Tomar
A Templar city on the Nabão — the Convent of Christ is one of Portugal's most extraordinary monuments.
A rewarding day trip for history travelers; the convent alone justifies the journey.
Why go
The Convent of Christ (a Templar round church with a 16th-century Manueline window), the wooded Mata dos Sete Montes, and a pleasant riverside town.
Why you might skip it
A detour from the coast; thin if you're not into history.
What to do
Convent of Christ, the Templar castle, Mata dos Sete Montes, the old bridge and synagogue.
What to eat
Regional Beira cooking; local pastries (fatias de Tomar).
Where to stay
Town center for a quiet night.
Getting there & around
Train from Lisbon.
What's here
Festa dos Tabuleiros (Tomar)
The Festa dos Tabuleiros is a spectacular, rare quadrennial celebration in Tomar dedicated to the Holy Spirit, characterized by a massive procession of women balancing towering, flower-laden headdresses. It is one of Portugal's most visually arresting and ancient folk traditions.
Convento de Cristo
The Convento de Cristo in Tomar is a sprawling, UNESCO-listed architectural masterpiece that served as the headquarters for the Knights Templar. It remains one of the most significant historical monuments in Portugal, blending Romanesque, Gothic, Manueline, and Renaissance styles.
Castelo de Tomar
The Convento de Cristo in Tomar is a sprawling monastic complex that served as the headquarters for the Knights Templar. It is a masterclass in architectural evolution, blending Romanesque, Gothic, Manueline, and Renaissance styles.
Where it sits
