Tomar the Former City of the Knight Templars | Portugal

Exploring Portugal’s lesser-known treasures often means venturing off the beaten path, and this tour to Tomar and Almourol offers just that—an enriching day filled with history, stunning views, and unique sights. The experience is designed to give visitors a taste of medieval grandeur and architectural beauty, all wrapped up in a comfortably paced eight- to nine-hour adventure. With a focus on small group or private access, it’s perfect for those seeking an intimate look at Portugal’s storied past without the crowds.

One of the standout features of this tour is the balance between culture and relaxed sightseeing. From wandering through the historic streets of Tomar to crossing the river to visit the castle on its granite island, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive and authentic experience. The inclusion of Wi-Fi on the bus is a thoughtful touch, allowing you to share your discoveries or just stay connected during the day.

However, a potential consideration is that the tour doesn’t include entrance tickets—meaning you’ll need to purchase your own at the monuments. While this isn’t unusual for such tours, it’s something to keep in mind when budgeting your day. This tour is best suited for history buffs, architecture lovers, and anyone looking for a full-day cultural escape in Portugal, especially those who appreciate small-group intimacy and personalized attention.

Key Points

• Historical Significance: Visit the former Knights Templar stronghold and explore architectural styles from Gothic to Renaissance.
• Authentic Experience: Small group or private tour offers personalized attention and fewer crowds.
• Scenic Surroundings: Enjoy views of the Nabão River, beautiful gardens, and the striking landscape of Almourol island.
• Comfort & Convenience: Pickup service, Wi-Fi on the bus, and flexible timing make for a smooth day.
• Cost & Value: Approximate pricing at $474 for up to six people provides a private, well-rounded experience, though entry tickets are extras.
• Expert Guide: Knowledgeable guides (like Fatima, praised for her friendliness and insights) enhance the experience with stories and local tidbits.

Exploring Tomar: A Medieval Marvel

Our journey begins in Lisbon early in the morning, with a pickup arranged to bring you comfortably to the historic city of Tomar. As the vehicle winds through Portugal’s scenic countryside, it’s easy to get excited about the day ahead. Once in Tomar, the tour’s core begins with the Convento de Cristo, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the former stronghold of the Knights Templar.

Walking through the Convento de Cristo, you’ll notice its layered architecture—Gothic arches blend into Manueline ornamentation and Renaissance details. The Church of the Ambulatory is a definite highlight, with its intricate carvings referencing Jerusalem, offering a peek into the spiritual aspirations of medieval knights. This site isn’t just a religious complex; it’s a statement of power, faith, and craftsmanship that has stood the test of time.

One reviewer, Melissa, shared: “We thoroughly enjoyed the day with Fatima! So many surprises in the charming city of Tomar. The area is rich with history and is absolutely beautiful!” Her words capture the sense of discovery many guests experience here—each corner revealing another piece of Portugal’s layered past.

After exploring the convent, the tour takes a leisurely stroll through Tomar’s historic center, filled with narrow cobblestone streets, traditional houses, and the Nabão River gently flowing nearby. The riverside setting adds to the town’s charm, and it’s a perfect place to pause, absorb the atmosphere, or snap some photos of the colorful facades.

Visiting the Almourol Castle: A Fairytale Fortress

Next, the highlight for many is the castle of Almourol—an iconic medieval fortress perched atop a massive granitic island in the Tagus River. The journey there involves a short boat ride that takes you across the water, offering a chance to enjoy the stunning landscape and riverbanks.

The Almourol castle’s topology alone is worth the visit. Sitting on the granite island, it looks like something straight out of a storybook, with crenellated walls and towers rising sharply against the sky. The boat ride adds a sense of adventure, and many guests appreciate the opportunity to see the river’s banks up close.

While the castle itself is free to enter, keep in mind that you’ll need to purchase your own ticket for the site if entry is required. The boat ride is included in the tour, which we found to be a small but meaningful addition—allowing us to enjoy the scenery and take photos without the hassle of driving or parking.

A visitor mentioned: “Visitors can enjoy crossing the river by a small boat and so enjoying the river banks and the landscape,” emphasizing how this simple activity enriches the overall experience, making the castle’s location feel even more remote and majestic.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour provides Wi-Fi on the bus, a thoughtful addition for those wanting to share their journey or catch up on messages. The pickup service ensures hassle-free transportation from Lisbon, which is especially helpful considering the early start time of 9:00 am.

However, it’s important to note that entrance tickets to the monuments are not included. This means you’ll need to budget for admission fees at the convent and the castle, which can vary. Since the tour is private or limited to your group, this gives you the flexibility to choose whether to enter or admire the exteriors. Many travelers find this arrangement flexible and straightforward.

The duration—around 8 to 9 hours—means you’ll have enough time to explore at a relaxed pace without feeling rushed. The small group setting (up to six people) often leads to more personalized interactions, with guides like Fatima receiving praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and attentive service.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Insights

The reviews we examined reveal several key insights. Melissa’s glowing review highlighted the unexpected surprises and beauty of Tomar, emphasizing how the tour exceeded expectations. She appreciated Fatima’s knowledge, courteousness, and friendliness, which made the day engaging and informative.

Another aspect that guests seem to love is the combination of historical sites with scenic landscapes. The views along the river, the architecture of the convent, and the fairy-tale-like Almourol castle combine to make this day feel like stepping back in time.

Many travelers also mention the flexibility and comfort of the tour—pickup service, Wi-Fi, and the intimate group size all contribute to a smooth and enjoyable experience. The fact that some guests found it “absolutely beautiful” suggests that the scenery and historical ambiance truly resonate with visitors.

Practical Details for Planning

The tour costs approximately $474.14 per group, which, considering it’s private and includes multiple key sites, offers good value. For families or small groups, this package can be quite cost-effective, especially when compared to booking separate tickets and transport.

The start time at 9:00 am allows for a full day of exploration, leaving plenty of time for photos, breaks, and enjoying the scenery. Since the tour excludes entrance tickets, we recommend bringing some cash or a card to cover these expenses, which are typically modest but vary depending on the site.

Weather considerations are also key—since the boat ride and outdoor walking are core parts of the tour, good weather will enhance your experience. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Who Will Love This Tour

This experience is perfect for history enthusiasts eager to see Portugal’s medieval past firsthand. It also suits travelers who enjoy scenic landscapes and architecture, as the views along the river and of the fortress are striking.

If you prefer small, private tours over large group excursions, this option provides a more personalized, relaxed environment. It’s also suitable for those with mobility in mind, as the tour involves walking, boat rides, and some uneven surfaces, but the overall pace allows for breaks and easy sightseeing.

It’s a fantastic choice for day-trippers from Lisbon looking to combine cultural discovery with a touch of adventure and nature. The inclusion of Wi-Fi and door-to-door pickup makes it convenient for visitors who want a stress-free, meaningful escape.

The Sum Up

For anyone interested in Portugal’s medieval history and architecture, this tour to Tomar and Almourol strikes a fine balance of authenticity, comfort, and scenic beauty. The small group or private setting ensures you won’t feel lost in the crowd, and the combination of cultural sites with stunning landscapes makes it a full-rounded experience.

The highlight of the day—the boat crossing and the castle perched on its granite island—are truly memorable moments, promising an experience that feels special and personal. If you love exploring historical sites with knowledgeable guides, enjoying beautiful vistas, and having the flexibility to customize your visit with entrance tickets, this tour offers excellent value and thorough insights.

This tour is best suited for those who treasure authentic, immersive experiences and want a full day of discovering Portugal’s medieval charm in a relaxed, intimate setting.

FAQs

Are entrance tickets included in the tour price?
No, the tour does not include entrance tickets. You will need to purchase tickets separately for the monuments.

What is the group size?
The tour is private or limited to up to six participants, making it ideal for those who want a more personalized experience.

Does the tour provide transportation?
Yes, pickup from Lisbon is included, and transportation to and from Tomar and Almourol is arranged in a comfortable vehicle.

Is Wi-Fi available during the tour?
Yes, Wi-Fi is provided on the bus, allowing you to stay connected and share your journey.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, starting at 9:00 am.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but some walking and boat rides are involved. It’s best to check personal mobility needs in advance.

This detailed, thoughtful tour offers an authentic glimpse into Portugal’s historic heart, perfect for curious travelers eager to explore beyond Lisbon’s cityscape.