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

Discover the Knights Templar in Portugal: A Private Tour of Tomar

Taking a full-day private tour of the Knights Templar sites in Tomar is a fantastic way to uncover the story of this influential military order while enjoying the scenic beauty and cultural richness of central Portugal. This guided experience offers a well-balanced mix of history, architecture, and local flair—all tailored to your group for a truly personalized adventure.

What we love most about this tour is its detailed itinerary—covering everything from iconic castles to lesser-known sites like the synagogue—delivering a comprehensive look at Templar influence. Plus, the private guide’s enthusiasm and deep knowledge make history come alive.

One consideration worth thinking about is the length of the tour; it’s quite full on and lasts around 8-9 hours, including travel time. It’s best suited for those who love history, castles, and cultural sights but are prepared for a full day of sightseeing. If you’re seeking a deep dive into Portugal’s Knights Templar legacy with a comfortable pace, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points:

• Exclusive Private Experience: Tailored to your group for a more intimate exploration.
• Well-Rounded Itinerary: Visits include castles, churches, a synagogue, and a remarkable aqueduct.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides are praised for their enthusiasm, depth of knowledge, and engaging storytelling.
• Flexible, Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned vehicle with hotel pickup and drop-off ensures convenience.
• Value for Money: For approximately $150 per person, you get a full day of expert-guided sightseeing—an excellent investment.
• Authentic Cultural Insights: Discover the interconnected history of Catholics, Jews, and Muslims in Portugal, with visits to sites like the Tomar Synagogue.

An In-Depth Look at the Templar Private Tour of Tomar

This private tour from Lisbon to Tomar offers a deep dive into the history of the Knights Templar, Portugal’s most iconic medieval military order. It’s a nine-hour journey that is rich in sights, stories, and stunning architecture, guided by passionate professionals—most notably, guides like Anastasia, whose reviews highlight her extensive knowledge and engaging storytelling.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Castelo de Almourol

The adventure kicks off with a visit to the Castle of Almourol, situated on an island in the middle of the Tagus River. This castle is a striking sight, with history dating back to Roman times, later fortified by the Templars. Since it’s located on a small island, you’ll get a sense of strategic importance—defense, of course, but also a picturesque photo opportunity.

It’s important to note that admission tickets aren’t included, so you’ll want to budget a few euros if you wish to explore inside. Reviewers love the way this castle captures the imagination, describing it as a “beautiful fortress” with “incredible views.”

Stop 2: Igreja de Santa Maria dos Olivais

Next, you’ll visit what might be Portugal’s earliest Templar church, featuring a mix of Romanesque and Gothic styles. The facade’s large rosette bears the Signum Salomonis—a Templar symbol—making it a fascinating glimpse into their hidden symbolism.

Inside, the church is home to funerary monuments, including those of Gualdim Pais, the founder of Tomar, and other Grand Masters. While the church appears small from outside, reviewers mention that it feels much more significant in person due to its historical weight and design.

Stop 3: Tomar City Tour

The city itself is often called the “City of the Templars,” and for good reason. You’ll see Templar marks scattered around the city and the infamous Mata dos Sete Montes (Wood of the Seven Hills), believed to have been a ritual site, adding layers of mystery and significance to the town.

Travelers appreciate the way guides highlight these symbols and traditions, deepening their understanding of the Templars’ influence. One reviewer notes that Tomar’s pride in its history is palpable, with Templar symbols found throughout the streets.

Stop 4: Tomar Synagogue

Portugal was historically a haven for religious coexistence, and the Tomar Synagogue embodies this peaceful history. Founded in the mid-19th century, it offers a rare glimpse into the Jewish community’s life here, with reviews mentioning how it serves as a testament to centuries of religious tolerance.

Visitors find it a moving and educational experience, especially as guides share stories of the Jewish community’s centuries-long presence.

Stop 5: Convento de Cristo

The star attraction of the tour, the Convent of Christ, was the Templars’ main seat until 1314 and later became a home for the Order of Christ. The site is vast, with highlights like the Romanesque Charola—a stunning octagonal chapel with oriental influences—and intricate Manueline architecture.

Reviews frequently mention the convent’s grandeur and the stories behind its design, which reflect the Templars’ influence and the subsequent religious orders’ legacy. Admission isn’t included, but the experience is well worth the additional cost for history enthusiasts.

Stop 6: Castelo de Tomar

The Tomar Castle offers panoramic views of the town and a chance to walk the ramparts where medieval Templar knights once patrolled. Although admission isn’t included, visitors praise the views and the sense of stepping back into history.

Stop 7: Aqueduto dos Pegões

Before heading back to Lisbon, the tour visits the Pegões Aqueduct, built in the 16th century to supply water to the Convent of Christ. It’s an impressive piece of architecture, with a walking on top experience that reviewers find both fun and educational. It’s a peaceful spot to reflect on the engineering feats of the past.

What to Expect from the Experience

Transportation and Logistics: The tour includes private, air-conditioned transport, making the entire day comfortable and stress-free. Hotel pickup and drop-off are standard, saving you the hassle of finding meeting points.

Guide Quality: According to reviews, guides like Anastasia are praised for their friendliness and deep knowledge. They weave stories that make ancient sites come alive, sharing insights into symbolism, architecture, and history that go beyond basic facts.

Pace and Flexibility: While the itinerary covers many sites, reviews mention the pace as relaxed, allowing time for photos and questions. Some reviewers appreciated that guides adjust the pace, especially for those with limited mobility or shorter attention spans.

Value for Money: At roughly $150 per person, the price reflects an all-inclusive experience with private transport, guiding, and hotel pickup—something that makes it feel like good value considering the full day of sightseeing and storytelling.

Additional Costs: Remember, entrance tickets to certain monuments like Almourol, the Convent of Christ, and Tomar Castle are not included. Travelers often budget around 10-15 euros for these, but the guide’s insights add significant value, making the extra expense worthwhile.

Authentic Experiences from Past Travelers

Many reviews highlight guides like Anastasia and Joao, emphasizing their passion and knowledge. One reviewer described Anastasia as “friendly, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic about her subjects,” which made the entire day engaging. Another mentioned how Joao’s storytelling made the history both fun and memorable, especially when discussing Templar symbolism and myths.

Travelers also appreciated the flexibility of the tour—being able to stay longer at sites that interested them and having hotel pickup and drop-off included makes the day smooth and personalized.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re passionate about history, medieval castles, and religious architecture, this tour offers an in-depth look at Portugal’s Templar legacy that’s hard to beat. The private nature ensures a tailored experience, perfect for those who want to avoid crowded group tours and prefer more interaction with their guide.

The extensive itinerary suits travelers who enjoy a full day of exploration, with enough time to absorb the stories and take plenty of photos. It’s also ideal for anyone interested in the cultural diversity of Portugal, especially the coexistence of Christian and Jewish heritage.

However, be prepared for a long day. The journey lasts around 8-9 hours, including travel time, and involves some walking around historic sites. If you prefer a more leisurely experience or are flexible with your schedule, this might be a perfect fit.

Overall, it’s a fantastic option for history buffs and culturally curious travelers looking to explore beyond Lisbon’s usual sights, diving deep into Portugal’s storied past with expert guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and breaks.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off at your Lisbon accommodation, making it very convenient.

Are entrance fees included?
No, admission tickets to sites like Almourol, Convent of Christ, and Tomar Castle are not included, so you should budget extra for these.

What is the group size?
This is a private tour, so only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience.

How knowledgeable are the guides?
Reviews highlight guides like Anastasia and Joao for their enthusiasm, deep historical knowledge, and storytelling skills.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for a full-day itinerary with some walking and site visits.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, water, and camera are recommended. Entrance tickets are not included, so bring cash if you plan to purchase tickets on-site.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, there’s flexibility to spend more time at certain sites or skip less interesting stops—discuss with your guide.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, especially those interested in history and architecture, but keep in mind the length and walking involved.

In essence, this private Knights Templar tour from Lisbon to Tomar offers a thoughtfully curated, engaging experience that combines history, architecture, and culture. Perfect for history lovers who want an authentic, in-depth look at Portugal’s medieval past—guided by passionate experts and wrapped in comfort.