About this experience
Starting with Tomar with its charming historical center on the banks of the Nabao River, we will visit the mysterious Convent of Christ, with its 8 cloisters and the famous “Manueline Window”, its round church inspired on the temple of Solomon in Jerusalem. Here we unveil some of the secrets of the Knights Templar, we’ll learn about the extinction of the order and its succession as the Order of Christ in Portugal.
In the center region of Portugal, Coimbra, the city of knowledge, the capital of the country until 1255. From the banks of the Mondego river to the University hill, the city of Coimbra is intellectual, also peculiar, full of mysticism but also picturesque landscapes. Here we will visit (optional) the Johannine Library, considered by the British newspaper “The Telegraph” the most spectacular library in the world, with an incredible collection of over 200,000 books stored on magnificent carved gold leaf shelves.
At a glance
- Duration: 7 hr–9 hr
- Private experience
Plan your experience
Set aside 7 hr–9 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What is included
- Certified professional driver-guide
- High comfort Mercedes Benz vehicles
- All taxes included
- WiFi and bottled waters on board
- Accident and liability insurance
Not included
- Entrance tickets
- Clients meals and lodging
Itinerary and highlights
The Order of the Knights Templar, or Templars, entered in Portugal in the 12th century, even before the founding of the kingdom. This Order gained fame in Portugal when the Knight Gualdim Pais was instructed by the founder of the Templars in Jerusalem, Hugo of Payens to establish the first Templar headquarters in Europe. Thus, the city of Tomar was born as a replica of the Holy City of Jerusalem and on its dominant hill, the Convent of Christ is built overlooking the city. Walking tour through the streets of Tomar.
With the extinction of the Knights Templar in 1307, all its wealth and assets became part of the new Order of Christ. We will visit the headquarters of the Templars in Europe, the Convent of Christ, a World Heritage Site, a place of inspiration for legends and stories written in books and adapted for the cinema.
The city of Coimbra recognized internationally for its prominent university (one of the oldest in Europe), was the capital of Portugal until 1255. The city of Knowledge, as it is known, breathes culture everywhere, from the banks of the Mondego River to the hills of the University. Here we will visit the Johannine Library, considered by the British newspaper “The Telegraph”, the most amazing library in the world. Its construction was ordered by King Joao V. This baroque-style library of indescribable beauty and wealth, was the result of the cultural vision of the richest monarch in Europe at that time. His royal safes were overflowing with gold from “Minas Gerais” in Portugal’s colony of Brazil. Free time to walk around the center of town and visit the Santa Cruz Church where we can find the tombs of the first king of Portugal, King Afonso I and of his son King Sancho I. (entrance fees apply)
Meeting and pickup information
- Your assigned driver-guide will meet you at a place designated by you, within the city of Lisbon.
Languages and tickets
- Portuguese — Guide
- English — Guide
- Spanish — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Premiere Tours
Accessibility and practical details
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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