2-Day Private Tour of Sintra Fátima Nazaré Óbidos

Discover Portugal’s Highlights on a 2-Day Private Tour

This 2-day private tour of Sintra, Fátima, Nazaré, and Óbidos offers an engaging way to experience some of Portugal’s most iconic sights. Priced at $868.20 per group of up to 4 people, it includes private transportation, air conditioning, bottled water, and WiFi onboard. The tour starts in Lisbon, with convenient pickup included, making it accessible and easy to fit into a travel itinerary.

Spanning approximately two days, this journey balances spiritual sites, stunning coastal views, and medieval architecture. The focus on small group or private experiences ensures a personalized and relaxed exploration. A key strength is the detailed itinerary that covers Fátima’s spiritual serenity, Nazaré’s picturesque beaches, and Sintra’s magical palaces. However, travelers should note that entrance fees to certain attractions, such as the Palace of Queluz and Palace of Pena, are not included and amount to about €40 per person.

This tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive snapshot of Portugal’s cultural and scenic treasures without the hassle of self-driving or planning each stop. The reviews praise the guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude, making it a good choice for visitors seeking both informative commentary and flexible sightseeing.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience with all transportation included
• Two days exploring Fátima, Sintra, Nazaré, and Óbidos
• Highlights include sacred sites, coastal vistas, and medieval towns
• Entrance fees to major sites are paid separately (approx. €40 total per person)
• Comfortable travel with WiFi and bottled water onboard
• Tour is suitable for most travelers, with pickup from Lisbon

Visiting Fátima: Portugal’s Most Famous Sanctuary

The first stop on this tour is Fátima, a renowned religious sanctuary that draws millions of pilgrims each year. Visitors experience the spiritual atmosphere of this sacred site, with a chance to reflect amid its revered environment. The tour dedicates about 2 hours to Fátima, including visits to the Sanctuary of Fátima and the Valinhos Sanctuary nearby.

Valinhos is significant as the location of the 1917 apparition of Our Lady to three shepherd children, Lúcia, Jacinta, and Francisco. The site is closely linked to the history of the apparitions and offers a peaceful, contemplative environment. Entrance to both sites is free, allowing visitors to appreciate their historical and spiritual importance without extra cost.

Exploring Nazaré’s Coastal Charm

Next, the tour moves to Nazaré, a traditional fishing village famous for its beautiful beaches and vibrant cultural scene. The stop lasts about an hour, giving travelers a taste of Nazaré’s lively ambiance and scenic coastline. Known for its fishing heritage and spectacular waves, especially during the surf season, Nazaré offers a picturesque contrast to the spiritual sites.

The village’s rich historical heritage and authentic atmosphere make it a popular photo stop and a chance to enjoy some fresh sea air. While no entry fee is required, visitors might choose to explore the beachfront or local shops during this brief visit.

Discovering Óbidos’ Medieval Atmosphere

Óbidos is a medieval town that seems frozen in time, with its castle walls and narrow streets. The tour allocates about an hour for exploring this enchanting destination, which is perfect for lovers of history and architecture. Walk through medieval gates, admire whitewashed houses, and experience the town’s cultural charm.

The town’s atmosphere lends itself well to picturesque strolls, and its history as a royal and literary hub adds depth to the visit. Entry to Óbidos itself is free, but visitors may want to explore its shops and cafes or visit the castle ruins if time permits.

Day 2: Visiting the Royal Heritage and Sintra’s Fairytale Palaces

The second day begins with a visit to the National Palace of Queluz, a royal residence with a blend of Baroque and Rococo architecture. The palace features majestic halls, beautiful gardens, and royal apartments, offering insight into the opulent lifestyle of Portuguese royalty. The tour allocates about 1 hour for this stop; entrance fees are not included and cost approximately €10 per person.

Next, the tour takes travelers to Sintra, a charming village famed for its magical atmosphere and distinctive architecture. This stop is free of charge, allowing for a cultural stroll through its narrow streets and historic buildings.

The highlight of the day is Pena Palace, an iconic attraction in Sintra. The exuberant architecture and stunning gardens make it a must-see. Expect about 2 hours exploring this palace and its panoramic views, with an admission fee of around €20 per person not included in the price.

Visiting Cabo da Roca and Boca do Inferno

The tour also includes stops at Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe, offering spectacular ocean vistas and a sense of being at the edge of the world. This 1-hour stop is free of charge and is perfect for taking photos of the imposing cliffs and wild coastline.

A brief visit to Boca do Inferno in Cascais provides a stunning view of the Atlantic Ocean’s power. The 30-minute stop is free and offers a dramatic scene of sea cliffs and crashing waves, ideal for those who appreciate natural forces.

Practical Details of the Tour

The entire experience is conducted in a private vehicle, with air conditioning, WiFi, and bottled water provided for comfort. The meeting point is at Marques De Pombal in Lisbon, and the tour concludes back at this starting location. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed and confirmation received at booking.

While entrance fees to attractions like Queluz Palace, Sintra Palace, and Pena Palace cost around €40 per person total, these are paid separately. This allows flexibility in choosing which sites to enter and when.

Review Highlights: Guides and Customization

The reviews underscore the knowledgeable and friendly guides, with one reviewer mentioning a guide who was “so knowledgeable, friendly and funny”. Another notes that the guide went above and beyond, even helping retrieve lost luggage. The personalized nature of the private tour ensures a flexible pace and tailored experience suited to the group’s interests.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This 2-day private experience suits travelers seeking convenience and personalized attention. It works well for those interested in spiritual sites, scenic coastlines, and medieval towns, with enough flexibility to explore at a comfortable pace. The small group or private setting makes it ideal for families, couples, or small groups wanting to avoid large tour buses and crowded attractions.

The tour’s value lies in the comprehensive itinerary combined with private transportation, making it easier to cover multiple locations efficiently. However, travelers should be prepared for additional costs for entry tickets and possibly more time if they wish to explore certain sites in depth.

Final Thoughts on the 2-Day Private Portugal Tour

This tour delivers a balanced mix of spirituality, culture, and natural beauty, showcasing Portugal’s diverse attractions. The private format and personalized guides stand out, providing a tailored experience that’s difficult to replicate on larger, group tours.

While the entrance fees are not included, the overall cost-effectiveness and convenience make it a worthwhile choice for those eager to see Fátima, Sintra, Nazaré, and Óbidos in just two days. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors or those with limited time but wanting a well-rounded overview of Portugal’s highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and it is suitable for families with children, especially those interested in history, architecture, and scenic views.

How long are the stops at each site?
Stops last from 30 minutes at Boca do Inferno to 2 hours at Pena Palace, allowing for quick visits and photo opportunities.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for sites like Queluz Palace, Sintra Palace, and Pena Palace are not included and total around €40 per person.

What is the pickup location?
The pickup point is at Marques De Pombal in Lisbon.

Is WiFi provided during the tour?
Yes, WiFi is available onboard the private vehicle.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What makes this tour stand out?
The private transportation, personalized service, and the diverse stops—ranging from spiritual sites to scenic coastlines—offer a comprehensive and flexible experience of Portugal’s highlights.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts about two days, with a mix of sightseeing, cultural visits, and scenic stops.

What is the weather like?
While not specified, the tour includes outdoor stops that suggest good weather is preferred for optimal enjoyment.

Who is the provider?
The experience is offered by BlackCab Portugal.