Lisbon Super Saver: 2-Day Sintra, Cascais, Fatima, Nazare and Obidos Small-Group Day Trips

If you’re planning a trip to Lisbon and want to see beyond the city’s colorful streets and historic neighborhoods, this 2-day super saver tour offering visits to Sintra, Cascais, Fatima, Nazaré, and Óbidos might be just what you need. We’ve reviewed this experience based on plenty of traveler feedback and official details, aiming to help you decide if it fits your travel style and expectations.

What we really like about this package is the way it combines multiple iconic spots into a manageable itinerary, all within a budget-friendly price. The small-group setting, capped at just eight people, promises more personalized attention and a more relaxed vibe. Plus, the flexibility to choose the order of your days can be a real plus—especially if you want to align your sightseeing with weather or personal preferences.

However, a note of caution: with so many stops packed into two days, it can feel rushed at times. The pace is quick—and if you’re not a fan of long days on the move, this might be a bit much. Also, some reviews mention that guides can be a bit talkative or overly detailed, which might detract if you’re after a more laid-back experience. That said, for those eager to see a lot in a short time, it’s a solid option.

This tour suits travelers who want to maximize their time around Lisbon without sacrificing depth. If you’re comfortable with a busy schedule and enjoy hearing detailed stories and history, you’ll likely find this a valuable and enjoyable way to get a taste of Portugal’s most treasured spots.

Key Points

• Cost-effective way to visit multiple major sites around Lisbon in just two days
• Small-group format ensures more personal attention from guides
• Flexible itinerary allows choosing the order of the two day trips
• Extensive stops include Pena Palace, Sintra, Cascais, Fatima, Nazaré, and Óbidos
• Valuable insights from knowledgeable guides enhance the experience
• Price point offers a good balance of value and scope for most travelers

What to Expect from the Tour

This package is a practical way to see Portugal’s highlights outside Lisbon without the hassle of planning your own transport or logistics. We’ll break down what each day involves, what you’ll see, and what kind of experience you’re signing up for.

Day 1: Sintra and Cascais

Starting early from Lisbon, the first stop is the Pena National Palace, perched atop Sintra Mountain. You’ll love the fairy-tale feel of this colorful palace, with its detailed architecture inspired by Manueline and Arab styles. Exploring Pena Park, with its trails and lush greenery, provides a break from the more structured visits and offers some lovely photo opportunities.

Inside Pena Palace, the decor and rooms are impressive. As one reviewer pointed out, “Our guide Mike was personable and professional, making the history come alive even on a rainy day.” So, even if the weather isn’t perfect, the experience remains engaging.

Next, you’ll have free time in Sintra’s historic center, which is charming on foot. You might want to visit the Sintra National Palace—used by Portuguese royalty in the past—or just stroll the streets, sampling local treats like travesseiro pastries. The flexibility here is nice; you can choose how to spend your time.

The drive then takes you to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of Europe, where the cliffs drop sharply into the Atlantic. The views are striking, and we’re told this spot is “a quick but memorable photo stop.” From there, passing by Guincho Beach and Boca do Inferno gives you a feel for the rugged coastline Portugal boasts.

Finally, the small seaside town of Cascais is your last stop of the day. Once a humble fishing village, it’s now a popular getaway. Narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and a relaxed beach vibe make it perfect for a quick wander or some downtime. Many reviews mention how much they appreciated the scenic drive back to Lisbon, taking in views of Estoril along the way.

Day 2: Fatima, Nazaré, and Óbidos

The second day begins with a visit to Fatima, one of Portugal’s most famous pilgrimage sites. The Sanctuary, with its basilicas and religious significance, leaves many visitors feeling contemplative. As one reviewer noted, “It’s a huge basilica that honors the apparitions of 1917, and you get enough time to soak it all in.”

Next, you’re off to the Batalha Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The architecture and craftsmanship here are impressive, and it’s a meaningful glimpse into Portugal’s medieval past. Many travelers appreciated the guided insights, with one mentioning, “Our guides are very knowledgeable about the history, making the visit more meaningful.”

Then, the tour hits the coast again with a stop in Nazaré, a fishing town famous for its giant surf waves. You’ll have about two hours for a relaxed lunch—own expense—and to walk along the cliffs or see the ocean views. Nazaré offers more than just surfing: it’s a great spot to observe local life and take in the sea air.

Finally, the trip concludes in Óbidos, a beautifully preserved medieval village that’s often called the “wedding present town.” Its narrow streets, castle walls, and flower-adorned doors are picture-perfect. You’ll get a chance to sample the famous Ginja liqueur, a local cherry brandy, in one of the town’s tiny shops. Reviewers have raved about Óbidos’ charm, with one saying, “Walking through the fortress and alleyways felt like stepping back in time.”

The Practical Side: Transportation, Group Size, and Value

The entire experience is conducted in an air-conditioned minivan, which comfortably seats up to eight people. This small-group size is a significant advantage, as it means less waiting, more interaction, and easier navigation through narrow streets or busy sites. Many guests comment positively on the guides’ professionalism and extensive knowledge, making the long days more engaging.

The tour starts at 8:00 am from Lisbon’s Hard Rock Cafe, so be prepared for a full day. The pace is quick, with a detailed itinerary packed into just two days. This approach works well if you’re eager to see many places but don’t want to spend extra days traveling outside the city.

Pricing at around $187.69 per person covers everything—except food and drinks, which you need to pay for separately. Given the number of stops, the guided commentary, the transportation, and the value of seeing so many highlights, most travelers find this to be a good deal.

On multiple reviews, people highlight the knowledgeable guides—some described guides as “fantastic,” “helpful,” and “full of insights,” which really enhances the experience. The small group setting allows for more personal attention, making it easier to ask questions and get tailored suggestions.

What Are the Downsides?

While this tour offers a lot, it’s not without its caveats. The biggest one is the speed—it’s a busy schedule, and if you prefer a more leisurely, unhurried pace, you might find it a bit overwhelming. Some reviews mention that guides can talk a lot, sometimes making it difficult to enjoy the sites at your own pace. However, for many, the guided storytelling is a highlight.

Weather can also influence your experience, especially at outdoor spots like Cabo da Roca or Nazaré. If it’s rainy or windy, the scenery might be less dramatic, but the tour still covers all the planned stops.

Finally, since food and drinks aren’t included, your overall budget depends on your choices for meals. The tour suggests good spots but doesn’t specify meal options, so consider that when planning your day.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This 2-day package is perfect for travelers who want to see a lot without the hassle of organizing transport or guides. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy guided stories and group camaraderie, as the guides are praised for their knowledge. It’s also good for anyone interested in Portugal’s coastal landscapes, medieval towns, and religious sites, all in one go.

If you’re comfortable with long days and a structured schedule, you’ll find this offers great value. On the other hand, if you prefer slow, spontaneous exploration or traveling with small children, you might want to consider more relaxed options.

The Sum Up

This Lisbon Super Saver tour offers an efficient way to tick off some of Portugal’s most beloved sights in just two days. With a small-group setting, knowledgeable guides, and a well-rounded itinerary, you’ll get a blend of history, landscape, and local culture that’s hard to beat for the price. It’s a solid choice for travelers eager to see a lot without the stress of planning each detail.

If you value expert insights, scenic drives, and the chance to explore several towns, this tour is likely to meet your expectations. It’s especially suited for those who want a structured, informative experience that covers both natural beauty and cultural highlights.

However, be prepared for a busy schedule—long hours, a fast pace, and a lot of ground to cover. If that sounds like your kind of adventure, this is a worthwhile way to make the most of your time near Lisbon.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the small-group setting and interesting stops can be engaging for older children. Keep in mind the long days and walking involved, so plan accordingly.

Can I choose the order of the two day trips?
Yes, the tour offers the flexibility to schedule the Sintra and Cascais trip first or second, depending on your preference.

What’s included in the price?
The tour fee covers local guides, transport by air-conditioned minivan, and a complimentary liqueur tasting. Food, drinks, and personal expenses are not included.

How many people are in the group?
The group size is limited to 8 travelers, which allows for more personalized attention and easier navigation.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour starts for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance aren’t refunded.

Is the tour available year-round?
The details don’t specify seasonal restrictions, but weather conditions can affect some outdoor stops.

Are guides multi-lingual?
It’s likely, as the experience may be operated by a multi-lingual guide, but this isn’t explicitly confirmed.

How physically demanding is this tour?
Moderate physical fitness is recommended, as walking and some uphill sections, especially at Pena Palace, are involved.

Overall, if you’re looking for a practical, well-organized way to see Portugal’s scenic and historical highlights outside Lisbon, this tour offers good value and a comprehensive snapshot of the region.