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

Coimbra , Portugal

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

Active

(5 reviews)

7h - 8h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

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.

Available options

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

What's included

Knowledgeable Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

What's not included

Transportation

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

This tour requires a minimum of 3 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.

Meeting point

The tour guide will be waiting at the meeting point with a sign with the logo/ brand name Historyteller.

About Coimbra

Coimbra, known as the City of Students, is a historic city in central Portugal with a rich academic tradition. It's home to one of the oldest universities in the world, the University of Coimbra, and is famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture, vibrant student life, and cultural heritage.

Top Attractions

University of Coimbra

One of the oldest universities in the world, the University of Coimbra is a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning architecture and a rich history.

Historical 2-3 hours €12 (general admission)

Coimbra Cathedral (Sé Velha)

This Romanesque cathedral is one of the most important religious buildings in Portugal, featuring beautiful architecture and historical artifacts.

Religious 1-2 hours €3 (general admission)

Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha

A ruined monastery that was once the home of Queen Saint Isabel, offering a glimpse into the city's medieval past.

Historical 1-2 hours €4 (general admission)

Botanical Garden of the University of Coimbra

A beautiful and serene garden with a diverse collection of plants, perfect for a relaxing stroll.

Nature 1 hour Free (with University of Coimbra ticket)

Portugal dos Pequenitos

A miniature park featuring scaled-down replicas of famous Portuguese monuments and buildings, ideal for families and children.

Cultural 1-2 hours €7 (general admission)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cozido à Portuguesa

A hearty stew made with various meats, vegetables, and beans, cooked slowly in a clay pot.

Dinner Contains meat and beans

Bacalhau à Brás

A popular dish made with shredded salted cod, onions, potatoes, and eggs.

Dinner Contains fish and eggs

Leitão à Bairrada

Roast suckling pig, a specialty of the Bairrada region, served with a crispy skin and tender meat.

Dinner Contains pork

Pastel de Tentúgal

A traditional pastry from the Tentúgal region, filled with sweet cream and topped with cinnamon.

Dessert Contains dairy and sugar

Popular Activities

Hiking in Bussaco Forest Kayaking on the Mondego River Visiting thermal spas in Luso Strolling along the Mondego River Exploring the University of Coimbra Visiting the Coimbra Cathedral (Sé Velha) Swimming at nearby beaches Visiting the Festa das Latas (Bottle Caps Festival)

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the best time to visit Coimbra for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. The city is lively with students and tourists.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Portuguese
Widely spoken: English, French, Spanish
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Western European Time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Coimbra is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially at night
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps

Getting there

By air

Francisco de Sa Carneiro Airport • 110 km from Coimbra

By train

Coimbra-B Station, Coimbra A Station

By bus

Coimbra Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and covers most parts of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bolt, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Alta Baixa Sé Nova

Day trips

Conímbriga

15 km from Coimbra • Half day

Conímbriga is a well-preserved Roman settlement with impressive mosaics, ruins, and a museum.

Luso and Bussaco Forest

20 km from Coimbra • Full day

Luso is a charming spa town known for its thermal waters, while Bussaco Forest offers beautiful hiking trails and a historic palace.

Aveiro

60 km from Coimbra • Full day

Aveiro is a charming coastal city known as the 'Venice of Portugal' for its canals and colorful moliceiro boats.

Festivals

Queima das Fitas (Ribbon Burning Festival) • Late May Festa das Latas (Bottle Caps Festival) • December

Pro tips

Visit the University of Coimbra early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience
Try local specialties, such as Cozido à Portuguesa, Bacalhau à Brás, and Pastel de Tentúgal, at iconic eateries like O Sucesso, Zé Manel dos Frangos, and Café Santa Cruz
Explore the city's neighborhoods, such as Alta, Baixa, and Sé Nova, to discover hidden gems, local shops, and cultural sites
Take a day trip to Conímbriga, Luso and Bussaco Forest, or Aveiro to experience the region's history, nature, and unique culture
Attend a Fado performance at the University of Coimbra for a traditional Portuguese music experience