From Lisbon: Coastal Villages And Mafra Palace Guided Tour

Nestled along Portugal’s captivating coastline lies a treasure trove of picturesque villages and architectural marvels, just waiting to be discovered. This guided tour from Lisbon promises an immersive journey, inviting you to uncover the whitewashed charm of Azenhas do Mar, the vibrant hues of Ericeira, and the breathtaking grandeur of the Mafra National Palace. With round-trip transportation, palace entrance fees, and a delightful lunch included, this excursion offers a seamless way to explore the rich history and natural beauty that have long enchanted visitors to this enchanting region. Prepare to be captivated as you embark on this scenic coastal adventure.

Key Points

A 7-hour guided tour from Lisbon exploring scenic coastal villages and the grand 18th-century Mafra Palace, an architectural masterpiece.
Visit the picturesque white village of Azenhas do Mar and the charming blue and white town of Ericeira along the Atlantic coast.
Tour the opulent interiors of Mafra Palace, including the impressive Baroque-style Basilica with its towering twin bell towers.
Enjoy a lunch as part of the package and round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned minibus.
The small-group tour is available in multiple languages and can be easily canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.

Tour Overview

The guided tour offers a comprehensive exploration of scenic coastal villages and the magnificent Mafra National Palace, lasting approximately 7 hours.

It’s a small-group experience, limited to just 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention from the dedicated guide.

The tour is available in multiple languages, including Spanish, French, English, and Portuguese, catering to a diverse audience.

Highlights include visits to the picturesque villages of Azenhas do Mar and Ericeira, as well as a guided tour of the 18th-century Mafra Palace, an architectural masterpiece.

The tour package includes the palace entrance fee, round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned minibus, and a delicious lunch, making it a convenient and well-rounded experience.

Highlights of the Tour

Visitors can expect to be captivated by the scenic village of Azenhas do Mar, known for its distinctive white buildings and picturesque coastal setting.

The tour also includes a stop in the charming blue and white village of Ericeira, where visitors can wander the narrow streets and admire the traditional architecture.

The highlight of the tour, however, is the stunning Mafra National Palace, an 18th-century architectural masterpiece.

Visitors will:

Marvel at the ornate interiors and grand Baroque design of the palace.
Explore the extensive library, one of the largest in Europe.
Discover the impressive Basilica, with its elaborately carved stone facades.

This small-group tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty, providing a memorable experience for all travelers.

Inclusions and Logistics

This guided tour includes the entrance fee to the Mafra Palace, along with a dedicated guide to lead the way. Travelers will be transported in an air-conditioned minibus, and a lunch is provided as part of the package.

The tour starts at the Miradouro Parque Eduardo VII (Edward VII Park Viewpoint), with check-in at 8:10 am and a prompt 8:20 am departure.

Cancellations can be made up to 24 hours in advance at no cost. The tour is suitable for all traveler types, though it may not be accessible for wheelchair users.

Spots are limited, so it’s recommended to reserve your spot in advance, with a pay later option available.

Visiting Azenhas Do Mar

After exploring the logistics of the tour, visitors will first stop at the charming coastal village of Azenhas do Mar.

Nestled along the rugged Atlantic coastline, this picturesque location is known for its whitewashed homes, dramatic cliffs, and stunning ocean vistas. Travelers can wander the quaint streets, admire the traditional architecture, and perhaps even spot locals going about their daily lives.

The highlights of visiting Azenhas do Mar include:

Capturing panoramic photos from the clifftops, showcasing the vibrant blue waters and charming village below.
Exploring the small harbor area and watching the fishing boats bob in the waves.
Indulging in fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants, savoring the flavors of the region.

Exploring Ericeira Village

From Azenhas do Mar, the tour proceeds to the charming blue and white village of Ericeira, a picturesque coastal town known for its stunning ocean views and vibrant fishing culture. Strolling through Ericeira’s narrow streets, visitors can admire the colorful traditional architecture, explore lively plazas, and browse local shops and art galleries. The village’s seaside promenade offers breathtaking vistas of the crashing waves and rugged cliffs. For a deeper dive into Ericeira’s culture, the tour includes a visit to the local fishing harbor, where travelers can witness the daily catch being unloaded and learn about the community’s enduring maritime traditions.

Highlights	Description
Charming Architecture	Whitewashed buildings with blue accents
Vibrant Fishing Culture	Active fishing harbor and seafood restaurants
Stunning Ocean Views	Panoramic vistas from seaside promenade
Local Shops & Art	Browsing unique boutiques and galleries

Discovering Mafra Palace

The jewel in the crown of this tour is the magnificent Mafra National Palace, an 18th-century architectural masterpiece that dazzles visitors with its sheer grandeur and ornate opulence. Constructed under the orders of King João V, the palace is a testament to Portugal’s golden age, boasting an impressive conjunto of buildings that include a basilica, a library, and a series of elaborately decorated halls and chambers.

As you explore this stunning complex, you’ll be captivated by:

The ornate Baroque-style façade and grand ceremonial staircase.
The breathtaking Basilica, with its towering twin bell towers and magnificent pipe organ.
The magnificent royal library, housing over 36,000 volumes dating back to the 18th century.

The Mafra Palace is a true highlight of this coastal tour, offering a glimpse into Portugal’s regal past and architectural splendor.

Meeting Point and Timing

Your tour begins at the Miradouro Parque Eduardo VII (Edward VII Park Viewpoint), where you’ll check in at 8:10 am for a prompt 8:20 am departure.

This gives you a chance to meet your guide and fellow travelers before setting off on your coastal adventure.

The tour operates with a small group, limited to just 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

You’ll travel by air-conditioned minibus, so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic journey ahead.

The tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, so you can book with confidence knowing you have flexibility should your plans change.

Additional Tour Information

Suitability and Availability are key considerations for this tour. While the tour is suitable for all traveler types, it may not be accessible for wheelchair users. Plus, this popular tour is likely to sell out, so visitors are encouraged to reserve their spot in advance. For added convenience, a ‘reserve now, pay later‘ option is available.

The tour is suitable for a wide range of travelers, from solo adventurers to families.

However, the Mafra Palace and other sites visited may not be wheelchair-friendly.

Due to the tour’s popularity, it’s recommended to book early to secure a spot.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes a lunch, but you’re welcome to bring additional snacks or beverages if you prefer. Just be mindful of any restrictions or guidelines set by the tour provider.

Is There a Discounted Rate for Children or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t offer any discounted rates for children or seniors. The pricing is the same for all participants, regardless of age. However, the tour may be suitable for families and seniors if they can comfortably participate in the activities.

Are There Any Breaks or Stops Along the Way?

The tour includes several stops and breaks along the way. Participants can enjoy scenic views, explore charming villages, and have a lunch break during the 7-hour experience. The schedule allows for a comfortable and engaging tour.

How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?

The tour involves moderate walking throughout, including exploring picturesque coastal villages and touring the expansive Mafra National Palace. Guests can expect to walk several miles over the course of the 7-hour excursion.

Can I Leave the Group at Any Point During the Tour?

Participants are generally expected to stay with the group throughout the tour. Leaving the group early may not be possible, as the guide is responsible for the entire group’s safety and logistics. It’s best to discuss any special needs or requests with the tour operator beforehand.

Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

Recap

This guided tour offers a captivating journey along Portugal’s picturesque coastline.

Discover the charming villages of Azenhas do Mar and Ericeira, each with its unique character and stunning scenery.

Culminate the day by exploring the impressive Mafra Palace, a true architectural marvel.

With round-trip transportation, entrance fees, and a delightful lunch included, this tour provides an immersive experience to uncover the rich history and natural beauty of this captivating region.