Caldas da Rainha

Tours

Embark on a captivating journey from Lisbon to the famous pilgrimage site of Fátima (optional) and the charming coastal city of Nazaré, guardian of the biggest waves in the world, with our private and personalized tour, adapted to accommodate up to 4 or 8 passengers per vehicle. Choose between a full-day tour (10h) or a half-day getaway (5h), both promising a mix of cultural immersion and natural wonders. Start your adventure with the choice of whether or not to visit the historic center and sanctuary of Fátima, a destination revered by pilgrims from all over the world. Immerse yourself in the deep history of this place. Continue your odyssey into the fascinating depths of the Mira de Aire Caves, where the art of nature is on full display. Marvel at the complex formations and ethereal beauty of one of Portugal's most spectacular underground wonders. Then, travel to the picturesque coastal haven of Nazaré, famous for its gigantic waves and vibrant atmosphere. Experience the thrill of witnessing the mighty Atlantic Ocean in all its splendor and explore the picturesque streets filled with maritime charm. Immerse yourself in history and architecture when you visit the imposing Batalha Monastery, a masterpiece of Gothic design and a testament to Portugal's rich cultural heritage. Then, stroll through the renowned streets of Caldas da Rainha, where tradition and modernity intertwine perfectly. Also visit the Alcobaça Monastery, located in Alcobaça, a historical and architectural landmark in Portugal, dating back to the 12th century. Known for the tombs of Pedro I of Portugal and Inês de Castro, it is a Gothic masterpiece, with an imposing church and ornate cloisters. It is an essential visit for anyone who wants to explore Portugal's medieval history and art. End your trip in the charming medieval town of Óbidos, where history comes to life among its cobblestone streets and walls. Explore the historic center, adorned with charming boutiques and cafes, and climb to the majestic castle for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Throughout your journey, our guide will ensure a seamless and personalized experience, providing information about the meaning and cultural nuances of each destination. Delight in the beauty and diversity of Portugal on this personalized private tour, creating memories to cherish for years to come.

The visit begins in Lisbon, from where we head towards Alcobaça, a city home to the Monastery of Alcobaça, also known as the Royal Monastery of Santa Maria de Alcobaça, which was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1989. The construction of the Monastery began in 1178, by order of King D. Afonso Henriques, and the monks occupies it in 1223. It is one of the largest and best-preerved complexes of the Cistercian Order. King D. Pedro chose the church of the monastery as the burial site for himself and his beloved, Inês de Castro, whose impressive tombs can be visited. We will then proceed to the village of Óbidos, enjoying some of the most beautiful landscapes in western Portugal. In Óbidos, accompanied by an audioguide that will provide detailed information about each point of interest, visitors can explore the churches, see the walls and the castle, or stroll through the streets lined with colorful houses adorned with flowers. The village of Óbidos was probably founded by the Celts in 308 BC. Recent studies have led experts to believe that Óbidos was part of the anciente Roman city of Eburobrittium. The village was later occupied by the barbarians and then by the Moors. The first King of Portugal, Afonso Henriques, conquered this village from the Moors. In the 18th century, Óbidos still held its noble status as a place for the royal summer holidays. King John V stayed in Óbidos for eight years on the advice of his doctors to go bathing in Caldas da Rainha to treat his arthritis and obesity. On arrival in this charming village some of the places of interest are as follows: Town Gate or Our Lady of Sorrow, patron saint of Óbidos: You can see the inscription: “The Virgin, Our Lady, was conceived without original sin”, which dates back to the 17th century, to the time of John IV. Marvel at the 18th century tiles that represent scenes of the Passion of Christ. St. Peter’s Church: Has a medieval foundation and still has its original portal. It was renovated in the second half of the 16th century. The church has a single nave and a superb altarpiece in baroque woodwork from the architectural period of King John V. Pousada of Óbidos: Was the first in Portugal to be built from an historical building. It is located inside what was once the Paço do Alcaide. Notice the beautiful Manueline windows and the doorway with an ornate lintel molded in the fashion of intertwined tree-trunks. St. James Church: Over the centuries, during their stays in Óbidos, the royal family attended the St. James Church, founded by King Sancho. St. Mary’s Church of Óbidos: In the exact same place as the old Visigoth temple used to be. The temple was later turned into a mosque. When the Christian conquest by Afonso I took place, it became a Catholic church. Inside you can admire the splendid collection of tiles that cover the walls and the tomb of D. João de Noronha, mayor of Óbidos in the 16th century, a masterpiece by the sculptor Nicolau Chanterene.

We are professional Travel and Concierge agency and we are based in Albufeira! In our team we have professional drivers, tour guides and photographers always available to provide you the best experience in Portugal and Spain. We have no hidden fees. All the drivers, photographers, guides and vehicles in our network are licensed and checked by the relevant local authorities. In our company safety comes first, our vehicles are equipped with first aid kit, fire extinguishers, baby chairs and booster seats. Happy to Assist you during your Stay in Portugal and Spain)

The Nazaré canyon, a natural formation making a massively deep and large hole in the sea floor right next to the shoreline, creates massive waves that make this spot, Praia do Norte, a Meca for adventurous surfers all around the world. The canyon also hides a Nazi submarine, which was sunk there on purpose never to be found again... We will also visit the Sanctuary and Memory Chapel, and will be able to have a breathtaking view of Nazaré and a great deal of the Silver Coast shore (all the way to the Berlengas Islands). Last but for sure not least, you will also get to know Nazaré itself, a one-of-a-kind traditional fishing village, its narrow alleys facing the sea, and its old traditions like the “Dry Fish” and the puzzling “sights” of local women wearing their famous seven skirts.

A walk in the Serra dos Candeeiros with the herd is ideal for those who want a short, and enriching experience. Starting at the milking, passing through some of the points of greatest local and cultural interest. A different way to enjoy the slow dawn of Serra dos Candeeiros. Details: Route: Circular - start and end at Largo Terra Chã in the small village of Chão, nestled in the natural park of Serra de Aire e Candeeiros. On Google Maps : https://maps.app.goo.gl/B7Rkdh9dRwsxCJQv8 Distance: Approximately 3 km Duration: 2.5 hours Difficulty: Medium

We will take you to the most ancient Thermal Hospital in the world - continually operating for over five hundred years. Long before SPAs came along, Portuguese Queen D. Leonor had her own private “pool”, which you will be visiting. This came after she saw people bathing in natural hot springs looking for cures for their ailments. Impressed, the queen had a thermal hospital built on the site the very next year (1485). This tour will also take you to the nearby Church of Nossa Senhora do Pópulo (“Our Lady of the People”), a small yet artistically rich place of worship, which holds some of the earliest examples of the "Manueline Architecture”, a famously unique Portuguese architectural style. Afterward, we will take you to the beautiful and romantic D. Carlos I Park and share an overview of the city’s history highlighting its golden age in the 19th century, when it became an industrial and artistic hub and Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro and José Malhoa became household names.

ÓBIDOS Explore the most charming medieval town of Óbidos with an experienced and knowledgeable guide which will take you through the history and tales, the streets and alleys, the castle and the churches, the fine art, and (last but not least) the sweet and authentic tastes of this ancient Portuguese land: the famous Ginjinha de Óbidos- on a chocolate cup! Don’t miss out on the trendy bookstore Ler Devagar located on a former royal chapel, the 1300-year-old Muslim castle, the old Moorish and Jewish quarters, the superb “pietá” of renaissance master Nicolau de Chanterene and the works of the celebrated XVII century painter Josefa de Óbidos, the first Portuguese female artist to get to the Louvre. Learn about how the queens of Portugal had a major role in the history of this "Town of the Queens". Among them, is celebrated Queen Leonor de Avis, famous for creating the oldest surviving hospital and relief network in the world: “Holy House of Mercy”. She was called the “Most Perfect Queen”. NAZARÉ The Nazaré canyon, a natural formation making a massively deep and large hole in the sea floor right next to the shoreline, creates massive waves that make this spot, Praia do Norte, a Meca for adventurous surfers all around the world. The canyon also hides a Nazi submarine, which was sunk there on purpose never to be found again... We will also visit the Sanctuary and Memory Chapel, and will be able to have a breathtaking view of Nazaré and a great deal of the Silver Coast shore (all the way to the Berlengas Islands). Last but for sure not least, you will also get to know Nazaré itself, a one-of-a-kind traditional fishing village, its narrow alleys facing the sea, and its old traditions like the “Dry Fish” and the puzzling “sights” of local women wearing their famous seven skirts.

At Óbidos, Our tale will have two hours walking through the amazing medieval Óbidos village. We will start at the village main gate, and then we will discover amazing narrow streets outside of the beaten track. After we will share with you the morish & Jewish neighborhod and their white painted houses with some great spots to take some pictures. Then we will taste the amazing and local Ginjinha, a sour cherry liquor, but this one is full of flavours without any additions. We will visit and explore: - Obidos Village; - Mercado Biológico unique bookshop - Saint Mary Church; - Moorish and Jewish neighboorhood - Sao Tiago Church; - Ancient 8th century Moorish castle, Caldas da Rainha: We will take you to the most ancient Thermal Hospital in the world - continually operating for over five hundred years. Long before spas´s came along, Portuguese Queen D. Leonor had her own private “pool”, which you will be visiting. This came after she saw people bathing in natural hot springs looking for cures for their ailments. Impressed, the queen had a thermal hospital built on the site the very next year (1485). This tour will also take you to the nearby Church of Nossa Senhora do Pópulo (“Our Lady of the People”), a small yet artistically rich place of worship, which holds some of the earliest examples of the "Manueline Architecture”, a famously unique Portuguese architectural style. Afterward, we will take you to the beautiful and romantic D. Carlos I Park and share an overview of the city’s history highlighting its golden age in the 19th century, when it became an industrial and artistic hub and Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro and José Malhoa became household names.

Some of the main points of interest of the Natural Park are explored towards the Gruta de Alcobertas. Along the route, there are stops at the top of the mountain to admire the landscape and the native flora, as well as to explore the natural beauty of the Alcobertas Cave. Route: Circular - start and end at Largo Terra Chã in the small village of Chãos, nestled in the natural park of Serra de Aire e Candeeiros. On Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/B7Rkdh9dRwsxCJQv8 Distance: Approximately 4.5 km Duration: 3 hours Difficulty: Medium-Low

Personal driver at your service all day in a luxury ecofriendly vehicle. Choose a city within a 150 km radius from Lisbon, and we will take you there in comfort and safety. We will pick you up from your hotel and bring you back at the end of the tour, avoiding the hassle of finding a meeting point. This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate! Destination options: -Évora -Óbidos -Nazaré -Fátima -Mafra -Caldas da Rainha -Peniche -Setúbal -Ericeira -Sintra -Cascais And other destinations of your preference, respecting the 150 km distance limit from Lisbon. *For closer destinations, it is possible to combine two or more destinations, as long as the total distance does not exceed 150 km. For example: Mafra + Ericeira, Cascais + Sintra, Sintra + Ericeira, Cascais + Sintra + Ericeira*