On a special Tomar and Coimbra Tour immerse yourself in the rich history of the Templars and the unique academic atmosphere of Europe’s oldest university.
In Tomar, uncover the secrets of the Knights Templar as you explore the impressive Convent of Christ, and in Coimbra, let yourself be captivated by the charm of the historic streets and the contagious energy of the students who bring the city to life.
This unique journey promises to reveal both the ancient mysteries and the cultural vitality of these must-see destinations in Portugal.
This private tour will start and end in Lisbon. For any questions, feel free to contact us.
The Tomar and Coimbra Tour offers a chance to explore two of the most historic and cultural destinations in Portugal. Starting and ending in Lisbon, this tour takes visitors to two iconic locations, where history, architecture, and traditions intertwine.
Tomar is a city rich in medieval history, famous for its Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Founded by the Knights Templar in the 12th century, the convent was the center of the Templar Order in Portugal and played a crucial role during the Middle Ages. The building impresses with its unique architecture, including the Charola, a circular chapel reflecting the symbolism of the Order. While exploring the Convent of Christ, visitors have the opportunity to learn about the Templars’ history, beliefs, and practices, as well as admire the beauty of its walls, cloisters, and gardens.
Tomar and Coimbra Tour: History and Culture of Portugal
After visiting Tomar, the tour heads to Coimbra, a city that has been the academic heart of Portugal for centuries. The University of Coimbra, one of the oldest in Europe, was founded in 1290 and is famous for its Joanina Library, housing a collection of rare and ancient books.
The library is one of the city’s greatest treasures and impresses with its Baroque architecture and historical significance. Another highlight is the Old Cathedral of Coimbra, a Romanesque cathedral from the 12th century, which is a perfect example of medieval Portuguese architecture.
Coimbra is also a city of great cultural importance. The Santa Clara-a-Velha Monastery, one of the city’s medieval foundations, offers insight into Coimbra’s religious and artistic past. The city is also known for its Fado de Coimbra, a unique version of traditional fado music, which resonates through its ancient streets and historic cafés.
Throughout the tour, visitors will have the chance to taste the rich gastronomy of both destinations, including typical dishes such as roast suckling pig in Coimbra and bacalhau in Tomar, which are essential to the Portuguese culinary experience.
This private Tomar and Coimbra tour is perfect for those looking for an immersive experience in the history, culture, and traditions of Portugal, starting and ending in the vibrant city of Lisbon.
Itinerary
The Order of the Templars, one of the most renowned military orders in medieval Europe, was founded in 1120 during the Council of Nablus in France. Its purpose was to protect pilgrim movements to the Holy Places of Christianity in the Middle East, amidst the rising Islamic power in the region. Inspired by a fervent sense of duty and unshakable determination, the Templars embarked on an epic mission to safeguard the sacred paths of the Christian faith, becoming living legends in the military and religious history of the time.
The oldest part of Tomar, a true medieval treasure, is strategically oriented in a cross shape, with a convent at each end. At the heart of this historic area is the imposing Praça da República, dominated by the majestic Igreja Matriz. To the west, the hill of the Castle and the Convent of Christ rise, immortal symbols of the history and devotion of this charming city.
While exploring this history-rich atmosphere, don’t miss the opportunity to savor Tomar’s traditional delicacies. In the numerous traditional shops, discover the oldest café, famous for its almond and pumpkin queijadas, as well as the traditional Fatias de Tomar. Made only with egg yolks and steamed in a special pot, these delicacies are more than just sweets—they are living symbols of the tradition and unique flavor of this medieval city.
The Church of Santa Maria do Olival, erected in the 12th century, represents a monumental landmark of Gothic art in Portugal. This magnificent church, with its three imposing naves, served as the headquarters of the Order of the Templars in the country. Recognized as a National Monument in 1910, its grandeur and historical importance are undeniable.
Inside this architectural treasure lie the remains of Gualdim Pais, the founder of the city, along with other illustrious grand masters of the Order. Though modest in size, the church reveals its true greatness when you discover it is buried two meters below ground. A fascinating testament to the legacy of the Templars and the rich history of Tomar.
The history of the Convent of Christ begins with the construction of the Templar castle, a masterpiece of medieval military architecture. At the heart of this complex lies the impressive Charola, a Romanesque church inspired by the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. This charola served a dual function as an oratory and a military watchtower, bearing witness to the devotion of the Templars and their need for defense.
After the dissolution of the Order of the Templars, King Dinis of Portugal founded the Military Order of Christ, which inherited the assets, privileges, and grace of the extinct order. Thus, the Convent of Christ became the epicenter of this new order, preserving the rich heritage of the Templars and continuing their legacy of devotion and service.
Construction of the Joanina Library began in 1717, built over the former prison of the Royal Palace to house the University of Coimbra’s library. Completed in 1728, this Baroque masterpiece features a ceiling adorned with magnificent frescoes, executed by the illustrious Master António Ribeiro and Vicente Nunes, while the portrait of King João V at the back of the room is the work of Italian artist Domenico Dupra.
After admiring the grandeur of the Joanina Library, our journey continues through the University of Coimbra, exploring other fascinating sites such as the Chapel of São Miguel, the Great Hall (Sala dos Capelos), and the Tower. Although conceived as part of the university reform project within the context of the Enlightenment in Portugal, the Joanina Library is recognized as one of the most original and spectacular Baroque libraries in Europe.
Please note that if visiting the interior of the University is essential for you, let us know when booking your Tomar and Coimbra Tour so we can arrange the necessary tickets. Access to the Joanina Library is limited, and without prior booking, it may be nearly impossible to visit at the time of the tour. In case of cancellation or delay, the cost of the tickets will be charged to the client at the end of the tour (€17.5/person).
Coimbra’s Baixa, the heart of the city, is an invitation to explore its charming streets, filled with cafés, restaurants, and traditional shops. Here, history intertwines with modern life, offering visitors an authentic experience. Don’t miss the 12th-century Cathedral, the Almedina Arch, and the Church of Santa Cruz, where the first king of Portugal, Afonso Henriques, is buried.
