Tomar and Templars Day Tour from Lisbon

Journey north from Lisbon for a day dedicated to the Knights Templar and the historic town of Tomar. This curated experience focuses on the UNESCO-listed Convent of Christ, the former headquarters of this powerful medieval order in Portugal. Your professional driver will transport you comfortably in a Mercedes-Benz vehicle, ensuring a relaxed and informative day trip.

The Convent of Christ is a monumental complex, a testament to centuries of Portuguese history and the enduring legacy of the Templars and their successors, the Order of Christ. You will have ample time to explore its intricate cloisters, the iconic Charola, and the various architectural styles that reflect its evolution from a 12th-century Templar stronghold to a Manueline masterpiece. This visit offers a deep dive into the spiritual and military significance of the order that played a pivotal role in the Reconquista and the Age of Discoveries.

Following your exploration of the Convent, the tour includes a considered lunch break in the charming town of Tomar. Situated on the banks of the Nabão River, Tomar offers a peaceful setting to enjoy local Portuguese cuisine. This allows for a moment of reflection after immersing yourself in the rich history of the Templars, before your comfortable return journey to Lisbon.

Tomar and Templars Day Tour from Lisbon

The Convent of Christ, the Charola and a calm Tomar lunch.

About this experience

A focused day at Tomar's UNESCO-listed Convent of Christ, the headquarters of the Knights Templar in Portugal, with a long lunch in town.

Departure and return from Lisbon. Duration: 9 hours. Pricing is per private vehicle, not per person. Request availability and prices.

What's included

Plan this private experience from Lisbon with Portugal Magik

Frequently asked questions

What is the best time of day to visit the Convent of Christ to avoid crowds?

We recommend arriving at the Convent of Christ shortly after its opening time, usually around 9:00 AM, or in the late afternoon. This helps avoid the peak hours when larger tour groups tend to visit, allowing for a more serene exploration of the complex.

Are there any specific dietary considerations for lunch in Tomar?

Tomar offers a range of traditional Portuguese restaurants. If you have specific dietary requirements or allergies, please inform your professional driver at the beginning of the tour. They can assist in communicating these needs to the restaurant staff during your lunch break to ensure a comfortable dining experience.

What is the walking level required for this tour, particularly at the Convent of Christ?

The Convent of Christ involves a moderate amount of walking, including stairs and uneven surfaces within the complex. While there are some accessible paths, exploring all areas, particularly the upper levels and various cloisters, requires a reasonable level of mobility. Comfortable footwear is highly recommended.

Local detail

Tomar is approximately 140 kilometers (87 miles) northeast of Lisbon, a journey that typically takes around 1.5 hours each way, depending on traffic. The Convent of Christ, perched atop a hill overlooking the town, is the primary focus of this day tour. Within its walls, the Charola stands out as a unique circular church, originally built for the Knights to attend mass on horseback. Its intricate frescoes and architectural details provide a direct link to the Templar era.

Beyond the Convent, Tomar itself is a pleasant town to explore. The historic center, with its narrow streets and traditional shops, offers a glimpse into local Portuguese life. The Praça da República, the main square, is a good spot to observe daily life and find a restaurant for lunch. Local specialties in the region often include river fish from the Nabão, and traditional sweets like 'Fatias de Tomar'. While the focus remains on the Convent, the town provides a calm and authentic backdrop to your historical exploration.