Mafra Convent, Queluz Palace & Ericeira Tour from Lisbon

Thinking about escaping the hustle of Lisbon for a day? This tour offers a balanced mix of royal splendor, historic architecture, and seaside charm—perfect if you’re after a varied experience. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate well-guided stories, beautiful gardens, and a taste of Portugal’s coastal life.

We love that the tour features two stunning palaces—the little Versailles of Queluz and the massive Mafra Convent—both offering impressive architecture and grounds. Plus, ending in Ericeira gives you a relaxed vibe and a chance to see Portugal’s only surfing reserve in Europe. On the flip side, it’s a full 8-hour day, so it’s not ideal if you prefer a slow-paced or more relaxed sightseeing approach.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive day out with a bit of everything—history, culture, and seaside fun—without the hassle of planning. Just keep in mind that entry tickets aren’t included, so you’ll need to budget for those if you want to go inside each site.

Key Points

• Includes visits to Queluz Palace and Mafra Convent, both UNESCO sites with remarkable architecture.
• Guided by knowledgeable professionals who share engaging stories about each location.
• Flexible pickup options and private group experience, making it suitable for personalized travel.
• Full-day itinerary, so it’s best if you enjoy a packed schedule with lots of sights.
• Entry tickets are not included, so plan ahead if you want to explore inside the sites.
• Perfect for those interested in history, royal architecture, and coastal culture.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Look at the Tour

If you’re considering this tour, it’s helpful to understand what each stop offers — and what you might want to prepare for.

Starting with Queluz Palace & Gardens

Your day kicks off with Queluz National Palace, often called Portugal’s “little Versailles.” As soon as you arrive, you’ll notice the French-style gardens, which are a real highlight. We loved the way the gardens are laid out—symmetrical, manicured, and perfect for a leisurely stroll. It’s a peaceful place that feels like a step back into regal life.

Inside the palace, the tour allows you to explore some of the rooms, including the cell room of a troubled queen, which adds a human story to the grand architecture. The guide’s descriptions make the space more vivid, giving you context about the royal family and history behind the ornate decor.

Mafra Convent & Palace

Next up is Mafra Convent, a true marvel of 18th-century architecture. It’s a sprawling complex that’s part church, part palace, part library, and part garden. We found that this site really shows Portugal’s historical grandeur—the church’s high ceilings and intricate stonework are striking.

The grounds are extensive, so be prepared for some walking. One of the most interesting parts is the vast library, which is often overlooked but worth a quick peek if you’re into books and history. The reviews highlight how the guide’s storytelling makes the visit memorable—one reviewer mentioned that their guide was “fantastic” and very descriptive, bringing the sights to life.

The Charm of Ericeira

After the cultural and historical immersion, you head northwest to Ericeira, a small fishing town with a lively atmosphere. It’s one of the few places in Europe designated as a surfing reserve, which makes it unique. Here, you’ll get a chance to relax, walk along the coastline, and soak in the local vibe.

The town’s charm lies in its coastal views and laid-back attitude—it’s a nice contrast to the grandeur of the palaces and convents earlier in the day. If you’re into photography or just enjoying fresh sea air, this part of the tour will be a highlight.

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Final Stop & Return

The tour wraps up back in Lisbon after a full 8 hours. It’s a well-paced day, but be prepared for some travel time between sites. The transportation is comfortable, and the private group setting means you won’t have to deal with large crowds or strangers.

The Value of the Experience

Cost-wise, at $351 for a group up to two people, you’re paying a premium for the convenience, guided insight, and a full-day tailored experience. Since entry tickets aren’t included, you should budget for those, but the guided commentary adds a lot of value—especially if you’re keen to learn about the sites rather than just see them.

Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, with one saying their guide “brought a lot of laughter” and was very professional and humorous. This personal touch can turn a sightseeing day into a more memorable and enjoyable experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

If you’re into history, architecture, and coastal culture, this is a solid choice. It’s especially good for those who prefer private, guided tours over DIY exploring, and for travelers wanting to see a mix of royal sites and local seaside towns without the hassle of organizing multiple trips.

Practical Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes because there’s some walking involved at each site.
• Bring a jacket—the weather can change, especially near the coast.
• Be mindful that luggage or large bags aren’t allowed, so pack light.
• If traveling with kids, let the tour provider know their ages for proper car seat arrangements.
• Check the availability and starting times ahead of booking, as they can vary.

The Bottom Line

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Portugal’s regal past and coastal charm, guided by knowledgeable professionals who make history come alive. It’s best suited for travelers who want an organized, insightful day without sacrificing comfort or flexibility.

While it’s a full day with some walking and outdoor time, the diverse sights make it worth considering if you’re after a rich, guided experience. Just remember to budget for entry tickets and dress appropriately for a variety of environments.

If your ideal Portugal trip includes a blend of history, architecture, and seaside relaxation, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the entry tickets included in the tour price?
No, entry tickets are not included, so you’ll need to purchase them separately if you want to go inside each site.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
Since some walking is involved, it’s best to note any mobility issues when booking. Please provide this information so proper arrangements can be made.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides are available in English, French, and Portuguese.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, transportation is included, and for private tours, pickup and drop-off at your hotel, airport, or cruise port are available—though sometimes a nearby central pickup point might be suggested.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, making it a full-day experience. Starting times vary, so check availability before booking.

Can I bring children?
Yes, just specify their ages when booking so proper car seats can be arranged if needed. The tour is suitable for those who enjoy cultural and scenic outings.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes, a jacket, and perhaps a camera to capture the stunning sights. Large bags or luggage aren’t allowed on the tour.

This tour is a spirited mix of Portugal’s historic grandeur and coastal casualness, guided by friendly, knowledgeable experts. Perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day out that’s both educational and relaxing.

You can check availability for your dates here: