides a striking visual and historical experience on a river island.

The flexibility, personal guide, and scenic boat crossing distinguish this experience from larger, less personalized options. The perfect rating from all reviews indicates consistent satisfaction, especially for those who appreciate expert guidance and scenic settings.

While entrance fees are not included, the free access to the main outdoor sites offers excellent value. This tour suits those eager to explore Portugal’s knightly past and enjoy beautiful river scenery in a relaxed, intimate setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, pickup from Lisbon is included, and the tour is private for your group.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 8 to 9 hours, including site visits and scenic boat rides.

Are entrance tickets to the sites included?
No, entrance fees are not included in the price, so plan to purchase tickets if you want full access.

What sites will I visit during this tour?
You will explore the Convento of Christ, stroll through Tomar’s old town, walk along the Nabão River, and visit the Almourol Castle via boat.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Yes, the tour is designed for most travelers, with a relaxed pace and scenic stops. Service animals are allowed.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, camera, and a light jacket are recommended. Remember to bring cash or cards for monument tickets.

What is the best time of year for this tour?
The tour is weather-dependent, so check the forecast. It operates rain or shine, but cancellations are possible in poor weather.

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