Tomar
Rae_F
May 27, 2025, 3:16:07 AM
May 27, 2025, 3:16:07 AM
Fabulous day. Our guide, Vasco, was so friendly and knowledgeable. He pointed out all the important points as well as many otherwise missed points of interest.
About Activity
Embark on a captivating full-day private tour that delves into the legendary history of the Knights Templar. This full-day tour takes you through ancient villages, historical landmarks, and stunning landscapes, offering a unique insight into the enigmatic world of the Templars.
The Knights Templar, officially known as the Poor Fellow-Soldiers of Christ and of the Temple of Solomon, were a medieval Christian military order that played a crucial role in the Crusades and the protection of pilgrims traveling to the Holy Land. Founded around 1119, the order grew in power and influence, becoming one of the most formidable military and financial organizations of the Middle Ages.
Gain a deeper understanding of the Knights Templar and their influence on Portuguese history. Join us for an unforgettable journey through the myths of the Knights Templar, where history and legend intertwine, revealing the fascinating legacy of one of the most mysterious orders in history.
What's Included
Includes
- Fresh water
- Driver/guide (full time trip leader)
- Private Tour in Air Conditioned Mini Van
- Pick-up and drop-off available from Lisbon/Sintra central hotels, Lisbon cruise terminal/airport..
- Baggage transport is limited to 4 medium-sized suitcases.
Excludes
- Food and drinks
- Entrance fee
Departure & Return
Departure Point
- Traveler pick up offered
Itinerary
Begin your journey in Dornes, an ancient village with Roman origins. Here, you will visit the medieval tower built in the 12th century by Gualdim Pais, the Grand Master of the Knights Templar. Gualdim Pais was a notable figure in the history of the Knights Templar and medieval Portugal. He was a prominent Templar knight who played a crucial role in the establishment and expansion of the order in Portugal. Enjoy the breathtaking views over the Zêzere River and immerse yourself in the historical ambiance.
Visit the The Historic Center of Tomar, which offers a rich tapestry of history and culture, with several key attractions that showcase its significance and charm. The S. João Batista Church is a beautiful church located in the main square, showcasing the Manueline style and housing impressive works of religious art. Manueline is a uniquely Portuguese architectural style characterized by intricately carved stone detailing and maritime motifs. Inside São João Batista Church, visitors can admire impressive works of religious art and experience the grandeur of its interior.
The Synagogue of Tomar, built in the 15th century, is one of the oldest synagogues in Portugal. It stands as a testament to Tomar's rich Jewish heritage and is now home to the Museum Luso-Hebraico de Abraham Zacuto. The museum exhibits Jewish artifacts and documents that chronicle the history and contributions of the Jewish community in Portugal, offering insight into their cultural and religious practices.
Explore the Convent of Christ, one of the most remarkable examples of historical and architectural heritage in the country. It was originally a Templar stronghold and later became a monastery of the Order of Christ. The convent is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is renowned for its unique architectural styles and historical significance.
Conclude your tour with a visit to the impressive Almourol Castle, a medieval fortress located on a small rocky island in the middle of the Tagus River. It was built in the 12th century by the Knights Templar under the direction of Gualdim Pais. The castle is strategically positioned to control the navigation on the Tagus River and served as an important defensive structure during the Reconquista period.
Language Offered
Portuguese - GUIDE
English - GUIDE
Spanish - GUIDE
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Infant seats are available on request if advised at time of booking. Portuguese law stipulates that children under 12 years of age and 135 cm in height, when transported in a car with safety belts, must travel in an approved restraint system adapted to their size and weight. Please let us know if you have children and their ages. This service does not have any additional cost.
Dress code is smart casual, recommended comfortable clothing and shoes.
Luggage transportation is only available upon request and depending on the company's availability.
No smoking or eating inside the vehicle.
Gratuities are not included.
Our tours have a set start time. Any delay of more than 30 minutes will be considered a no show.
Operated by Essência da Latitude Turismo Lda
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
Can’t wait to go back!
437gingerg
Apr 23, 2025, 3:52:37 PM
Apr 23, 2025, 3:52:37 PM
We enjoyed our first day of tours with Daniel so much that we scheduled a second day to visit Tomar with him. He was a patient and knowledgeable guide and we had a wonderful time.
Knights Templar is a must see!
Brian_B
Nov 22, 2024, 4:59:12 AM
Nov 22, 2024, 4:59:12 AM
The Knights Templar tour was as good a tour as I’ve been on.The Convent of Christ is a must see if you are in Lisbon. Our guide Daniel, aside from being very personable, had an incredible amount of knowledge about the Knights Templar and loves sharing that knowledge.
Very informative!
Kevin F
Sep 25, 2024, 11:45:59 AM
Sep 25, 2024, 11:45:59 AM
We were fortunate to have Daniel as our guide again. So much info, and he was excited to share it! I recommend this company, and was extremely satisfied.
Daniel was amazing
Denise C
Sep 18, 2024, 3:24:53 PM
Sep 18, 2024, 3:24:53 PM
Daniel was amazing. Knowledgeable & accommodated a special need we had as well as possible- could not have asked for more.
Informative and Interesting Tour
luiscY7864ST
Jan 17, 2024, 1:43:51 PM
Jan 17, 2024, 1:43:51 PM
Daniel was a wonderful and informative guide and the sights we saw were different from the normal tours undertaken when traveling. There's a uniqueness to the Templar lore, and this tour, and Daniel's knowledge, highlight this. In short, we were very happy with this tour and especially our tour guide.
Fantastic trip. Highly recommended
Traveller7654321
Nov 8, 2023, 6:42:09 AM
Nov 8, 2023, 6:42:09 AM
Our trip to Knights of Templar Tomar (including the Tomar synagogue), Almourol Castle and the Tower of Dornes was fantastic. This is the second time we have done a tour with Diogo. He is an excellent guide. He is extremely knowledgeable about the subject matter and his enthusiasm for this part of history makes this a most enjoyable trip. My wife and I highly recommend this tour.
Stunning historic monument
673minl
Nov 2, 2023, 10:38:29 AM
Nov 2, 2023, 10:38:29 AM
Stunning monastery with the fabled Knights Templar altar of initiation that will take your breath away. A few stairs(about 100) will take you there but there are many stopping off points inside where one can take great photos.
A lot of fun
Chris C
Oct 18, 2023, 1:43:01 PM
Oct 18, 2023, 1:43:01 PM
Daniel was a fantastic tour guide. The sites were well preserved and it was s fantastic experience.I recommend this tour to anyone who is a Knights Templar enthusiast.
Excellent tour and tour guide (Diogo)
Joel_D
Nov 4, 2022, 5:53:13 AM
Nov 4, 2022, 5:53:13 AM
Tour guide (Diogo) was very knowledgeable giving historical overview and relevance to sites visited.
Following the Knights Templar
525alanf
Oct 28, 2022, 6:01:38 PM
Oct 28, 2022, 6:01:38 PM
Resting up after one day filled with visits to so many indescribable places over the three previous days, we next set out to follow the Knights Templar, beginning with a visit to the Tower of Dornes, constructed by the Knights. At first we saw just an apparently ordinary tower, but after a few details by Daniel specifically about the design, things came to life. An additional benefit to this visit was a chance to observe how climate change is affecting our environment--the nearby lake was way beneath its original level. Driving on to the pretty little city of Tomar, where we had lunch in a restaurant with medieval decor, we ascended to Castelo de Tomar with the Convent of Christ built inside. Absorbing the detailed descriptions of what we saw and the history behind it, we left for our final stop, the Almourol Castle on an island in the Tagus. Here with rain threatening and our museum legs needing a rest we decided to view this magnificent castle from nearby rather than take the boat ride as the only means of access to Almourol. Together with Daniel we sat, observed, chatted, learning additional background information and thoroughly enjoying the experiences of the day.
Tomar/Fatima were great; Tour guide Diogo was excellent
99vikasg
Jul 6, 2022, 8:52:38 AM
Jul 6, 2022, 8:52:38 AM
We took a private tour to visit Tomar and Dornes. Midway through the tour we decided to visit Fatima instead of Almoural Castle. Diogo (our tour guide) was excellent and very accommodating. He went above and beyond in explaining the history of Portugal, history of the Knights Templars and the symbology of Tomar/Dornes. Overall a very good experience. Tour was in a Citroen SUV. Extremely comfortable.
Help
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Reach us by phone
1 (404) 457-8032
Reach us by email
info@amazejourney.com