Explore the City on Your Terms
With a 100% Private Tour
Have you always dreamed of visiting Portugal beyond the usual tourist spots? Portuguese For a Day Tours has the best suggestions if you would like to delve into the heart and soul of this enchanting country, discovering its hidden gems and local secrets.
Our personalized itineraries are crafted to showcase the true essence of Portugal. Picture yourself wandering through Lisbon’s vibrant and historic neighborhoods, where every corner tells a story. Experience the fairy-tale palaces and lush gardens of Sintra, a place of unparalleled beauty and mystery. Stroll through the medieval streets of Óbidos, a town that feels like a step back in time.
With our tours, you won’t just be a visitor in Portugal; you’ll become a part of it. Our local guides are experts in the history and culture of these regions and passionate storytellers who will immerse you in your journey. Whether you’re savoring local delicacies on an Évora day trip, marveling at the historical richness of Tomar, exploring the spiritual significance of Fátima, or discovering the majestic Mafra National Palace, each experience is crafted to provide unforgettable memories.
Embark on a journey to explore the authentic Portugal with us and create moments that will stay with you forever. Check out more about each one of our famous destinations in Portugal:
Private Lisbon City Tour
Private Sintra Tour
Óbidos, Ericeira & Mafra Private Tour
Customize Your Tour!
Our Destinations Offered for Your Tour
Lisbon
Lisbon is the capital and the largest city in Portugal. It is located at the mouth of the Tagus River(opens in a new tab), and it’s known for its historical and cultural significance as one of the main ports of Europe. Lisbon is praised for welcoming locals and having a leisurely pace of life. The beautiful pastel-colored houses, the famous yellow trams, the windy streets of the historic neighborhoods, and the fantastic culinary scene(opens in a new tab) all make up the character of Lisbon. The city was consistently awarded as a top city destination from 2017 to 2023, and it’s a must-stop on any itinerary.
Sintra
Sintra is one of the most beautiful towns in Portugal. It is located in the Serra de Sintra, a short drive from Lisbon, and it is famous for its 19th-century romantic houses, lush forests, and a climate slightly cooler than Lisbon, making it a perfect escape from the city. The Cultural Landscape of Sintra, which has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage(opens in a new tab) Site since 1995, is full of former royal retreats, lush gardens, and estates. The famous Pena National Palace and the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira highlight Sintra’s rich history, and they helped shape this natural and fairytale ambiance. Sintra is a popular destination(opens in a new tab) for tourists, especially on private tours!
Fátima
Fátima is a small town with 13,000 inhabitants located in the central region of Portugal, 1h30 minutes from Lisbon. It is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the world. The town of Fátima became an attraction after the apparitions of Our Lady to three little shepherds in 1917, and these events led to the establishment of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima(opens in a new tab), including the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary and the Chapel of the Apparitions. Each year, Fátima attracts millions of visitors worldwide, and the town’s spiritual significance makes it an admired site for reflection and worship.
Tomar
Tomar is a historic town in central Portugal, 140km from Lisbon. It is known for its rich Templar history and architectural gems. The most famous monument in Tomar is the Convent of Christ, a preserved complex that served initially as the headquarters for the Knights Templars in Portugal. In Tomar, you will also see a 16th-century aqueduct and the former burial grounds of the Knights Templars. The town of Tomar has narrow and winding streets, and the river Nabão runs right in the middle. The city hosts the Festa dos Tabuleiros(opens in a new tab) every four years, a traditional parade with flower-decorated floats celebrating local culture and history.
Óbidos
Óbidos is a medieval town, roughly one hour’s drive north of Lisbon. The city of Óbidos is surrounded by formed defensive walls, and its narrow and cobbled streets, along with the traditional houses decorated with flowers, make it for a visit to the past. The town of Óbidos is also famous for its numerous festivals, including the Chocolate Festival(opens in a new tab) and the Medieval Fair(opens in a new tab), which makes it a cultural and tourist destination. A visit to Óbidos is incomplete without trying the traditional Ginja d’Óbidos, a sour cherry liquor served in chocolate cups!
Évora
Évora is a city in the Alentejo region(opens in a new tab) in Portugal; 1h30 drive from Lisbon. Évora’s old town center, surrounded by walls, was the first historical center in Portugal(opens in a new tab) to be designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The highlights of Évora are the Roman Temple, the Cathedral, and the famous Chapel of Bones. Évora also has one of the oldest Universities in Portugal, and the cobbled streets hide stories with thousands of years. The traditional gastronomy of Évora, local wine, and traditional crafts make this town a great representation of Alentejo’s region.
Mafra
Mafra is a town outside Lisbon that is famous for its majestic Mafra National Palace(opens in a new tab), which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2019. This palace is a monumental baroque complex, which includes a basilica, a convent, a royal palace with one of the largest libraries in Europe, and former hunting grounds. Mafra was a small village until the palace’s construction, which transformed life in the town. It is just 20 minutes from the coastline, and on several occasions, it is still possible to attend large local markets. It is the best getaway from Lisbon for experiencing local life.
Destination Maps
Frequently Asked Questions
About Our Destinations
Welcome to our Q&A section! Here, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about our tours and destinations. Whether you’re curious about the best romantic spots, family-friendly activities, or how to plan your day in Portugal, you’ll find all the information you need here. We aim to make your travel planning as smooth and enjoyable as possible. If you don’t see your question listed, please get in touch with us directly!
Portugal is full of romantic spots perfect for couples. Sintra, with its fairy-tale palaces and gardens, is ideal for a romantic getaway. The charming streets of Lisbon and the picturesque village of Óbidos are also great choices.
Even though some attractions are closed on Mondays, there are still plenty of things to do in Lisbon. Explore the vibrant streets, visit open museums, or enjoy a leisurely day at a local café.
Portugal is perfect for family vacations with its safe environment and various activities. Visit Lisbon’s parks, explore Sintra’s palaces, or enjoy the beaches in the Algarve. Check out family activities for your holidays in Portugal.
Lisbon is famous for being the City of Seven Hills. We try to use public elevators as much as possible, but it is difficult to avoid uphill walking. If you’d like to take the Lisbon City Tour by van, check it here. Alternatively, contact us to book a Private Walking Tour, and we will visit at your own pace.
Portugal offers a rich culinary experience. Don’t miss out on trying iconic dishes like Bacalhau à Brás, Caldo Verde, and Pastéis de Nata.
All tours are offered in English. Other languages can be requested and are subject to confirmation. Get in touch with us!
Belém is known for its historic sites and delicious pastries. Visit the Jerónimos Monastery, the Belém Tower, and try the famous Pastéis de Belém.
If your children are younger than twelve years old, we recommend that you book a private tour for a more comfortable experience or you can get in touch with us for a personalizad tour for you and your family. If you would like to take a small group tour with your child, our tours are suitable for children twelves years old and over.
Lisbon transforms into a festive wonderland during Christmas, with beautiful lights, Christmas markets, and traditional foods. The city’s Christmas markets are perfect for holiday shopping and experiencing local crafts and delicacies. Don’t miss out on Portuguese Christmas foods like Bacalhau and Bolo Rei. Additionally, Lisbon offers a unique blend of cultural and religious festivities that make the season special.
To explore Lisbon like a local, visit the lesser-known neighborhoods, enjoy a Fado performance in Alfama, and try the local cuisine at traditional eateries. Learn how to explore Lisbon like a local.
Portugal boasts several UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In Lisbon, you can visit the Jerónimos Monastery and the Tower of Belém. Sintra is home to the Cultural Landscape of Sintra, with its romantic palaces and gardens. The Convent of Christ in Tomar is another must-see. The historic centers of Porto and Évora, and the University of Coimbra are also UNESCO sites.
Portugal hosts various festivals, such as the Festa de São João in Porto, the Óbidos Chocolate Festival, and the Lisbon Sardine Festival.
Portugal’s top wine regions include the Douro Valley, known for Port wine, Alentejo with its robust reds, and Vinho Verde for its refreshing whites.