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Tomar and the Templars Convent of Christ Tour: A Historical Tale

27 Reviews 4.96 out of 5 stars Based on 27 reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 100% of reviewers | Coimbra, Portugal
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 17 (0) days in advance.

5 to 7 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English

Overview

Experience the epic tale of the Knights Templar in Tomar on this exclusive full-day guided tour. This is more than a tour—it's a meticulously crafted historical narrative that chronologically traces the Templars' story, from their origins to their enduring legacy in Tomar.

Your journey begins at the Convent of Christ, the heart of this tale. Explore how the Templars' fortress transformed over the centuries, evolving from a powerful military stronghold into a magnificent architectural testament to their influence. Our guide will reveal the story behind the architecture, from the superb Knights Templar Round Church to the majestic Manueline Window.

The narrative continues in the afternoon, where you will explore Tomar's old town. Discover how this medieval settlement flourished under their guidance. With our expert guide, you will gain a profound and engaging understanding of the Templars’ pivotal role in Portuguese history. This is the story of Tomar, told as it happened.

What's Included

  • Knowledgeable Tour Guide
  • Transportation
  • Entrance Ticket - Convent of Christ
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Meeting Location

Meeting point

São João Baptista
2300 Tomar, Portugal

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

Rua Aquiles da Mota Lima
2300-455 Tomar, Portugal

What To Expect

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Our secure website provides real-time availability, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
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Castelo de Tomar

We begin your tour at the Castle of Tomar, the original headquarters of the Knights Templar in Portugal. We will trace the origins of the order from the Holy Land and explore their arrival in Portugal. The castle was strategically built to serve as a key center of Templar power and a vital fortress during the Reconquista.
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1 hour 30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Convento de Cristo

Next, we move on to the heart of the fortress: the Convent of Christ. You'll step inside the stunning 12th-century Charola, the mysterious Templar Round Church, and then explore the magnificent Gothic-Manueline church. Here, you'll be captivated by the iconic Manueline Window, a marvel of sculpture adorned with ropes and nautical elements that stand as a powerful tribute to Portugal’s golden age of maritime exploration. As we continue, we will wander through masterpieces of Renaissance architecture, including the impressive Main Cloister, and discover later additions from the era of the Philippine Dynasty that reflect a significant shift in the convent’s history.
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2 hours Admission Ticket Free

Praca da Republica

Break for a lunch in Tomar's historic Old Town. Lunch is not included in the tour price. An optional lunch with your guide at a traditional local restaurant is available, but must be arranged with the guide at least one week in advance of your tour date.
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2 hours Admission Ticket Free

Tomar

During the afternoon, we will journey into Tomar's Old Town, a medieval settlement founded by the Knights Templar. Your tour will lead us to the lively Praça da República, the town's main square. Next, we will delve into the historic Jewry, visiting its unique Synagogue to learn about the fascinating history of the Jewish community in Portugal. Your walk will then continue to the Templar mills, built by the knights themselves, and we will explore the remains of the earlier Roman and Visigothic settlements that existed in the town before the Knights Templar arrived.
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1 hour Admission Ticket Free

Igreja de Santa Maria dos Olivais

Your journey through history concludes at the Church of Santa Maria dos Olivais, a stunning Gothic church built in the 13th century. This sacred place served as the first pantheon for the Knights Templar, and as we explore its serene interior, we will delve into its profound importance to the order. We will also uncover the hidden secrets and rich symbology that still shroud this magnificent church in an aura of mystery.
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30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

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Additional Info

  • Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • The entrance ticket to the Convent can be purchased during the tour.
  • An optional lunch with your guide at a traditional local restaurant is available. Please contact the guide at least one week in advance of the tour date to arrange this.
  • During the summer months, we recommend bringing a sun hat, sunscreen, and a bottle of water.

Frequently Asked Questions (8)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Tomar and the Templars Convent of Christ Tour: A Historical Tale?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (WET).This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund. Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

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Activity code: C-5591767P3

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.96
27 reviews

Average 4.96 out of 5 stars based on 27 traveler reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
26
4 stars
1
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
0
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 17 (0) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • Knowledgeable Tour Guide
  • Transportation
  • Entrance Ticket - Convent of Christ

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • This tour requires a minimum of 2 participants to proceed. All bookings are subject to confirmation.
  • The entrance ticket to the Convent can be purchased during the tour.
  • An optional lunch with your guide at a traditional local restaurant is available. Please contact the guide at least one week in advance of the tour date to arrange this.
  • During the summer months, we recommend bringing a sun hat, sunscreen, and a bottle of water.
  • Private tour option available both in Portuguese and in English.
  • Private tour option with tickets included available.
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers

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