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Chiado Culture & history

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Lisbon: History, Stories and Lifestyle Walking Tour

1. Lisbon: History, Stories and Lifestyle Walking Tour

Discover one of Europe's most captivating and picturesque capitals on a guided walking tour. Built on a series of hills and offering panoramic views from countless spots, explore the city with a local guide who will make sure that you have an interesting and fun experience. Begin the tour in the 5-centuries-old Bairro Alto, where you’ll learn about the evolution of the city. After the earthquake of 1755 this space attracted families from the Baixa and Bairro districts, who began the process of renewal. Pass by the garden of São Pedro de Alcântara and enjoy views of Baixa and the south bank of the Tagus River. Visit the San Roque Church built by the Jesuits. Admire its austere façade, and the gilding, tiles, and paintings inside that make it a wonderful museum of Mannerist and Baroque styles. Head down the hill to the Carmo convent and church, fine examples of the city’s Gothic architecture. This is a site of historical importance as it was here that the Carnation Revolution began in 1974, putting an end to nearly 5 decades of dictatorship. A little further on, arrive at the Santa Justa elevator, an imposing monument built in the Gothic Revival style, that provides one of the best viewpoints in the city. See a number of attractions in Baixa, in the heart of the city. After a short break, take a ride on the tram, going up from the castle to the Portas do Sol. At the Portas do Sol, see the Monastery of São Vicente de Fora, the National Pantheon, and the Alfama district that spans several narrow streets to the River Tagus. Explore Alfama, one of the oldest and most traditional neighborhoods of Lisbon, known for its fado houses, and the popular festivals of saints, particularly St. Anthony. End the tour at Lisbon Cathedral, built in 1150, 3 years after the city was taken back from the Moors. Over time it has been subject to various architectural changes, becoming a mixture of different styles.

Lisbon: 2 or 3-Hour Historical Vintage Tuk Tuk Tour

2. Lisbon: 2 or 3-Hour Historical Vintage Tuk Tuk Tour

Explore some of the oldest and most characteristic neighborhoods of Lisbon by tuk tuk, including the narrow streets of the historic Bairro Alto entertainment district. Make your way up to São Jorge Castle, and meander through the old district of Alfama. Experience the cool vibe of the Graça district at the highest point in the city, and explore the main shopping area of Chiado. Stop to admire impressive monuments along the way, such as Lisbon Cathedral and Santo António Church, built on the site where Saint Anthony was born. Visit the Monastery of São Vicente de Fora to admire one of the finest examples of Mannerist architecture. Get wonderful views from the São Pedro de Alcântara lookout, and visit the Baroque church of Estrella Basilica, built on the orders of Queen Maria I to honor the birth of her son.

Best of Lisbon Walking Tour: Rossio, Chiado & Alfama

3. Best of Lisbon Walking Tour: Rossio, Chiado & Alfama

Get an in-depth look at the Portuguese capital of Lisbon on a walking tour with a local guide. Explore Rossio Square, Restauradores Square, Commerce Square, Lisbon Cathedral, the Chiado neighborhood, and more. Taste local snacks and wine. Start the tour in Rossio Square, the heart of both new and old Lisbon, keeping an eye out for the intricate neo-Manueline architecture at Rossio Central Station. In the middle of Restauradores Square, see the obelisk that commemorates the restoration of Portugal’s independence from Spain. At Carmo Square, learn about the Carnation Revolution of 1974 that ended 48 years of dictatorship. Later, visit the elegant Chiado district and see old cafés, boutiques, theatres, and quaint bookstores. Admire the heart of the city, Baixa. This neighborhood was completely rebuilt after the earthquake of the 18th century, obeying new rules of urbanism and anti-systemic architecture. Try a typical Portuguese pastry, the famous pastel de nata (egg custard tart), then continue to the Moorish Alfama neighborhood and get an up-close encounter with the art of Fado, Lisbon’s unique musical genre. While tucked in between alleys and winding streets of the oldest neighborhood of Lisbon, enjoying a local snack and glass of wine. End your tour of Lisbon at Praça do Comércio to see the former entrance hall of the city.

Lisbon: Full-Day Private Walking Sightseeing Tour

4. Lisbon: Full-Day Private Walking Sightseeing Tour

See the sights of Lisbon that interest you most on a full-day private tour with an itinerary that’s designed just for you! There’s no need to rush around on this special tour, as you’ll have time to take in the top artistic and historical attractions of the city. Marvel at historical landmarks such as São Jorge Castle and Lisbon´s Cathedral. Travel from the Phoenician civilization, up to the Roman city of Olissippo. Visit Alfama, the city’s oldest sector, and see Moorish influences everywhere. Take a stroll off the typical tourist route, through the city’s traditional neighborhoods and get a real feeling of what Alfacinhas (Lisbon natives) do and where they go in their lovely city. During the day you’ll also have the opportunity to taste some of Portugal's traditional pastries. Although the tour is meant to cover a full day the duration can be shorter to suit your schedule.

Lisbon: 3-Hour Historic Tuk Tuk Tour

5. Lisbon: 3-Hour Historic Tuk Tuk Tour

Cruise Lisbon by tuk tuk and effortlessly see many of the city's best sites in a short amount of time. Your expert guide will take you to the best views, photo opportunities and most interesting places. Stops include the Lisbon Cathedral, Saint Anthony Church, the Castle neighborhood, Saint Vincent Monastery and many more.  Feel the pulse of the romantic city as you ride up to the Chiado and Bairro Alto districts. You'll enjoy the wonderful view from the Rua de Sao Pedro de Alcantara viewpoint and visit the fabulous Estrela Basilica, one of the most beautiful Baroque churches in Lisbon. Get to know the narrow streets of Bairro Alto, where the night is full of charm and excitement as countless bars and restaurants bustle with patrons. Then, ride on to Jeronimos Monastery and visit its church. Get acquainted with the Belem Tower, where the Portuguese caravels set sail to Brazil in 1500. Finally, take some time to enjoy the monument dedicated to the Portuguese discoveries and savor one (or more) famous custard tarts, Pasteis de Belem. 

Lisbon: Private 3-Hour Historic Alfama & Chiado Tuk-Tuk Tour

6. Lisbon: Private 3-Hour Historic Alfama & Chiado Tuk-Tuk Tour

Discover Lisbon aboard a 100% electric Tuk Tuk and explore the most beautiful and historic areas of the city on a 3-hour private tour. Visit picturesque districts and get breathtaking views from the top of some of the city's famous 7 hills. Instagrammable photos are guaranteed. Each tuk-tuk can take up to 6 people and it's the most comfortable and funniest way for touring the narrow and steep streets of Lisbon. Learn more about the history and culture of one of the oldest capital cities in Europe, and be seduced by the beautiful setting on the banks of the River Tagus. Get familiar with the most typical neighbourhoods, such as Alfama, Graça and Mouraria, and explore the more contemporary districts, including Baixa, Chiado, Bairro Alto and Príncipe Real. You will fall in love with Lisbon!

Lisbon: Secret Churches Private Tour

7. Lisbon: Secret Churches Private Tour

The churches represent the richest built heritage of this city. The best architects were chosen for their construction and the best painters and sculptors were chosen for their decorations. But some of them are hidden inside buildings or closed to the public… join this tour to discover these amazing secret places. The tour begins with one of the best views of Lisbon (the viewpoint from São Pedro de Alcantara). You will be introduced to the development of the Christian presence in Lisbon during the Roman period, after the conquest of the city during the Second Crusade, during the Inquisition period and after the earthquake. Cross the entire historical center, between the Chiado area and the castle, discovering all the secret churches, some of them located inside civil buildings which are now banks, offices and shopping malls.

Lisbon Historical City Tour

8. Lisbon Historical City Tour

Visit the historical sites in Lisbon on this tour. A local guide will pick you up at your hotel and your day will start with breakfast at Pastel de Belém. See majestic structures like the Jeronimos Monastery, the Monument to the Discoveries and Belem Tower. Travel through the city's unique neighborhoods: Lisbon Baixa (a chic district with incredible architecture), Chiado, Alfama (the oldest district in Lisbon), Parque das Nações, or drive through the city center to behold. Parque Eduardo VII, the Lisbon Cathedral (Lisbon's oldest church), and São Jorge Castle make for lovely stops as well. With the option to customize your own itinerary this sightseeing adventure will be one to remember.

Lisbon in One Day: Full-Day Minivan Historic Tour

9. Lisbon in One Day: Full-Day Minivan Historic Tour

Learn the history of Lisbon on a full-day city tour, available as a group or private option. Following a pick-up from your hotel, travel by minivan through the city's historic neighborhoods, starting with the Moorish castle in Castelo. Wander the winding streets of one of Lisbon’s oldest areas, before going to Lisbon Cathedral, the oldest church in the city. Admire the rose window, reconstructed from fragments of the original. Next, explore the Alfama, one of Lisbon’s oldest neighbourhoods. Travel down twisting cobblestone streets lined with quaint cafés en route to Belém. Here, you will learn how the city expanded during the period of the “Age of Discoveries.” Next, marvel at the dazzling facade of Jerónimos Monastery, one of Portugal’s architectural jewels. Go to the defensive Belém Tower at the mouth of the River Tagus, and see the Monument to the Ages of Discoveries. Taste a traditional Pastel de Belém custard tart before lunch. After lunch, head back to the city center, following the 18th-century aqueduct and the famous Tram 28 route. End in the Baixa area, and learn how Lisbon was rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1755. Baixa is also one of the best places to enjoy Lisbon by night!

Private Tour - Lisbon in One Day

10. Private Tour - Lisbon in One Day

The tour will begin with a visit to the castle, where is possible to see the oldest archaeological vestiges of Lisbon and enjoy the medieval environment. Inside the Castle, the city reveals itself in 360 degrees. Then, get into the sounds, smells and beauty of ancient alleyways full of memories. You guide will take you to experience a city that has undergone centuries of multiple influences. Walk through the old neighborhoods and enjoy the beauty of the ancient alleyways, full of memories.  The morning comes to an end at Comércio Square, one of the world’s most beautiful square, touched by the Tagus River and shining throughout the year. After lunch you are taken to discover the Art of Ceramic Tiles, a museum with a great collection of Portuguese tiles panels. Then, tour the city’s streets comfortably in one of the vehicles. You will visit the iconic Baixa, Príncipe Real and Bairro Alto, and will stop to enjoy the views in some of Lisbon belvederes. Then you will visit S. Roque Church and its Museum, where some of Europe’s greatest treasures are kept.   After it, you will go down the hill and be charmed by Chiado, where shops have absorbed the glamour of multiple decades. Then, visit Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, Lisbon’s ex-libris and the maximum exponent of Europe’s last Gothic style. Finish your tour at Tagus River mouth, next to the Torre de Belém, the symbol of the city and of Portuguese nationality. During the day you enjoy a sweet lemonade and have the opportunity to buy handcraft and to taste a delicious “pastel de Belem”!

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Overall rating

4.9 / 5

based on 2,773 reviews

We had an absolutely fantastic tour in Lisbon with Sofia as our tour guide. She was so nice and a actually a living encyclopedia. So full of information, stories, skillful and helpful in all ways, making this tour definitely the best city tour we’ve ever experienced. We have now visited many of the hidden places she recommended and multiplied the value of our stay. The restaurants she recommended where also perfect. Very authentic and with excellent food. Tonight we have enjoyed the genuine Pastéis de Bacalhau and the special atmosphere at the tiny A Tendinha do Rossio. So many great experiences to absorb in this exciting city. This tour and Sofia is highly recommended for everyone who would like to to know and enjoy Lisbon! Muito obrigado, Sofia!

I can’t say enough good things about our guide, Andre. We learned so much about the history and the culture of Lisbon and Portugal. I only wish that we had planned time for a second tour tomorrow. Andre was extremely knowledgeable and allowed us to ask questions and enriched our experience of Lisbon immensely. Thank you again Andre for a wonderful tour.

The guide had excellent knowledge of Lisboa's and Portugal's history and an interesting way to tell the stories. We were able to get a really good overview of the city and a nice walk in the charming surroundings.

Our tour with Monika was really great. She reported passionately about Lisbon. Always my pleasure!

It was a very informative and great tour. Many thanks to Monica.