Lisbon

This private 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 Iria (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 the Chapel of Apparitions, the final resting place of the legendary 3 peasant children. Take some free time to purchase lunch or refreshments and perhaps browse some of the local shops for souvenirs.

Essential information

This excursion will operateby private minibus and on foot. Each minibus holds a maximum of 8 passengers and includes an English speaking driver-guide. The tour fare is per vehicle and only one person in the party should book a ticket. The entire cost of the vehicle and tour will be charged to that person’s onboard account and cannot be divided. Private tours are non-refundable once confirmed. The vehicle type may vary. Those accompanying you are family or friends, we do not match groups of passengers to form a private group for the vehicle. Comfortable non-slip shoes are advised. There is around 3 hours of walking over flat ground on this tour. No deviations to duration or departure or return time can be made. Once on board, you will receive a request for the names of each individual in your party. This information is required to allow your party to disembark the ship for the tour. Euros are accepted for purchases.

A leisurely city drive will take you to the Belém Quarter to visit a traditional local café. Here, you’ll sample the famous ‘Pasteis de Belém’, a sweet custard cream tart sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar. Relax with a coffee and enjoy the local atmosphere.

Lisbon is home to several monuments that honour the age of discoveries. Enjoy a photo stop to view the Monument of Discoveries and the Belém Tower, before heading to the old Alfama Quarter of the city. A walk along the narrow picturesque streets will take you to a typical restaurant where you’ll sample some local Portuguese appetizers. The Portuguese cuisine encompasses a variety of tastes with influences from the Moorish era, the far east, Africa and the Mediterranean. During your visit, you’ll also be offered samples of the local Portuguese wine and a local wine expert will provide you with an interesting brief.

Take in the last of the city as you return to the port.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This tour involves around 1 hour of walking. Comfortable, flat walking shoes are recommended.

Lisbon is the only European capital that is located nearby a rich and diverse bird and nature reserve. The Tagus Estuary is a wetland site of international importance and is specifically created to protect wintering, passage and the breeding populations of aquatic birds. The geography of the area also attracts a variety of non wetland birdlife.

The Tagus Estuary bird list includes more than 250 species that can be sighted. In the winter months you can spot up to 12,0000 waders at any one time and in the summer the Estuary is alive with breeding species. During migratory periods it is not unusual to observe at least 100 species in a day. The Estuary is abound with inter-tidal mud flats, salt pans, reed beds and cork oak woodlands which provide a wide biodiversity.

Your experienced Ornithologist guide has extensive knowledge of the birdlife of Iberia and the expertise to find those hard to find species.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This tour is not suitable for children. This tour involves walking over uneven and rough terrain which includes some steps. Flat, comfortable shoes are recommended. Optics and field guides are included; however passengers may take their own if preferred. Please dress suitably for bird watching and take a backpack and bottle of water. The drive to the River Tagus Estuary is around 20 minutes. The bird watching will last approximately 3½ hours.

A scenic drive from the port will take you along the coastal road to Cascais. This popular holiday resort is set in the picturesque bay of Cascais and is an ideal place to while away a few hours.

Upon arrival, the time is yours to do as you please. Wander along the streets, enjoy the views or browse in the local shops. Cascais offers plenty of cafés if you wish to purchase refreshments or lunch.

After your visit, you’ll meet at the designated time and place to rejoin the coach for the return drive to the port.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This is an unguided transfer exclusive of refreshments, meals or entrance fees. Please note meeting points and return times as coaches cannot be held for latecomers. The travel time is around 45 minutes each way, with around 2-2 ½ hours of free time in Cascais. There is a slight incline of around 100 metres to negotiate to and from the coach parking area. The level of walking is at passenger’s discretion. Shops may be closed on Sundays and Bank Holidays. Euros are accepted for purchases.

A maze of quaint cobbled streets, brightly painted houses, and overflowing flowerpots, Óbidos is picture perfect. In fact, so romantic is Óbidos, that in 1282 the entire town was given as a wedding present from King Dinis to his bride Isabel.

Encircled by medieval walls, Óbidos’ centrepiece is an imposing 12th century castle. This former fortress and royal palace was recently voted one of the ‘7 Wonders of Portugal.’ To help you get your bearings, you’ll embark on a short walking tour around some of the prettiest streets, passing the whitewashed church of Santa Maria.

Next, you’ll have free time to wander Óbidos at your own pace. Keen photographers are sure to love exploring the hidden corners, with each twist and turn revealing another photo opportunity.

For a spot of souvenir shopping, take a stroll along the town’s main street, Rua Direita. Here you’ll find an abundance of traditional shops selling all kinds of crafts and delicacies, from hand painted ‘azulejo’ tiles, to tasty local liqueurs. But perhaps you’d prefer to simply relax in one of the tiny street café’s, and soak up the charming atmosphere of this medieval town.

During your journey back to the ship, sit back and absorb the lovely views of the Portuguese countryside, before glimpsing the bustling city life of Lisbon’s main streets.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot.The journey to Obidos is around 1¼ hours. This tour involves 2 hours of walking over flat, cobbled streets. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Estádio da Luz translates as the ‘Stadium of Light’ and is home to FC Benfica, one of the 3 main football clubs of Portugal. Its symbol is forever linked to the history of Portuguese football.

At the entrance of the stadium you’ll see the statue of Eusébio, the most famous Portuguese football player of all time and still an idol for all Benfica fans today. You’ll also see 2 models representing the legendary old stadium and the modern one built for the Euro Cup of 2004.

You’ll visit the executive boxes, the visitors’ dressing room, the pressroom, the players’ tunnel, benches and coaching area, and at every turn there are fantastic photo opportunities as you follow in the footsteps of some of the great players like Figo, Ronaldo, Beckham, Rooney, to name but a few, who played here during the European Cup in 2004.

The emblem of Benfica is an eagle and the stadium has their own called Victoria. Before every home match she circles the stadium and at the end of the visit you’ll have the opportunity to be photographed with Victoria.

The visit ends with a walk around the pitch and some free time to explore the souvenir shop. Enjoy a panoramic drive through Lisbon’s city centre on your return to the ship.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately 1½ hours’ total walking and there are steps are to be negotiated in the stadium. Flat, comfortable shoes are recommended.

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 and restaurants as well as the renowned Casino and its gardens.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach. Please note that this excursion is unguided, exclusive of lunch and entrance fees. Sun beds, sun umbrellas and changing facilities are available for hire (payable direct). Please note that the beach may be crowded in the summer months.

The iconic area of Belém is home to some of Lisbon’s most important monuments and historical buildings. Here, a stop will be made at the iconic Monument to the Discoveries, one of the most photographed monuments in Lisbon. You can also view the Belém Tower that stands proudly on the side walk.

The Jeronimos Monastery Church is a fine example of Portugal's own Manueline style of architecture. A stop will be made here for you to enjoy the Monastery and its grounds, or perhaps visit the Pasteis De Bélem, a famous Portuguese pastry house.

The final stop will be made in the heart of downtown Lisbon at ‘Comercio Street’. A short walk will take you to Black Horse Square, the largest square in Lisbon that offers a variety of shops, restaurants and cafés. The bustling pedestrian street of ‘Rua Augusta’ is a popular meeting point for locals and visitors alike.

After each stop, you’ll meet at a designated time and place to rejoin the coach.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This is an unguided transfer exclusive of refreshments, meals or entrance fees. Entrance fees where applicable, are payable locally. Please take careful note of meeting points and return times as coaches cannot be held for latecomers. The time allowed at each stop is approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. The level of walking is at passengers’ discretion. There are steps to negotiate on to and off the coach. Shops may be closed on Sundays and Bank Holidays and museums and historical sites are subject to closure without notice. Euros are accepted for purchases.

After a short briefing, you’ll head off in your 4x4 jeep to be taken on a journey through some of the best scenery outside of Lisbon.

Staying on road, your drive will take you to the popular seaside resort of Cascais, where a short stop will be made. From here, your journey will continue to Cape Roca, Europe’s most easterly point, to enjoy the lovely views across the Atlantic Ocean.

Serra Sintra is your next stop, as you go off road and travel inland along the centenary tree-lined tracks. You’ll pass by the picturesque village of Ulgeria and on to the Memoria viewpoint where the Palacio da Pena can be seen in a distance, crowning a peak on the other side of the hills. A stop will be made en route to enjoy a light picnic snack of Portuguese aperitifs. You’ll continue driving along leafy lanes, passing by typical country villages, and enter the Monserrate Road to admire views of Monserrate Palace, Seteais Palace and Quinta da Regaleira Estate.

Heading back on road, a short stop will be made at the picturesque village of Sintra, before returning to Lisbon.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by Jeep and on foot. This tour is not suitable for those with injuries or conditions which may be affected by the bumpy ride. Pregnant women and children may not participate.

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 at 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.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This tour involves a moderate amount of walking over mostly flat terrain.

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.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach, boat and on foot. This tour involves very little walking. There are some steps to negotiate onto the boat. River cruise duration is 1½ hours. The above itinerary may operate in reverse order.

A ride on Lisbon’s most famous and typical form of transport – the tram – is an absolute must. To further enhance this Lisbon experience, you’ll step from ancient tram to modern coach to enjoy a panoramic drive of the city’s most famous monuments. You’ll also enjoy a stop at the Altis Belem Hotel where delicious Portuguese pastries, tea and coffee will be served.

At the famous Black Horse Square, hop aboard the tram for a leisurely circuit through this 7 hilled metropolis. You’ll catch many fascinating glimpses of the ‘Old City’ and the Tagus, passing landmarks such as the Parliament, Cathedral and Santa Luzia Belvedere. At Estrela Square, you’ll step aboard your coach to commence the next part of your tour. As you stand before the impressive exterior of the Gothic-Manueline-style Jeronimos Monastery, your guide will provide you with details of this imposing building.

You’ll then pass by the lavishly-decorated Belem Tower and proceed to the Altis Belem Hotel for refreshments. Near the hotel, you’ll be equally impressed by the Monument to the Discoveries, which commemorate Henry the Navigator and Portugal’s incredible voyages of exploration.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by tram, coach and on foot. Passengers are advised that it is not uncommon for local traffic to block the tramline access. This may result in the tram having to remain stationary and a slight delay may occur. This tour involves limited walking, however there is a 100 metre walk from the coach drop off point to the Altis Belem Hotel. There are also some fairly high steps to be negotiated when boarding the tram. Flat, comfortable shoes are recommended. This tour may operate in reverse order.

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.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach. All walking is on flat, even surfaces.

A wonderful way to see the city of Lisbon without having to walk around the city. Have your camera at the ready as you enter the area of Belem and view the Presidential Palace, The Monastery of Jeronimos, Tower of Belem and the Monument of Discoveries.

Drive through the exclusive residential district where many of the foreign embassies are located and then see the impressive 18th Century stone aqueduct, 11 miles long, which until recently was used to bring fresh water into Lisbon. A stop will be taken at a belvedere to admire the panoramic view across the city.

Afterwards, drive down the famous avenue of Liberty to Rossio Square, to see the Santa Justa Elavator, designed by an apprentice of the famous Gustave Eiffel. Finally you will see the one of the most impressive squares in Lisbon the Praca co Comercio (Black Horse Square).

This is a great tour for those wishing to relax and enjoy a scenic tour of Lisbon.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach. The order of highlights may vary. There are steps into the Belem Tower for those requiring toilet facilities.

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 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.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The streets of Sintra are steep and cobble-stoned, and care should be taken. Highlights may operate in reverse to that described above. Shops in Cascais are closed on Sundays and public holidays.

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’ll 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.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach, funicular lift and on foot. The tour involves a substantial level of activity over uneven ground and hills. Highlights may operate in reverse order. Comfortable walking shoes and a jacket are recommended. We advise you take a bottle of water with you. Toilet facilities may carry a charge of Euro 50 cents.