Private Knights Templar Full-Day Tour to Tomar, Almourol Castle and Constância

Planning a trip to Portugal and keen to uncover the stories behind the medieval Knights Templar? This Private Knights Templar Full-Day Tour offers an engaging way to explore some of the country’s most iconic sites, set against the backdrop of stunning river landscapes and charming villages. With a focus on history, craftsmanship, and authentic scenery, this tour promises a personalized experience that balances insightful storytelling with comfortable travel.

What we particularly love about this tour is its small-group setup—limited to just eight people—which really fosters a more intimate atmosphere. Our reviewers have raved about the guides, especially how knowledgeable and enthusiastic they are, making history come alive. However, keep in mind that the tour involves some walking and outdoor exploration, so it’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness.

A potential consideration is the weather, especially for the boat ride to Almourol Castle, which is weather-dependent. Still, even if the boat ride gets canceled, there’s plenty to see and learn, making this a worthwhile day out. Overall, if you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of medieval architecture, or simply curious about Portugal’s Templar roots, this tour offers excellent value and meaningful experiences.

Key Points

• Intimate Small-Group Experience: Limited to 8 people for personalized attention.
• Expert Guides: Known for their historical knowledge, making the experience engaging.
• Diverse Stops: From castles and villages to UNESCO sites, offering a well-rounded day.
• Flexible & Weather-Dependent: Boat ride may be canceled if weather is poor, but the core sights remain captivating.
• Moderate Physical Activity: Some walking involved, suitable for most travelers with average fitness.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Transport, pick-up, and drop-off included, with live commentary enhancing the journey.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point: Pickup and Transport

The tour begins early, with pickup arranged from your Lisbon accommodation, providing the convenience of door-to-door service. Traveling in an air-conditioned minivan with a maximum of eight travelers offers a cozy environment that fosters conversation and makes stops more flexible and relaxed.

Stop 1: Castelo de Almourol

Our first highlight is Almourol Castle, a true postcard-worthy fortress perched on a small granite island in the middle of the Tagus River. It’s a classic image of medieval Portugal—a turreted castle rising above shimmering water, with its walls dating back to the Knights Templar era. The castle sits 18 meters above sea level and measures 310 meters in length, making it a manageable but picturesque site.

While admission isn’t included, many visitors find that the fee is worth it to explore this well-preserved monument. The boat ride to Almourol is a highlight itself, offering fantastic views and photo opportunities, but it’s weather-dependent, so plan for sometimes unpredictable conditions. One reviewer noted, “If the weather’s good, the boat ride is a must—very scenic and fun!”

Stop 2: Constância

Next, we head to the tiny but charming village of Constância, once home to Portugal’s famous poet Luís de Camões. This stop is about 45 minutes long, giving you a chance to stroll through cobbled streets and soak in the tranquil river vibes. It’s a great spot to pause and appreciate Portugal’s rural charm, away from the hustle of larger cities.

The reviewer comments, “Constância is a lovely peaceful village, perfect for a quick stroll and snapping some photos of traditional Portuguese houses and river views.”

Stop 3: Tomar — The Templar Heart

The core of the day is in Tomar, the city that once served as a Knights Templar stronghold and played an integral role in Portugal’s age of exploration. You’ll spend about three hours here, giving ample time to explore two significant sites: Church of Santa Maria do Olival and Convento de Cristo.

The Church of Santa Maria do Olival was the Templar’s headquarters, and it’s notably the burial site of many Grand Masters, adding a profound sense of history. The Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a sprawling complex with imposing ramparts, cloisters, and Christian-era architecture built by the Templars and later expanded by the Order of Christ.

A guide might highlight that the Convent’s design reflects a mixture of architectural styles, with Gothic and Manueline elements, whispering stories of Portugal’s maritime explorations and Templar influence. One reviewer described it as a “magnificent monument that takes you back in time,” emphasizing its grandeur and historical significance.

Final Stop: Reflection in the Convento de Cristo

Convento de Cristo caps off this immersive journey, with enough time to wander through its courtyards, visit the chapter house, and marvel at the intricacies of its stonework. Entrance isn’t included, so consider bringing some euros for tickets, but the experience of walking through a site with such layered history is priceless.

The Value of This Experience

At $474.33 per person, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the personalized nature of a small-group setting, the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off, and the depth of historical insight provided by guides. The tour’s duration of around eight hours allows a comfortable pace, avoiding rushed visits while still covering a lot of ground.

The transport in a climate-controlled minivan ensures comfort, and the small size creates a friendly environment where your guide can tailor the experience to your interests. The tour’s flexibility around weather, especially regarding the boat ride, shows a thoughtful approach to ensuring guests still get the best possible experience.

From a practical perspective, the highlight for many travelers is the combination of iconic sites and authentic villages, all surrounded by scenic landscapes. You’ll love the way the guides bring history to life, often sharing lesser-known stories and fascinating details that aren’t in standard guidebooks.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is ideal for history buffs keen on Portugal’s medieval and Templar past. It’s also perfect for small groups seeking a more intimate, engaging tour rather than a crowded bus trip. If you love a mix of castles, charming villages, and UNESCO sites, this tour hits every note.

Travelers with moderate mobility will find it manageable, but some walking is involved around the sites. The tour is also suitable for those who enjoy storytelling and guided insights, as the guides are praised for their knowledge and approachable manner.

If you’re visiting Lisbon and looking for a full-day escape into Portugal’s past, this tour will enrich your trip with authentic sights and fascinating stories.

The Sum Up

This private Knights Templar tour from Lisbon offers a remarkable deep dive into Portugal’s medieval history, beautifully balanced with scenic stops and expert guidance. The small-group format makes it easy to ask questions and engage closely with your guide, making the experience more personal and memorable.

While weather can influence parts of the day, the majority of the sites—especially Tomar and the Convent of Christ—are captivating enough to make the day worthwhile even if minor delays occur. The inclusion of hotel pickups and drop-offs saves hassle and adds convenience to your day.

For those passionate about history, medieval architecture, or Portuguese culture, this tour provides a meaningful, well-paced, and beautifully curated experience. It’s a fantastic choice whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a small group of friends seeking a deeper connection to Portugal’s past.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your Lisbon accommodation, provided it’s within certain central areas, making the day hassle-free.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, giving enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
Transport in an air-conditioned minivan, live commentary, and a professional guide are included. Entrance fees to sites like the Convent of Christ are not included, but you can expect to have ample time to explore.

Can I participate if I have limited mobility?
The tour involves some moderate walking, so travelers should be comfortable with standing and walking for periods. It’s best suited for those with average mobility.

Is the boat ride to Almourol Castle guaranteed?
The boat ride is weather-dependent. If weather conditions are poor, it might be canceled, but the rest of the sites remain impressive.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there may be opportunities to purchase snacks or lunch during the day.

What languages are available for the tour?
The tour is generally offered in English, Spanish, and Portuguese. Other languages like French, Italian, Russian, and Romanian are available on request, subject to availability.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking is recommended about 60 days in advance, especially if you have specific dates in mind, to guarantee availability.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of personalized small-group service, expert guides, and a well-curated itinerary covering Almourol Castle, Tomar, and Constância makes it a standout experience for history lovers.

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into Portugal’s medieval past, perfectly suited for curious travelers eager to learn and explore with comfort and style.