Tour of the Knights Templar’s of Tomar in Private Tour

A deep dive into Portugal’s Templar past, with a private guide exploring castles, churches, and hidden symbols for a full day of history and culture.
At just under 10 hours, this tour whisks you from Lisbon to the heart of the Knights Templar’s influence in Portugal. For around $150, you’ll visit iconic sites like the Castle of Almourol, the Convent of Christ, and the Tomar Castle, with plenty of fascinating stories woven in. Your guide, João or Anastasiya, ensures a personalized experience, making history come alive through their passion and detailed knowledge.
What we really love about this tour is how it balances stunning sights with authentic storytelling—you won’t just see monuments, you’ll understand their significance. Plus, the hassle-free pickup and private transport mean a stress-free day, allowing you to focus entirely on the experience.
One consideration: it’s a full-day tour, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a comprehensive, well-paced exploration. If you’re curious about medieval legends, love castles, or want a deeper connection with Portugal’s Templar heritage, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

Personalized Experience: Private guide lets you explore at your pace and ask all your questions.
Historical Depth: Visit key sites with detailed stories behind Templar symbols, castles, and religious buildings.
Stunning Locations: From castles on islands to UNESCO-worthy convents, scenery and architecture are highlights.
Convenient Logistics: Hotel pickup, air-conditioned vehicle, and all transportation taken care of.
Value for Money: A full day packed with sights and stories for a reasonable price.
Authentic Insights: Reviewers repeatedly mention knowledgeable guides who bring history to life.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Hassle-Free Pickup and Transport

The day begins with a pickup from your Lisbon hotel around 8:30 am. The private vehicle, air-conditioned and comfortable, sets a relaxed tone for the journey. Knowing that transportation and logistics are handled allows you to simply enjoy the scenery and anticipate the day’s discoveries. Unlike group tours that feel rushed or crowded, this private option provides flexibility, including a personal drop-off at the end—some reviewers appreciated being dropped off in Belém to meet friends or explore more.

The Castle of Almourol: Medieval Fairytale

Your first stop is the Castle of Almourol, perched on a tiny island in the Tagus River. This spot is a favorite for many, with reviews describing it as a “beautiful fortress” built in the heart of the river for protection. The castle’s Roman origins and Templar associations make it a must-see for history buffs. Although admission isn’t included, the view alone makes it worth the 45-minute visit.
Imagine walking through narrow stone corridors, soaking in the peaceful views of the river, and picturing the knights defending their territory centuries ago. This site offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially if you enjoy castles on an island — a real treat for medieval architecture fans.

The Church of Santa Maria dos Olivais: Templar Symbolism

Next, you’ll walk into Igreja de Santa Maria dos Olivais, a church where the Templars once worshipped. This site blends Romanesque and Gothic styles, with a large rosette bearing the Signum Salomonis—a Templar symbol—etched into its façade. Inside, you’ll see funerary monuments of prominent figures like Gualdim Pais, the founder of the city.
Reviewers note that this church feels surprisingly intimate and packed with symbolism, and it’s fascinating to consider that beneath the ground lie buried the founders and grandmasters of the Templar order. The free entry makes this a highlight for history lovers exploring on a budget.

Discovering Tomar: A City Shaped by the Templars

The tour then moves into Tomar, known worldwide as the “City of the Templars.” As you stroll through its streets, you’ll see Templar marks scattered throughout the city, and the Mata dos Sete Montes park, where traditional rituals are said to have taken place. Reviewers love how their guide brings the city’s history alive, pointing out Templar symbols hidden in plain sight, emphasizing the pride the city feels for its medieval roots.

The Synagogue of Tomar: A Testament to Tolerance

A visit to the Tomar Synagogue offers a glimpse into Portugal’s medieval coexistence of different religions. Founded in the mid-19th century, this synagogue stands as a testament to Portugal’s long-standing history of peaceful religious interaction. While small, it’s a meaningful stop, and some reviews highlight that it provides a broader perspective on the region’s diverse past.

The Convent of Christ: The Tour’s Crown Jewel

Arguably the highlight of the day is the Convent of Christ, once the residence of the Templar order and later the Order of Christ. The complex features the Romanesque Charola, with its intriguing oriental influences, and the Manueline architecture that you’ll find throughout the site.
Many reviewers call this the “best part” of their trip, emphasizing its intricate details and how knowledgeable guides bring its history to life. The site is vast, and a full hour allows you to marvel at the stained glass, cloisters, and symbolic carvings. Admission isn’t included, but the value lies in the stories and insights your guide provides, making it much more meaningful than just walking through a monument.

Tomar Castle and the Aqueduct: Architectural Marvels

The Tomar Castle is another highlight, with its robust stone walls and panoramic views. While some reviews mention the admission fee, the experience of exploring a well-preserved medieval fortress combined with the surrounding scenery makes it worthwhile.
Before heading back to Lisbon, the tour includes a visit to the Pegões Aqueduct, a striking 16th-century waterworks. Walking along the aqueduct offers a sense of how engineering and architecture met in this era, and the fact that it’s free makes it an easy highlight.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Knowledgeable Guides: The reviews repeatedly praise João and Anastasiya for their storytelling and depth of knowledge. You’ll learn about the symbolism hidden in churches, the strategic importance of castles, and the stories behind the architectural details.
Authentic Experiences: The tour doesn’t just tick boxes; it weaves stories that connect you with the medieval world. From castles on islands to the peaceful synagogue, each stop feels meaningful.
Comfort and Convenience: The private pickup, air-conditioned vehicle, and flexible pacing make for a relaxing experience—especially if you prefer avoiding crowded group tours or long bus rides.

Potential Drawbacks

Since the tour lasts roughly 9 hours, it is a long day for some. If you’re not a history enthusiast or prefer gentle strolls, the full schedule might feel tiring. Also, admission tickets aren’t included for major sites, so be prepared for some extra costs. Finally, the tour’s success hinges on your guide’s knowledge and enthusiasm, so your experience benefits greatly from a passionate guide like João or Anastasiya.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour Most?

This experience is ideal for travelers who love history, architecture, and storytelling, and who want a deep dive into Portugal’s Templar legacy. It suits those comfortable with a full-day outing, eager to explore beyond Lisbon’s city limits, and happy to pay for a personalized, guided experience. Reviewers note that it appeals especially to those wanting to understand the symbolism and stories behind the monuments rather than just seeing them from afar.

Practical Details and Final Thoughts

The tour costs about $150 per person, which, considering it includes private transportation, a dedicated guide, and extensive site visits, offers good value. With most travelers booking 84 days in advance, it’s clear this experience is popular among those seeking a comprehensive day trip. The flexibility of a private tour means you can tailor questions, linger at favorite sites, or adjust the pace if needed.

The small group size (limited to your party) ensures an intimate atmosphere, making it easy to ask questions and engage with your guide. Plus, the included pickup and drop-off at your Lisbon accommodation remove any stress about logistics or navigating public transport.

In short, this tour is a treasure for anyone curious about the Knights Templar, medieval architecture, or Portuguese history. Reviewers rave about the guides’ knowledge, the breathtaking scenery, and the overall value. It’s a great way to see the countryside, learn fascinating stories, and walk in the footsteps of knights, monks, and architects.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, private transportation is included, with pickup and drop-off at your Lisbon hotel. The vehicle is air-conditioned and comfortable.

Are tickets to the monuments included?
No, admission tickets are not included for sites like the Convent of Christ and Almourol Castle, so expect to pay those separately.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 9 hours, from pickup in Lisbon to drop-off, allowing enough time for all sites without feeling rushed.

Can I customize the pace or focus of the tour?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide can adjust the pace slightly and focus on the sites that interest you most.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but be mindful that some sites involve walking and climbing, so consider mobility needs.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a camera, some water, and a sense of curiosity. Tickets for sites are not included, so cash or cards for entry may be necessary.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but your guide can recommend local spots or you can bring a packed meal.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

To sum it up, this private Knights Templar tour offers a comprehensive, engaging look at Portugal’s medieval past. The personalized guides, stunning architecture, and ease of logistics make it well worth the price for those eager to learn and explore beyond Lisbon’s cityscape. Whether you’re a history buff, architecture lover, or simply curious about the legendary Templars, this day trip promises a memorable glimpse into Portugal’s past, with plenty of stories to take home.