Monsanto (TV’s Dragonstone GoT) Full Day Private Tour from Lisbon

If you’re a fan of Game of Thrones or House of the Dragon, this private tour from Lisbon might just tick your boxes. It’s billed as a full-day adventure to Monsanto, known for being the filming location of Dragonstone, and it promises a mix of scenic drives, historic sites, and TV-set magic. We haven’t taken this tour ourselves, but based on reviews and detailed descriptions, it sounds like a well-rounded experience — especially if you love a good story, stunning vistas, and a touch of fantasy woven into real history.

What we love about this experience is how it combines cinematic moments with authentic Portuguese charm. The chance to see the ruins and natural formations that doubled as Dragonstone is a big draw. Plus, the fact that it’s a private, eco-friendly trip means you’ll be traveling comfortably, with personalized attention and minimal crowds. On the flip side, the long drive — around 600 km in total — might be a consideration if you’re not keen on extensive road time. But for those who love a scenic journey and the chance to learn about Portugal’s culture along the way, this could be perfect. It caters well to travelers who appreciate history, storytelling, and a bit of television magic, rather than just ticking off sights.

Key Points

• Unique filming location: Monsanto’s rugged landscape served as Dragonstone, a major setting in House of the Dragon.
• Comfortable private transport: The tour offers air-conditioned, private SUV or sedan rides with WiFi and snacks.
• Rich historical sites: Explore the 12th-century ruins of Monsanto’s castle and the medieval village of Monsanto, filled with stone houses and winding streets.
• In-depth guide experience: Knowledgeable guides share insights about the film sets, local landmarks, and Portugal’s heritage.
• Full-day schedule: Expect around 10 hours of travel, sightseeing, and walking, with plenty of time for photos and stories.
• Eco-conscious approach: The entire trip is offset for greenhouse gases, making it a more sustainable choice.

Exploring Monsanto: The Focal Point of the Tour

This tour is centered around Monsanto, a village famous for its dramatic scenery and ties to Game of Thrones. Your day begins with a pickup from the Lisbon area, and while the drive is lengthy — about 600 km in total — rest assured, the comfort of the vehicle, along with WiFi and onboard snacks, makes the journey enjoyable. Your driver-guide isn’t just a driver but a storyteller, eager to share secrets about Monsanto’s transformation into Dragonstone, and why it was the toughest location to shoot in the entire series.

The drive itself is a highlight. Most of the route (around 80%) is on highways, meaning you’ll spend a good chunk of time comfortably watching the landscape change from urban to rural, with plenty of opportunities for conversation about Portugal’s culture and history.

The Castle of Monsanto: The Heart of the Fantasy Landscape

Once you arrive at Monsanto, the real magic begins. The highlight here is the 12th-century ruins of Monsanto Castle and its surrounding walls. This site is where House of the Dragon filmed some of its most memorable scenes. The walk from the parking area to the top of the mountain is about 20 to 30 minutes, which is manageable for most visitors and offers spectacular views along the way.

Up at the ruins, you’ll find yourself among ancient stone walls and fascinating natural rock formations — as if you’ve stepped into a fairytale. The guide will explain how these ruins serve as the backdrop for the mythical Dragonstone, and you’ll get to walk among the very stones that brought to life the Targaryen saga. Reviewers have remarked that this location is “incredible” and “a mythical site,” perfect for fans of the series or anyone who appreciates striking scenery.

The Medieval Village of Monsanto

Next up is the medieval village of Monsanto, often called the “Village of Stone”. It’s remarkably well-preserved, with narrow, winding streets lined with stone houses that seem to have grown from the hillside itself. It’s a place where time appears to stand still, giving you a real sense of stepping into history. The narrow alleys are perfect for wandering, taking photos, and soaking in the atmosphere of an authentic Portuguese hilltop village.

While exploring, you’ll get a sense of why Monsanto is considered one of Portugal’s most traditional villages, with a unique stone architecture that lends the entire place a rugged charm. It’s a highlight for many visitors, especially those who enjoy discovering lesser-known cultural gems.

Lunch Break and Local Flavors

Lunchtime is flexible and unstructured — though the tour doesn’t include it, you’re encouraged to dine at one of the village’s restaurants or have a picnic outside. It’s a chance to relax, chat about the morning’s adventures, and enjoy local flavors. The small size of Monsanto means options are limited, but the atmosphere is authentic, and the views from the restaurants are often worth the visit.

A Detour to Castelo de Almourol

On the way back to Lisbon, the tour makes a charming detour to Castelo de Almourol, a castle perched on a rocky islet in the Tagus River. Built during the time of the Templars, it’s another historic site that feels straight out of a fantasy novel. The 20-minute stop here offers photo opportunities and a quick look at one of Portugal’s most iconic castles.

This stop gives a relaxing break after a day full of walking and sightseeing, and it’s a bonus for anyone interested in medieval architecture. Plus, it’s a perfect way to cap off the day with some scenic views on the river.

The Overall Experience: What Works Well

This tour’s biggest strength is its knowledgeable and friendly guide. Reviewers have consistently praised how well he explains the history, filming secrets, and cultural context, making the experience both entertaining and educational. The personalized nature of a private tour means you can tailor parts of the day, which adds to the appeal for those who prefer a flexible schedule.

The scenery is genuinely striking. Monsanto’s landscape, with its rocky outcrops and ancient ruins, looks like a scene directly lifted from a fantasy epic. The fact that this location was chosen because “our jaws dropped” when the director saw Monsanto on a mountain highlights how special it really is.

The transportation is notably comfortable, with a modern SUV or sedan, onboard WiFi, snacks, and even amenities for children. Every aspect seems designed to make a long day of travel feel as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Considerations and Realities

While the experience is rich and well thought-out, it’s worth mentioning that the long drive may be a downside for some. Spending around 10 hours on the road, even in comfort, can be tiring, especially for those not used to extensive car trips. The route covers about 600 km, with some time spent on highways, so it’s more suitable for those who enjoy scenic drives and don’t mind a full day out.

Also, the walk up to the castle is described as “easy-moderate,” so if you have mobility issues or prefer very flat terrain, this might require some planning. The tour is primarily designed for those who can handle a short hike and some uneven surfaces.

The cost of $382 per person is on the higher side, but when you factor in the private transport, guide, snacks, and personalized experience, many find it good value — especially if you’re a fan of the series or eager to experience the landscape that inspired the series’ epic scenes.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for fans of Game of Thrones or House of the Dragon who want a behind-the-scenes look at where the magic happened, combined with Portugal’s historic charm. It suits travelers who value comfort and personalized attention, and are happy to spend most of the day traveling and exploring. It’s also suitable for those eager to explore lesser-known cultural sites like Monsanto and Almourol, away from the crowd-heavy tourist spots.

If you have kids, note that the walk up the castle might be demanding for very young children, and the long drive could be challenging unless they’re comfortable with car trips. Still, the onboard amenities and scenic stops make it a family-friendly choice for older kids who enjoy stories and history.

FAQ

Do I need to book in advance? Yes, this tour is often booked about 38 days ahead, so planning early helps secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.

Is the tour suitable for small children? The walk up the castle is relatively short but of moderate difficulty, and the tour is primarily designed for those who can handle around 12 hours of travel and walking. Children over 11 might enjoy it most.

What is included in the price? The cost covers all fees and taxes, private transportation, bottled water, snacks, WiFi, and all the amenities you need for a comfortable day.

Are lunch and drinks included? No, lunch isn’t included, but the tour allows time to dine in Monsanto or bring a picnic. Drinks are available at the restaurant or during the detour.

Is this tour eco-friendly? Yes, the trip is 100% offset for greenhouse gases, making it a greener choice compared to regular tours.

What is the typical duration? The whole day lasts about 10 to 11 hours, with a full schedule of sightseeing, driving, and walking.

Can I customize the experience? Since this is a private tour, your guide can tailor parts of the day to your interests, especially if you want to focus more on certain sites.

What if I need to cancel? You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring flexibility if your plans change.

If you’re eager to explore a unique landscape that blends fantasy with history, and don’t mind a full day of travel, this private Monsanto tour offers an intriguing glimpse into Portugal’s lesser-known treasures — all through the lens of your favorite TV series. It’s a trip that combines storytelling, scenery, and comfort, making it a memorable addition to any Lisbon itinerary.