Small-Group Templar Tour: Tomar & Almourol from Lisbon
At a glance
Small-Group Templar Tour: Tomar & Almourol from Lisbon is a 8h small-group experience in Lisbon, Portugal, operated by Cooltour Lisbon. Travellers rate it 4.8 out of 5 across 729 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor. Prices start from $61.39 per person, and free cancellation is available. Included: Pick-up and drop-off at selected location (only with private option), Entrance to Almourol Castle, Travel insurance compliant with Portuguese regulations.
Highlights
- Rated 4.8/5 by 729 travellers
- Small group of up to 8 people for a more personal experience
- Free cancellation for flexible planning
- 4 stops in one well-planned itinerary
Quick facts
- Duration
- 8h
- Group
- Small group, up to 8 travellers
- Languages
- English, Spanish
- Pickup
- Hotel pickup or meet at the start point
- Confirmation
- Instant confirmation
- Ticket
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation (see policy)
Overview
Embark on a full day journey from Lisbon into the fascinating world of the Knights Templar, exploring castles, convents and legends that shaped Portugal’s medieval past.
Begin at the dramatic Almourol Castle, perched on a small island in the Tagus River. Cross by boat and wander through the towers and battlements of this picture-perfect fortress once linked to Templar defense.
Continuing to Tomar, the historic headquarters of the Order. Visit the majestic Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage site blending Romanesque, Gothic, Manueline and Renaissance styles. Step inside the round Charola and admire the famous Manueline window.
Conclude at the Church of Santa Maria do Olival, the spiritual pantheon of the Templars, where their masters were once buried.
Perfect for history lovers, culture seekers and curious travelers, this tour combines iconic landmarks, rich storytelling and unforgettable scenery in one memorable day.
What's included
What's included
- Pick-up and drop-off at selected location (only with private option)
- Entrance to Almourol Castle
- Travel insurance compliant with Portuguese regulations
- Pick-up at selected location (only with shared tour option with pick-up)
- Guided tour of the Church of Santa Maria do Olival
- Transport in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
- Professional tour guide
- Entrance to the Convent of Christ (if option selected)
Not included
- Gratuities
- Meals and drinks
- Personal expenses
Itinerary
-
Stop 1 · 1h
Begin your visit with a scenic boat ride across the Tagus River to reach the Castelo de Almourol, a medieval fortress dating back to the 12th century. Enjoy the river views and surrounding landscape as you approach this iconic island castle.
Step inside to explore the ancient walls, towers, and interior chambers, imagining life as a knight defending the fortress. Learn from your guide about the castle’s history, legends, and strategic role during the Reconquista.
Climb the battlements for panoramic views of the river and lush countryside, and capture memorable photographs of this historic landmark. This experience combines adventure, history, and stunning scenery, offering an unforgettable journey into Portugal’s medieval past. -
Stop 2 · 2h
Enjoy free time in Tomar’s charming historical center, a perfect opportunity to stroll the streets, explore local shops, and soak in the atmosphere of this picturesque town.
Take your time for lunch at one of the local restaurants or cafés, sampling traditional Portuguese cuisine and relaxing before continuing your journey.
Optionally, visit the Igreja de São João Batista, a beautiful church with historic architecture and serene interiors, adding a cultural and spiritual touch to your exploration of Tomar.
This stop offers a flexible and relaxing experience, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in Tomar’s heritage, enjoy local flavors, and explore at their own pace. -
Stop 3 · 30m
Pass by the Igreja de Santa Maria dos Olivais, an elegant church in Tomar known for its historic architecture and cultural significance. Admire its stone façade, detailed windows, and traditional Portuguese design from the outside.
Your guide will share brief insights into the church’s history, its role in the community, and architectural highlights, offering context to this historic landmark.
This stop allows travelers to appreciate Tomar’s rich religious heritage while enjoying a leisurely stroll through the surrounding streets, capturing photographs and soaking in the town’s atmosphere. -
Stop 4 · 2h
Step inside the Convento de Cristo, a magnificent 12th-century monastery and UNESCO World Heritage site, originally built by the Knights Templar. Marvel at its unique blend of Romanesque, Gothic, Manueline, and Renaissance architecture as you explore cloisters, chapels, and grand halls.
Learn from your guide about the history of the Templars, the monastery’s role in Portuguese exploration, and the fascinating symbolism found throughout the complex.
Walk through the elegant courtyards, spiral staircases, and ornate details, capturing photos of this historic landmark while immersing yourself in centuries of Portuguese heritage.
This visit offers travelers a deep cultural and historical experience, combining architectural beauty, rich storytelling, and the mystique of one of Portugal’s most iconic sites.
Meeting point
Meet your guide next to the Equestrian Statue of Dom João I in Praça da Figueira, 1100-240 Lisbon.
Good to know
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- 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 3 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.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Small-Group Templar Tour: Tomar & Almourol from Lisbon take?
The experience lasts about 8h.
How much does it cost?
Prices start from $61.39 per person. The final price depends on the date, time and number of travellers, and is confirmed on Viator before you pay.
What's included?
Pick-up and drop-off at selected location (only with private option); Entrance to Almourol Castle; Travel insurance compliant with Portuguese regulations; Pick-up at selected location (only with shared tour option with pick-up); Guided tour of the Church of Santa Maria do Olival; Transport in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
Where does it start?
Meet your guide next to the Equestrian Statue of Dom João I in Praça da Figueira, 1100-240 Lisbon.
Can I cancel?
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is guided in English, Spanish.
Is it worth it?
Travellers rate it 4.8 out of 5 across 729 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor, which places it among the top-rated experiences in Lisbon.
