Nazaré, Alcobaça and Óbidos on a Luxury Mercedes

Travelers looking to soak in the best of Portugal’s history, scenery, and local flavors will find this guided day trip a compelling option. Offered by BC-TRAVEL, this private tour takes you in style—via a comfortable luxury Mercedes—to three distinct locations: the famous surf town of Nazaré, the majestic Alcobaça Monastery, and the authentic medieval town of Óbidos. At $182 per person, it’s an accessible way to see some of Portugal’s highlights without the hassle of planning or driving.

Two aspects we particularly appreciate are the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, plus the chance to enjoy authentic regional tastings inside a medieval castle. The tour’s well-paced itinerary allows for a thorough exploration, but one thing to consider is the limited time at each stop, which might leave some travelers wishing for more. Overall, it’s especially suited for those who want a comfortable, guided experience blending history, coastal scenery, and local culture in a single day.

Key Points

• Comfortable luxury transportation ensures a relaxed journey with ample room and climate control.
• Cultural immersion with visits to UNESCO-listed Alcobaça Monastery and Óbidos Castle, plus regional gin tasting.
• Stunning coastal views in Nazaré, especially if you’re keen on watching the big waves or just snapping memorable photos.
• Flexible pickup and drop-off at Lisbon city center, making logistics straightforward.
• Balanced itinerary that covers multiple sites without feeling rushed.
• Good value for the price, considering the inclusions and private group setting.

This tour provides a practical and enjoyable way to see Portugal’s Norte Region’s highlights without the hassle of self-driving. We loved the luxury Mercedes that offers comfort and quiet during the roughly 8-hour adventure. With a multilingual driver and guide, you’re free to relax, ask questions, and truly take in the sights without the stress of navigation.

The fact that pickup and drop-off are included is a big plus. Instead of juggling public transport or taxis, your driver picks you up at your Lisbon hotel or designated location—saving time and energy for sightseeing. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a small group, this private tour keeps the experience intimate and flexible.

The price point at $182 per person offers good value considering the transportation, guided insights, and tastings. It’s a well-rounded option for those wanting to explore beyond Lisbon’s city limits without breaking the bank or sacrificing comfort.

The tour’s itinerary is thoughtfully designed to cover three key destinations, each offering its own unique appeal. The stops are spaced out to give you time to explore, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Nazaré: Coastal Drama and Big Waves

Your day begins with a pickup from your Lisbon accommodation, heading north to Nazaré. Around 1.5 hours is allocated here, giving you ample time to see the world-famous surf town, known for its gigantic waves that attract surfers from across the globe. If you’re a fan of seaside scenery or just love the idea of standing on the spot where some of the biggest waves are caught, Nazaré won’t disappoint.

Travel reviews highlight that Nazaré’s dramatic coastlines and lively atmosphere are memorable. The views from the cliffs are spectacular, especially if the weather cooperates. While you won’t have time to surf yourself, you can watch the action from viewpoints or walk along the promenade. Some travelers mention that Nazaré is a must-see for surf enthusiasts and those interested in natural power.

Alcobaça Monastery: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Next, the tour guides you to Alcobaça, about a 45-minute drive away. Here, you’ll visit the 13th-century Alcobaça Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The monastery’s impressive Gothic architecture and the serene cloisters are highlights. It’s easy to see why this is one of Portugal’s most cherished monastic complexes.

What we particularly liked was the opportunity to learn about the monks’ life and the monastery’s pivotal role in Portuguese history. The tour mentions that “the history of the Alcobaça Monastery is fascinating, especially the stories about its founders and the monks’ daily life.” The peaceful atmosphere inside makes it a contemplative stop, perfect for history buffs and architecture lovers alike.

Óbidos: Medieval Charm and Ginja Tasting

The final leg takes you to Óbidos, roughly a 45-minute drive. This medieval town is a favorite for many travelers because of its winding cobblestone streets, ancient walls, and preserved castle. Here, you’ll enjoy a tasting of Ginja de Óbidos, the regional cherry liqueur, inside the castle walls—a special treat that enhances the cultural experience.

You’ll have about two hours to explore, which is enough to stroll the town’s quaint streets, admire the medieval architecture, and browse local shops for souvenirs. Reviewers often mention how Óbidos feels like stepping back in time, and the Ginja tasting adds a memorable flavor to the visit.

The tour uses a luxury Mercedes van, providing a smooth ride across the countryside and along Portugal’s scenic coast. The vehicle’s comfort makes the long stretches between stops pleasant, even for those prone to travel fatigue.

Starting times vary based on availability, but generally, you’ll be picked up early in the morning. The itinerary is designed to maximize your time at each site without feeling overly rushed. Drivers and guides speak English, Spanish, and Portuguese, ensuring clear communication and personalized insights.

The total duration of around 8 hours balances sightseeing with enough time for breaks, photos, and a relaxed pace. The schedule allows for about 1.5 hours in Nazaré, 1.5 hours at Alcobaça, and 2 hours in Óbidos, with drive times in between.

Costs and What’s Included

At $182 per person, the price includes hotel pickup and drop-off, visits to Nazaré, Alcobaça Monastery, and Óbidos, plus the Ginja de Óbidos tasting inside the castle. However, entrance fees to the monuments are not included, so you might want to bring some cash or check if your guide offers tickets.

The tour does not include meals or personal expenses, giving you flexibility to bring snacks or plan a meal on your own. The private group setting ensures an intimate experience, and you can tailor the trip a bit if needed.

From reviews, we learn that many travelers appreciated the stunning views and the “fantastic guide who made the history come alive,” though some mention the limited time in each location as a minor drawback. The Ginja tasting inside Óbidos Castle** is frequently praised as a “sweet highlight,” and Nazaré’s waves leave a lasting impression, even from the viewpoint.

One review notes, “The comfort of the Mercedes made all the difference—no fatigue, no stress,” which is key for a full-day outing. Others mention that the flexibility of a private tour allows for personalized attention and questions, enhancing the overall experience.

This trip suits those who want an easy, comfortable way to see several of Portugal’s most iconic sights in one day. It’s ideal for history lovers, coastal scenery fans, and culture seekers who prefer guided visits over self-driving. The private group format makes it perfect for couples, families, or small groups wanting an intimate experience.

However, if you’re looking for a day with ample free time or plan to explore each site extensively, this might feel a little rushed. Also, travelers with mobility issues should note that walking is involved, and the tour isn’t designed for wheelchair users.

This luxury day trip from Lisbon offers a balanced mix of coastal adventure, historic discovery, and medieval charm. The comfortable Mercedes, expert guidance, and inclusion of authentic tastings make it a compelling choice for travelers who want to maximize their day without sacrificing comfort.

It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate stunning views of the Atlantic, want to learn about Portugal’s monastic and medieval past, and enjoy local flavors. For a hassle-free, well-organized outing that hits the highlights and provides a touch of luxury, this tour delivers good value and memorable moments.

What is the price of this tour?
It costs $182 per person, which includes transportation, visits, and tastings. Entrance fees to monuments are not included.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, with a start time that varies based on availability.

Where do I get picked up?
Pickup is included and can be arranged from Lisbon Portela Airport, Lisbon city center, or the Lisbon Cruise Port—whichever is most convenient.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
The tour involves some walking, and it’s not wheelchair friendly. It’s best for those able to manage moderate walking in uneven streets.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended. Don’t forget your camera to capture the scenic views and historic sites.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You are free to bring snacks or plan to eat during your free time in Óbidos.

Is there a guide on the tour?
Yes, the driver also serves as your guide, speaking English, Spanish, and Portuguese, providing insights and answering questions.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

This tour encapsulates the best of Portugal’s coast, history, and medieval charm—all in style and comfort. It’s a great way to make the most of a day outside Lisbon, especially if you value a relaxed pace, beautiful scenery, and authentic experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here: