A castle on an island in the Tagus and the house of the Templars in Tomar.
A day devoted to the Knights Templar along the Tagus: first, a short boat ride to Almourol castle, on an island in the middle of the river; then the Convent of Christ in Tomar, with the knights' round church. The boat and entry fees are paid separately. For lovers of castles and history.
The day, stop by stop
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Castelo de Almourol
Almourol castle sits on a small rocky island in the middle of the Tagus and is linked to the Knights Templar, who rebuilt it in the twelfth century; the plaque at the entrance dates the work to 1171. You reach it by a short boat ride from Praia do Ribatejo, paid separately. Inside, you climb the keep, with the river flowing past on both sides. The visit is short and peaceful. Wear sturdy shoes for the rocks, and note the boat may not run when the river is high.
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Convento de Cristo
In Tomar, the Convent of Christ began as a castle of the Knights Templar and later passed to the Order of Christ, which helped fund the voyages of discovery. It is a World Heritage Site. Its heart is the Charola, the knights' round church, painted and gilded inside. There are several cloisters and, outside, the famous Manueline window of the Chapter House, covered in stone ropes, coral and seaweed. Entry is paid separately. Allow at least two hours and wear comfortable shoes.
The essentials
- Duration
- 7 h · Full day
- Pick-up
- At your hotel. The final price depends on where you are staying; we confirm it when you tell us.
- Included
- The car and the driver, only for your group, tolls and water.
- Not included
- Entrance tickets and meals.
- Who it is for
- Castle and history lovers.