Lisbon: a guided tour of the city and the simulator of the earthquake that changed it

If you’re planning a trip to Lisbon and want a tour that combines history, stunning views, and a bit of sensory excitement, this experience might just be worth considering. It’s designed for those who enjoy exploring a city’s stories, and it offers a mix of walking, sightseeing, and an eye-opening simulation of the 1755 earthquake that shaped Lisbon’s landscape.

What really caught our eye are two standout features: the detailed storytelling by knowledgeable guides and the immersive earthquake simulator that puts you in the middle of a historical disaster. These make the tour engaging and memorable.

However, a point to keep in mind is that the itinerary is quite packed, so if you’re not a fan of long walking days or tight schedules, it might feel a bit full-on. Also, this tour isn’t suited for young children under six, mainly due to the extensive walking and the nature of the earthquake experience.

This tour seems best suited for history buffs, curious travelers, and anyone who appreciates a mix of scenic views and educational storytelling. It’s a good choice if you like to get a comprehensive feel for Lisbon in one day.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covers Lisbon’s main sights and historical sites.
• Immersive earthquake simulator offers a sensory understanding of a pivotal event.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with rich stories and context.
• Good value for the duration and variety of sights included.
• Walking involved—comfortable shoes recommended.
• Limited group size creates a more intimate and engaging atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Lisbon in Depth

This well-structured 9-hour tour offers an excellent way to get acquainted with Lisbon’s sights, history, and stories. Starting at the centrally located Tivoli Hotel, it promises a balanced mix of outdoor sightseeing, historical insights, and interactive experiences.

Starting at the Santa Luzia Viewpoint

Our journey kicks off at the Santa Luzia Viewpoint, often praised for its welcoming atmosphere and panoramic views. It’s a short photo stop where you can take in the city’s rooftops and the Tagus River. It sets a relaxed tone, giving you that first taste of Lisbon’s charm.

Miradouro da Senhora do Monte

Next, we head to the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, widely regarded as Lisbon’s best lookout. Here, you’ll love the sweeping vistas that stretch across the city and the river—perfect for snapping memorable photos. The guide shared stories about Lisbon’s layout and history, making this spot more than just a view.

Historic Monuments and Squares

Moving on, we pass by São Vicente de Fora Monastery, an impressive structure with a fascinating history—many Portuguese kings are buried there. The guide’s storytelling here adds depth, making it more than just a pretty façade.

Then, we visit the Pantheon of Santa Engracia, where prominent Portuguese figures rest. It’s a quick stop, but it’s interesting to reflect on Portugal’s notable personalities.

The Praça do Comércio offers a lively scene and a glimpse into Lisbon’s past as a hub for major events. It’s a broad square with stunning architecture, and you get plenty of time here for pictures and soaking in the atmosphere.

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A Walk Through the City

From Praça do Comércio, we take a scenic walk through the city for about an hour, passing by landmarks like Largo do Carmo (famous for its ruins and history) and the Santa Justa Elevator—a fantastic spot for more city views. Our guide’s commentary makes the walk lively, sharing juicy facts about Portugal’s kings and the city’s resilience.

The Aguas Livres Aqueduct and the Earthquake Museum

We stop briefly at the Águas Livres Aqueduct, an engineering marvel dating back to Roman times. It’s a quick photo opportunity but worth it for its historical significance.

The highlight for many is the Lisbon Earthquake Museum (Quake). Here, you’ll experience a sensory recreation of the 1755 quake—a powerful, immersive simulation that puts you right in the middle of the disaster. As one reviewer put it, “the simulator really makes you feel the fury of the earthquake,” and it’s an experience that sticks with you long after.

Lunch Break in Belém

After the earthquake experience, you get a generous 1.5-hour break for lunch. The tour offers suggestions for local restaurants in Belém, where you can sample traditional Portuguese dishes, including the famous custard tarts. It’s a great chance to relax and enjoy Lisbon’s culinary offerings.

Exploring Belém’s Landmarks

Post-lunch, we visit the Jerónimos Monastery, a striking example of Manueline architecture—external beauty alone makes it worth a quick look, though some tour options allow internal visits for extra detail.

Next, the Ajuda National Palace offers a glimpse into royal life, as it was the residence of Portugal’s last monarchs. Then, we pass by the Belém Tower, Portugal’s iconic symbol, which many visitors regard as a must-see.

The Monument to the Discoveries is next, with fantastic river views, highlighting Portugal’s age of exploration. It’s a moment to appreciate the country’s maritime history.

Modern Lisbon and the River Scene

As we head toward the modern side of Lisbon, we pass Gare do Oriente, with its striking architecture, and then visit the Parque das Nações, where contemporary design and river views create a stark contrast to the historic parts of the city.

We also pass by the Vasco da Gama Bridge, Europe’s longest suspension bridge, offering a glimpse into Portugal’s modern engineering achievements.

Wrapping Up the Day

The tour concludes back where it started, wrapping up a full day of sightseeing, storytelling, and sensory experiences.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Several reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides who bring the history alive, making complex events like the 1755 earthquake accessible and engaging. One review mentioned, “the guide’s storytelling really enhanced the experience,” which we agree with—having someone to add context makes all the difference.

The earthquake simulator is another standout feature. It’s more than just a gimmick; it’s a thought-provoking way to understand Lisbon’s resilience, and many reviews mention how powerful and realistic the experience feels.

The scenic viewpoints are consistently praised for their breathtaking views—perfect for photography and simply soaking in Lisbon’s beauty.

Lastly, the value for money seems reasonable considering the variety of sights, the immersive earthquake experience, and the detailed storytelling.

Practical Considerations

This tour involves quite a bit of walking, often on cobblestone streets and uphill paths, so comfortable shoes are a must. The group size is limited to 8, which helps keep things personal and engaging, but it’s essential to be punctual for the start.

The tour is mainly in English, with some content in Portuguese, and is not suitable for children under six due to the length and nature of some experiences, like the earthquake simulation.

The timing is tight but well-organized, with a mix of stops and walking. If you’re someone who prefers a more relaxed pace, this might feel a bit rushed, but overall, it’s a good balance.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a comprehensive, engaging way to see Lisbon—both its sights and its stories—this tour offers a solid package. The combination of scenic viewpoints, historical landmarks, and an immersive sensory experience of the earthquake gives you a layered understanding of how Lisbon has endured and evolved.

The guides’ storytelling and the historical sites make it worthwhile, especially if you’re curious about Portugal’s past and its resilience. The earthquake simulator adds a unique twist, making this a memorable experience that you’ll likely talk about long after your trip.

This tour is best suited for history enthusiasts, anyone interested in Lisbon’s architecture and stories, and travelers who don’t mind a full day of sightseeing. It offers a good mix of education, scenery, and fun—so if that sounds like your style, it’s worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
It’s not recommended for children under 6 years old, mainly because of the long walking stretches and the sensory earthquake simulation that might be intense for younger kids.

How long is the earthquake simulator experience?
You’ll spend about 100 minutes at the Quake Museum, which includes the simulation and related exhibits.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable shoes are essential because of the walking involved. You might also want to bring water, sun protection, and a camera for all those scenic views.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans shift.

How big are the groups?
Groups are limited to 8 participants, which helps create a more personal experience and better interaction with the guide.

Is the tour available in languages other than English?
Yes, the tour is offered in Portuguese and English. Some content may be shown in its original language, but guides will generally cater to both.

Are meals included?
Lunch is not included in the tour price, but suggestions for local restaurants are provided during the stop in Belém.

Do I need to worry about accessibility?
The tour is not suitable for electric wheelchairs or baby carriages due to the walking terrain and tour format.

All in all, this Lisbon tour offers a detailed, well-rounded experience that combines history, architecture, and an unforgettable sensory journey. If you’re eager to explore Lisbon beyond just the usual sights, it’s a solid choice.

You can check availability for your dates here: