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

The “Three Cities in One Day: Porto, Nazare and Obidos from Lisbon” tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of Portugal’s diverse charm in just 12 hours. Priced at $107.77 per person, this guided adventure departs from central Lisbon at 8:00 am and visits three distinct locations, making it an ideal choice for travelers with limited time. The tour covers the medieval walled town of Óbidos, the lively fishing port of Nazaré, and Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city with a UNESCO-listed historic center. With a rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 2,500 reviews and a 93% recommendation rate, the experience is well-regarded, especially for those eager to see a broad range of sights in a single day.

While the tour is packed and involves a long day of travel, it appeals most to visitors who want a guided overview without the stress of planning or driving. The inclusion of expert guides, comfortable transportation, and brief visits make this tour a practical option for those wanting a taste of Portugal’s highlights. That said, the timed stops are quite short, so travelers should be prepared for limited exploration at each location.

Key Points

• Full-day guided tour covering Óbidos, Nazaré, and Porto in 12 hours from Lisbon
• Cost of $107.77 per person, including transportation and expert guides
• Stops include medieval Óbidos, famous Nazaré waves, and Porto’s UNESCO World Heritage center
• Short visits at each site, with 45 minutes in Óbidos and Nazaré, and around 3 hours in Porto
• Group size limited to 30 travelers, with options for group discounts and mobile tickets
• Tour begins at 8:00 am from Hotel Fénix in Lisbon and ends back in the city

From the Meeting Point to the Enchanting Óbidos Walls

The tour kicks off at Hotel Fénix in Praça Marquês de Pombal, where a comfortable air-conditioned minivan awaits. The first stop is the medieval town of Óbidos, a highlight for history enthusiasts. The guided tour takes about 45 minutes, during which the guide explains the town’s medieval walls, historic houses, and the Castle of Óbidos, recognized as one of Portugal’s 7 wonders. The cobbled streets and well-preserved structures evoke the atmosphere of Portugal’s past, making it a photogenic and charming introduction to the day.

Exploring the Historic Walls and Narrow Streets of Óbidos

Óbidos is known for its ancient walls and medieval character. Visitors walk through narrow cobbled streets, lined with old houses and historic buildings that have remained largely unchanged through centuries. The tour’s brief duration means you get a taste of the town’s charm—ideal for those who prefer a guided overview rather than a deep exploration. The Castle of Óbidos dominates the village’s skyline and is a highlight for architecture fans and history buffs alike.

Nazaré’s Famous Surf Waves and Coastal Culture

After exploring Óbidos, the journey continues to the fishing town of Nazaré, renowned worldwide for its massive winter waves that attract big-wave surfers. The visit includes a stop at the Forte de São Miguel, where you can enjoy sweeping sea views and learn about the town’s fishing heritage. The site is free of charge, but additional exploration of O Sitio and its churches and shrines takes about 45 minutes. The streets of O Sitio are popular for pilgrims and offer a glimpse into Nazaré’s religious traditions. The famous waves at Nazaré are a striking sight, and the Forte de São Miguel offers great photo opportunities.

Walking Through Nazaré’s Religious and Pilgrimage Sites

O Sitio, located atop a cliff, is a religious hub with medieval fortifications, churches, and shrines. Visitors walk up hilly streets to reach the summit, where stunning coastal vistas meet the medieval architecture. The area is popular among pilgrims and provides a combination of spiritual and scenic experiences. This stop is brief, giving just enough time to appreciate the vibrant streets and religious monuments.

Arriving in Porto: Portugal’s Second City

The journey continues to Porto, arriving after about two hours of travel. The city is famous for its UNESCO-listed historic center, characterized by traditional houses and distinctive architecture. The tour includes a guided walk of the old town, allowing visitors to admire famous landmarks such as the Igreja do Carmo, Estação São Bento, and the Ponte Don Luis. The total time allocated in Porto is approximately 3 hours, including a lunch break.

Navigating Porto’s UNESCO World Heritage Old Town

The Porto visit features a guided walking tour through the city’s most notable sites. Travelers have the chance to see historic churches, ornate stations, and the iconic bridges crossing the Douro River. The Igreja do Carmo impresses with its beautiful tilework, while the Ponte Don Luis offers spectacular views of the river and city skyline. The tour’s pace is brisk but allows a sufficient overview of Porto’s architectural beauty and vibrant streets.

Lunch and Additional Porto Attractions

There is a one-hour window for lunch in Porto, during which travelers can choose a local restaurant to sample Portuguese cuisine. Many reviews praise guide knowledge and interesting insights during the walk, although some note that time in Porto can feel limited. The Igreja do Carmo and São Bento station are part of the 2-hour guided walk, offering a blend of religious architecture and railway history.

After Porto: Return to Lisbon with Recommendations

The tour ends with a return trip to Lisbon, taking about three and a half hours. Once back, the guide offers recommendations for how to spend the rest of your day in Lisbon. The full-day structure ensures you see Portugal’s highlights without needing to plan or drive yourself. However, some reviews mention the long hours and brief stops, which may leave some wishing for more exploration time.

Practicalities and Tour Details

This tour includes transportation by van or minibus from Lisbon, with group sizes limited to 30 for comfort. Admission tickets for most stops are free, but lunch and additional site entries are not included unless the upgrade option is selected. The meeting point is at Hotel Fénix, and the tour begins promptly at 8:00 am. The tour offers mobile tickets and group discounts for larger parties. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start, providing flexibility for spontaneous plans.

Pros and Cons Based on Feedback

The main strengths of this tour are the expert guides like João, Roy, and Huey, who are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, and the organized transportation. The scenic stops at Óbidos and Nazaré are consistently highlighted as beautiful and interesting. However, some participants find the timing tight, with limited exploration at each location, especially in Porto. Others mention the long hours (over 13 hours), which can be tiring, and short durations at each stop.

Final Thoughts on the Three Cities in One Day Tour

This guided tour from Lisbon offers an efficient way to see three distinct Portuguese cities in a single day. It excels for time-pressed visitors wanting a guided overview of Portugal’s diverse regions, with notable highlights like Óbidos’ medieval walls, Nazaré’s waves, and Porto’s historic center.

While the pace is fast and visits are brief, the expert guides and comfortable transport make it a manageable way to maximize a short stay. The main limitations are the short stops and the long travel hours, which may reduce opportunity for deep exploration. Tour participants seeking a more relaxed or in-depth experience might prefer longer stays or separate visits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but the long hours and walking involved may be challenging for those with limited mobility or stamina.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation, guided visits to Óbidos, Nazaré, and Porto, and most stops are free of charge. Lunch and additional site entries are optional upgrades or not included.

How long do stops last?
Stops include 45 minutes in Óbidos, about 45 minutes in Nazaré, and around 3 hours in Porto, including lunch.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at Hotel Fénix in Lisbon at 8:00 am and returns to Lisbon around 9:30 pm.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included unless the upgrade option for lunch is chosen. Visitors should plan to bring snacks or dine independently.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour’s start.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, it suits most family travelers, but long hours and walking should be considered for younger children.

How crowded is the tour?
The group size is limited to 30 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience with enough space for interactions and sightseeing.

What do reviewers say about the guides?
Guides like João, Roy, and Huey receive praise for their knowledge and friendly demeanor, making the long day more enjoyable.

Is this tour worth the cost?
For $107.77, the tour offers a rundown of Portugal’s key sights in one day, making it a practical choice for those wanting value and convenience.

This “Three Cities in One Day” tour provides an efficient and guided overview of Portugal’s most captivating spots, ideal for visitors with limited time who appreciate expert guidance and well-organized transportation.