Lisbon - City of Discovery
Lisbon - a city famous for its Discoverers and seafaring past.
Lisbon - a city famous for its Discoverers and seafaring past.
Begin with a panoramic drive that will show you some of Lisbon’s landmarks, including Pombal Square, Liberty Avenue, Black Horse Square and Rossio, the very heart of the city. See Baixa, the area rebuilt after the city’s disastrous earthquake, and take in the spectacular scene from the viewpoint at King Edward VII Park.
The magnificent 16th century Jeronimos Monastery Church is said to be the most significant building in Portugal and is the purest example of Portugal's own Manueline style of architecture.
In the Hall of Discoveries of the Maritime Museum, see the rapid progress in shipbuilding from the mid 15th century, capitalising on the experience of the long distance explorers. There are replicas of 16th century maps showing the world as it was known then.
Brief stops will be made during your tour for photo opportunities. Near the Jeronimos Monastery is the lavishly-decorated Belem Tower, from where the Portuguese explorers were given a rousing send off and welcome home. See the Monument to the Discoveries, which marks the 500th anniversary of the death of Henry the Navigator. Stretching across the River Tagus is the huge 25th April Bridge, and the towering monument you will see on the far side is Christ the King.
Scenic Southern Hills
Soak up the scenery and enjoy the picturesque countryside to the south of Lisbon.
Soak up the scenery and enjoy the picturesque countryside to the south of Lisbon.
This scenic round-trip begins with a drive over the River Tagus by means of the grand 25th April Bridge, 230 feet above the water and the second largest suspension bridge in Europe. Shortly afterwards, a photo stop will be made at a belvedere near the colossal statue of Christ the King, erected as a thanksgiving by the women of Portugal that their men were not actively involved in the Second World War. From the base of the statue, there are magnificent views over the sea and the city of Lisbon.
The mountain range known as the Serra da Arrabida is a unique nature reserve, where you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the countryside from the comfort of your coach. A short stop will be made at the picturesque town of Setubal, Portugal’s third largest port.
On the return drive, you’ll cross the recently inaugurated Vasco da Gama Bridge, which is currently the longest in Europe and the third largest in the world. Towards the end of the crossing look out for a general view of the ‘Expo ‘98’ site.
Sintra, Guincho and Cascais
The picturesque villages of Sintra and Cascais have a unique charm all of their own.
The picturesque villages of Sintra and Cascais have a unique charm all of their own.
Hailed by poets for the great beauty of its surrounding mountain range, Sintra Village is renowned for the view of the old Royal Palace, perched on the highest peak. One of Portugal’s oldest settlements, occupied by both Moors and monarchs, whose castles and palaces add charm to the village. Enjoy free time to explore at your own pace.
Enjoy a photo opportunity at the Praia do Guincho and capture on film the magnificent views and the most westerly point in Europe – Cabo da Roca.
Cascais, originally an old Portuguese fishing village, has now become a popular holiday resort. Set alongside the picturesque Bay of Cascais, lovely early 20th century homes mingle with modern buildings, creating a delightful atmosphere. You’ll have some free time to wander along the streets, enjoy the views or browse in the local shops.
The return drive will be along the Corniche bordering the River Tagus, passing by the well-known village of Estoril.
Lisbon Highlights & the Coast of Estoril - BEST SELLER
Enjoy the famous sights of Lisbon before travelling to the scenic coast of Estoril.
Enjoy the famous sights of Lisbon before travelling to the scenic coast of Estoril.
Begin your tour driving alongside the River Tagus towards the old district of Baixa, with its narrow streets. Along the route, your guide will point out the main sights, including the charming boulevard of Liberty Avenue, lined with gardens and known for its unique black and white pavements. A short stop will be made at the King Edward VII Park, where fine views over Lisbon and the distant hills can be enjoyed.
Enjoy some free time in Estoril to stroll along the promenade, view the gardens of the Casino, which are impressively sited at the top of the central park, or simply relax in a local café. Heading back to the city of Lisbon, you’ll see the famous Belem Tower and Jeronimos Gothic Monastery. A photo stop will be made at the Monument to the Discoveries, a tribute to Portuguese heroes linked with the age of discovery; from here you can also see the suspension bridge and statue of Christ the King on the other side of the River.
Walking Tour of the City
Stretch your legs as you step back into history in the ancient Alfama district of Lisbon.
Stretch your legs as you step back into history in the ancient Alfama district of Lisbon.
From the city centre you’ll take a leisurely walk through Alfama, the old quarter of Lisbon. Walk along Black Horse Square, perhaps the most harmonious in the city, graced with fine buildings and bordering the River Tagus. Passing beneath the Triumphal Arch, you find yourself in the heart of the ‘Baixa’ as you walk up the Rua Augusta, now a pedestrian precinct, and take the funicular lift.
Lisbon Cathedral began as a fortress-church in the 12th century and its towers and walls, still with firing slits, give it the appearance of a citadel. The façade has twin bell towers and a splendid rose window. (Please note no flash photography is permitted inside the church). Enjoy a five-minute ride on one of Lisbon’s funicular lifts, which takes you up to Sao Pedro de Alcantara Belvedere. Walk downhill for a visit to Church Sao Roque which is situated in the Bairro Alto (the high quarter): this church’s plain façade belies a remarkably rich interior.
Lisbon by Tram and Coach
A special tram ride in the Old Town and an exploration of Lisbon’s monumental area combine to make a memorable tour!
A special tram ride in the Old Town and an exploration of Lisbon’s monumental area combine to make a memorable tour!
A ride on Lisbon’s most famous and typical form of transport – the tram – is an absolute must. With the added dimension of local waiters serving port wine and traditional pastries on board, this unique tram tour is an ever-popular option. To further enhance this Lisbon experience, you’ll step from ancient tram to modern coach as your tour is rounded off with a panoramic drive of the city’s most famous monuments.
At the famous Black Horse Square, hop aboard the tram for a leisurely circuit through this seven-hilled metropolis. You’ll catch many fascinating glimpses of the ‘old city’ and the Tagus, passing landmarks such as the Parliament, Cathedral and Santa Luiza Belvedere. At Estrela Square, say goodbye to your gaily-dressed waiters as you step onto a coach for the second highlight of your tour. As you stand before the impressive Gothic-Manueline-style Jeronimos Cathedral, your guide will provide you with details of its imposing exterior. Nearby, you’ll be equally impressed by the lavishly-decorated Belem Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries, which commemorate Henry the Navigator and Portugal’s incredible voyages of exploration.
'Expo '98 Site' - On Your Own
Enjoy free time at the internationally acclaimed Expo ‘98 site with its wonderful Aquarium.
Enjoy free time at the internationally acclaimed Expo ‘98 site with its wonderful Aquarium.
This tour is a great option for those who like to ‘go it alone’ and have the flexibility of sightseeing ‘at your own pace’. Ideal for adults and children, the ‘Expo ’98 site’ is a popular choice.
Heading across the city of Lisbon towards Black Horse Square, your coach will take you alongside the River Tagus to the eastern part of town to where the ‘Parque das Nacoes’ is located. This recreation area occupies the site of the former World Exhibition of 1998. Why not explore the riverfront where there are a number of gardens, restaurants, cafés and shops? Alternatively, head straight for The Sea World Centre (Oceanarium) – one of the Park’s most popular attractions – both fascinating and fun – kids will love it!
Don’t miss out seeing some of the site’s most remarkable modern buildings, such as the ‘Oriente’ Railway Station, the ‘Pavilion of Portugal’ and, in the distance, admire the Vasco da Gama bridge - the second longest in Europe.
Enjoy free time at your leisure to explore the many attractions that the former ‘Expo ’98 Site’ has to offer.
Estoril Beach
Spend some time relaxing at one of Lisbon’s popular beaches.
Spend some time relaxing at one of Lisbon’s popular beaches.
What better way to enjoy your day than to head to the wonderful golden sands of Estoril Beach, known for its calm waters and fine sands. Estoril is a very picturesque area, so why not take a dip in the glorious warm waters of the Atlantic or just sit back, relax and soak up the sun.
Take a stroll along the seaside promenade, where you will find a selection of shops, bars, restaurants as well as the renowned Casino and its gardens.
Lisbon by Land and River - BEST SELLER
A leisurely river cruise, twinned with a panoramic drive, presents Lisbon’s famous city sights from a different angle.
A leisurely river cruise, twinned with a panoramic drive, presents Lisbon’s famous city sights from a different angle.
What a perfect combination! See the sights of the city centre and then sit back and enjoy a fascinating river cruise along the River Tagus, savouring finger sandwiches and petit fours as you glide past an array of famous monuments.
A panoramic tour will show you Lisbon’s renowned landmarks, including Pombal Square, Liberty Avenue, Black Horse Square and Rossio, the very heart of the city. See Baixa, the area rebuilt after the city’s disastrous earthquake, and take in the spectacular scene from the viewpoint at King Edward VII Park.
Whatever you do, don’t forget your camera, as you’ll want to capture the charm of Lisbon when viewed from the water. As your river cruise sets off, you’ll see the medieval part of the city. Cruise beneath the spectacular suspension bridge, so reminiscent of the Golden Gate and snap a photo of the monumental statue of Christ the King. The highlight is a sail along the banks of the Belem area, where ancient caravels once set off on their great voyages of discovery. The monuments here are spectacular - particularly when seen from the river - and include the Monument to the Discoveries, the unique Belem Tower and the ornate, Gothic-style Jeronimos Monastery.
Medieval Obidos - NEW
Medieval Óbidos is an exceptional example of a classic Portuguese walled village.
Medieval Óbidos is an exceptional example of a classic Portuguese walled village.
Enjoy a 75 minute drive through beautiful scenery before arriving at Obidos.
Resembling an open-air museum, this walled medieval town has been preserved to look like a picture-postcard, with its monuments, narrow winding streets and white-washed houses with windows and terraces full of flowers.
The Manueline style castle crowns the town and now houses guests in its luxurious rooms. In past times, however, this was a formidable medieval fortification. It was won back from the Moors in 1148 by the King and his men, apparently disguised as cherry trees.
During free time you may wish to walk the ramparts, where you can enjoy views of windmills, vineyards and surrounding farmlands. In the residential area below, narrow cobblestone streets are lined with whitewashed houses sporting terracotta roofs.
Local crafts, delicacies and liqueurs abound in the traditional shops and cafes which line the main street, including the famed local tipple Ginginha, a sweet brandy liqueur made with local cherries.
A Journey to Fatima - NEW
Discover the spiritual history that surrounds Fatima and the appearance of the ‘Virgin Mary’ or ‘Lady of the Rosary’ in 1917.
Discover the spiritual history that surrounds Fatima and the appearance of the ‘Virgin Mary’ or ‘Lady of the Rosary’ in 1917.
This full day tour will take you to through the Tagus Plains and the bullfighting region of Vila Franca, before reaching Fatima, an international pilgrimage site.
According to local lore, 3 peasant children from a nearby village observed a ‘Lady of the Light’ hovering above a small oak tree at the Cova Da Iraia (the cove of peace). This was believed to be the blessed ‘Virgin Mary’ and after returning on the same day for over 5 months, a miracle was said to have been written in the sky in front of over 70,000 witnesses. Today, many people from around the world make the famous pilgrimage to Fatima in search of the miracles.
Visit the famous Basilica with its spectacular stained-glass windows and paintings. Inside the Basilica you will see the resting place of the legendary 3 peasant children, Lucia Santos and her 2 cousins, Jacinat and Francisco Marto, at the Chapel of Apparitions.
Lunch will be served at local restaurant, following which you will have some free to explore on your own.
Jeep Safari - NEW
Head off the beaten track and into the hills and villages with some spectacular scenery and typical country villages
Head off the beaten track and into the hills and villages with some spectacular scenery and typical country villages
Heading off onboard your 4x4 jeep you will be taken on a journey through some of the best scenery outside of Lisbon. Entering the Serra Sintra you will take the gravel roads inland with beautiful centenary tree-lined tracks. Marvel at the beautiful landscape as you come to the area of Memoria and Palacio da Pena with her peaks on the other side of the hills. This area was devastated by fire and tragically 20 soldiers lost their lives fighting the fires.
Driving along leafy lanes you come upon the village of Penedo, a typical country village with its cottage and narrow winding streets. The church is a national monument, due to the exceptional 17th century tiles decorating the interior.
Stopping at another nearby village, Almocageme you will have the chance to relax and have a light snack of local Portuguese sausages, cheeses, bread and olives.
Heading back towards Lisbon, you will have the chance to visit Sintra and spend some free time in the square for souvenir shopping.