Lisbon: Belém and Cristo Rei private tour

Discover Lisbon in a truly unique way with the Lisbon: Belém and Cristo Rei private tour offered by Van tour way of life. For $90 per person, this 4-hour adventure takes you through some of the city’s most iconic sights in a beautifully restored 1970 Volkswagen T2 van. With a maximum group size of 5 people, the tour offers an intimate and personalized experience, perfect for those seeking both fun and authentic insight into Lisbon.

This tour stands out thanks to its nostalgic vehicle, friendly guides, and carefully curated stops. The experience includes a gourmet breakfast, memorable views, and a relaxed pace that allows ample time to appreciate each location. While entrance to the Cristo Rei Sanctuary is optional and not included in the price, this tour offers excellent value for those wanting to explore Lisbon’s highlights comfortably and stylishly.

Key Points

• Private group limited to 5 guests ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere
• Travel in a restored 1970 VW T2 van, adding a nostalgic and stylish vibe to the journey
• Enjoy a gourmet and typical breakfast at a Belém pastry shop
• Visit the Belém Tower with opportunities for great photos against the Tagus River and 25th April Bridge
• Cross the 25th April Bridge on a scenic drive to the Cristo Rei sanctuary, with stunning panoramic views of Lisbon
• Includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, a bottle of water, and insurance

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Charm of the 1970 Volkswagen T2 Van

The tour begins with travelers comfortably seated in a beautifully restored vintage VW T2 van, which exudes style and “baba cool” flair. This vehicle, originating from 1970, adds a sense of fun and nostalgia, making the journey more memorable. The guides emphasize the van’s original features and the care taken to keep it both stylish and reliable, creating a sense of adventure from the start.

This mode of transport makes the tour feel special compared to standard bus or walking options. The van’s open sides and casual vibe encourage relaxed conversations and a friendly atmosphere, suited best for those who appreciate classic cars or vintage aesthetics.

Breakfast in Belém: A Typical Portuguese Start

One of the tour’s highlights is the gourmet breakfast break at a well-known pasteis de Belém hotel. This is the perfect way to start your exploration, offering a typical Portuguese breakfast experience. The visit to this iconic pastry shop is a chance to enjoy freshly baked Pasteis de Belém and a friendly, authentic atmosphere.

The breakfast stop is well-paced and gives everyone time to savor the local flavors without feeling rushed. It’s a great introduction to Lisbon’s culinary traditions and a perfect way to kick off the sightseeing.

Visiting Belém’s Monuments and Sights

After breakfast, the tour takes a short stroll through the Belém district, allowing for appreciation of its imposing monuments. The Belém Tower is a key stop, where the tour guides help visitors take memorable photos with the Tagus River and 25th April Bridge as backdrops.

This part of the tour emphasizes the visual appeal of Belém, with plenty of opportunities to capture the scenic views. The guides provide insights into the significance of these landmarks, enhancing understanding without overwhelming.

Crossing the 25th April Bridge to Cristo Rei

The highlight of the drive is crossing the spectacular 25th April Bridge, which offers one of Lisbon’s most impressive vistas. The scenic drive leads to the Cristo Rei sanctuary, an iconic statue reminiscent of Rio’s Christ the Redeemer.

From the sanctuary, travelers enjoy an incredible view over Lisbon, with panoramic perspectives of the city and river. This stop is ideal for photos, reflection, or simply taking in the sprawling cityscape from above. The sanctuary entrance fee is not included, but the view alone makes this stop worthwhile.

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Scenic Drive and Photo Opportunities

Throughout the 4-hour tour, the guides lead travelers on a journey that balances sightseeing with plenty of chances for photos and quiet moments. The scenic drive over the bridge and along the river highlights some of Lisbon’s most photogenic spots, making it an ideal choice for photography enthusiasts.

The van’s open sides and the guides’ storytelling add to the experience, turning a sightseeing tour into a leisurely exploration with insider tips and stories.

Guides and Personal Service

The tour is led by experienced guides who speak English, French, and Portuguese. The reviews praise their warm manner and extensive knowledge, which add a personal touch to the experience.

Guests mention feeling very well looked after, with guides providing insider knowledge at each stop and ample time to explore without feeling rushed. The private nature of the tour ensures a relaxed, flexible experience tailored to your pace and interests.

Logistics and Practical Details

This private tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, making it highly convenient for travelers staying in Lisbon. A bottle of water is provided, along with insurance for peace of mind.

The tour duration is approximately four hours, with availability that varies based on your schedule. You can reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility in planning. The tour is suitable for travelers who want a relaxed, stylish, and informative way to see Lisbon’s Belém and Cristo Rei sights.

Considerations and Limitations

While the Cristo Rei Sanctuary is a highlight, the entrance fee for ascent is not included if you wish to go up the statue. This is an optional extra if you want to explore the interior or enjoy the panoramic view from above.

The tour is best enjoyed in good weather, as much of the experience involves scenic drives and outdoor stops. The vehicle’s vintage style may have limitations for travelers with mobility issues, so comfort and accessibility should be considered.

Comparing Similar Experiences

For travelers interested in other private or guided tours in Lisbon, options such as guided tuk-tuk tours, stadium visits, and museum tickets are available. However, this tour’s uniqueness lies in its vintage vehicle, personalized private service, and combination of scenic drives with cultural highlights.

Lisbon: Belém and Cristo Rei Private Tour — Final Thoughts

This tour offers a stylish, relaxed, and personal way to explore some of Lisbon’s most famous sights. The vintage VW van adds a fun nostalgic element that sets it apart from typical sightseeing options. The friendly guides and careful pacing ensure a comfortable experience, especially for those who enjoy scenic drives and outdoor viewpoints.

While the Cristo Rei ascent fee is not included, the views from the sanctuary are still exceptional. This tour is particularly suited for travelers seeking a personalized, stylish way to discover Lisbon’s Belém district and river vistas, all with a touch of vintage charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, a bottle of water, and insurance. The breakfast at Belém and Cristo Rei sanctuary entrance fee for ascent are not included.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, providing a relaxed pace to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What is the group size?
This is a private tour with a maximum of 5 guests, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed scenic nature and vintage vehicle may appeal to families, but considerations regarding comfort and mobility should be made.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility if your plans change.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, French, and Portuguese, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers.

Is the ascent to Cristo Rei included?
No, the entrance fee for ascent is not included and must be paid separately if you wish to go up the statue.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended. You can reserve now and pay later, which offers flexibility for your travel plans.

What makes this tour different from other Lisbon excursions?
The vintage Volkswagen T2 van, private group setting, and carefully curated stops in Belém and at the Cristo Rei sanctuary make this experience distinctive and stylish.

Is this tour accessible for travelers with mobility issues?
The description does not specify accessibility accommodations. Consider this when planning, especially for stops that may involve walking or standing.

Can I customize the tour?
Since this is a private experience, guides are typically flexible and open to minor customization based on your interests or timing needs.

Would you recommend this tour?
Yes, particularly for those who appreciate classic cars, scenic drives, and a personalized touch to exploring Lisbon’s riverside highlights.

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