From Lisbon: Knights Templar Tour to Tomar & Almourol Castle

If you’re curious about Portugal’s medieval past and the mysterious Knights Templar, a day trip to Tomar and Almourol Castle might just be the highlight of your Lisbon visit. This tour offers a chance to explore stunning architecture, learn fascinating stories from knowledgeable guides, and see some of Portugal’s most captivating UNESCO World Heritage sites—all in one day.

Two things we really like about this experience are the expertly led guides who bring history to life and the chance to visit Almourol Castle, which looks like something straight out of a fairy tale. The tour is well-organized, with all tickets included—so you won’t be fussing over lines or logistics.

One aspect to keep in mind is the group size and transportation, which can be a bit tight or warm, especially on busy days. It’s a full itinerary, so if you prefer more time at each site or a more leisurely pace, this might feel a little rushed.

This tour is a solid choice for history buffs, architecture lovers, or anyone interested in the stories of the Knights Templar and Portugal’s medieval roots. It’s especially good if you want a guided, all-in-one experience rather than piecing things together on your own.

Key Points

• All-included experience: Tickets to Almourol Castle and the Convent of Christ, plus a guide.
• History and architecture: Learn about the Templars and see UNESCO sites blending Gothic, Manueline, and Renaissance styles.
• Stunning scenery: Almourol Castle on a small island, accessible by boat, offers a picture-perfect medieval setting.
• Convenient transport: Air-conditioned van with pick-up and drop-off options.
• Expert guides: Multiple reviews praise guides for their knowledge and storytelling.
• Suitable for history enthusiasts and those interested in Portugal’s medieval heritage, though not ideal for those seeking a very relaxed pace or traveling with very young children.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Details: What You Can Expect

This tour is a smooth blend of history, scenic views, and cultural insights, designed to give you a rounded picture of Portugal’s Knights Templar past. It starts with a pickup from Lisbon—either at a meeting point or your accommodation if you choose the private option—and then heads northward in a comfortable van. The group size is generally limited to eight, which helps keep things intimate, though some trips might operate in larger vehicles.

Almourol Castle: A Fairy Tale Fortress

Your first stop is Almourol Castle, built by the Templars on a tiny island in the middle of the Tagus River. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook. The castle is only accessible by boat, which adds to its mystical appeal.

Once on the island, you’ll get a guided tour of the castle, which, according to reviews, lasts around an hour. As you walk along its ramparts, you’ll see sweeping river views and hear stories about its strategic importance in guarding crossings over the Tagus. Several travelers mention how striking the castle looks—like a castle from a fairytale, and many appreciate the opportunity to explore it closely, with “views that you’ll love.”

Tomar: The Templar Capital

Next, the journey continues to Tomar, the historic heart of the Knights Templar in Portugal. Here, you’ll explore the Convent of Christ, a vast complex with a mix of architectural styles, including Gothic, Manueline, and Renaissance. The interior is filled with elegant cloisters, ornate chapels, and the famous Manueline window, often described as an “explosion of stone-carved symbolism.”

A highlight at this site is learning about how this convent served as a spiritual stronghold for the Templars—many visitors find the atmosphere peaceful yet powerful. The guide’s stories and insights make the history come alive, and a lot of reviews mention how well-informed and passionate the guides are, which makes the experience memorable.

Santa Maria do Olival & More

The tour also visits Santa Maria do Olival, the 12th-century Templar church where several Templar Masters rest. Built in a Gothic style, it’s a quiet, contemplative place that offers a tangible connection to the Order’s spiritual life. Many reviews note the emotional impact of standing within a site so closely tied to Portugal’s medieval history.

You’ll also get some free time in Tomar afterward, perhaps for a quick lunch or some sightseeing. The tour includes a stop at the Church of S. João Batista, which you will pass by, and then returns to Lisbon in the late afternoon.

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The Experience: What Sets It Apart

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the guides, with many reviewers mentioning how passionate, knowledgeable, and engaging they are. Guides like Rui, Hugo, Diogo, and Rodrigo receive high marks for making history interesting, sharing stories, and adding personal touches. This helps turn what could be a typical sightseeing trip into a more engaging, story-rich experience.

Another aspect that travelers love is the scenery—Almourol Castle, in particular, is a standout. Its fairy-tale look and the boat ride to reach it make for memorable photos and moments. Many mention how the views from the ramparts are breathtaking, and the experience of exploring a castle on an island is something special.

Pricing at $92 per person offers good value when you consider the cost of entrance fees, guided commentary, and transportation included. Travelers often compare this to similar experiences, noting that the comprehensive itinerary and knowledgeable guides justify the price well.

However, some reviews point out the van ride quality—it can get warm, especially in summer, and the size of the group may feel a bit cramped for some. Also, the tour is quite full, so expect a busy day with little downtime. If you prefer a very relaxed, slow-paced day or are traveling with very young kids, this might feel a bit rushed.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be walking on uneven surfaces and exploring castles and churches.
• Bring sun protection: A hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are a good idea, especially in summer.
• Prepare for the weather: The boat ride and outdoor exploration mean you’ll be exposed to the elements.
• Bring a camera: The scenery and architecture are photogenic, and you’ll want to capture the fairy-tale castle and scenic river views.
• Arrive early at the meeting point: Look for the guide holding a blue and yellow flag.
• Children over 1 need a car seat: Make sure to bring your own if traveling with kids, as the tour doesn’t provide these.
• Book ahead in peak season: Some reviewers noted the best restaurants in Tomar fill up quickly, so plan your lunch accordingly.

Who This Tour Is Best For

If you’re a history lover, especially into medieval or religious history, this tour hits the right notes. The stories about the Knights Templar, the architecture, and the scenic castles are engaging and educational. Architecture fans will appreciate the blend of styles in the Convent of Christ and the ornate details of the Manueline window.

Travelers seeking an easy, guided experience without the hassle of arranging tickets, transport, and navigating on your own will find this offers great convenience. It’s also perfect if you want to see multiple sites in one day—Almourol, Tomar, and the church of Santa Maria do Olival—without the stress.

However, if you dislike large groups, or prefer flexible, unscheduled exploration, this might not be your ideal option. And if you’re traveling with very young children or have mobility issues, check the specifics on transport and site accessibility carefully, as the tour is not suited for unassisted wheelchairs or strollers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation by air-conditioned van is included, with pick-up and drop-off options in Lisbon. Group size is usually limited to 8, but sometimes larger vehicles are used.

How long is the full tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including travel time, site visits, and some free time in Tomar.

Are tickets to the sites included?
Yes, tickets to Almourol Castle and the Convent of Christ are included, so you skip the lines and go straight in.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children over 1 year need a suitable car seat, which you should bring along. The tour isn’t specifically designed for very young kids, and some sites involve walking on uneven surfaces.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides are available in Portuguese, Spanish, English, and French.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The tour isn’t recommended for those with wheelchairs or non-folding strollers, as some sites involve walking on uneven surfaces and boats.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera. It’s also advisable to bring water and perhaps a light jacket depending on the weather.

Final Thoughts

This Knights Templar tour from Lisbon offers a great combination of history, scenery, and guided storytelling. It’s ideal for travelers who want a structured, informative day out with all the logistics taken care of. The sites visited are visually stunning and steeped in legend, making it a memorable addition to any trip to Portugal.

While it’s not perfect for those seeking a leisurely pace or traveling with very young children, it’s a smart choice for history enthusiasts, architecture buffs, or anyone curious about Portugal’s medieval past. The guides’ passion and knowledge help make this more than just a sightseeing trip—they turn it into an engaging storytelling experience.

If you’re looking to step back into the Middle Ages, explore castles on a scenic river, and learn about the Knights Templar’s influence in Portugal, this tour is well worth considering. Just remember to come prepared, bring your curiosity, and enjoy the journey into Portugal’s legendary past.

Note: All information is based on the tour provider’s details and reviews, ensuring you get a realistic picture of what to expect.

You can check availability for your dates here: