Three Cities in One Day: Porto, Nazare and Obidos from Lisbon

If you’re exploring Portugal and short on time, a full-day guided tour from Lisbon that hits three different cities sounds like a dream. We haven’t taken this particular trip ourselves, but based on plenty of reviews and the itinerary details, we can give you a pretty good sense of what to expect.

What’s really appealing about this experience is how it combines history, coastal charm, and urban exploration—all in just one day. Plus, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you skip the hassle of planning or driving long distances yourself.

However, it’s quite a long day—about 12 hours—so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or more time at each spot, this might feel rushed. Still, this tour is ideal for travelers eager to see a lot without the stress of logistics, especially if you’re limited on days or just want to get a quick taste of Portugal’s highlights.

Key Points

• Time-Efficient: Cover three distinct locations in one day, perfect for busy itineraries.
• Guided Experience: Expert commentary enhances your understanding and appreciation of each site.
• Packed Itinerary: Expect some rushing through stops, especially in Porto, with limited time at each.
• Travel Comfort: Modern, air-conditioned minivans keep the long drive more bearable.
• Cost-Value: At roughly $107, it’s a convenient way to see diverse attractions, though food and extras aren’t included.
• Group Size: Small groups (up to 30) keep the experience intimate and manageable.

What’s Included in the Tour

This tour offers transportation from and back to Lisbon, a guided walk through Obidos, Nazare, and Porto, plus some free time for exploring or grabbing a bite. If you opt for the upgrade, you can enjoy a traditional meal in Porto or a restaurant for lunch. The tour is designed to be straightforward, leaving you with a clear plan and a knowledgeable guide to navigate the day.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point in Lisbon

You meet your guide at a central Lisbon hotel, Hotel Fénix near Praça Marquês de Pombal, at 8:00 AM. The ride kicks off early, giving you the full day ahead. The minivan is air-conditioned, making the long drive between sites more comfortable, especially in warmer months.

Obidos – Medieval Charm

Your first stop is the medieval walled town of Óbidos. Here, you’ll get about 45 minutes for a guided tour, which includes wandering its cobbled streets, admiring historic buildings, and taking in the castle that’s been declared one of Portugal’s 7 wonders.

Reviews highlight that Obidos truly feels like stepping back in time, with narrow streets and old houses that seem untouched by modernity. One reviewer notes, “It immediately transports you to a medieval atmosphere,” which many found enchanting.

That said, some travelers wish they had more time. Since the tour is scheduled for just under an hour, you may find this brief glimpse leaves you wanting more, especially if you’re a history buff or love charming villages.

Nazare – The Famous Fishing Town

Next, you head to Nazare, home to the world-famous Forte de São Miguel. This site is not just picturesque but also renowned for its massive winter waves that attract surfers worldwide. You’ll get about 30 minutes here, enough to snap some photos and see the coastline.

Then, you’ll walk through O Sitio—an area famous for religious sites, steep streets, and stunning views over the Atlantic. Climbing up to the fortress offers panoramic vistas, and the streets are lined with churches and shrines that tell stories of local pilgrimage traditions.

Some reviews point out that the time here is limited—about 20 minutes at Nazare and 45 at the fort—so don’t expect to explore every corner. A few travelers felt this short visit didn’t do justice to the town’s charm but appreciated that it was a quick snapshot of a lively fishing hub.

Porto – Portugal’s Second City

The highlight for many is reaching Porto, which you’ll explore with a guided walk lasting around an hour. The city’s UNESCO-listed historic center is packed with colorful houses, narrow alleys, and iconic bridges over the Douro River.

You’ll pass landmarks like the Igreja do Carmo, along with the famous six bridges spanning the river, and stroll through lively neighborhoods. There’s also free time for a traditional Portuguese lunch—an opportunity to recharge before more sightseeing.

A lot of reviews emphasize that the Porto visit is somewhat rushed but still worthwhile. The main sights are impressive, and guides often share fascinating insights into the city’s architecture and history.

Afternoon in Lisbon

After a full day of sightseeing, the tour wraps up with about 3.5 hours back in Lisbon. Your guide may suggest other activities or sights to explore, making it a good starting point if you want to extend your stay.

Our Honest Take on the Experience

The positives of this tour are clear. It offers a rundown of Portugal’s diverse appeal, from medieval towns to surfing hotspots and urban centers. The guides are often praised for their knowledge, with multiple reviews mentioning friendly, engaging personalities and insightful commentary.

The transportation is comfortable, and the itinerary is well-structured for those eager to maximize their day.

On the flip side, it’s a long day—about 12 hours total—with a lot of driving and limited time at each stop. Several reviewers mention feeling pressed for time, especially in Porto, where only a couple of hours are allocated for exploring the city and having lunch. If your goal is to really soak in each place, this might not be the best fit.

Also, the included food options are minimal unless you upgrade, and some found the optional restaurant meal hectic or unsatisfactory. Keep in mind that the tour doesn’t include hotel pickups, so you’ll need to get yourself to the meeting point.

Price-wise, at $107.77 per person, it’s a solid deal considering the transportation, guiding, and multiple destinations. But remember, extras like meals, souvenirs, or additional sightseeing in Porto will cost extra.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits busy travelers who want a taste of Portugal’s highlights without the hassle of planning multiple trips or driving long distances. It’s perfect if you’re okay with a fast-paced day and want to prioritize sights over deep exploration.

If you’re not a fan of long bus rides or prefer to spend more time in each place, you might find this tour too rushed. It’s also a good option for first-time visitors wanting an overview rather than an in-depth experience.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a convenient way to see some of Portugal’s most iconic locations in a single day. The guided component enhances the experience, especially for those unfamiliar with the country’s history and culture.

While it’s a long and sometimes rushed day, many travelers find it worthwhile for the variety and ease. The stops are charming, the views are memorable, and the guide’s insights add value.

If you’re comfortable with a packed schedule and want to fit a lot into one trip, this tour could be just what you need. For those seeking a more relaxed pace or more in-depth exploration, consider other options or splitting the trip into separate days.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour provides transportation by air-conditioned minivan from and back to Lisbon, making the long drive more comfortable.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, receiving a full refund.

What’s the meeting point? The tour starts at Hotel Fénix Lisboa, Praça Marquês de Pombal, at 8:00 AM.

How much time is allocated at each site? Expect about 45 minutes in Obidos, 30 minutes in Nazare, and around 2 hours in Porto, including lunch and guided walks.

Are meals included? Not unless you upgrade; basic tour includes free time for lunch but no included meal.

Is this tour suitable for families or children? The tour is mainly focused on cultural sites and long hours, so it’s better suited for adults or older children comfortable with a lengthy day.

How long does the entire trip last? Approximately 12 hours from start to finish, with around 8 hours of actual sightseeing and driving.

What do reviews say about the guides? Many reviewers praise the guides for their knowledge and friendliness, though a few mention issues like unclear communication or rushing.

Are the sights worth seeing? Absolutely—each stop offers unique sights, from medieval walls to seaside cliffs and urban architecture. Just keep expectations in check for the short visits.

This tour is a good choice if you’re looking for a quick, organized way to see a handful of Portugal’s iconic spots, especially if time is tight. It’s a whirlwind, but for many, that’s part of the adventure. Happy exploring!