If you’re planning a trip around Lisbon and want to experience two of Portugal’s most iconic sights without the hassle of group tours or crowded buses, a private tour of Nazaré and Óbidos might be just what you need. Offered by iTour iTransfer, this 6-hour journey promises a personalized experience, taking you from the cosmopolitan capital to two very different but equally captivating destinations.
What we like most about this tour is its flexibility and the focus on authentic experiences—no large groups, just you and your travel companions in the comfort of a private car. We also appreciate the opportunity to see Nazaré’s legendary giant waves and wander the medieval streets of Óbidos, naturally making for memorable photos and stories to tell.
A potential consideration is that this tour doesn’t include a guide to narrate the history or stories of each site in detail. If you’re a history buff craving deep stories, you might find this a gentle introduction rather than an exhaustive lesson. Still, it’s ideal for those who want to see these sights at their own pace and focus on the scenery and local flavor.
This experience suits travelers seeking convenience, comfort, and a tailored itinerary—perfect for families, couples, or friends wanting to explore away from the crowds while enjoying authentic moments.
Key Points
- Personalized private experience with no other passengers—ideal for families or small groups
- Flexible 6-hour itinerary focusing on Nazaré’s waves and Óbidos’ medieval charm
- Comfortable transportation included, with hotel pickup and drop-off
- No tickets or guide fees included, giving you freedom to explore and spend as you wish
- Cost-effective for a private experience, providing good value considering the exclusivity
- Language options include English, Portuguese, and Spanish, easing communication
Discovering the coast: Nazaré’s waves and seaside vibe
The first highlight of this trip is Nazaré, a seaside town famous for its mind-blowingly large waves—sometimes reaching over 80 feet—especially during the winter months. Even if you’re visiting out of peak season, the spectacle of the ocean’s raw power is impressive enough to warrant the visit.
From the comfort of your private vehicle, you’ll enjoy the scenic drive along Portugal’s Atlantic coast, with plenty of chances to snap photos of immense beaches and cliffside views. While the tour doesn’t specify a stop at the beach itself, you might find that simply gazing at Nazaré’s coast from the viewpoints provides enough awe.
Many reviews praise Nazaré for its cinematic vistas and unique atmosphere. As one traveler noted, “The waves are even more impressive than I imagined, and the view of the beach is stunning.” It’s a spot that attracts surfers from all over the world, hoping for a glimpse of the famous giant waves—though even during calmer times, the natural scenery makes it worth the visit.
Since tickets are not included, you can choose whether to explore the beach, visit the lighthouse, or just enjoy the spectacle of nature from above. The tour’s flexibility lets you decide how much time to spend soaking in the sea breeze and panoramic views.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Obidos.
Stepping into history: Óbidos’s medieval charm
After Nazaré, your driver will take you to the medieval town of Óbidos, a favorite for those who love history, architecture, and stories of the old kingdom. Encased within ancient walls, the town feels like stepping back in time. Its narrow cobbled streets wind past whitewashed houses topped with red-tile roofs, leading to cozy cafes and artisan shops.
The star of Óbidos is truly the wall walk—a chance to stroll along medieval ramparts and overlook the lush countryside. It’s a great chance to capture photos of the town’s charming rooftops and winding alleys. Many visitors enjoy tasting the famous ginjinha, a cherry liqueur served in chocolate cups, which is a highlight in itself and offers a true taste of local tradition.
While the tour doesn’t include guided commentary, the story-rich atmosphere of Óbidos makes it easy to imagine its storied past. The town’s walls and gates are remnants of a time when it was a border stronghold, and many reviews mention how it feels like a fairytale village. One traveler remarked, “Walking along the walls and seeing the panoramic views of the countryside was a highlight of my trip.”
This stop is ideal for those who want a relaxed, authentic experience rather than a detailed history lesson. The freedom to wander at your own pace adds to the charm.
What’s included and what’s not
The tour covers all transportation between Lisbon, Nazaré, and Óbidos, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, which is a significant convenience. The private nature of the experience means no sharing with strangers, and the driver acts as your personal chauffeur, providing a comfortable and hassle-free day.
While the tour price of $176 per person is fair for a private half-day experience, it’s important to note that food and tickets are not included. This means you can choose whether to buy souvenirs, try local snacks like the ginjinha, or visit attractions that might require an entrance fee. The absence of a guide means you’ll need to rely on your own curiosity or do a little pre-trip reading to enrich your visit.
Most reviews highlight the value of having a dedicated driver who is friendly and helpful, making the experience smooth and stress-free. The driver speaks multiple languages—English, Portuguese, and Spanish—which is very beneficial for international travelers.
How the tour flows
The 6-hour duration is enough to comfortably cover both Nazaré and Óbidos, allowing you to spend meaningful time at each without feeling rushed. The starting times are flexible, but you should check availability for your preferred date.
The itinerary typically begins with your hotel pickup in Lisbon, followed by a scenic drive northwest toward Nazaré. Once there, you might spend around an hour enjoying the views and snapping photos of the waves and coast. Afterward, a short drive will take you to Óbidos, where you can wander its medieval streets and walls for another hour or so. Finally, your driver will return you to your accommodation.
The group size is limited to your party, ensuring a personalized experience tailored to your interests and pace.
More Great Tours NearbyAuthentic experience and practical value
This tour offers a nice balance of authentic scenery and cultural charm. Nazaré’s powerful waves are a testament to nature’s strength, while Óbidos’s historic walls and streets reveal Portugal’s medieval past. It’s a combination that captures the essence of Portugal’s diverse landscape and history in a single day.
The value for money is strong, considering the private service, the convenience, and the flexible itinerary. Many travelers appreciate the no-hassle pickup and drop-off, saving them the trouble of navigating public transport or booking multiple tickets.
While it’s not a detailed guided tour, the freedom to explore at your own pace and the chance to capture beautiful photos make it well worth considering, especially if you want a relaxed day that mixes natural beauty with cultural heritage.
Who should consider this tour?
This experience is perfect for families, couples, or small groups who want a private, flexible day trip from Lisbon. It’s best for those who appreciate stunning scenery, authentic towns, and personal service over detailed historical narration. If you prefer a guided tour with in-depth stories, this may not be your ideal choice, but for a comfortable, scenic escape, it fits the bill superbly.
Travelers who want to avoid large groups and enjoy a more personal connection with the sites will find this tour especially appealing. It’s also suited for those with a limited schedule but still hoping to see some of Portugal’s most photogenic spots.
FAQs
Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your accommodation and return after the tour, making for a smooth experience.
How long do we spend in each town?
The total tour lasts about 6 hours, giving you roughly an hour at Nazaré to enjoy the views and about an hour in Óbidos to stroll and explore.
Are tickets to attractions included?
No, tickets and food are not included. You are free to explore and decide if you want to buy souvenirs or snacks.
Can I choose the start time?
Availability varies, so it’s best to check the current options, but generally, you can select a starting time that suits your schedule.
What languages does the driver speak?
The driver can communicate in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, making it easy for most travelers to converse.
Is this tour suitable during the off-season?
Absolutely. Nazaré’s waves and scenery are impressive year-round, and Óbidos’s charm is timeless, regardless of season.
Is this tour good for families?
Yes, the private tour’s flexibility and comfort make it suitable for families and small groups seeking an easy, scenic day out.
A private Nazaré and Óbidos tour offers a wonderful way to see two iconic Portuguese spots without the crowds or rigid schedules. We love the scenic drive, the stunning ocean views, and the medieval charm of Óbidos—all in a convenient package. It’s a solid choice for travelers who value personalized service, authentic experiences, and good value, especially if they want a relaxed day with plenty of memorable photo opportunities.
While it doesn’t include detailed storytelling or extensive guided commentary, the freedom to explore at your own pace makes this a flexible, enjoyable way to connect with Portugal’s coast and history. The combination of natural beauty and historic ambiance makes this tour both inspiring and practical.
If you prefer a tailored, no-stress day trip that captures some of Portugal’s most photogenic sights, this private tour could be a perfect fit—just remember to bring your curiosity and camera.
Note: Always check current availability and confirm pickup times when booking to ensure a smooth experience.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Private Tours in Obidos
More Tours in Obidos
- From Lisbon: Porto Transfer with Óbidos & Nazaré Tours
- From Lisbon: Day Tour to Tomar, Batalha and Alcobaça UNESCOs
- Óbidos: Medieval Market Guided Tour
- Spiritual tour of Óbidos – A journey through time and the soul
- Óbidos to Peniche: Explore the Atlantic Coast E-bike Tour
- Óbidos: Medieval Tales & Secrets Spots Guided Walking Tour
More Tour Reviews in Obidos
- From Lisbon: Porto Transfer with Óbidos & Nazaré Tours
- From Lisbon: Day Tour to Tomar, Batalha and Alcobaça UNESCOs
- Óbidos: Medieval Market Guided Tour
- Spiritual tour of Óbidos – A journey through time and the soul
- Óbidos to Peniche: Explore the Atlantic Coast E-bike Tour
- From Lisbon: Óbidos and Nazaré Day Trip with Ginjinha
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Obidos we have reviewed
- From Lisbon: Porto Transfer with Óbidos & Nazaré Tours
- From Lisbon: Day Tour to Tomar, Batalha and Alcobaça UNESCOs
- Óbidos: Medieval Market Guided Tour
- Spiritual tour of Óbidos – A journey through time and the soul
- Óbidos to Peniche: Explore the Atlantic Coast E-bike Tour
- From Lisbon: Óbidos and Nazaré Day Trip with Ginjinha
- Nazaré, Alcobaça and Óbidos on a Luxury Mercedes
- Óbidos: Medieval Tales & Secrets Spots Guided Walking Tour
- Private Day Tour Medieval Obidos, Nazare wave & Peniche Surf
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- Óbidos (Medieval Town): Half-Day Private Tour from Lisbon