Tomar Culture & history

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Spend a day in the Portuguese City of Tomar to discover the history of the Knights Templar. Your journey will begin in Lisbon. Tomar was the Templar capital of Portugal and Spain and one of the most important in the medieval world. The main monument of the city is the Tomar Convento de Cristo, Guide and Ticket inlcuded. which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. A short distance from Tomar is the Almourol Castle. This emblematic monument was at one time controlled by the Knights Templar.  The Almourol Castle and the city of Tomar are perfect examples to understand the mystique of the Templars, men that were simultaneously Warrior Knights and monks that lived under a rigid military discipline, but at the same time with a great rigor in the spiritual life. At the end of the tour, you will be dropped off at one of two locations in central Lisbon, either Restauradores or Marquês de Pombal.

Meet your guide at the Convent of Christ in Tomar and discover one of Portugal’s most important religious landmarks and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Learn about the history of the Convent of Christ, which was once a stronghold of the Knights Templar. Head inside the 16th-century convent and soak up its spectacular interiors. Learn about the mythic Templar history that transports you all the way to the beginning of Tomar’s history and the Templar Knights. This place has become, throughout the decades, a live museum of Portuguese history, having been in this exact same place where important Portuguese history pages were written. Leaf through this immense book and get in touch with the most diverse styles and forms which coexist there, making it the greatest example of this magnitude in the world. From the Charole and its uniquely painted panels to the illustrious Capitulo window or the architecture of the main cloister, learn about the wealth of history of this landmark.

Step into a world of medieval mystery and sacred purpose as you follow the trail of the legendary Knights Templar through the heart of Portugal. This immersive full-day experience connects you with centuries of hidden symbols, military strategy, and spiritual devotion, set against stunning landscapes and UNESCO heritage sites. Begin your journey at Almourol Castle, a striking fortress built by the Templars on a small island in the middle of the Tagus River. Accessible only by boat, this iconic stronghold rises like a vision from a fairy tale. As you walk its ramparts and admire the river views, your guide will share how the castle once guarded a strategic crossing and still holds secrets whispered by history. Continue to Tomar, once the powerful headquarters of the Order of the Knights Templar in Portugal. Here, you will visit the Convent of Christ, a vast and extraordinary monument whose architecture blends Gothic, Manueline, Renaissance, and Romanesque styles. Inside, explore peaceful cloisters, ornate chapels, and the famous Manueline window, an explosion of stone-carved symbolism inspired by Portugal’s Age of Discovery. This spiritual fortress is now a proud UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of the Templars’ enduring influence. In the quiet heart of the city lies the Church of Santa Maria do Olival, the final resting place of several Templar Masters. Built in the 12th century, this Gothic church was once considered the spiritual center for all Templars in Portugal. Its understated beauty and historical weight offer a moving glimpse into the values and beliefs of the Order. Throughout the tour, your expert guide brings each location to life with captivating stories, historical insights, and Templar lore. Whether you are a history enthusiast, architecture lover, or simply curious, this tour delivers an unforgettable look into one of the most fascinating chapters of Portuguese and European history.

Family Program Offer - Children up to 12 years old do not pay Explore Batalha, Tomar, Alcobaça and Óbidos: stunning history and architecture and medieval charm. -Discover Tomar, a city full of Templar heritage, like the Convent of Christ, another UNESCO jewel famous for its Charola, and stories of the Templar Knights. -The Battle Monastery, a masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you will learn about the important Battle of Aljubarrota. -Discover the famous Alcobaça Monastery, UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1989 and Portuguese National Monument since 1910. It is one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal. -Enjoy Óbidos, a charming medieval village surrounded by well-preserved walls of Óbidos Castle, which offers stunning views of the area. You will meet the famous Ginjinha de Óbidos, a traditional liquor served in chocolate cups. A deep immersion in the history and culture of Portugal, offering an unforgettable experience. Tickets to the monuments are not included. You will need to purchase them separately—either online, directly at the sites, or, even better, with the Lisbon Card, which offers the best value for visiting paid monuments in Portugal.

Meet your local guide and head to Tomar on a road trip that takes about one hour. When there, go directly to the Templar Castle and the Convento de Cristo Monastery and be amazed by this magnificent monument filled with history. Descend to the city of Tomar and visit the old town passing by the old Synagogue, the oldest in Portugal. You have the chance to walk around and find some of the most unique buildings in the city. Spend some free time to enjoy lunch.  Leaving Tomar, head to Constância, where Luís de Camões, the most famous Portuguese poet, is said to have lived. There, enjoy the magnificent views of the confluence of Zêzere and Tejo rivers. Take a small boat ride in the calm waters of the Tagus river up to the unique Almourol Castle island, where you have some more free time to explore. At the end of the day, return to Lisbon in the comfortable van. 

Discover three of Portugal's most emblematic destinations on this tour full of spirituality, history and culture. Start the day in Fátima, one of the most famous pilgrimage sites in the world. Explore the Sanctuary of Fátima, the Prayer Area and the Basilica of the Holy Trinity. Take a moment to reflect or simply admire the serene atmosphere of this special place. Next, head to the historic town of Batalha and visit the majestic Batalha Monastery, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This Gothic monument impresses with its detailed architecture and historical importance linked to Portugal's independence. Finally, travel to Tomar, a city rich in Templar history. Explore the incredible Convent of Christ, headquarters of the Knights Templar in Portugal, with its intricate Manueline windows and fascinating history dating back to the Middle Ages. During the tour, enjoy the comfort of private transportation and the knowledge of the local guide, who will enrich your experience with detailed information and curiosities. Includes: Transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned van. Specialized local guide. Entrance to the Batalha Monastery and Convent of Christ. Free time to explore each destination. Duration: 9 hours. Languages: Portuguese, English, Spanish. Meeting point: In front of HF FÊNIX LISBOA, Praça Marquês de Pombal 8, Lisbon.

Booking is essential for this 5 star limited guided tour. I don't rush and I don't just treat people like cattle, you've travelled far to be on this tour and deserve the best. I know all the best paths to the castle and I guarantee if you don't laugh I'll give you your money back! Explore Tomar beyond the surface with a tour designed for the traveler, not just the tourist. Yes, you’ll visit the magnificent UNESCO-listed Convent of Christ* and walk on the imposing Tomar Castle walls, but this journey takes you further—into the forgotten corners, dark legends, and gripping stories of those who built this city with their blood, sweat, and sacrifice. Tomar’s past is one of power, intrigue, and tragedy. Hear the heartbreaking tale of the saint murdered for love, uncover the horrors of the Jewish massacre, and learn how the city’s Templar legacy is woven into centuries of war, crusades, and rebellion. This isn't just about admiring historic sites—though you’ll see some breathtaking ones—it's about stepping into the footsteps of knights, monks, and martyrs. But history isn’t the only thing Tomar is famous for. We’ll also visit a working ceramics studio, where you can watch skilled artisans shape clay into beautiful, traditional Portuguese tiles and pottery—an art form that has been passed down for generations. Beyond the stories, I’ll give you insider tips on where to eat, drink, and explore after the tour, from hidden museums to the best places to relax with a glass of local wine. Think of this as walking through Tomar with a friend who loves the city and wants you to love it too. I'll take you past the queues, through short cuts and lanes only a local would know. And if you don’t laugh at least once, you get your money back.** *I leave you at the doors of the Convent which is extra ** This doesn't apply to Scandinavians or Germans

Unveil the Secrets of the Knights Templar Embark on an exclusive small-group journey to Tomar, a city steeped in history and mystery. Discover the captivating story of the Knights Templar as you explore iconic landmarks like the majestic Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your expert guide will reveal the hidden secrets of these ancient structures, sharing fascinating insights into the Templar's influence on the region. Wander through the enchanting streets of Tomar, admiring its stunning architecture and soaking up the unique atmosphere. After a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, continue your exploration with a visit to the Gothic-style Church of Santa Maria do Olival. Then, relax on the scenic drive back to Lisbon, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences of the day. Book your tour today and unlock the magic of the Knights Templar!

After a pick-up at your hotel start the day by visiting the Castle and the Convent of Christ in Tomar. The tour will focus not only on the architecture, which is impressive with its several styles (romanic, gothic, manueline and renaissance), but also on the history, and legends, of the Templar Order and the Christ Order. You will understand the role that the orders played in the creation of the Kingdom of Portugal and in the maritime discoveries and you will discover the symbols that are in some stones allowing you to get involved in the mysticism of the secret orders. Next go to visit the monastery of holy Mary of victory. This monastery, usually called Batalha, is the Portuguese biggest gothic monument, and is also where the Manueline style was born and the first Portuguese stained glasses were made. We will see the architecture and talk about history, and legends, of the ones that started the maritime discoveries, like Henry the navigator, who is buried there. Your last stop will be at the Royal Abbey of Alcobaça where the biggest Portuguese gothic church is. This monument, like the Monastery of Batalha, is a UNESCO world heritage site. Admire the gothic architecture of the twelfth century and discuss the influence of the Order of Cister in the creation of the kingdom of Portugal. Of course it´s inevitable, in front of their tombs, also to tell the tragic love story of King Pedro I – the cruel one, and his beloved - Inês de Castro, who was murdered by his father's order. Of course during the day you´ll have time also to take a lunch or a snack, buy a souvenir, and take a lot of photos. The pace of the visit is always yours. What is most important is your satisfaction.