Private Tour - Tomar and Knights Templar Castles

Your private day tour begins with a convenient pick-up from your Lisbon hotel or cruise port. This customizable experience is centered on the historic city of Tomar, including its UNESCO World Heritage-listed landmarks, with an option to visit additional sites such as Almourol Castle and the Templar Interpretation Center. As a private tour, the itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to your preferences, ensuring a memorable and personalized day.

Standard Full-Day Itinerary:
1. Departure to Tomar
Your journey starts with a 1.5-hour drive from Lisbon to Tomar, a city steeped in history and once a stronghold of the Knights Templar. Along the way, enjoy scenic views of the Portuguese countryside as your guide shares insights about the day’s destinations.

2. Convent of Christ and Castle of Tomar
Begin your visit in Tomar at the iconic Convent of Christ, located within the Castle of Tomar. This remarkable site is a masterpiece of architecture, blending Romanesque, Gothic, Manueline, and Renaissance styles. One of the highlights is the famed Manueline window, an extraordinary example of this uniquely Portuguese decorative style. Explore the castle grounds, which offer stunning views and a deeper look into the Templar Knights’ legacy.

3. Stroll Through Tomar’s City Center
After exploring the castle and convent, take a leisurely stroll through Tomar’s charming historic center. Visit Praça da República (Republic Square), the heart of the city, and see the beautiful Church of São João Baptista. If you have a sweet tooth, stop by a local pastry shop to sample traditional treats like Fatias de Tomar (a unique egg-based dessert).

4. Lunch in Tomar
Savor a traditional Portuguese lunch at one of the city’s local restaurants, where you can try regional specialties paired with excellent local wines.

5. Almourol Castle
After lunch, head to Almourol Castle, located on a small island in the Tagus River. This fairytale-like fortress, once a key Templar stronghold, is surrounded by water and accessible only by boat (weather and schedules permitting). Its isolated location and historic significance make it one of Portugal’s most picturesque castles.

6. Templar Interpretation Center in Barquinha
Conclude your day with a visit to the Templar Interpretation Center in Vila Nova da Barquinha. This small museum offers an engaging overview of the Templar Knights’ influence in Portugal, further enriching your understanding of their history and legacy.

7. Return to Lisbon
After a full day of exploration, relax on the drive back to your Lisbon accommodation, arriving at approximately 5:30 PM.

Half-Day Option:
For those with limited time, the half-day tour focuses on Tomar itself, primarily the Convent of Christ and the city center. This condensed itinerary allows you to experience the highlights of Tomar while still enjoying the flexibility of a private tour.