Small-Group Tour From Lisbon to Tomar Knights Templar History

Exploring the captivating history of the Knights Templar is a unique opportunity offered by a small-group tour from Lisbon to Tomar. Visitors can enjoy the order’s influential past, visiting the UNESCO-listed Convent of Christ and the impressive Almourol Castle accessible by boat. The tour provides a fascinating insight into the Templars’ role in the region, allowing participants to wander through historic rooms and courtyards while taking in the stunning views of the fortification. With highlights like these, it’s no wonder the tour has become a popular choice for those seeking to uncover the secrets of this enigmatic military order.

Key Points

• The tour provides an opportunity to explore the captivating history of the Knights Templar, including visits to Almourol Castle and the UNESCO-listed Convent of Christ.
• The tour includes a boat ride across the Tagus River to reach Almourol Castle, a fortification erected by the Knights Templar.
• The small-group format, with a maximum of 8 people, ensures a personalized experience and the opportunity to learn from a professional guide.
• Participants will have the chance to wander through the historic rooms and courtyards of Almourol Castle, enjoying stunning views of the castle and its picturesque setting.
• The tour includes transportation by air-conditioned minivan, as well as the provision of a local pastry, but excludes meals and personal expenses.

Tour Overview

The small-group guided tour from Lisbon to Tomar allows travelers to explore the captivating history of the Knights Templar.

During the tour, visitors will explore Almourol Castle, a fortification erected by the Knights Templar, and take a boat ride to reach the castle.

The highlight of the tour is the UNESCO World Heritage Site Convent of Christ, which was once a stronghold where the Knights Templar resided.

Travelers will also have the opportunity to visit the historic city of Tomar and see monuments such as the 12th-century Convent of Christ and the Gothic-style Church of Santa Maria do Olivais.

With a maximum of 8 people per group and a professional guide, this tour offers a personalized and immersive experience.

Inclusions

This tour includes a meeting point at Praça da Figueira in Lisbon or hotel pickup, as well as drop-off at Marquês de Pombal Square. It also provides a small-group experience with a maximum of 8 people, led by a professional guide. Transportation by air-conditioned minivan, a boat ride to Almourol Castle (subject to weather conditions), and entrance and guided visits to the Convent of Christ and Almourol Castle are also included. Plus, a local pastry is provided as part of the tour.

Inclusions	Details
Meeting Point	Praça da Figueira in Lisbon or hotel pickup
Drop-Off	Marquês de Pombal Square
Group Size	Small group, maximum of 8 people
Guide	Professional guide
Transportation	Air-conditioned minivan
Boat Ride	To Almourol Castle (subject to weather conditions)
Entrance and Guided Visits	Convent of Christ and Almourol Castle
Local Pastry	Included

Exclusions

Besides the included items, this tour doesn’t cover food and drinks (including meals), unless specified. It also excludes hotel pickup and drop-off, personal expenses, and tips and gratuities. Travelers are responsible for covering these additional costs.

The tour company wants to be upfront about what’s not included so customers can plan accordingly. While the Convent of Christ, Almourol Castle, and local pastry are covered, anything else needed or desired during the day will be an out-of-pocket expense.

This allows the tour to maintain a reasonable price point while still providing an immersive experience exploring the Knights Templar history in Tomar.

Additional Information

Confirmation of the tour is provided at the time of booking. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available.

It isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions, as a moderate level of physical fitness is required. Precise meeting point details will be provided 24 hours before the activity. The tour may be conducted in multiple languages, with a maximum of two used.

The tour requires a minimum of 2 people and a maximum of 8 people per booking. If the minimum number of travelers isn’t met, an alternative or full refund will be offered.

Cancellation Policy

Full refunds are available if the tour is cancelled up to 24 hours before the experience’s start time. No refunds will be provided for cancellations less than 24 hours prior to the start. Plus, changes made within 24 hours of the start time won’t be accepted.

If the minimum number of travelers isn’t met, an alternative or full refund will be offered.

The cancellation policy give you flexibility for customers while ensuring the tour can run as scheduled. Booking in advance is recommended, as last-minute changes or cancellations may result in forfeited payments. Customers are advised to review the policy carefully before finalizing their reservation.

Exploring Almourol Castle

The tour’s castle exploration takes visitors to the Knights Templar-erected Almourol Castle, accessed via a boat ride across the Tagus River.

Situated on a rocky island, the castle’s impressive stone walls and towers date back to the 12th century.

Guests will have the chance to wander through the castle’s historic rooms and courtyards, imagining the medieval knights who once resided here.

The boat ride itself offers stunning views of the castle and its picturesque setting, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the Knights Templar’s legacy.

This unique opportunity to explore one of the order’s key fortifications is a highlight of the Tomar tour, providing a tangible connection to the region’s remarkable history.

Convent of Christ Tour

After exploring the historic Almourol Castle, the tour takes visitors to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Convent of Christ in Tomar.

This former fortification was once the headquarters of the Knights Templar, offering a glimpse into the daily lives and religious practices of the medieval military order.

Guided through the convent’s magnificent rooms and cloisters, guests can admire the impressive blend of Romanesque, Gothic, Manueline, and Renaissance architectural styles that reflect the convent’s evolution over the centuries.

The tour provides an opportunity to delve deeper into the intriguing history and the architectural marvels that defined the presence of the Knights Templar in this captivating region of Portugal.

Visiting Historic Tomar

Beyond the hallowed walls of the Convent of Christ, the small-group tour delves into the historic city of Tomar, where monuments like the 12th-century Convent of Christ and the Gothic-style Church of Santa Maria do Olivais stand as testaments to the Knights Templar’s enduring legacy.

Visitors can explore:

• The Charola, an extraordinary Templar rotunda church within the Convent of Christ
• The Duarte Galvão Aqueduct, a remarkable feat of engineering from the 16th century
• The Synagogue, a well-preserved example of Manueline architecture
• The Mata dos Sete Montes, a lush forest overlooking the city
• The weekly market, where local crafts and produce are on display

This immersive journey through Tomar’s past offers a profound connection to the Knights Templar’s history and its lasting impact on the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Children Participate in This Tour?

Yes, children can participate in this tour. The tour provider offers infant seats, though it’s not recommended for travelers with serious medical conditions or back problems, and a moderate physical fitness level is required.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Unfortunately, the tour does not offer an option to extend the duration. The tour has a set itinerary and schedule. Travelers interested in a longer excursion should consider booking a private tour or exploring the area independently after the group tour concludes.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has no strict dress code, but comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Layers are advised, as the boat ride to Almourol Castle may be breezy. Casual, practical attire is best for this guided tour.

Can We Stop for Lunch Along the Way?

The tour doesn’t include a scheduled lunch stop, but travelers can ask the guide about options to stop for a meal along the way. The guide can provide recommendations for local restaurants or cafes to visit during the free time.

Do We Get Free Time to Explore on Our Own?

The tour does not include free time for independent exploration. The itinerary is structured, with guided visits to the key historical sites. Participants will have the opportunity to explore these attractions with the group during the scheduled activities.

Recap

This guided tour from Lisbon to Tomar provides an immersive exploration of the Knights Templar’s captivating history.

Highlights include visits to the UNESCO-listed Convent of Christ and the impressive Almourol Castle, offering a unique insight into the influential role of the Templars in the region.

Participants can wander through the castle’s historic rooms and courtyards, taking in the stunning views of the fortification situated on a rocky island.