Discover Tomar's dark history: Templar knights secrets, epic battles, Castle walls. Explore the Templar Church, The Saint's Convent, Portugal's oldest Synagogue & watch ceramic artists & Dodge crowds.

About this activity

Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later: Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
Duration 2.5 hours: Check availability to see starting times
Live tour guide: English
Small group: Limited to 10 participants

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

Monica – Norway

Mark was a great guide! He took us through all the essentials and explained well. No rush at all, even made time for ice cream and water breaks (which was great when the temperatures were around 40 degrees).

Kylie – Australia

Mark's "Tomar by Heart" tour was an unforgettable experience. His passion for Tomar's history and engaging storytelling made the tour both educational and entertaining. We explored hidden spots, learned about the Templar Castle and the Convent, and heard fascinating tales of knights and local legends. Mark's deep knowledge and enthusiasm brought the city's history to life. He also shared great tips on local eateries and attractions, making the tour feel like a walk with a friend. If you want a unique and insightful tour of Tomar, I highly recommend Mark's tour!

Itinerary

Starting location:
Praça da República
Tomar Synagogue
Self-guided tour (10 minutes)
Castelo de Tomar
Photo stop, Visit, Guided tour, Safety briefing (30 minutes)
Hidden gem
Visit (15 minutes)
Finish at:
Convent of Christ

Main stop

Other stop

For reference only. Itineraries are subject to change.

Highlights

Discover Tomar as a traveller. Off the beaten tracks. With a local English guide
Convent of Christ welcomed 260,871 people last year Don't get stuck behind them!
Walk in the footsteps of warriors, literary Templar legends come alive in Tomar!
Uncover Tomar’s dark past—Templar knights, battles, and bloodshed await!
Step beyond the tourist trail—discover Tomar’s hidden history and secrets

Full description

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

Includes

Learn the dramatic history of Portugal and Tomar.
Watch artisans craft stunning ceramics in a working Portuguese studio!
Climb on Tomar Castle walls - 100 feet high, with amazing city views.
Stroll through Seven Hills Natural Forest and a discover the fountain of blood.
The Mouchão Park, where Saint Iria was murdered.
Explore the secrets of the Templar church, where Grand Masters were buried.**
Explore Portuguese food in the market*.
Delve into the oldest Synagogue in Portugal hear about the four Jews burnt to death for their beliefs and the Polish man who was saved from the holocaust.**
An emailed guide for Tomar and surrounding area, so you know what I know.
A good time, I love sharing my knowledge and I like to give people as good an experience as I can.
not available on Sunday or Monday
not open on Mondays

Entry to the UNESCO Convent of Christ.
Food and drink

Not suitable for

Children under 10 years
Wheelchair users
Visually impaired people
People with low level of fitness

Meeting point

We meet by the statue of the knight Gualdim Pais

Open in Google Maps

Important information

What to bring

Comfortable shoes

Not allowed

High-heeled shoes
Mobility scooters
Alcohol and drugs
Electric wheelchairs
Crutches
Explosive substances
Audio recording

Know before you go

his tour involves a 2.5 ish hour hike, so a level of fitness is required. The castle is on top of a hill. We take routes most tourists don't know about.

From $54 per person

to book your spot and pay nothing today

Top Attractions in Tomar

1Convent of Christ

Experiences in Tomar

Top destinations

Nearby destinations

Nearby sights

Tomar, everything you need to see and do in one tour.