Set out on a captivating journey from the charming coastal village of Ericeira to the majestic Mafra National Palace and the exquisite National Palace of Queluz. This tour beautifully showcases the rich tapestry of Portugal’s history and coastal allure. Explore Ericeira’s renowned surf spots and traditional fishing heritage, then marvel at the grandeur of the Baroque architecture in Queluz. The historical library of Mafra, housing over 30,000 books, offers a glimpse into Portugal’s royal intellect. Get ready to learn about a blend of sea and culture that will leave you intrigued and eager to discover more.
Good To Know
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Explore the contrast between the grand, baroque architecture of the Queluz and Mafra Palaces and the charming, coastal atmosphere of the fishing village of Ericeira.
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Visit the renowned Mafra National Palace, renowned for its impressive library containing over 30,000 books, offering a glimpse into the intellectual pursuits of Portuguese royalty.
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Discover the unique blend of Baroque, Rococo, and Neoclassical architectural styles at the National Palace of Queluz, a quintessential example of Portugal’s rich cultural heritage.
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Enjoy the coastal charm of Ericeira, a traditional fishing village renowned for its excellent surfing conditions, particularly at the iconic Ribeira d’Ilhas Beach.
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Enjoy a seamless private tour experience with an official guide, comfortable transportation, and complimentary amenities, allowing for a personalized and hassle-free exploration of these historic and scenic destinations.
Tour Overview and Pricing
This tour offers a full-day excursion from Lisbon to explore the seaside towns of Queluz, Mafra, and Ericeira, priced at $216.02 per person.
You can reserve your spot without upfront payment, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour lasts 1 day and includes pickup within a 30 km radius of Lisbon.
With this package, you’ll enjoy guided tours of the Mafra National Palace and the National Palace of Queluz, plus a photo stop in the charming fishing village of Ericeira.
An optional lunch break is available for an additional fee.
Looking for more options in Queluz? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Itinerary Details
The tour begins with pickup from your location in the Lisbon area, within a 30 km radius.
The tour begins with pickup from your location in the Lisbon area, within a 30 km radius.
First, you’ll visit the Mafra National Palace for a guided tour, learning about its impressive library of over 30,000 books.
After, you’ll have an optional break for lunch.
Next, you’ll head to the picturesque fishing village of Ericeira, known for its surfing.
Then, you’ll explore the National Palace of Queluz, a stunning royal residence showcasing Baroque, Rococo, and Neoclassical architecture.
Finally, you’ll return to Lisbon.
Itineraries are subject to change, so be flexible.
Highlights and Attractions
Though the tour includes several notable destinations, the National Palace of Mafra stands out for its impressive historical library, boasting over 30,000 books.
Ericeira, a traditional fishing village, is popular for its surfing, particularly at Ribeira d’Ilhas Beach.
The National Palace of Queluz showcases a stunning blend of Baroque, Rococo, and Neoclassical architecture, while the José Franco Village Museum and local pastry shops offer a glimpse into the region’s cultural heritage.
Whether you’re marveling at grand palaces or enjoying coastal charm, this tour promises rich discoveries.
Inclusions and Transportation
Along With the captivating sights, this tour provides seamless transportation and comprehensive inclusions to ensure a stress-free experience.
Travelers will enjoy the services of an official private guide, a comfortable private van with child car seat options, and complimentary amenities like bottled water, boarding, registration, gasoline, and toll fees.
The tour also covers entrance fees for the Queluz and Mafra Palaces. Customization is available, catering to individual preferences in luxury tourism.
Tour languages include Portuguese, English, Spanish, French, and Italian, making it accessible to a wide audience.
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Official Private Guide
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Private Van (Peugeot Rifter) with child car seat options
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Entrance fees for Queluz and Mafra Palaces
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Complimentary bottled water, boarding, registration, gasoline, and toll fees
Tour Languages and Customization
What languages does this tour accommodate, and how can the experience be customized? The tour is available in Portuguese, English, Spanish, French, and Italian, ensuring a comfortable experience for a wide range of travelers. Customization is a key feature, allowing clients to tailor the schedule and drop-off locations to suit their preferences. The tour team is adept at curating luxury tourism experiences to meet individual needs.
| Tour Features | Customizable | Fixed |
| — | — | — |
| Itinerary | ✓ | – |
| Pickup/Drop-off | ✓ | – |
| Language | ✓ | ✓ |
| Group Size | – | ✓ |
| Accessibility | – | ✓ |
Whether you’re seeking a personalized journey or prefer a structured experience, this tour has the flexibility to accommodate your desires.
Mafra National Palace and Its Impressive Library
One of the highlights of this tour is the visit to the Mafra National Palace, which boasts an impressive library housing over 30,000 books.
This vast collection covers a wide range of subjects, from theology and philosophy to history and science. Visitors can wander through the ornate reading rooms, admiring the intricate Baroque architecture and the rows of leather-bound volumes.
The library is a true testament to the intellectual pursuits of the Portuguese royalty, and a must-see for any bibliophile or history enthusiast.
Notable features include:
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Expansive collection of over 30,000 books
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Ornate Baroque reading rooms
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Diverse subjects from theology to science
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Insight into the intellectual interests of the Portuguese monarchy
Ericeira: A Charming Fishing Village and Surfing Destination
After exploring the grandeur of the Mafra National Palace, the tour takes visitors to the charming fishing village of Ericeira. This picturesque coastal town is a popular destination for surfers, known for its excellent breaks at Ribeira d’Ilhas Beach. Visitors can enjoy stunning views, browse local shops, and sample fresh seafood at the harbor.
| Highlights | Description |
| — | — |
| Surfing | Renowned for its world-class waves |
| Scenic Coastline | Picturesque cliffs and fishing harbor |
| Local Culture | Traditional buildings and seafood cuisine |
| Historic Charm | Centuries-old fishing community |
The tranquil atmosphere and laid-back vibe of Ericeira offer a delightful contrast to the opulence of the palaces visited earlier in the tour.
National Palace of Queluz: A Regal Architectural Masterpiece
The National Palace of Queluz stands as a magnificent testament to Portugal’s rich architectural heritage. This 18th-century palace showcases a remarkable blend of Baroque, Rococo, and Neoclassical styles.
Visitors can explore:
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Exquisite interior rooms adorned with lavish furnishings, intricate frescoes, and gilded details
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Expansive formal gardens featuring manicured hedges, fountains, and scenic walkways
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Stunning exterior architecture with its distinctive yellow and white façade, cupolas, and ornate statues
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The palace’s role as a former royal residence, providing a glimpse into the luxurious lives of Portuguese monarchs
A guided tour of the National Palace of Queluz offers a captivating journey through Portugal’s regal past.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Combine This Tour With Other Nearby Attractions?
Yes, you can customize the tour to include other nearby attractions. The tour is flexible, and the provider can tailor the itinerary to meet your specific interests and preferences.
What Is the Dress Code for Visiting the Palaces?
The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but visitors are advised to wear neat, casual attire that’s respectful when visiting the palace grounds. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as there’s quite a bit of walking involved.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?
The tour doesn’t offer specific discounts for students or seniors, but the $216.02 per person rate is already quite reasonable. Customers can explore flexible booking options, like the ‘Reserve now & pay later’ policy, to get the best deal.
How Accessible Is the Tour for People With Mobility Issues?
This tour may not be the best option for those with mobility issues, as it’s noted that it’s "not suitable for wheelchair users." However, the private van does offer child car seat options, so some flexibility may be possible.
Can I Purchase Tickets for the Palaces Separately if I Don’t Join the Tour?
You can purchase tickets for the Mafra and Queluz Palaces separately if you don’t join the tour. The palaces offer individual admission, allowing you to explore them at your own pace without booking the full package tour.
The Sum Up
This tour offers a captivating blend of Portugal’s coastal charm and regal grandeur. Explore the picturesque Ericeira, marvel at the Baroque splendor of Queluz Palace, and explore the intellectual riches of Mafra’s historic library. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or a lover of the sea, this immersive journey showcases the diverse beauty and cultural heritage of this enchanting region.
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