After a pickup from your hotel, start the day with a visit to the Castle and the Convent of Christ in Tomar. Gaze in awe at the various styles of architecture including Romanic, Gothic, Manueline, and Renaissance. Learn about the history and legends of the Templar Order and the Christ Order. You will understand the role that the orders played in the creation of the Kingdom of Portugal and in the maritime discoveries. Discover the symbols inscribed in some stones allowing you to get involved in the mysticism of the secret orders. Next, visit the monastery of Holy Mary of Victory. This monastery, usually called Batalha, is not only the largest Portuguese gothic monument but also the birthplace of the Manueline style of architecture and the place where the first Portuguese stained glasses were made. Learn more about the architecture, history, and legends of the ones that started the maritime discoveries, like Henry the navigator, who is buried there. Your last stop will be at the Royal Abbey of Alcobaça where the largest Portuguese gothic church is. In this monument, you can admire the gothic architecture of the twelfth century and discuss the influence of the Order of Cister in the creation of the kingdom of Portugal. Listen to the tragic love story of King Pedro I, the cruel one, and his beloved Inês de Castro, who was murdered by his father's order. In your free time, you'll have the opportunity to savor lunch or a snack, buy souvenirs, and take photos at your own pace.

While heading north (1:30hrs trip), prepare to be dazzled by a masterpiece of Cistercian Gothic art, the 12th-century Monastery of Alcobaça, founded by the first Portuguese king, Afonso Henriques. For its size, purity of architectural style, quality of materials, and the care with which it was built, it was listed as a World Heritage Site in 1989. You will then proceed to Batalha, a 14th-century monastery built as a fulfillment of a promise made by King John I in gratitude for the victory in a battle against Castille. This secured the throne and guaranteed the independence of Portugal. You will witness a national Gothic-style building influenced by Manueline art. Following that, you will have an hour free time for lunch at Batalha town. Finally, at the Convent of Christ at Tomar, you will discover the centuries-old link between the Knights Templar and the Kingdom of Portugal. With your guide, visit the original round church (Charola), built at the end of the 12th century by the first great Master of the Templars. At the conclusion of your experience, you will be returned back to your hotel.