Historical Lisbon Half Day Private Tour

About this boat trip in Lisbon

• Live guideEnglish
• Duration5 hours
• CancellationFree cancellation up to 24 hours before
• Pick-upHotel pick-up available
• Activity levelEasy

• Private boat

Timeline: how the party goes

1. Jeronimos Monastery.

   The Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, or Jerónimos Monastery, is a famous 16th-century UNESCO World Heritage site in Lisbon, Portugal, built to commemorate the Age of Discovery. It is a prime example of the Manueline style of architecture and houses the tombs of notable figures like Vasco da Gama and Luís de Camões. The monastery includes a church, cloister, and other conventual dependencies, and is one of the most visited heritage sites in Portugal. Notice: Outside grounds visit only.

2. Belem Tower.

   The Torre de Belém is a 16th-century fortress on the Tagus River in Lisbon, Portugal, built to guard the port and celebrate the Age of Discovery. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a prime example of the Manueline architectural style, featuring nautical-inspired designs. The tower served as a customs post and a ceremonial gateway for explorers, most notably Vasco da Gama. Notice: Outside grounds visit only.

3. The Padrao dos Descobrimentos.

   The Padrão dos Descobrimentos is a 56-meter-tall monument in Lisbon that honors the Portuguese Age of Discovery.

   Key Features

   • Design: The stone structure looks like the front (prow) of a sailing ship called a caravel.
   • Compass Rose: A giant marble compass on the ground outside features a world map showing old Portuguese travel routes.
   • Famous Statues: Stone carvings on both sides show 33 important historical figures, including explorers like Vasco da Gama and Ferdinand Magellan, led by Prince Henry the Navigator.

   History

   • First Built: The city created the original temporary structure in 1940 for a world exhibition.
   • Rebuilt: Workers built the permanent concrete and stone version in 1960 to mark 500 years since the death of Prince Henry the Navigator.

4. Marques de Pombal Roundabout.

   The Marquês de Pombal roundabout is a major, busy traffic circle in the center of Lisbon, Portugal, named after the 18th-century prime minister who rebuilt the city after the 1755 earthquake. A large monument with a statue of the Marquês de Pombal stands in the middle. The area is a transportation hub with metro and bus access, hotels, and is located between Avenida da Liberdade and Eduardo VII Park.

5. Lisbon Old Town.

   Alfama is Lisbon's oldest and most historic neighborhood, characterized by its maze of narrow, cobblestone streets, Moorish influences, and medieval architecture that survived the 1755 earthquake. It is known for its picturesque streets, fado music houses, traditional restaurants, and landmarks like the Lisbon Cathedral (Sé) and the São Jorge Castle. The neighborhood offers a vibrant cultural experience with stunning viewpoints, lively festivals, and a strong sense of community.

6. Chiado - Lisbon´s Historical District.

   Chiado is Lisbon's historic and vibrant cultural and commercial district, known for luxury shopping, theaters, and cafes, while the Carmo district is a significant part of Chiado, famous for the Carmo Convent ruins and Largo do Carmo square. Key attractions include the Bertrand Bookstore (the world's oldest), the National Theatre of São Carlos, and the Elevador de Santa Justa elevator, all situated in the central Chiado area which borders the Bairro Alto and Baixa neighborhoods.

7. Lisbon's Rua Augusta Shopping and Dinning Distric, and Terreiro do Paço (Optional 1-hour free time).

    Lisbon's Rua Augusta and Terreiro do Paço form the grand, vibrant heart of the city's historic downtown by the river.
   What Makes Rua Augusta Great

   • Lively Pedestrian Vibe: Cars are banned, so you can walk freely on the famous black-and-white wave-patterned stone pavement.
   • Mix of Shops: You will find global fashion stores sitting next to tiny, historic family shops.
   • Street Entertainment: Talented musicians, artists, and dancers perform all day long.
   • Outdoor Dining: Sidewalk cafes offer a great place to rest and eat a traditional custard tart.
   • The best local restaurants and cafes near these sights.

   What Makes Terreiro do Paço Great

   • Stunning River Views: The massive open square sits directly on the banks of the wide Tagus River.
   • Majestic Architecture: Symmetrical yellow historic buildings with large arched walkways frame the open plaza.
   • The Grand Gateway: The impressive Rua Augusta Arch connects the square directly to the shopping street, and you can climb to the top for 360-degree views.
   • Royal History: A grand bronze statue of King José I on a horse stands proudly in the middle of the square. 

8. The Chiado shopping district in Lisbon (Optional 1-Hour free time).

   The Chiado shopping district in Lisbon is great because it blends high-end fashion and modern global brands with historic 18th-century architecture, traditional Portuguese craft shops, and iconic literary cafés.

   Key Highlights

   • Blend of Old and New: Streets like Rua Garrett and Rua do Carmo feature global fashion labels alongside century-old storefronts and historic landmarks. 
   • It is home to Livraria Bertrand, recognized as the world's oldest operating bookstore (established in 1732). 
   • Stores like A Vida Portuguesa sell curated, high-quality traditional Portuguese homewares, textiles, and local delicacies. 
   • Armazens do Chiado: A popular six-level shopping center housed in a beautifully restored historic building that offers around 50 modern stores and dining options. 
   • Shoppers can easily rest at legendary spots like Café A Brasileira, where a bronze statue honors the famous Portuguese poet Fernando Pessoa. 
   • The compact, cobblestoned district is easy to explore on foot and sits right next to the nightlife and dining of Bairro Alto. 
   • Nearby historic sights (like the Carmo Convent or Santa Justa Lift) to combine with a shopping trip.

What’s included

Good to know before you go

• Not wheelchair accessible
• Infants must not sit on laps

Frequently asked questions