From Lisbon: Nazaré and Óbidos – Private Guided Tour

Imagine a day spent exploring two of Portugal’s most captivating destinations, all in the comfort of your own private vehicle. This private guided tour from Lisbon to Nazaré and Óbidos promises a perfect blend of thrilling surf culture, medieval charm, and scenic coastal views. While the journey offers plenty of Instagram-worthy moments, it also provides meaningful insights into Portugal’s rich heritage.

What we love most about this tour is the way it balances iconic sights with hidden gems—such as the quiet beach town of São Martinho do Porto—and the personalized attention that a private guide ensures. You’ll get proper time at each stop, avoiding rushed sightseeing. Plus, the local guide’s knowledge enhances every aspect, from big-wave surfing to medieval castle stories. A possible consideration? With a 7-hour duration, it’s quite full, so pace yourself accordingly. This tour suits travelers who crave an authentic, comfortably paced day with plenty of opportunity for questions and discovery.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private guide and transportation ensure tailored insights and flexibility.
• Cultural & Scenic Highlights: From Nazaré’s surf culture to Óbidos’ medieval charm, with scenic coastal drives.
• Authentic Local Flavors: Opportunity to taste Ginja in a chocolate cup and enjoy regional cuisine.
• Informed Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Nathan enhance the experience with local stories and surfing expertise.
• Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and hassle-free pickup/drop-off at your accommodation.
• Value for Money: While the tour includes many amenities, it provides a comprehensive day trip that balances cost and memorable sights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

What to Expect from the Itinerary

This 7-hour private tour starts with pickup from your Lisbon accommodation, train station, airport, or cruise port—whichever suits your travel plans best. The journey begins with a scenic 90-minute drive north into Portugal’s lush Silver Coast, setting the tone for a day filled with striking views and interesting stories.

Nazaré: The Surf Town with a View

Your first stop is Nazaré, a fishing village that has gained fame worldwide for its colossal waves. This isn’t just a surfer’s playground; it’s a town with a lively history and a vibrant local culture. Upon arrival, you’ll visit the Sítio, a hilltop area offering sweeping vistas of the Atlantic, and learn about Nazaré’s traditional fishing roots. The São Miguel Arcanjo Fortress provides both history and a strategic vantage point for watching the swell.

A highlight is the big wave surfboard exhibition, where you’ll see the equipment that enables surfers to conquer waves up to 100 feet high during big swell seasons (mainly November to March). If the weather aligns, you might catch clips of surfers riding the waves, a sight that’s both thrilling and humbling. The guide can offer insights into the local surf culture, making the experience more meaningful.

Lunchtime is a chance to indulge in regional cuisine, whether it’s fresh seafood or local specialties. While the meal itself isn’t included, the guide’s recommendations ensure you enjoy authentic flavors.

Scenic Drive to Óbidos

Post-lunch, the drive continues along Portugal’s scenic coast, passing through São Martinho do Porto, a charming beach town known for its calm, semi-circular bay—an ideal spot for a quick photo or a leisurely stroll. This quiet gem often gets overshadowed but offers a peaceful contrast to Nazaré’s lively atmosphere.

Exploring Óbidos: Medieval Charm in Action

The highlight here is the medieval town of Óbidos, a UNESCO-listed site that served as the “House of the Portuguese Queens” for over 600 years. Walking through its cobbled streets lined with vibrant bougainvillaea, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back in time. The town’s well-preserved castle, encircled by medieval walls, is just the beginning.

Your guide will take you on a walk through the town’s narrow alleys, sharing stories of its history and legends. Of course, no visit is complete without tasting Ginja, a traditional sour cherry liqueur served in a chocolate cup—a sweet souvenir of your trip.

You’ll have ample free time to explore shops, take photos, or simply soak up the atmosphere. The town’s compact layout makes this easy, but don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes—those cobblestones can be a little challenging after a while.

The Practicalities

The tour’s private nature means you’ll have the flexibility to ask questions, linger at spots you love, or skip those that don’t pique your interest. The vehicle is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort during the approximately 2-hour total exploration time at each site. Bottled water is provided, and the guide is fluent in both English and Portuguese, making communication smooth.

The entire day is designed for convenience—pickups and drop-offs are available at Lisbon, Sintra, or Cascais, and the tour includes all transportation costs, tolls, and insurances. The only extras are meals and optional entrance fees, like the €2 fee for the big wave surfboard exhibition.

More Great Tours Nearby

What the Reviews Say

Guests like Lynley have praised guides like Nathan for their extensive surfing knowledge and local food tips. Nathan’s ability to share stories about Nazaré’s surf scene made the experience more vivid and personal. Reviewers also appreciate the stunning views from Sítio and the relaxed pace that allows for genuine discovery.

Why This Tour Works Well

This experience is perfect for those who want a comprehensive day out, combining scenic drives, culture, and authentic local flavors without the hassle of organizing transport or guides themselves. The private setting ensures a more relaxed and tailored experience, ideal for couples, families, or small groups.

The combination of historic Óbidos and surf-town Nazaré offers something for all—whether you’re into history, nature, or adrenaline-fueled waves. Plus, the optional Ginja tasting and regional cuisine add delightful culinary touches.

Who Would Love This Tour?

Those seeking an authentic slice of Portugal will find this tour rewarding. It’s suited for travelers who appreciate personalized guided experiences and enjoy discovering lesser-touristy spots. If you’re interested in sea sports or medieval architecture, this trip hits both marks.

However, it’s worth noting that this tour isn’t designed for mobility-impaired travelers, as cobbled streets and some walking are involved. Also, since giant waves occur mainly between November and March, surfing sights might vary depending on the season.

The Sum Up

This private Lisbon day trip to Nazaré and Óbidos offers a well-rounded look at Portugal’s captivating coast and history. You’ll have the chance to see the legendary big waves, explore a medieval fortress town, and enjoy scenic coastal drives—all with the comfort and flexibility of a private guide.

For travelers wanting a personal, insightful experience that balances iconic sights with hidden gems, this tour delivers excellent value. It’s ideal for those who love stories, scenic beauty, and authentic local flavor, with just enough adventure and relaxation to make it a memorable day.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is flexible, the cobbled streets and walking may be challenging for very young children or those with mobility impairments. It’s best suited for families comfortable with walking and exploring.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are a must, as cobbled streets can get tiring. Warm clothing is recommended, especially if visiting during cooler months or for early mornings and evenings.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This is a private tour, so you can discuss your preferences with the guide—perhaps spend more time at a favorite spot or skip something you’re less interested in.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but the guide can suggest reputable local eateries. You’ll have time to enjoy regional dishes and perhaps try Ginja in Óbidos.

How long is the drive from Lisbon?
The drive to Nazaré takes about 1.5 hours, with additional driving time between stops and on the way to Óbidos.

Is this tour available year-round?
Yes, it runs rain or shine. The scenery remains beautiful year-round, though big waves are more common from November to March.

What is the group size?
It’s a private tour, so it’s just your group and guide—perfect for personalized attention.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot through the provided platform, with options to pay later, offering flexibility in planning your trip.

This private tour offers a fantastic way to see Portugal beyond Lisbon’s city limits, combining scenic coastal views, historic charm, and local culture—all tailored to your pace and interests. Whether you’re a surf lover, history buff, or simply eager to soak up authentic Portuguese life, this trip promises a memorable day out.

You can check availability for your dates here: