Tour / Transfer Lisbon Porto or Porto Lisbon

A Practical and Personal Touch to Traveling Between Lisbon and Porto

If you’re looking to move between Portugal’s two biggest cities without feeling like you’re just another passenger on a bus or train, this private transfer experience might be just what you need. The tour isn’t just about getting from point A to B — it’s about enriching your journey with carefully selected stops, local insights, and a relaxed pace that suits your style. We’ve seen plenty of reviews and details to give you a clear picture of what to expect, and help you decide if this personalized experience will fit your travel plans.

What really catches our eye is the personal approach of Filipe Martins, the guide who’s known for his cheerful demeanor, storytelling skills, and flexibility. The other thing we love is how the stops are thoughtfully chosen for their charm and scenic appeal, making the trip more than just transportation — it becomes part of your adventure. A minor consideration is that this tour is on the pricier side, especially for a group of three, but for the added comfort, private transport, and personalized attention, many find it worth the price.

This experience is ideal for those who value comfort, local insights, and a slow, scenic pace. Whether you’re a couple, a small family, or friends eager to explore at your own speed, this tour is tailored to suit those who want a relaxed, engaging journey rather than a rushed transfer.

Key Points

• Personalized service: The tour is fully private, only your group participates, which means flexible timing and tailored stops.
• Comfort and convenience: Air-conditioned vehicle, WiFi, bottled water—all designed to make your trip as smooth as possible.
• Charming stops: Discover Coimbra’s university, Nazaré’s panoramic views and waves, and Óbidos’ historic castle, each offering a taste of Portugal’s unique character.
• Local expertise: The guide’s storytelling and recommendations elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing.
• Flexible itinerary: The stops are structured around your interests, with no rush, allowing you to soak in each place.
• Good value for those seeking a personalized journey: At $698.14 for up to 3 people, it’s a premium option but offers a level of comfort and customization hard to match in group tours.

The Experience in Detail: What to Expect

Starting Your Day: Departure at 9:00am

The tour kicks off at 9:00am, a good time that allows for a full day of exploration without feeling hurried. Filipe, the guide, is described as cheerful, conversational, and knowledgeable — a perfect companion for a day on the road who can improvise based on your interests.

First Stop: Coimbra

Your first visit is to Coimbra, home to one of Portugal’s most famous universities. We loved the way the guide emphasizes the historical center and the university itself, which is free to enter. From the reviews, it’s clear that this stop offers a meaningful glimpse into Portugal’s academic and cultural past. Expect to spend around an hour here, soaking in the medieval architecture, winding streets, and lively student vibe.

The reviews highlight how engaging the guide is, with many guests appreciating the storytelling aspect. For instance, one reviewer said, “the guide gave us a wonderful description along the way,” making the visit more memorable than just walking around on your own.

Nazaré: Stunning Views and Waves

Next, you’ll head to Nazaré, famous for its giant waves and picturesque fishing village atmosphere. The stop includes time to explore the historic center and to take in panoramic views of the coast. If you’re into photography or just want to breathe in some fresh sea air, this is a perfect pause.

The reviews note how the stop is well-balanced: enough time to enjoy the views and maybe grab a quick snack or coffee. One traveler mentioned, “beautiful drive and great driver,” highlighting how the scenic route adds to the experience.

Óbidos: Medieval Charm

The last major stop is Óbidos, a town that feels like stepping back in time with its castle walls and cobbled streets. The visit to the castle and historic center lasts about an hour, giving ample opportunity to explore the quaint shops, walls, and scenic corners.

Guests comment on how the guide’s knowledge made the visit richer, pointing out details you might miss on your own. The reviews mention that the stops are “lovely,” and that having a guide’s insights enhances the experience.

Transport & Extras: What’s Included and What’s Not

The private vehicle is air-conditioned, with WiFi and bottled water, all designed to keep you comfortable on the road. The flexibility of a private transfer means you won’t be pressed for time or stuck with a large group — instead, you move at your own pace, stopping where and when you want.

However, note that lunch, tickets to monuments, and alcoholic drinks are not included. This means you should plan to budget extra for meals or any entrance fees if you decide to explore further. The tour’s value comes from the private, personalized experience and the relaxed way it allows you to see these beautiful spots.

Timing & Duration

The trip lasts roughly 8 to 12 hours, giving you plenty of time to see the sights and enjoy your stops without feeling rushed. The flexibility in timing is a big plus — you can tailor your experience to what interests you most.

Price Point

At $698.14 for a group of up to three, it’s a premium option, but many reviews suggest it’s worth it for the quality of service and personalized attention. When you consider the comfort of private transport, guide insights, and the convenience of door-to-door service, it’s a hassle-free way to see some of Portugal’s highlights.

Authentic Experiences According to Reviews

Travelers repeatedly praise the guide for being knowledgeable and friendly. For example, one reviewer said, “Filipe was a great guide and safe driver,” emphasizing the importance of trustworthy transportation. Others appreciated the food and wine recommendations, with one mentioning a fantastic seafood lunch arranged at a local fish restaurant in Nazaré — a highlight for many.

Some reviews highlight the value of the stops — not just for seeing the sights but for experiencing local flavors and culture. The stops at Nazaré and Óbidos seem especially well-loved for their charm and photogenic scenery.

What Could Be Better?

A common critique, echoed in one review, is that sometimes there’s not enough time to explore each stop thoroughly. If you’re a deep explorer, you might find yourself wishing for more time in Óbidos or Nazaré. Paying attention to this can help you plan your day accordingly, perhaps skipping some optional extras to focus on your top priorities.

Who’s This Tour Best For?

This private transfer suits travelers who want a comfortable, flexible, and personalized way of traveling between Lisbon and Porto — or vice versa. It’s perfect if you prefer not to share your experience with strangers, value storytelling, and enjoy having a say in how your day unfolds. It’s also a good choice for those who want to discover charming Portuguese towns at their own pace without rushing.

If you’re traveling with a small group or a partner and looking for a seamless journey with meaningful stops, this tour offers the kind of relaxed, curated experience that makes the long drive more memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a guided tour or just transportation?
It’s a private transfer with a guide who provides commentary, insights, and recommendations along the way, making it more than just a ride.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, the guide can adapt the itinerary to your interests, making each trip unique and tailored to your tastes.

How long does the tour last?
Expect about 8 to 12 hours, depending on how long you stay at each stop and your pace.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers private, air-conditioned transport, WiFi, bottled water, and a knowledgeable guide.

Are meals or entrance tickets included?
No, you’ll need to budget separately for lunch, monument tickets, or any additional activities.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not explicitly geared towards families, the relaxed pace and scenic stops make it generally suitable for travelers of all ages who enjoy sightseeing and comfort.

What’s the quality of the vehicle?
The vehicle is air-conditioned and private, with WiFi, ensuring a comfortable ride.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Who is the guide?
Filipe Martins, known for his cheerful personality and local knowledge, is the guide behind this experience.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

If you’re someone who prefers a more intimate, relaxed, and tailored way to see Portugal’s scenic and cultural highlights, this tour is a great fit. It’s especially suitable if you want to avoid the crowds and stick to a flexible schedule, enjoying the stops and views at your own pace. The personalized service, combined with a knowledgeable guide, makes this a rewarding way to explore some of Portugal’s most charming towns along your route between Lisbon and Porto.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more structured group tour with fixed timings and fewer stops, this might feel a bit pricier. Likewise, if you have specific plans to explore each location in depth, you might want to consider how the timing suits your style.

In the end, this transfer isn’t just about moving between two cities — it’s about enriching that journey with meaningful stops, local stories, and a comfortable ride. Whether you’re in Portugal for a week or just passing through, it’s a chance to see the country’s soul at a gentle, unhurried pace.