Lisbon Full-Day Private Tour
Welcome to the ultimate Lisbon day tour, where you’ll have the opportunity to experience the best of this historic city in one unforgettable day. Lisbon is a city full of rich history, stunning architecture, and cultural significance, and this tour has been designed to give you an in-depth look at its many wonders.
Along with a private driver and executive-class vehicle, our experienced guide will take you on a journey through the city, visiting some of its most iconic landmarks and hidden gems. You’ll start with a tour of the famous Belem Tower, continue to Saint George’s Castle, visit the Jeronimos Monastery, and head to the historic neighborhoods of Chiado and Bairro Alto. Finally, you’ll end your day with a visit to Praca do Comercio Square, one of Lisbon’s largest public spaces.
Get ready to immerse yourself in the heart of Lisbon on this ultimate day tour.
Guided Tour of the Belem Tower
Your driver will collect you from your accommodation in the morning as you make your way to your first destination on tour: The Belem Tower.
Located in the Lisbon district of Belém, it is considered one of the most iconic landmarks of Portugal. It was built in the 16th century as a symbol of the Age of Discovery, a period when Portugal led the way in maritime exploration and the discovery of new lands.
As you approach the tower, you’ll be struck by its impressive size and intricate design. The tower is made of white limestone and is decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures that reflect Portugal’s maritime heritage. The central tower is surrounded by four smaller towers and a moat, which provides additional protection to the port and its ships.
Once you step inside, you’ll be amazed by the intricate details and decor that have been preserved over the centuries. You’ll learn about the history of the tower and how it was used in the past as a lighthouse, a fortification, and a prison. You’ll also hear about the role it played in the Portuguese maritime expansion and how it helped Portuguese navigators reach far-off lands such as India, Brazil, and China.
As you explore the tower, you’ll also be able to admire the stunning views of the Tagus River and the city of Lisbon from its terraces. You’ll see how the tower has been carefully restored and learn about the efforts to preserve its rich history and cultural heritage.
The Belem Tower is not just a beautiful monument but also a symbol of Portugal’s rich cultural heritage and its role in shaping the world as we know it today. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or maritime culture, a guided tour of the Belem Tower is a must-visit experience that offers a glimpse into Portugal’s rich past and its enduring legacy.
Private Tour of Saint George’s Castle
Just a short drive away lies the most famous castle in Lisbon.
The Castelo de São Jorge, also known as Saint Georges Castle, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Lisbon, Portugal. It is perched on a hill overlooking the city and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. The castle dates back to the 11th century and has a rich and fascinating history that is sure to capture the imagination of visitors.
The castle was originally built by the Moors in the 11th century as a fortress to defend Lisbon from invading forces. During the 12th century, the castle was captured by the Portuguese, and it became an important symbol of their victory over the Moors. In the centuries that followed, the castle served as a palace, a prison, and a military barracks.
Today, the castle has been beautifully restored and serves as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into its rich history and cultural heritage. A guided tour of the castle is a must-visit experience for anyone visiting Lisbon, and here are some of the highlights you can expect to see:
The Keep: The keep is the tallest tower in the castle and offers stunning views of the city and the river. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower and admire the views from the terrace.
The Walls and Towers: The walls and towers of the castle have been beautifully restored and offer a glimpse into the castle’s history as a fortification. Visitors can explore the walls and towers and learn about the different types of weapons and defenses used over the centuries.
The Archaeological Site: The castle is built on the site of a former Roman settlement, and visitors can explore the archaeological site to learn about the history of the area.
The Palace: Visitors can explore the palace and learn about the history of the castle as a royal residence.
The Chapel: The castle has a small chapel that dates back to the 15th century and is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture. Visitors can admire the stained-glass windows and learn about the history of the chapel.
Tour of Chiado & Bairro Alto Neighborhoods
Your guide will take you on a short walk after the castle to enjoy a guided walking tour of Chiado and Bairro Alto in Lisbon is a great way to discover the history and culture of two of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods.
The tour begins in Chiado, one of Lisbon’s most elegant neighborhoods known for its historic architecture, chic cafes, and stylish shops. Visitors can admire the stunning 19th-century buildings and learn about the neighborhood’s rich cultural history as they stroll through its narrow streets and squares.
From Chiado, the tour continues to the Bairro Alto, a bohemian neighborhood with a lively atmosphere and rich nightlife. The Bairro Alto is famous for its narrow, winding streets, traditional houses, and charming squares. Visitors can explore its narrow alleys and admire the colorful street art or stop for a drink in one of the neighborhood’s many bars and cafes.
Along the way, the guide will provide insights into the history and culture of the neighborhoods and highlight some of their most interesting sites and landmarks. This may include visits to historic churches and museums, as well as stops at local shops and markets to sample some of Lisbon’s delicious food and drink.
The tour of Chiado and Bairro Alto offers a unique opportunity to explore two of Lisbon’s most fascinating neighborhoods and to gain a deeper understanding of the city’s history and culture. Whether you are a history buff, a food lover, or simply interested in experiencing the local way of life, this guided walking tour is the perfect way to get a taste of Lisbon’s vibrant culture and history.
The Jerónimos Monastery
After enjoying lunch, your private driver will take you on the brief 25-minute journey to your next destination.
The Hieronymites Monastery or Jerónimos Monastery is a former monastery of the Order of Saint Jerome located in the neighborhood of Belém in Lisbon, Portugal. The monastery was built in the late 15th century, during the Age of Discovery, and is considered one of the greatest examples of the Portuguese Late Gothic Manueline style.
The Jerónimos Monastery was built as a result of a vow made by King Manuel I to the Virgin Mary, asking for her protection during his voyages to India and Africa. The monastery was constructed to house monks of the Order of Saint Jerome, who were responsible for the spiritual welfare of Portuguese sailors and navigators. The monastery was completed in the early 16th century and became one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in Portugal.
The monastery is famous for its intricate architectural details. The main portal, known as the Portada de Belém, is particularly famous and is considered one of the finest examples of Manueline architecture in Portugal. The interior of the monastery is equally impressive, with its stunning stained-glass windows and elaborate gilded altarpieces.
Visitors to the Jerónimos Monastery can take a guided tour to see all the highlights of this historic site. During the tour, visitors can admire the beautiful cloisters, the ornate sacristy, and the peaceful chapter house. The tour also takes visitors to the tombs of King Manuel I and his wife, Queen Maria, which are located in the church of the monastery.
Another must-see on the guided tour is the Maritime Museum, which is housed in the former refectory of the monastery. The museum displays a variety of objects and artifacts related to Portugal’s maritime history, including maps, navigational instruments, and model ships.
