Set out on a captivating journey from Lisbon to uncover the rich history of the Knights Templar. Explore the UNESCO-listed Convento de Cristo, marvel at the charm of Tomar’s old town, and witness the stunning Almourol Castle nestled on an island in the Tagus River. This full-day tour promises an unforgettable experience, complete with a scenic boat ride and a knowledgeable guide to bring the past to life. Explore the legacy of one of the most influential religious and military orders in medieval Europe, and discover why this tour is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and adventurous travelers alike.
Key Points
- This full-day excursion from Lisbon provides a comprehensive tour of Tomar’s historical and cultural landmarks, including the UNESCO-listed Convento de Cristo and Almourol Castle.
- Guests will explore Tomar’s old town, visit the 15th-century Synagogue, and take a boat ride to Almourol Castle, gaining insights into the Knights Templar’s influence.
- The tour includes transportation, entrance fees, a complimentary bottle of water, and a local Portuguese lunch, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.
- Experienced English and French-speaking guides lead the tour, providing valuable information about the sites and the region’s history and culture.
- The tour adheres to COVID-19 safety protocols, with daily vehicle disinfection, hand sanitizer availability, reduced capacity, and guide health screenings to ensure the well-being of participants.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview
- Itinerary Highlights
- Transportation and Inclusions
- Health and Safety Measures
- Customer Feedback
- Discover Knights Templar Legacy
- Visit UNESCO World Heritage
- Explore Tomar’s Old Town
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
- What Type of Vehicle Is Used for Transportation?
- Are There Any Discounts Available for Senior Citizens?
- Is the Tour Suitable for Individuals With Limited Mobility?
- Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Lisbon
- More Tours in Lisbon
- More Tour Reviews in Lisbon
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Lisbon we have recnetly reviewed
Tour Overview
The tour offers a full-day excursion from Lisbon to explore Tomar and Almourol Castle, providing travelers with the opportunity to discover the legacy of the Knights Templar and enjoy Portugal’s rich history.
Priced at $87.38 per person, the tour lasts 8-9 hours and features a live guide available in English and French.
Pickup is included from centrally located accommodations in Lisbon, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
Participants can choose between private or small group options, ensuring a personalized experience.
With an overall rating of 4.9/5 based on 35 reviews, this tour is a must-do for those seeking an in-depth exploration of Tomar and Almourol Castle.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Lisbon.
Itinerary Highlights
Travelers on this tour can discover the Knights Templar legacy in Tomar, where they’ll visit the Convento de Cristo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They’ll also explore Tomar’s old town and the 15th-century Synagogue, the oldest in Portugal.
The tour includes:
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Breathtaking views at the confluence of the Zêzere and Tejo rivers.
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A boat ride to Almourol Castle, a picturesque fortress situated on an island in the Tagus River.
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The opportunity to wander through the charming streets of Tomar and soak up the town’s rich history.
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Insights into the enduring influence of the Knights Templar on the region’s culture and architecture.
Transportation and Inclusions
Transportation for the tour is provided in an air-conditioned van with free Wi-Fi, allowing participants to travel comfortably between destinations. Entrance fees to the Convento de Cristo and Almourol Castle are included, along with a complimentary bottle of water and a provided lunch.
| Inclusion | Description |
|---|---|
| Transportation | Air-conditioned van with free Wi-Fi |
| Entrance Fees | Convento de Cristo and Almourol Castle |
| Refreshments | Complimentary bottle of water |
| Meal | Provided lunch |
| Participants | Adults, Children, Infants |
The tour caters to a wide range of participants, including adults, children, and infants, ensuring an enjoyable experience for the whole family.
Health and Safety Measures
Acknowledging the ongoing health concerns, the tour provider has implemented extra hygiene precautions due to COVID-19, including daily disinfection of vehicles and mandatory mask-wearing inside.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, the following measures are in place:
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Hand sanitizer is readily available for participants.
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Tours operate at reduced capacity to allow for social distancing.
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Guides undergo regular health screenings and follow strict safety protocols.
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Participants are encouraged to follow local health guidelines and inform the provider of any COVID-19 symptoms prior to the tour.
These comprehensive safety measures aim to provide peace of mind and a worry-free exploration of Tomar and Almourol Castle.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Feedback
Reviewers have overwhelmingly praised the tour, awarding it an impressive 4.9/5 overall rating based on 35 reviews.
Customers were particularly impressed by the knowledgeable and friendly tour guide, who received a perfect 5/5 score.
The transportation in the air-conditioned van with free Wi-Fi was also highly rated, earning 4.7/5.
Participants were satisfied with the overall service and organization of the tour, both scoring a perfect 5/5.
Travelers appreciated the extra health and safety measures implemented due to COVID-19, including mandatory masks and daily vehicle disinfection.
With such positive feedback, it’s clear this Tomar and Almourol Castle tour from Lisbon is a top-notch experience not to be missed.
Discover Knights Templar Legacy
The tour’s highlights include exploring the Knights Templar legacy in Tomar, a city that was once the headquarters of the Order in Portugal.
Travelers will:
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Visit the Convento de Cristo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as the Templar’s fortified castle and religious center.
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Discover the remarkable 15th-century Manueline architecture, a unique Portuguese style that reflects the country’s maritime explorations.
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Learn about the Templars’ influence on Tomar’s history and the legacy they left behind in the region.
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Stroll through the old town and see the 15th-century Synagogue, the oldest in Portugal, a testament to the religious diversity that flourished under Templar rule.
Visit UNESCO World Heritage
Although the Convento de Cristo in Tomar is the tour’s primary UNESCO World Heritage site, visitors also get to explore the remarkable Manueline architecture that reflects Portugal’s maritime history.
The convent’s cloisters, chapter house, and churches showcase the intricate stone carvings and ornate details characteristic of this distinctive late Gothic-Renaissance style.
Wandering through the convent’s chapels and courtyards, guests gain insights into the Templars’ legacy and the evolution of Portuguese architecture and culture.
Beyond the convent, the tour also includes a stop in Tomar’s historic center, where the 15th-century Synagogue stands as a testament to the region’s diverse religious heritage.
With a knowledgeable guide to bring these UNESCO-protected sites to life, visitors are sure to be captivated by Tomar’s cultural treasures.
Explore Tomar’s Old Town
Tomar’s old town invites visitors to discover its rich history and cultural heritage. Its well-preserved medieval streets and historic landmarks offer glimpses into the region’s vibrant past, from the imposing 15th-century Synagogue to the charming buildings that line the picturesque Rua Serpa Pinto.
Travelers can:
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Stroll through the quaint town center, admiring the ornate architecture and centuries-old structures.
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Visit the Jewish Quarter, where the oldest synagogue in Portugal stands as a testament to the town’s diverse religious history.
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Explore the weekly outdoor market, a bustling hub of local produce, handicrafts, and lively interactions.
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Stop for a traditional Portuguese meal or refreshing drink, seeing the town’s welcoming atmosphere.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Yes, participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes a complimentary bottle of water and lunch, but bringing additional snacks or beverages is permitted.
What Type of Vehicle Is Used for Transportation?
The tour uses an air-conditioned van with free Wi-Fi for transportation. This comfortable vehicle ensures a pleasant journey for participants while allowing them to stay connected during the tour.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Senior Citizens?
This tour does not explicitly mention discounts for senior citizens. The pricing information provided indicates a flat rate per person, without any noted discounts or special pricing for older adults. The tour is open to participants of all ages.
Is the Tour Suitable for Individuals With Limited Mobility?
The tour may not be fully accessible for individuals with limited mobility. While there are some wheelchair-friendly areas, the tour involves walking, climbing stairs, and uneven terrain that could be challenging. Customers with mobility concerns should contact the tour operator for details.
Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour?
Yes, the duration of the tour can be extended. Customers have the flexibility to customize the itinerary and length of the tour to meet their preferences. Additional fees may apply for an extended tour.
From Lisbon: Tomar, Christ Convent & Almourol Castle Tour
“Our guide, Oriana, was excellent, and very well-versed in the history of the Templars, the Order of Christ and Portugal itself. Our entire family (…”
Recap
This captivating tour from Lisbon allows visitors to explore the rich history of the Knights Templar, exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Convento de Cristo and the charming old town of Tomar.
The scenic boat ride to Almourol Castle and the knowledgeable guide make this a truly unforgettable journey, offering a chance to discover Portugal’s remarkable past.
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