Tours of Jeronimos Monastery, the Maritime Museum, and Alfama
This tour takes you to three important city highlights when you see Jeronimos Monastery, the Maritime Museum, and the Alfama Quarter! You begin by coach to the Alfama Quarter of Lisbon, which is the only area that survived the devastating mid 18th century earthquake. This borough dates back to Medieval times, and has incredible Moorish architecture. Then, you're off to the Maritime Museum, where you'll see 17,000 items and learn much about Portugal's important maritime history. You then visit Jeronimos Monastery (circa 1500's), which was financially backed by the famous Portuguese Explorer, Vasco de Gama, and which thoughtfully blends Gothic and Moorish architecture. Also on your tour is the 16th century Belem Tower, which served as both prison and lighthouse. The tour concludes following a chance to take photographs at the Monument to the Discoveries.
Price: Adults expect to pay around $50 for a 4 hour tour through the cruise lines.
Booking Advice: This tour through the cruise lines is rated as moderate in terms of physical exertion due to the walking involved. Hop On/Odd bus tours run around $27, and the Lisbon red Trams cost about $28 if you just want a good city tour!
Lisbon Coach and Tram Tours
The initial portion of the tour takes you by coach past Black Horse Square, where you'll see the lovely arches, the sculptures (including the Black Horse), the cafes, and other eateries. Then, your tram tour begins of Lisbon's Seven Hills, including highlights such as the Parliament Building, Se Cathedral (in the Amalfi Quarter & the oldest church in town), the Jeronimos Monastersy, the Monument of the Discoveries, and the Belem Towers. En route back, you will pass the 25th of April Suspension Bridge. A stop for wine and pastry is part of the tour, but may not be included in the cost.
Price: Adults expect to pay around $130. for a 3.5 hour tour through the cruise lines.
Booking Advice: This tour is rated as moderate with respect to physical exercise. As mentioned, Red Tram tours go for a very popular 28 USD via 3rd party vendors, which leaves you with plenty of spending money for souvenirs, vino, and pastries!
Sintra and Cascais Tours
This tour gives you the opportunity to explore not one but two lovely towns in Portugal. En route to the mountain city of Sintra, you'll pass by highlights in Lisbon including Jeronimos Monastery, the Monument to the Discoveries, and the Belem Tower. In Sintra, one of the country's oldest cities, you'll have opportunity to stroll about the square (circa 1400's) and enjoy the views which could include awesome manor houses and castles. Then, you visit Cascais, where you can take in the views at Guincho Beach and do some shopping.
Price: Adults expect to pay around $50 for a 4 hour tour.
Booking Advice: Rated as moderately difficult because of the walking involved, this particular tour appears to be best reserved via the cruise lines because the prices are extremely good!
Our Lady of Fatima Tour
In May of 1917, three children saw the Virgin Mary, and were instructed by her to pray. Since that time, the devout have come to this particular site upon which stands a massive church called Our Lady of Fatima Basilica. You'll see this neoclassical basilica which includes the Chapel of Apparitions which was built where the children said the Virgin Mary stood. Lunch is on your own, and you'll have time to stroll about and shop.
Price: Adults expect to pay around $80 for a 6.5 hour tour through the cruise lines.
Booking Advice: Rated as moderately difficult because of the walking involved, this particular tour appears to be best reserved via the cruise lines because the prices are extremely good!
City Highlights and Estoril
You tour begins with a drive through Baiza, Lisbon's financial district. You'll stop at Alto do Parque Belvedere, a city park perched at the top of a hill with great views. Then, a short drive brings you to the seaside town of Estoril. Roan ruins are located there, as is the Estoril Casino- reportedly the inspiration for the Ian Fleming novel about James Bond entitled, “Casino Royale.” You'll have time to walk about, snack, and shop. En route back to your ship, you'll see Lisbon highlights that include the Belem Tower, the Monument of the Discoveries, and Jeronimos Monastery.
Price: Adults expect to pay around $50 for a 3 hour tour.
Booking Advice: Rated as moderately difficult because of the walking involved, this particular tour appears to be best reserved via the cruise lines because the prices are extremely good!