8 Hours
Daily Tour
8 People/vehicle
English
"Royal grandeur," "Atlantic sea breezes," and "Europe’s western edge" are the hallmarks of this diverse coastal journey. This tour invites you to explore the harmony between Portugal’s monumental history and its rugged natural beauty north of Lisbon. From the gold-toned stone of the National Palace of Mafra—an 18th-century Baroque masterpiece—to the blue-and-white charm of Ericeira, a world-renowned fishing and surfing village, your day will be filled with architectural wonders and maritime tradition.
The adventure continues along the dramatic Sintra coast, pausing at the clifftop village of Azenhas do Mar, where white houses cling to the rocks above a natural sea pool. Finally, stand at Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe, where the land ends and the Atlantic begins. This small-group experience ensures a personal and atmospheric day before we return you to central Lisbon.
The Queluz National Palace is often called the "Portuguese Versailles." Located just outside Lisbon, it is a stunning 18th-century blend of Baroque, Rococo, and Neoclassical architecture.
The tour begins at this 18th-century monumental complex, which serves as one of the most significant examples of Baroque architecture in Portugal. The site includes a Royal Palace, a Basilica, and a Franciscan Convent. Its primary feature is the Rococo-style Library, which houses over 35,000 leather-bound volumes and is paved with multi-colored marble. The palace facade stretches over 200 meters, featuring two bell towers that contain one of the world's largest collections of carillons.
The National Palace of Mafra houses a monumental Rococo-style library, considered one of the most important bibliographic repositories in Europe. Stretching nearly 90 meters in length with multi-colored marble floors, the hall contains a staggering collection of over 36,000 leather-bound volumes, including rare incunabula and historical works on medicine, law, and philosophy. A unique feature of this 18th-century sanctuary is its resident colony of bats, which act as natural guardians by emerging at night to protect the ancient paper from wood-boring insects.
Not far from Mafra we explore the typical village of José Franco. This fascinating and somehow surreal miniature village showcases the traditional culture and handicrafts of the surrounding area, crafted using traditional techniques by renowned Portuguese potter and sculptor José Silos Franco. During the visit is worth a try the traditional bread with sausage (pão com chouriço). It is a delicacy! There we also find a souvenir store selling handmade pottery from all around the country. This miniature village depicts the true story of the region and attracts hundreds of travelers who pass this way. There is a permanent exhibition of the ceramic works of José Franco.
Located on the Atlantic coast, Ericeira is an active fishing port and a recognized World Surfing Reserve. The historic center is characterized by narrow, cobblestone streets lined with white-washed houses trimmed in blue. During the stop, guests can observe the local harbor (Porto de Pesca) and explore the central plazas where traditional seafood restaurants and local bakeries are concentrated.
