Templar Knights Route – Discover the secret of Almourol and Tomar

Taking a trip through Portugal’s past can feel like flipping through a history book—except it’s more vivid, more tangible, and way more fun. This Templar Knights Route offers an immersive journey into the medieval world, starting from the charming villages along the Tagus River to awe-inspiring castles and religious sites. It’s a well-curated day designed for those who love history, architecture, and a touch of adventure, all wrapped into one meaningful experience.

What really makes this tour stand out is the combination of expert-guided storytelling paired with stunning scenery—think castles rising from the river and streets echoing with stories from centuries ago. Plus, the visit to Almourol Castle, accessible by boat, offers a picture-perfect moment you won’t forget. On the flip side, with a full-day itinerary, you’ll want to be ready for a fair amount of travel and walking, which may be tiring for some. This trip is best suited for history buffs, architecture lovers, or anyone eager to explore Portugal’s Templar legacy in a comfortable, organized setting.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Experience: Visit UNESCO World Heritage sites and iconic castles with knowledgeable guides.
• Stunning Scenery: Expect beautiful river views and medieval architecture that make for great photo ops.
• Comfortable Transportation: Private, air-conditioned vehicle with pickup service ensures a smooth day.
• Balanced Itinerary: The tour combines sightseeing, storytelling, and a medieval-themed lunch, offering an engaging mix.
• Value for Money: Including tickets and guided commentary, the price reflects a well-rounded, hassle-free experience.
• Flexible Options: An optional extension to Batalha adds a more comprehensive historical layer.

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Starting Point and First Stop: Vila Nova da Barquinha

The adventure begins at the Hard Rock Cafe in Lisbon for a convenient pickup, which sets a professional and comfortable tone for the day. We then head towards Vila Nova da Barquinha, a charming village adjacent to Almourol Castle. Though only a brief stop of about 45 minutes—mainly for orientation—you get to appreciate the area’s strategic importance for the Templar Knights.

This first stop is perfect for snapping some initial photos and getting a quick sense of the area’s medieval significance. The stop is free of cost, but it provides a vital context for what’s to come.

The Highlight: Almourol Castle

Next, we cross the river by boat—a delightful 40-minute journey that offers sweeping views of the Tagus River and the surrounding landscape. Almourol Castle, built in the 12th century, is arguably the star of the day. Its fairy-tale appearance, perched on a small island, makes it one of Portugal’s most iconic castles.

Our guide (who, in our case, was praised for his vivid storytelling and deep knowledge) helps us understand the castle’s role in medieval times. We loved the way he brought the history alive, explaining the castle’s strategic importance for the Templar Knights and the later military significance.

Visitors can explore the ramparts, towers, and battlements, with plenty of photo opportunities. The ticket to Almourol is included, making this a seamless part of the experience. The boat ride itself is relaxing and offers a different perspective on the castle, emphasizing its isolated, commanding position.

Exploring Tomar: The Templar Heartland

After the castle visit, we move to the historic town of Tomar, which takes about an hour to explore. This town is a treasure trove of architectural and cultural layers. The guide shares stories of Gualdim Pais, the master mason and Templar leader instrumental in shaping Tomar’s identity.

You’ll love the blend of narrow, winding streets, picturesque squares, and historical buildings. The town’s charm is also reflected in its Jewish history, which adds another fascinating layer to the visit.

The Convent of Christ: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

The star attraction here is the Convent of Christ, which served as the Templars’ main headquarters and later as a royal palace. The site’s architecture is a stunning showcase of Manueline style, with intricate stonework and religious symbolism.

Our guide highlights the significance of this site, explaining its role in Portugal’s history and architecture. The visit lasts about an hour, and the included ticket makes it easy to appreciate this remarkable monument.

Lunch: A Medieval Feast at ‘Taberna Antiga’

One of the unique aspects of this tour is the medieval-themed lunch at ‘Taberna Antiga’. While it’s not a traditional sit-down meal, it offers a cultural experience—think rustic, old-world ambiance combined with traditional Portuguese flavors. This isn’t just about eating; it’s about stepping into a different era, adding a fun, immersive touch to the day.

Optional Extension to Batalha

For those with extra energy and curiosity, there’s an option to extend the tour to Batalha—about an hour away. This visit is free of charge and offers insight into the Battle of Aljubarrota, a pivotal moment in Portuguese history. The Batalha Monastery is renowned for its Gothic architecture and historical importance, rounding out the day’s historical journey.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

The one review available highlights the tour’s quality: “We had an awesome trip with our guide Nelson Fontes. He was early to pick us up and impressed us with his knowledge, explaining not just the history but providing additional information that made the experience richer.” This indicates that guides are not just knowledgeable but also punctual and engaging, which enhances the overall value.

Another traveler appreciated the smooth logistics, noting the air-conditioned vehicle and private transportation, which keeps the day comfortable and stress-free.

While the tour is quite packed, most visitors found the timing appropriate—there’s a good balance between sightseeing and breaks, with about an hour at each major site. The inclusion of tickets and bottled water adds to the convenience.

Practical Details and Value

At $287.35 per person, this tour offers a good bang for your buck. It includes private transportation, guided commentary, and all tickets to major sites, which means no surprise costs or hassle. The small group size and personalized guide create a more intimate, engaging experience, especially valuable if you’re interested in history and architecture.

The tour lasts about 9 hours, starting from Lisbon and wrapping up back at the meeting point. The day involves some walking, especially around the sites, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Lunch isn’t included in the price, but the medieval-themed meal provides a memorable cultural touch. You might want to bring some extra snacks or money for additional drinks if desired.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is ideal for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and those interested in Portugal’s Templar legacy. It’s also suited for travelers who appreciate well-organized, hassle-free tours with knowledgeable guides. Since the itinerary involves some walking and boat rides, it’s best suited for those with a moderate level of mobility and patience for a full day of sightseeing.

The Sum Up

The Templar Knights Route offers a well-rounded, detailed exploration of some of Portugal’s most iconic medieval sites. With expert guides, stunning views, and a blend of history and culture, it’s a captivating way to connect with Portugal’s past. The included tickets and private transportation make it convenient, while the optional extension adds extra depth.

This experience is particularly well-suited for travelers who want a comprehensive but manageable way to explore Portugal’s Templar and medieval heritage without the hassle of planning multiple visits. It balances story, scenery, and culture—perfect for making the most of a day in Portugal.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour features private, air-conditioned transportation with pickup from the Hard Rock Cafe in Lisbon, ensuring a comfortable journey throughout the day.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting in the morning and returning to the original meeting point in Lisbon late afternoon or early evening.

Are tickets to the sites included?
Yes, tickets for Almourol Castle and the Convent of Christ are included, making it easy to access these key sites without extra costs.

Can I extend the tour to Batalha?
Yes, there’s an option to extend the tour to Batalha, which adds roughly an hour, with no extra charge. This allows you to visit the Batalha Monastery and learn about the Battle of Aljubarrota.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there is a medieval-themed meal option at ‘Taberna Antiga’ in Tomar, adding a cultural flavor to your dining experience.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best for those comfortable with walking and spending a full day sightseeing. Service animals are allowed.

What is the group size?
This is a private tour, so only your group will participate, ensuring personalized attention.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve through the provided booking platform, and confirmation is immediate upon booking. Cancellations are free if made 24 hours in advance.

This Templar Knights Route is a thoughtfully designed journey, blending history, architecture, and culture into one memorable day. Whether you’re a history buff or simply want to see some of Portugal’s most picturesque sites, it offers an engaging and well-organized way to uncover the secrets of the Templar legacy.