Three Cities in One Day: Porto, Nazare and Obidos From Lisbon

Explore the diverse landscapes and rich history of Portugal in a single day. This guided tour whisks travelers from Lisbon to the medieval charm of Obidos, the stunning seaside vistas of Nazare, and the UNESCO-listed architecture of Porto. With comfortable transportation and a group size capped at 30, it’s an efficient way to capture the essence of these remarkable destinations. What you’ll discover along the way just might surprise you.

Key Points

• This full-day tour from Lisbon visits the historic towns of Obidos, Nazare, and Porto, providing a comprehensive introduction to Portugal’s diverse cultural attractions.
• The tour includes guided walking tours in Obidos and Porto, allowing travelers to explore the medieval architecture and UNESCO-listed town center.
• Transportation is provided via van or minibus, with knowledgeable guides offering insights into Portuguese history and culture throughout the journey.
• While the tour has received generally positive reviews, some travelers have noted feeling rushed, especially in Nazare and Porto, and concerns about group size.
• Despite these occasional challenges, the tour is recommended for those with limited time who want to experience the essence of Portugal in a single day.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This full-day tour from Lisbon takes travelers to three distinct cities: Obidos, Nazare, and Porto.

It’s an ideal experience for time-pressed visitors who want to explore multiple locations. The tour includes brief walking tours in Obidos and Nazare, and a guided tour of Porto’s UNESCO-listed town center.

Transportation is provided by van or minibus, round-trip from Lisbon. Knowledgeable guides share insights into Portuguese history and culture along the way.

Travelers can choose to have lunch in a traditional restaurant or take free time for their own meal. With a maximum of 30 participants, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Portugal.

Inclusions and Meeting Details

The tour includes transportation from HF Fénix Lisboa, Pç do Marquês de Pombal 8, 1269-133 Lisboa.

Travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience. Group size is limited to a maximum of 30 people.

Please note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. Confirmation is received at the time of booking.

The price per person is $95.95, discounted from $106.61.

Traveler Feedback and Ratings

How have travelers responded to this tour? With over 2,000 reviews and a 4.7-star average rating, it’s clear that this day trip to Obidos, Nazare, and Porto is a hit with travelers. 93% of travelers recommend the experience, praising the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to see multiple Portuguese destinations in one day. While some felt the pace was rushed, most appreciated the value and convenience. The table below highlights key aspects of the tour through traveler feedback:

Challenges and Concerns

Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, travelers did report some challenges and concerns with this tour.

While the majority had an excellent experience, a few issues were raised. These included:

• Instances of feeling rushed during the tour, particularly in Nazare and Porto
• Concerns about the quality and focus of the walking tours and guides
• Problems with group size, with some tours feeling overcrowded
• A small number of safety incidents reported in Porto

Tourist Experiences and Recommendations

Overwhelmingly, travelers appreciated the opportunity to see multiple cities in one day, with some stating it was a great introduction to Portugal.

Obidos was frequently highlighted as a favorite, praised for its medieval charm. Porto received positive remarks for its architecture and atmosphere.

Many recommended this tour for those short on time but wanting to experience the essence of Portugal. Guides like Rui, Ricardo, and George received commendations for their professionalism and knowledge.

While the pace could feel rushed, the tour provided a well-rounded experience, allowing visitors to sample the diverse highlights of central Portugal.

Exploring the Medieval Charm of Obidos

Obidos was a highlight for many travelers on this tour, and it’s easy to see why. This medieval town, with its well-preserved walls and charming cobbled streets, transported visitors back in time.

Travelers delighted in:

• Wandering the narrow, winding lanes lined with whitewashed houses
• Admiring the colorful flower-filled balconies and traditional architecture
• Exploring the imposing castle and taking in panoramic views from the ancient ramparts
• Perusing the artisanal shops and bakeries, sampling the famous Ginjinha liqueur

The guided walking tour allowed visitors to enjoy Obidos’ rich history and appreciate the town’s enduring medieval character.

Discovering the Seaside Allure of Nazare

After exploring the medieval charm of Obidos, the tour group moved on to the seaside town of Nazare.

Perched atop towering cliffs, Nazare captivated visitors with its picturesque fishing harbor and lively boardwalk. The guide led the group on a brief walking tour, highlighting the town’s unique traditions and the iconic funiculars that whisked people up the steep slopes.

Travelers had the chance to stroll along the promenade, take in the dramatic ocean views, and sample fresh seafood in local restaurants.

Though the time in Nazare felt a bit rushed, the group left with a greater appreciation for this charming coastal gem.

Uncovering the Architectural Gems of Porto

The tour’s final stop was the historic city of Porto, known for its stunning architecture and vibrant culture.

Visitors were treated to a guided tour of Porto’s UNESCO-listed town center, marveling at the city’s iconic bridges, medieval cathedrals, and picturesque riverside promenades.

The highlights included:

• The iconic Dom Luis I Bridge, a two-tiered metal arch bridge spanning the Douro River
• The 12th-century Porto Cathedral, a Romanesque masterpiece with intricate stone carvings
• The UNESCO-protected Ribeira district, with its colorful row houses and lively riverside cafes
• The grand Palacio da Bolsa, a 19th-century stock exchange building with an opulent interior

Frequently Asked Questions

What Time Does the Tour Depart From Lisbon?

The tour departs from Lisbon at 8:00 AM, allowing time-pressed travelers to explore multiple locations in a single day. Transportation is provided round-trip from a central meeting point in Lisbon.

Can I Purchase Food and Drinks During the Tour?

The tour provides an option for lunch in a traditional restaurant, but travelers can also use free time to purchase food and drinks on their own during the stops in Obidos and Nazare. Snacks and beverages may also be available on the transportation.

Is Wifi Available on the Transportation Provided?

The tour does not provide WiFi on the transportation. Travelers will need to rely on their own mobile data or seek out public WiFi spots during the stops in Obidos, Nazare, and Porto to stay connected during the tour.

Are There Any Bathroom Breaks During the Long Drive?

The tour includes bathroom breaks during the long drive. Travelers can expect to make stops along the way to use restroom facilities and stretch their legs as needed throughout the day-long excursion.

Can I Request to Visit Specific Sites in Each City?

Travelers can request to visit specific sites in each city, but the tour operator may not be able to accommodate all requests due to the fixed itinerary. It’s best to discuss preferences with the guide upon arrival.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour from Lisbon provides an efficient and enjoyable way to experience the diverse highlights of Portugal’s historic cities. With comfortable transportation, knowledgeable guides, and a small group size, travelers can enjoy the medieval charm of Obidos, the coastal splendor of Nazare, and the architectural marvels of Porto, all in a single day. It’s an excellent option for those seeking to maximize their time and capture the essence of Portugal’s cultural richness.