THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Spend a full day tracing the Knights Templar legacy from river islets to medieval convents with a private guide. Ride a scenic boat to Almourol Castle and roam historic Tomar on this flexible, immersive tour.
Spend a full day tracing the Knights Templar legacy from river islets to medieval convents with a private guide. Ride a scenic boat to Almourol Castle and roam historic Tomar on this flexible, immersive tour.
Book with What to do in Portugal
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by What to do in Portugal · Tomar, Centro
Set in central Portugal, the Templar Knights Private Full Day Tour by What to do in Portugal delivers a deep dive into the country’s medieval legacy framed by dynamic natural beauty. Beginning with a hotel pickup, this approximately eight-hour tour carves a route through the Tagus River region toward historic strongholds and UNESCO-listed monuments, offering a rare combination of cultural discovery and outdoor immersion.
The day’s highlight unfolds at Almourol Castle, an imposing fortress perched on a small islet in the river. Guests approach via a weather-dependent boat ride that enhances the sense of adventure — crossing tranquil waters surrounded by thick Portuguese pine forests and limestone cliffs. The castle’s Romanesque towers and ramparts offer sweeping views of the river’s meanders and the surrounding countryside, a vantage point marked by craggy rock outcrops and wildflowers.
Next, the tour moves inland to Tomar, home to the Church of Santa Maria do Olival and the Convent of Christ, a Knights Templar stronghold with a complex history dating back to the 12th century. Visitors can navigate stone courtyards, intricate cloisters, and Renaissance architectural details emblematic of medieval religious and military power.
With free time to wander the streets of Tomar’s quaint center, travelers can sample local delicacies or browse artisan shops before returning to their starting point. What to do in Portugal’s flexible itinerary ensures the experience matches your pace and interests — private guides can tailor stops to include lesser-known viewpoints or hidden gems.
This tour stands out because it marries outdoor movement—walking, boat travel—with rich historical context, all led by personable guides keen to share stories and insights. For those seeking to connect with Portugal’s dramatic landscapes and layered past beyond the typical city visit, this full-day adventure is a compelling entry point.
moderate.
Approx. 8 hours.
Suitable for those in average physical condition comfortable with walking on uneven surfaces.
The boat ride depends on weather conditions and may be closed during low season or bad weather; alternative arrangements will be made.
Tickets to monuments are not included; guests should plan to purchase them separately.
Yes, this private tour allows flexibility to add or skip stops according to your preferences.
Guides can typically speak English, Portuguese, Spanish, or French, subject to availability.
Lunch is not included, but there is free time to eat in Tomar’s city center.
Comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces are recommended.
Tomar was the headquarters of the Knights Templar in Portugal, with the Convent of Christ serving as a key religious and military site since the 12th century.
Efforts are in place to preserve Almourol’s natural river environment and protect historical structures while managing visitor impact through guided tours.
What to do in Portugal connects travelers with private guided tours and transfers across Portugal. The company specializes in customizable day and half-day excursions that highlight Portugal’s coastline, historic towns, religious sites, and cultural landmarks. Popular itineraries include private full-day excursions to the Algarve with visits to Ponta da Piedade and Benagil, half-day tours of Sintra featuring local pastries and scenic viewpoints, and thematic journeys such as the Templar Knights full-day tour to Tomar and Almourol Castle. Each experience is delivered in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking guide who adjusts the itinerary to guest preferences. Transfer services are available between Lisbon and Porto with scheduled stops and door-to-door pickup from hotels and cruise terminals. Pilgrimage-focused options to Fátima include visits to the sanctuary, related chapels, and accompanied time for personal reflection. What to do in Portugal emphasizes clear pickup arrangements, flexible timing, and small-group privacy rather than large coach tours. Booking details, meeting locations, and inclusions are specified per listing so travelers can compare options. The operator serves visitors seeking seaside scenery, historic monuments, religious shrines, and authentic regional flavors across regions such as Lisbon, Sintra, Algarve, Porto, and Évora. Reviews, trip descriptions, and transparent itineraries help prospective guests select a suitable private tour. Travelers looking for tailored sightseeing, comfortable transfers, and knowledgeable local commentary will find the company’s offerings suited for flexible, privately guided exploration of Portugal. Customer support and pre-trip confirmation are provided to ensure smooth logistics and a confident, enjoyable travel experience for all travelers.
Book with What to do in Portugal