All of Tomar's history and loads of fun.

4.8 (45 reviews) Coimbra, Portugal
Duration2h - 3h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Group sizeUp to 10 travelers

Overview

Award-winning actor turned storyteller brings Tomar's history to life through unforgettable tales, humour, and local insight.

This isn't a dry history lesson or a march between monuments. It's a journey through the real Tomar, the town behind the famous Convent of Christ and one of Portugal's most fascinating places.

Hear stories of the Knights Templar, a saint murdered for love, the tragedy of Tomar's Jewish community, royal intrigue, and the people who shaped Portuguese history.

Along the way you'll discover hidden corners, traditional crafts, local culture, and receive insider tips on where to eat, drink, and explore after the tour.

Fun, informative, and full of personality, this experience feels less like a guided tour and more like exploring Tomar with a knowledgeable friend who loves sharing its stories.

What's included

  • An emailed guide for Tomar and surrounding area, so you know what I know.
  • Explore Portuguese food in the market (not Monday or Sunday)
  • Onward Travel Knowledge - I have travelled in Portugal for two years and I know it well.
  • The best places to eat and drink in Tomar - breathe Portuguese culture in.
  • Watch artisans craft stunning ceramics in a working Portuguese studio!
  • Stroll through Seven Hills Natural Forest and a discover the fountain of blood.
  • Convent of Christ admission

What to expect

  1. Synagogue of Tomar
    10m
    Discover the oldest Synagogue in Portugal. 500 years old it holds a dark history of Jews and what they endured in medieval Europe.
  2. Roda do parque do Mouchao
    15m
    The Roda Hidráulica do Mouchão in Tomar, Portugal, is a historic hydraulic water wheel dating back to the 17th century. Located in the picturesque Mouchão Park, it served as part of the city's irrigation system, harnessing the power of the Nabão River to supply water to the surrounding areas. The wheel, made of wood and iron, stands as a testament to Portugal's engineering ingenuity of the time. Today, it's a charming symbol of Tomar's rich history and is a popular spot for visitors to admire and photograph.
  3. Museu dos Fosforos
    Pass by
    Strike forth to this perfect match. I'll point to to the museum of matchboxes, it's the biggest collection in the world!
  4. Centro de Estudos em Fotografia de Tomar - Casa dos Cubos
    Pass by
    An art gallery that used to be a food storage building.
  5. Rio Nabao
    Pass by
    A beautiful meandering river in the centre of the city. We'll walk along as I tell you the river's secrets and stories.
  6. Praca da Republica
    10m
    With bars and restaurants, churches and the statue of Gualdim Pais (the builder of Tomar) this is a great place to start your visit.
  7. Ermida de Nossa Senhora da Conceicao
    3m
    Great views of the city centre.
  8. 10m
    You will love this place. Run by a couple of brilliant woman you'll be able to watch as the team make, paint and design ceramics in front of your very eyes. You can even buy what they make - if you have room in your suitcase!
  9. Pass by
    St. Francis Convent. Loved by the Portuguese and with a connection with the Templar Knights and the 4th crusade
  10. 15m
    Where did all the bodies of the buried Templar knights go? Come and hear the history and the secrets of this great Templar church
  11. Levada de Tomar – Moinhos e Lagares d’El Rei
    Pass by
    3 free museums I like to leave you with lots more to see and do when I leave you
  12. Arcos Do Estau
    Pass by
    Built in 1550 this medieval marketplace is what happened when the fighting finished.
  13. Mercado De Tomar
    Pass by
    Open most days come and meet the locals in this traditional market. Fish, bread, meat and veg
  14. Pass by
    I can take you up to the Convent of Christ. where entry is a another €15 per person I don't go in

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

The great adventure starts here at the statue of Gualdim Pais.

End point

The great adventure starts here at the statue of Gualdim Pais.

Additional information

  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

4.8 (45)
From
£50.00 per person
Check availability & book
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • Instant confirmation
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
More activities in Coimbra
From
£50.00 per person
Check availability