Nazare is a town that grabs your attention with its mighty Atlantic waves, charming streets, and legendary surf culture. But beyond the big waves, Nazare offers a variety of tours that suit different interests, whether you want a guided culture trip, a private day adventure, or a boat ride along the coast. Our favorites include the comprehensive From Lisbon: Tour of Fatima, Batalha, Nazaré, and Óbidos with an English-speaking guide for its full-day immersion, and the Private Tour to the World’s Biggest Waves for an exclusive look at Nazaré’s surf phenomenon.
If you’re after authentic local experiences, these tours give you a taste of Portugal’s history, natural beauty, and surf legend. Whether you’re a history lover, a surf fanatic, or just looking for a scenic day out, Nazare’s tours deliver memorable moments and practical insights.
Quick Overview
Our list features six top tours in Nazare, each offering a different way to explore this rugged coastal town and its surroundings. From full-day guided trips in Lisbon to private adventures focused on Nazaré’s giant waves, and scenic walks with boat rides, there’s something for every type of traveler. Check out the options below to find the perfect fit for your trip.
1. From Lisbon: Tour of Fatima, Batalha, Nazaré, and Óbidos with English-speaking tour guide
At number one, this full-day Lisbon-based tour whisks you through four iconic sites that showcase Portugal’s spiritual, architectural, and cultural heritage. The tour begins with a pickup in Lisbon and includes a visit to Fatima, where you’ll see the famous sanctuary associated with the shepherd children and the Marian apparitions. Then, you’ll explore the Gothic church of Batalha, a masterpiece of medieval architecture and home to the tomb of the unknown soldier.
The highlight for many is the stop in Nazaré, where you can admire the massive Atlantic waves and enjoy some free time at the beach. The tour concludes with a walk through Óbidos, a well-preserved medieval village draped in history, with a chance to taste the local ginjinha. The guide, who speaks excellent English, makes this trip both educational and fun. The tour provides a good balance of sightseeing and personal free time, making it suitable for families and history enthusiasts alike.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a comprehensive, day-long immersion into Portugal’s most revered sites, with the convenience of transportation and expert guidance.
2. Tour Nazaré Óbidos from Lisbon
On our list’s second spot, this panoramic minivan tour makes it easy to see Nazaré and Óbidos in a single day with minimal hassle. Starting from Lisbon, you’ll visit Nazaré, famed for its colossal waves and lively fishing port. Here, you can stroll along the beach or climb to the Sítio, Nazaré’s viewpoint perched high above the coast, offering spectacular views.
Next, you’ll explore the Fort of São Miguel Arcanjo, home to displays about Nazaré’s surf history and giant waves, although admission is not included. Then, a stop at Óbidos allows for wandering through cobblestone streets, browsing local shops, and tasting Ginja in a chocolate cup—a delicious local tradition. The tour runs approximately 7 to 8 hours and includes comfortable transportation.
This tour is perfect if you prefer a relaxed day with scenic stops, especially if you’re interested in Nazaré’s big wave surfing culture without the full-day commitment of a guided in-depth experience.
Bottom Line: A great choice for travelers wanting a hassle-free overview of Nazaré and Óbidos, with time to soak in the views and local flavors.
3. From Fátima: Batalha and Nazaré Guided Tour
If you’re already visiting Fátima, this shorter guided tour covers two highlights—Batalha Monastery and Nazaré—in about five hours. The tour kicks off with an expert guide leading you through the intricate stonework, stained glass, and tombs inside the Batalha Monastery, a UNESCO site and one of Portugal’s crown jewels.
Afterward, you’ll head to Nazaré, where you’ll have about 1.5 hours to explore the beach, the town center, and take in the sheer scale of the ocean from the Sítio viewpoint, which sits 300 feet above sea level. There’s also time to visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazaré and the Ermida da Memória. The trip is ideal for travelers short on time but wanting a meaningful taste of both religious and coastal sights.
Bottom Line: This guided half-day is perfect for those staying in Fatima or looking for a quick, rich experience of Nazaré’s surf and sacred sites.
4. From Lisbon: Nazaré and Óbidos Private Guided Tour
If you prefer a personalized experience, this private tour offers the flexibility to focus on what interests you most. Starting from Lisbon, your guide takes you directly to Nazaré for a deep dive into the surf culture, giant waves, and panoramic views from the Sítio. After a leisurely lunch, you’ll head to Óbidos, where you can wander through medieval streets, browse local artisan shops, and enjoy the town’s castle walls.
This tour is especially suited for travelers seeking a more tailored approach, with ample time to explore at your own pace. The guide can adjust the itinerary if you want more time at the coast or in Óbidos, and the private setting makes for a more intimate experience. It’s ideal for small groups or couples who want a customized day.
Guests love the flexibility and local insights, with one reviewer notably praising guide Nathan for his surfing knowledge and food recommendations. Keep in mind, private tours tend to cost more but offer personalized attention.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want an exclusive, customizable day that covers Nazaré’s surf culture and medieval charm effectively.
5. Nazaré and Peniche: City Walking Tour and Boat Adventure
This full-day tour combines two lively coastal towns—Nazaré, with its bustling streets and giant waves, and Peniche, a renowned surfing hub and fishing port. The walk through Nazaré highlights its history, architecture, and local life, while the boat cruise on the Tagus River offers a fresh perspective of the coast and perhaps a glimpse of some wave action from the water.
In Peniche, you’ll see the Fort of Peniche, and enjoy access to some of Portugal’s most famous beaches. The boat ride provides a relaxed way to appreciate these towns’ natural beauty and seafaring traditions. This tour is ideal for those who enjoy both land-based exploration and a maritime experience, offering a comprehensive look at Portugal’s Atlantic coast.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a combination of cultural walking, scenic boat ride, and coastal exploration in Nazaré and Peniche.
6. From Nazaré: Private Tour to the World’s Biggest Waves
Finally, this private tour is designed for wave enthusiasts and thrill-seekers. It offers a full-day exploration of Nazaré’s surf history, including visits to the Sítio viewpoint, the Santuário de Nossa Senhora da Nazaré, and the Forte de São Miguel Arcanjo, renowned for its giant wave surf sightings. Ride the funicular between Praia and Sítio for an authentic local experience and enjoy scenery that captures the raw power of the Atlantic.
While it’s more tailored to those fascinated by Nazaré’s surf phenomenon, this tour also provides insights into the legends and community that sustain this sport. It’s a premium experience, costing around $258 per group, and is perfect for small groups wanting an exclusive, in-depth look at the world’s biggest waves.
Bottom Line: The best choice for surf lovers and those keen to see Nazaré’s legendary waves in action, with a private, personalized touch.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When choosing your Nazaré tour, consider your budget, timing, and interests. Do you want a full-day, guided overview of multiple sites? The From Lisbon: Tour of Fatima, Batalha, Nazaré, and Óbidos offers a comprehensive experience perfect for first-timers. Looking for something tailored? The private guided tour lets you pick your pace.
If your main goal is to see Nazaré’s famous waves, the private tour to the world’s biggest waves is unmatched, especially if you’re into surfing or photography. For those wanting a mix of culture and coastal scenery at a relaxed pace, the Nazaré and Peniche walking and boat tour offers a well-rounded day.
Booking early is advised, particularly in peak season, and most tours operate year-round—though weather can influence some outdoor activities. Think about what excites you most—whether it’s giant waves, medieval towns, or religious sites—and pick the tour that aligns best.
In summary, Nazare offers a variety of tours to match different interests and travel styles, from full-day explorations in Lisbon to private adventures focusing on the awe-inspiring waves. For scenic coastal stops, cultural insights, or adrenaline-filled surf viewing, these tours help you make the most of your visit. Now’s the time to book early and get ready for an unforgettable journey along Portugal’s rugged Atlantic coast.