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Step into the world of the Knights Templar with a visit to Tomar and the Convent of Christ. Explore medieval streets and discover the fairytale Almourol Castle on an epic day trip from Lisbon.

Highlights

• Enter the Convent of Christ, a UNESCO masterpiece of sacred Templar power
• Visit Santa Maria do Olival Church, final resting place of warrior monks in Toma
• Admire São João Baptista’s Gothic tower and golden Flemish altarpieces
• Reach Almourol Castle by boat and explore its forgotten island fortress
• Uncover Templar legends across epic stone walls and riverside sanctuaries

Description

Follow the path of the Knights Templar on a full-day tour from Lisbon to the legendary sites of Almourol Castle, the Church of Santa Maria do Olival and the Convent of Christ in Tomar. This journey combines scenic landscapes, medieval monuments and the rich symbolism of one of history’s most fascinating military orders. Travel in comfort with an expert guide and uncover the deeper meaning behind Portugal’s Templar legacy. Your day begins with a scenic drive from Lisbon to the banks of the Tagus River. Your first stop is the fairytale-like Almourol Castle, dramatically perched on a small island in the middle of the river. A short boat ride (included) takes you across the water to this 12th-century fortress, one of the most iconic in Portugal. Walk its stone walls and towers as your guide explains the castle’s strategic role during the Christian Reconquest and its legendary connection to the Knights Templar. Afterwards, continue to the historic city of Tomar, once the spiritual and administrative center of the Templar Order in Portugal. Begin with a guided visit to the Church of Santa Maria do Olival, a serene Gothic structure that served as the pantheon for the Templar Knights. Here lie the tombs of several Grand Masters of the Order, and your guide will share the hidden meanings behind the church’s architecture and layout. Then enjoy free time for lunch in Tomar’s charming historical center. Wander the cobbled streets, try a local meal and, if you wish, visit the nearby Church of São João Batista, located in the main square and known for its Manueline details and peaceful setting. In the afternoon, head up the hill to the extraordinary Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most remarkable monuments in Portugal. Originally built by the Templars and later expanded by the Order of Christ, the convent showcases a blend of architectural styles and symbolic art. Step inside the famous Charola, the Templar rotunda church inspired by Jerusalem’s Holy Sepulchre, and explore its intricately carved cloisters, chapter houses and secret passageways. Your guide will bring centuries of history to life, from religious rituals to political power plays. After a full day of discovery, relax on the return journey to Lisbon, taking with you unforgettable memories of Portugal’s medieval past. Whether you select a shared group tour or opt for a private experience, this journey offers deep insight, dramatic scenery and the enduring spirit of the Knights Templar.

Includes

Entrance to Almourol Castle Entrance to the Convent of Christ Guided tour of the Church of Santa Maria do Olival Guided tour inside Convent of Christ and Almourol Castle with Boat Ride included Professional tour guide Pick-up and drop-off at selected location (only with private option) Pick-up at selected location (only with shared tour option with pick-up) Transport in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle Travel insurance compliant with Portuguese regulations

Important Information

• Please look for a guide holding a blue and yellow flag at the Meeting Point.
• The standard group size is limited to 8 participants per vehicle (Van). At certain times, the tour may be operated in a larger vehicle with more participants.
• The tour may be conducted by a multilingual guide, depending on group composition.
• A minimum of 2 participants is required for the tour to operate.
• Children over 1 and under 12 (or under 135 cm) must use a suitable child seat, by law. We do not provide baby seats for children under 1 year (rear-facing, up to 13 kg), customers must bring their own.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund