Templar Tours - Private Five Star Tours of Tomar's Templar sites.
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 53 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Templar Tours - Private Five Star Tours of Tomar's Templar sites. worth booking?
Templar Tours - Private Five Star Tours of Tomar's Templar sites. is a 3-hour experience in Coimbra, Portugal, from $131 per person. It scores 79 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 5/5 rating across 53 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 79 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (53)
- Duration
- 3 hours
- From
- $131 per person
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!
What you get
About this experience
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!
What's included
Included
- Admission fees
Not included
- Meals
What you'll see and do
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.
120 minutes here · Admission included
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.
20 minutes here
Step back in time with a visit to the stunning Aqueduct of Pegões, a remarkable feat of 17th-century engineering that once carried water to the Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stretching over 6 kilometers, with its graceful arches rising high above the valley, this aqueduct offers breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for nature lovers, history buffs, and photographers alike. Our guided visit takes you to the most scenic sections of the aqueduct, where you’ll learn about its construction, purpose, and the fascinating history of the Knights Templar and Portuguese monarchy. You’ll also enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding countryside, with plenty of opportunities to walk along the top of the structure (for those with a head for heights!) and capture unforgettable panoramic views of Tomar and beyond.
10 minutes here
Roda do parque do Mouchao
Relaxing 1-Hour Sightseeing Tour in Mouchão Park – Drink Included! Discover the natural beauty and peaceful charm of Tomar’s Mouchão Park on this relaxing 1-hour guided walk. Stroll beneath leafy trees, explore the historic waterwheel, and enjoy the tranquil riverside views, all with a refreshing local drink included. A time to reflect on the tour and discuss the Templars, the Order of Christ and the other other legends of Tomar. Perfect for a short break or gentle end to your visit, this easy-going tour blends light sightseeing with local stories and hidden corners you might otherwise miss. English-speaking local guide Small group experience Drink included (wine, beer, or soft drink) Ideal for all ages
60 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Coimbra
Please wait for your guide next to the statue of Gualdim Pais or your hotel reception if pre-arranged.
Hotel pickup
Pickup is available for selected locations.
Ends at
Please wait for your guide next to the statue of Gualdim Pais or your hotel reception if pre-arranged.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Templar Knights Tours
Know before you go
- 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
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 53 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
10 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
The guide
6 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Traveler reviews
53 verified traveler reviews for Templar Tours - Private Five Star Tours of Tomar's Templar sites.. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Darren has the full history of the Templars for you and shares it with a passion!
Darren- Thank you! I know we hit a snag but you handled it like an expert. Thank you for helping with the ride, even from Fatima, and the ride to the train depot in the morning. Darren even helped us get the right tickets! We felt totally taken care of. I have no doubt we chose the best possible guide to learn about the Templars.
Response from the operator: Yes agreed, the sudden closure of monuments at short notice does not help businesses like mine. However, as you say, we worked around it and I'm glad the experience was as equally rewarding for you both. Many thanks for the review. It means everything to receive great feedback.
via Tripadvisor
Great way to spend a day in Tomar
We are pilgrims passing through on the way to Santiago, and we’re looking for some in-depth knowledge about the Templar Knights. Darren did not disappoint. He picked us up in his SUV and we went to the Almoural castle where he told us about the history of the Templar Knights in Portugal,, we also had coffee there. Then we went back to Convent of Christ and did an in-depth tour there with all sorts of stories and information about the Templar Knights. It was well worth it, and made our visit much more memorable.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much Pilgrims. I'm glad that the Tomar section of your trip was a memorable part of your overall experience here in Portugal. Thank you for booking with Templar Knights Tours and a safe onward journey along the Camino.
via Tripadvisor
Great Templar tour with Darren
Darren provided a very personal and thorough tour—much better than your run of the mill big tour operator experience we encountered on this trip. He is very knowledgeable and explains the Templar history in an easy to understand fashion Highly recommend
Response from the operator: Thank you. It was an absolute pleasure to tour with you both.
via Tripadvisor
English Speaking Guide in Tomar Portugal
Our guided tour of the Convent of Christ in Tomar with Darren was an outstanding experience. We met him in the town square, and he kindly drove us to the convent. A British guide who has lived in Portugal for 20 years, Darren combines an excellent knowledge of Portuguese history with genuine enthusiasm for the Knights Templar, architecture and the country’s cultural heritage. From the beginning, the tour was informative, engaging and interactive. Darren took us on a fascinating journey through the history of the Knights Templar—from their foundation in the early 12th century in the Holy Land, where they protected pilgrims and supported the Kingdom of Jerusalem, to the order’s suppression in France in the early 14th century. He explained the unusual nature of the Templars as both a religious and military order, and described their humble origins as the “Poor Fellow-Soldiers of Christ,” represented by the famous symbol of two knights sharing one horse. He also showed how their role in protecting pilgrims led them to develop sophisticated financial services, making them one of Europe’s earliest banking institutions. Darren brought the political and financial circumstances surrounding the Templars’ downfall to life, including the debts owed to them by King Philip IV of France, known as Philip the Fair. He explained how the order was persecuted, tortured and accused of heresy, with several members eventually executed. The Portuguese chapter of the story was particularly compelling. While the Templars were suppressed in France and elsewhere, their military experience and resources remained valuable to Portugal during the Reconquista. King Dinis established the Order of Christ in 1319, allowing much of the Templars’ Portuguese legacy, property and expertise to continue under a new name. Darren also explained the connection between the Order of Christ, Prince Henry the Navigator and Portugal’s Age of Discoveries. The order’s wealth and influence helped support Portugal’s maritime expansion, and its cross became closely associated with Portuguese voyages and exploration. As we explored the convent, Darren went beyond the history of the Templars. He pointed out the complex’s defensive features and explained how it developed over many centuries. He helped us appreciate the mixture of Romanesque, Gothic, Manueline, Renaissance and later architectural elements, showing how each period left its mark on this extraordinary site. The Convent of Christ and the Castle of Tomar were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. Darren was an excellent guide: knowledgeable, passionate, engaging and approachable. He made the history feel alive and helped us understand the convent not merely as a beautiful monument, but as a place where military history, religion, politics, architecture and Portugal’s maritime ambitions all come together. For English-speaking visitors interested in history, architecture or the Knights Templar, a visit to Tomar is an absolute must. The Convent of Christ is a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site, and we highly recommend Darren as the perfect guide to uncover its fascinating story.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a generous and thoughtful review—I'm honestly blown away by your kind words! Guiding you both around Tomar was a absolute treat. It makes my job so rewarding when I get to share this history with people who are genuinely interested and engaged. I'm really glad we were able to bring the story of the Templars and the beauty of the Convent to life together. Thank you again for the wonderful feedback and recommendation. It was a real pleasure meeting you, and I hope you enjoy the rest of your time in Portugal!
via Tripadvisor
Honestly the Best Tour of the Knights of Templar
Darren was a very knowledgeable and passionate guide. His tour was exceptional due to his many years of researching facts versus fiction. His knowledge brings you to the time of the early 12th century where you can almost see the knight and horses in the castle. He only does one tour a day and will spend as much time with you as you would like. Truly a memorable day we will never forget. Thank you again Linda and Scott
Response from the operator: Thank you so much Linda and Scott. Your review means the world to me and is exactly why I do this job.
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 3 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- Available for selected locations
- Booked in 30 days
- 19
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Why this scores 79
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Templar Tours - Private Five Star Tours of Tomar's Templar sites.: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Coimbra.
How much does Templar Tours - Private Five Star Tours of Tomar's Templar sites. cost?
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Prices start at $131 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Coimbra usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Templar Tours - Private Five Star Tours of Tomar's Templar sites. take?
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Plan for about 3 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Coimbra is not rushed.
Is Templar Tours - Private Five Star Tours of Tomar's Templar sites. worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 79 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 53 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Coimbra, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Templar Tours - Private Five Star Tours of Tomar's Templar sites.?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Templar Tours - Private Five Star Tours of Tomar's Templar sites. suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 3-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Templar Tours - Private Five Star Tours of Tomar's Templar sites.?
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Around 19 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Coimbra can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Coimbra and add a light layer if any part of the 3-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Templar Tours - Private Five Star Tours of Tomar's Templar sites. start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Coimbra within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Coimbra?
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On Outty we rank every Coimbra experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Coimbra Top Attractions Walking Tour, Discovering the charms and places of Coimbra, Soft Canyoning, river Ceira, Góis, Serra da Lousa, Coimbra. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Coimbra?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Coimbra?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Templar Tours - Private Five Star Tours of Tomar's Templar sites.?
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Included: Admission fees. Not included: Meals. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Templar Tours - Private Five Star Tours of Tomar's Templar sites. include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 2 listed pickup locations in and around Coimbra. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Templar Tours - Private Five Star Tours of Tomar's Templar sites. offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Templar Tours - Private Five Star Tours of Tomar's Templar sites.?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Templar Tours - Private Five Star Tours of Tomar's Templar sites. wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Templar Tours - Private Five Star Tours of Tomar's Templar sites. if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Coimbra. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Templar Tours - Private Five Star Tours of Tomar's Templar sites.?
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Across 53 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, the guide. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
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