Templar Tours - Private Five Star Tours of Tomar's Templar sites.
Overview
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Uncover the True Legacy of the Knights Templar in Tomar!
Join us on a journey through the Templar stronghold of Tomar, where history and mystery collide. Explore the Convent of Christ, a UNESCO site, with its iconic Charola (Templar Rotunda), stunning Manueline architecture, and hidden Order of Christ symbols. Learn about the 1190 Almohad siege, the Templars’ transformation, and their role in Portugal’s Age of Exploration.
Visit Santa Maria do Olival, the burial site of Templar Masters, and stroll through medieval streets where knights once walked. Marvel at the Aqueduct of Pegões, an engineering wonder. Along the way, we separate fact from myth, revealing the true Templar story.
Whether you're a history lover or a curious traveller, this immersive experience will bring the past to life. Book now and step into the world of the Templars!
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
What To Expect
Discover the rich history of the Templar Knights in Tomar with our expert-guided tour! Walk through the legendary Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage site and former Templar stronghold, where you'll explore the stunning Manueline church, the Charola (Templar Rotunda), and the mystical cloisters. Learn about the 1190 Almohad siege, the transformation of the Templars into the Order of Christ, and their crucial role in Portuguese exploration. Stroll through Tomar’s medieval streets, visit the Church of Santa Maria do Olival, the Templars' former headquarters, and admire the Aqueduct of Pegões, an engineering marvel. Along the way, we separate fact from fiction, uncovering the real history behind the myths. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply curious about the mysteries of the Templars, this tour offers an unforgettable journey through Tomar’s past! If the monument is closed other Templar monuments are available.
Igreja de Santa Maria dos Olivais
Step into history at Santa Maria do Olival, a hidden gem in Tomar with deep connections to the Knights Templar. Built in the 12th century as their spiritual headquarters, this Gothic church served as the burial site for Templar masters, including Gualdim Pais, the founder of Tomar. Admire its elegant yet simple façade, the striking rose window, and the unique detached bell tower, once used as a watchtower. Inside, discover centuries-old tombs, intricate azulejo tiles, and a peaceful atmosphere that echoes the Templars’ legacy. Later, the church became a key site for the Order of Christ, continuing the Templar mission during Portugal’s Age of Exploration. Standing on the banks of the Nabão River, Santa Maria do Olival is not just a historic monument—it’s a testament to Tomar’s enduring connection to the Templars and their influence on Portugal’s destiny. A must-visit for history lovers! Not available on Mondays.
Options
Templar Tours - Private Five Star Tours of Tomar's Templar sites.
Pickup included
What‘s Included
Admission fee
Meals
Pickup points
Thomar Boutique Hotel
Rua de Santa Iria n0 14 Tomar Portugal
Residencial Uniao
Rua Serpa Pinto 94, Tomar Portugal
Vila Gale Collection Tomar
Rua Santa Iria, 8 Tomar Portugal
Hotel Republica
Praca Da Republica 41 Tomar Portugal
Residencial Luz
Rua Serpa Pinto 144, Tomar Portugal
Casa Dos Oficios Hotel
R. Da Silva Magalhaes 71 Tomar Portugal
Hotel dos Templarios
Largo Candido dos Reis N01, Tomar Portugal
Hotel Residencial Trovador
Rua 10 de Agosto de 1385, Tomar Portugal
Estalagem Santa Iria Hotel & Spa
Rua Parque do Mouchao, Tomar Portugal
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
36 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
History of the Knights Templar in Tomar
Kevin C,Jun 3, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Darren was extremely knowledgeable and passionate about the history of the Knights and specifically the history as it relates to the area. I would highly recommend him for someone who wants an in-depth historical tour.
Amazing Fund of Knowledge
Stay769621,May 31, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Darren was a fabulous guide for our tour of Knights Templar sites. Because the castle in Tomar is closed for renovations, he drove us to Almoural Castle instead. He has an amazing fund of knowledge about the Knights and the history of Portugal, and teaches with an infectious enthusiasm. I would HIGHLY recommend this tour!
Templar Knights Tour
marylP936SX,May 11, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a fantastic tour with Darren! He is an expert historian on the Templar Knights and communicates succinctly and in a pleasant manner. We thoroughly enjoyed our time with Darren and would highly recommend this tour to others! Also, Darren is a very safe driver, was prompt, and has an engaging personality. Darren embodies everything one would want from their guide and a tour.
Best 2 days in Portugal
907kellir,Apr 29, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Darren gave us the best 2 days we had in Portugal! On the first day, we visited Tomar Castle and convents and several other sites around Tomar as well as a drive to Almourol Castle. We asked to add a tour of a winery, so he arranged a visit Casal das Freiras in the afternoon. Rita, took us around her family farm, explained the history of the property before her family became the owner's generations ago, growing and making wine and olive oil, then we had the BEST wine in Portugal with a meat and cheese board which had estate made jams too! Darren has extensive knowledge of the Templars and Order of Christ which gave an interesting layer to Tomar's history that was fascinating. The second day started with lunch at a locally owned restaurant with amazing food. Then off to Sintra with a stop in Obidos. Darren walked the walls and streets of the medieval city with us, and we even found Templar markings on a medieval church! Darren went above and beyond to show us the sites and history of Tomar and areas around Tomar!
Well worth it!! Amazing!
Freedom533226,Apr 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was an amazing experience!! Darren was so knowledgeable! He pulled all of history and the story of the Templars and pulled it all together. He customized our experience so that was incredible. Such a great person to learn from!! Www.templarknightstours.com
This is Who You Want!
Chel-TVLR,Apr 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00THIS is the guide and tour company you want! Darren has so much knowledge of the Knights Templar and the history of Tomar and Portugal. He has a great ability to pass on all his knowledge in a way that makes it understandable and enjoyable. It was a fun tour that is adaptable; ours went to several sites. Darren handled entry fees to sites, so we paid him once and were done; so easy!
A Journey Through Templar History: Exceptional Private Tour Experience with Darren
Dragoes,Apr 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Templar Knights Tours offers an absolutely outstanding experience in the historic “Home of the Templars.” From start to finish, everything was thoughtfully organized and tailored to the group’s interests and activity level, making the entire day both engaging and effortless. Our guide, Darren (Chief Tour Guide), is truly exceptional. His deep well of knowledge brings the history of the region to life, blending solid historical facts with just the right touch of myth and mystery to keep every moment fascinating and memorable. His storytelling makes you feel fully immersed in the world of the Knights Templar. The itinerary was superb, including Almourol Castle, the Church of Santa Maria de Olivais, the impressive aqueduct, and the undeniable highlight—the magnificent Convento do Cristo. Having entry fees handled by the guide made access to each site seamless and stress-free, allowing us to simply enjoy the experience. Be prepared for a fair amount of walking, including uneven and historic terrain that quite literally dates back centuries, so comfortable footwear is essential. The boat ride to Almourol Castle was a real highlight in itself, offering stunning views of the fortress rising from the river. Boarding and disembarking the small boat adds a bit of adventure, but Darren ensures everything goes smoothly and safely. We spent around five incredible hours with Darren, though it easily could have been an all-day experience given how much there is to see, learn, and absorb. This tour is a perfect blend of history, adventure, and storytelling—highly recommended for anyone interested in Portugal’s Templar heritage.
A Tour That Brings History to Life
michelletL6984LZ,Apr 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We highly, highly recommend the Templar Knights tour—it was truly one of the highlights of our visit to Portugal. Darren takes you on an immersive journey through centuries of Templar history, starting at the almoural castle and weaving stories/history that bring the past vividly to life all the way to Christ Cathedral. His depth of knowledge is incredible, but what really stands out is how engaging and passionate he is - he doesn’t just share facts, he tells the story in a way that makes you feel part of it. You come away with such a richer understanding of the Templars and the historical significance of Tomar. Every stop along the way feels meaningful, and Darren’s insights add layers you simply wouldn’t get exploring on your own. We honestly wish we had planned more time in Tomar to soak it all in - it’s one of those places that lingers with you. Which just means… we’ll absolutely have to come back!!!
Templar Knights Tour Tomar - super!
Barbara J,Apr 13, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Excellent tour with Darren. He took additional time to show us sites given inaccessibility of some of the castle due to impact of weather event. Very knowledgeable, entertaining.
Outstanding Tomar Tour
Gary B,Mar 28, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Darren is an excellent guide. His knowledge of the Templar Knights, Tomar history and Portugal’s history was superb. We learned not only about the Castle and the Convent of Christ but also visited Almoural Castle. If I could, I would give this tour more than five stars. Do not miss this tour!
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