Private Tour: Discover the Rich Medieval History of Obidos

Discover the medieval city of Obidos on a private day trip from Lisbon that offers a deep look into Portugal’s historic past. Priced at $325.80 per person, this 8-hour tour provides a comprehensive experience, complete with hotel pickup, air-conditioned transport, and expert guidance. What sets this tour apart is the focus on Obidos’s history, its striking architecture, and the opportunity to customize your itinerary by adding visits to nearby cities like Sintra or Alcobaça.

This tour is perfect for history lovers and those seeking a relaxed yet informative day outside Lisbon’s hustle. The small-group environment ensures personalized attention and a chance to explore at your own pace. Travelers should note that the tour includes round-trip transportation from Lisbon, making logistics seamless, while the 8-hour duration offers a well-balanced visit without feeling rushed.

Key Points

• Private full-day tour exploring Obidos, Sintra, Alcobaça, or other nearby locations
• Cost of $325.80 per person, includes hotel pickup and air-conditioned transport
• Duration of approximately 8 hours, with flexible customizable itineraries
• Expert driver-guide provides detailed commentary on Obidos’s history
• Visit famous sites like the medieval castle, chapel of Our Lady of Mercy, and pillory monument
• Tour maintains high safety standards with disinfection and masks provided

Start in Lisbon with Convenient Pickup and Transport

The tour begins with hotel pickup from Lisbon at 9:00 am, making it easy to start your day without the hassle of public transportation. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort as you leave Lisbon behind and head towards Obidos, often considered the finest example of a Portuguese walled town.

Transportation is included, and all taxes and fees are covered, meaning no hidden costs. The private nature of this tour guarantees an intimate experience tailored to your interests, with only your group participating. This setup is ideal for travelers wanting a more personalized and relaxed exploration.

Exploring Obidos’s Historic Walls and Main Square

The city’s walls and narrow cobbled streets immediately evoke a medieval atmosphere. Obidos’s charm is heightened by its painted houses and an imposing castle that dominates the skyline. The guide explains the history of Obidos, which was presented to the Queen of Portugal on her wedding day starting in 1214. This royal connection has left a legacy of pride that travelers can observe across the town.

The main square serves as the hub for several key sites, including the Chapel of Our Lady of Mercy. This chapel, founded shortly after 1148, features interior walls lined with tiles from the 1600s and 1700s. One of its highlights is the Renaissance tomb of João de Noronha, created by French sculptors Jean de Rouen and Nicolas Chantereine.

Visiting the Chapel of Our Lady of Mercy and Its Artifacts

The Chapel of Our Lady of Mercy is a significant stop, showcasing architecture and art from different eras. Despite damage from seismic events in the 1500s, the chapel was reconstructed, maintaining its Mannerist design. Travelers will find tile work on the interior walls and appreciate the Renaissance tomb as a testament to Portugal’s historical artistry.

Admission is free, and the guide shares stories behind the artifacts and architectural features, making this a meaningful glimpse into the town’s religious and artistic past.

Discovering the Pillory and Local Symbols of Autonomy

A short walk from the chapel leads to the main square, home to the pillory monument. This 1300s structure symbolizes Obidos’s autonomy and served as a site for public punishment. The coat of arms of Eleanor of Viseu is displayed, featuring a net, which is a poignant reminder of her infant son’s drowning in the Tagus River.

Nearby, the 16th-century fountain once supplied water through the town’s aqueduct, and the Telheiro building with its distinctive portico once served as the indoor market. All these features highlight Obidos’s self-governing past and local life throughout centuries.

The Old Cross and Its Connection to Queen Eleanor of Viseu

A notable feature is the hexagonal sanctuary located north of town, housing a primitive stone cross etched with an ancient crucifixion image. Dated to the 2nd or 3rd centuries, this cross predates the town’s Baroque church, emphasizing Obidos’s long-standing spiritual significance.

Legend states that Queen Eleanor of Viseu placed the cross nearby in the 1500s to mark the route to Caldas da Rainha, known for its hot springs she founded. The cross was rediscovered in 1730 and remains a spiritual landmark with a church finished in 1737 nearby.

Customizing Your Visit: Nearby Towns and Additional Sites

One of the advantages of this tour is the possibility of customization. Travelers can include visits to Sintra or Alcobaça, expanding their exploration of Portugal’s historic towns. Sintra’s picturesque streets and Palace of Pena are popular options, while Alcobaça offers a monastic site and medieval architecture.

This flexibility allows you to tailor the 8-hour itinerary to your interests, making your day trip more enriching.

Practical Details and Safety Measures

Safety is a priority for the tour provider, Knight Riders Tourism. The vehicles are disinfected after each trip, with masks and hand sanitizer provided to all participants. The tour operates only as a private experience, limiting exposure and ensuring social distancing.

The pickup and drop-off service from your Lisbon hotel simplifies logistics, and the group size is limited for a more personal experience. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with confirmation provided at booking and most participants able to join.

The Guide’s Role and Tour Highlights

The driver-guide is described as knowledgeable and courteous, offering informative commentary about Obidos’s history and culture. The guide’s storytelling enhances the experience, making the visit both educational and engaging.

Key highlights include the medieval castle, historic walls, artifacts in the chapel, and the symbolic pillory monument. For those interested in history, architecture, and local legends, this tour provides a well-rounded view of Obidos’s past and present.

Final Thoughts on the Obidos Private Tour

This private tour from Lisbon offers a comprehensive, flexible exploration of Obidos, blending history, architecture, and local legends. The cost reflects the personalized service, expert guidance, and comfort of door-to-door transport.

While the tour is primarily focused on Obidos, the option to customize with nearby towns adds extra value. It’s a great choice for history enthusiasts and those seeking a stress-free day trip with rich cultural insights.

Travelers who appreciate detailed storytelling, well-preserved historic sites, and a comfortable, private experience will find this tour rewarding. The high safety standards and positive reviews underscore its reliability and quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned vehicle, all taxes and fees, and the driver-guide.

Can I visit other locations besides Obidos?
Yes, the tour can be customized to include nearby cities such as Sintra or Alcobaça.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour’s physical requirements are mild, making it suitable for families.

What safety measures are in place?
The vehicle is disinfected after each trip, masks and hand sanitizer are provided, and the tour is conducted as a private experience to reduce contact.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am, giving ample time for sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Who operates this tour?
It is run by Knight Riders Tourism, a trusted provider with certification from Turismo de Portugal for hygiene standards.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund.