From Lisbon: Knights Templar Tour to Tomar & Almourol Castle

Travelers interested in medieval history, stunning architecture, and scenic landscapes will find this tour from Lisbon a compelling way to explore Portugal’s Templar past. With visits to the UNESCO-listed Convent of Christ, the fairy-tale Almourol Castle, and the historic town of Tomar, it promises a full day packed with stories, sights, and cultural insights.

What we love about this experience is the seamless combination of fascinating sites, expert guides with a genuine passion for history, and the opportunity to see some of Portugal’s most iconic medieval landmarks. The inclusion of tickets and guided tours inside all the major sites makes it especially practical.

One aspect worth considering is the duration—at eight hours, it’s a full day that involves some travel time, so travelers should be prepared for a busy schedule. But for those eager to pack a lot of history into a single day, this tour offers excellent value.

This experience suits history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, or anyone curious about the Knights Templar and Portugal’s medieval roots. It’s a great way to see several top sites without the hassle of organizing transport or tickets yourself.

Good To Know

• Authentic Templar Sites: Visit Tomar, the Templar capital, and explore the Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Fairy-tale Almourol Castle: See this iconic fortress on a small island, accessible by boat, with spectacular views.
• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable and passionate, sharing stories that bring the history alive.
• Comfortable Transport: Travel is in an air-conditioned van, making the long drives comfortable and stress-free.
• Includes Major Tickets: Entrance fees to Almourol Castle and the Convent of Christ are included, saving time and money.
• Flexible Options: Private or small group tours are available for a more personalized experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Full Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Introduction to the Tour and Logistics

Starting from Lisbon, you’ll be picked up either from your accommodation (if you choose the private option) or meet at a designated point in the city—look for a guide holding a bright blue and yellow flag. The tour lasts approximately eight hours, making for a full but rewarding day of sightseeing. The group size tends to be small, capped at around 8 participants per vehicle, which helps keep the experience intimate and engaging.

The transportation is in a modern, air-conditioned van, a major plus given the warm Portuguese climate, especially in summer. A common point from reviews is that while the van is comfy, some found the back seats a little warm or cramped, so dressing in layers and bringing water are good ideas.

Almourol Castle – The Fairy-tale Fortress

The first stop is Almourol Castle, built by the Templars on a tiny island in the Tagus River. Access is by boat, which adds a fun element to the visit—it’s like stepping into a storybook. Once on the island, you’ll have about an hour to walk the ramparts, enjoy the panoramic views, and learn about its strategic role defending the river crossing.

Reviewers like Margaret from Australia mentioned that Almourol “looks like it jumped out of a fairy tale,” and it truly does have that magical vibe. The castle’s well-preserved medieval architecture and scenic location make it a highlight. Some noted that the boat trip is brief but worthwhile, giving you just enough time to see the fortress without feeling rushed.

Tomar: The Heart of Templar Portugal

Next, the tour heads to Tomar, the historic hub for the Knights Templar in Portugal. Here, the Convent of Christ awaits—a vast complex blending Gothic, Manueline, Renaissance, and Romanesque styles. Inside, you’ll explore cloisters, chapels, and the famous Manueline window, an ornate stone masterpiece inspired by Portugal’s Age of Discovery.

Reviews highlight the beauty and intricacy of these sites. Ana from the U.S. praised guide Alex for providing a “comprehensive history lesson” that made the site come alive. The walk through the Convent offers insight into the spiritual and protective priorities of the Templars, with many visitors noting the quiet, contemplative atmosphere of the cloisters.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Santa Maria do Olival and Templar Lore

The Church of Santa Maria do Olival, built in the 12th century, is the Templar church and final resting place of several Templar Masters. Its Gothic architecture and serene ambiance leave a lasting impression. Reviewers like Nazanin from Canada found it a “beautiful and moving” piece of history.

Rui, the guide during many reviews, often shares fascinating Templar legends and symbols, adding layers of intrigue to the visit. Several mention that the stories, combined with the site’s simplicity, deepen their appreciation for the Templar’s spiritual dimension.

Lunch and Free Time in Tomar

The itinerary includes a break for lunch, giving you a chance to enjoy local cuisine or tapas. Many reviewers mention that the included time for eating and wandering allows for a relaxed experience—perfect for soaking in the town’s charming streets and spotting other historical gems like the Church of São João Batista.

Additional Highlights

• The tour passes by the Church of São João Batista, adding a quick glimpse of more Templar-related architecture.
• Guides often share personal recommendations for restaurants, enhancing the local experience.
• The overall pace is balanced, with enough free time to explore or take photos without feeling hurried.

Final Drop-off and Reflection

After a full day of exploring, the van returns to Lisbon, with most travelers feeling they’ve gained a rich understanding of Portugal’s Templar history and its stunning landmarks. Reviewers like Peter from Portugal appreciated that guides like Rui made the sites “superb in real life,” surpassing expectations set by TV shows or books.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Guides: From Alex to Rui, guides are praised for their enthusiasm and depth of knowledge. They bring history to life with stories and little-known facts, making each site more engaging.

Stunning Scenery: The combination of river views, medieval castles, and lush surroundings creates a picturesque backdrop for your learning. Almourol’s fairy-tale fortress on the river is particularly photogenic.

Great Value: For $92, the tour includes transportation, tickets, and guided tours—saving the hassle and expense of organizing these independently. Reviewers consistently mention that the experience feels like good value, especially considering the quality of the sites visited.

Authentic Experiences: Visiting the actual sites rather than just viewing from outside adds a layer of authenticity. The interiors of the Convent of Christ and the walk on Almourol’s ramparts make you feel connected to the past.

Comfort and Flexibility: Small groups and private options mean your experience is more personalized. The air-conditioned van makes the long drives comfortable, and the itinerary is flexible enough to accommodate weather changes or site closures.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes—both the cobblestones and uneven ramparts demand good footwear.
• Bring sun protection—a hat, sunscreen, and water are essential, especially in summer.
• Meet your guide early—look for the guide holding a distinctive flag.
• Consider your physical comfort—if you’re sensitive to heat or mobility issues, plan accordingly, as some sites involve walking on uneven terrain.
• Book ahead—private options fill up quickly, and some restaurants in Tomar may require reservations.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history lovers, especially those captivated by medieval knights, castles, and religious orders. Architecture enthusiasts will appreciate the blend of styles at the Convent of Christ, while scenic lovers will adore Almourol’s setting.

It’s perfect for small groups or private tours seeking a personalized, immersive day without the hassle of planning every detail. However, travelers with mobility issues or those seeking a leisurely pace might find the length and walking involved somewhat challenging.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, including travel, site visits, and free time for lunch and exploration.

Is transportation comfortable?**
Yes, the tour uses an air-conditioned van, but some reviews mention that the back seats can be warm or tight, so dress accordingly.

Are tickets to the sites included?
Absolutely, entrance fees for Almourol Castle and the Convent of Christ are covered, saving you time and money.

Can I choose a private tour?
Yes, private and small group options are available, providing a more tailored experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and possibly a hat are recommended to stay comfortable during the day.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly restricted, children over 1 need appropriate car seats, and the tour might be less engaging for very young kids due to its historical focus.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included. There is time for lunch in Tomar, and many reviews suggest trying local cuisine.

Is there a dress code for the sites?
While no strict dress code is listed, modest clothing is advisable, especially when visiting religious sites.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides operate in Portuguese, Spanish, English, and French, depending on group composition.

Final Thoughts

This Knights Templar tour from Lisbon strikes a solid balance between history, scenery, and convenience. The inclusion of tickets and expert guides ensures you get the full story behind these iconic sites without the hassle of self-organizing.

Travelers passionate about medieval history or looking for a day filled with stunning architecture and stories will find this experience well worth the price. It’s especially recommended for those who love storytelling, small-group intimacy, and authentic site visits—an adventure that leaves you with a vivid picture of Portugal’s knightly past.

Whether you’re a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or curious traveler, this tour offers a memorable journey through some of Portugal’s most captivating medieval landmarks.

You can check if your dates are available here: