/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/5539/94353.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/5539/94354.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/5539/94355.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/5539/94356.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/5539/94357.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/5539/94358.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/5539/94359.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/5539/94360.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/5539/94361.jpg)
Lisbon’s Private Forgotten Historical Palaces Tour
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/31635/94003.jpg)
Joined 2020
Get off the beaten track and join this private tour to Queluz and Ajuda Palace. Discover Lisbon’s history that is often forgotten by the usual tourist routes, the National Palace of Queluz and Ajuda. Step back from the traditional tours and see another part of history as you wander through gardens and palaces overflowing with history.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At Your Hotel or AirBnB
Palace of Queluz
After being picked up from your hotel in Lisbon, head to the fascinating Palace of Queluz. Inside, discover a combination of Baroque, Rococo and Neoclassical architectural designs, whilst in the gardens a French architectural style awaits you. In the elegant Throne Room, admire gold carvings and mirrors and see where royals used to host their guests.
Canal dos Azulejos
In the garden, wander among lakes, fountains and lead statues depicting mythological scenes. Finish your tour of this palace at the amazing “Canal dos Azulejos”. Here you can admire 18th-century tile designs and see where the royal family used to ride a small boat on sunny afternoons.
Ajuda Palace
Next, head back to Lisbon, to visit the Ajuda Palace, located in the Belem neighbourhood. Inside, admire extravagant furniture, tapestries, sculptures, and decorative arts. Make your way through the impressive Dining Room, admiring crystal chandeliers, silk-covered chairs, and an allegory of the birth of King João VI on the ceiling.
At the end of the tour, get dropped back at your hotel in Lisbon.
Ending Point
At Your Hotel
Want to personalize this tour?
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Pick-up and drop off at a hotel, airbnb or cruise port in Lisbon;
Entrance tickets to the National Queluz Palace and Gardens;
Entrance tickets to the National Ajuda Palace;
Private guide for your group, who will accompany you inside the monuments and locations;
Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle.
Lunch and any other items not mentioned in the description.
Tour Important Information
Be sure to bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a camera;
National monuments close on public holidays or on special occasions, without notice;
The sequence of the mentioned places can change according to your wishes or due to weather conditions.
Not available Wednesdays!
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
Joined 2020
About Tour Guide Joao D.
Discover Portugal Like Never Before
With over 30 years of off-road driving experience, I’ve explored every hidden gem Portugal has to offer, far beyond the usual tourist routes. Along the way, I’ve built lasting friendships and immersed myself in the rich culture and history of this incredible country. Inspired by these connections, I began organizing unforgettable tours and journeys for curious travellers.
Our passionate team, I (John), Rodrigo, Maia, Vasco, and Ricardo, knows every corner of Portugal. We pour our heart and soul into each adventure, ensuring every guest experiences the true spirit of Portugal. Our private tours are designed to take you beyond the destination, away from the crowds, and into the authentic heart of the country.
For over a decade, we’ve been crafting personalized journeys that reveal Portugal’s best-kept secrets. Join us for an experience that goes far beyond sightseeing, discover the stories, flavours, and landscapes that make Portugal truly unforgettable.
Reviews
Carlos B.
“Lisbon’s Hills and Hidden Gems with Joao”
We thoroughly enjoyed our 4½-hour walking tour of Lisbon with Joao in early October. He met us at the cruise port to begin our tour. One practical tip: be sure to tell him which cruise terminal you’ll be arriving at. Joao took us to several interesting sights, many of which we hadn’t seen on a previous cruise excursion. Unlike guides who leave you to explore on your own for an hour, he stayed with us throughout the tour, sharing his knowledge and answering our questions. My wife, our two friends, and I are all seniors in good physical condition, but Lisbon’s hills were still a bit of a challenge. Joao did a good job of pacing the climbs and making the tour comfortable. We suggest asking for a few seated breaks at strategic points along the route. Joao is personable and extremely knowledgeable, with insights extending well beyond Lisbon. He made a real effort to tailor his commentary to our interests. All four of us highly recommend Joao for a walking tour of Lisbon.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/31635/94003.jpg)
Joao D.
Thank you so very much for your review, dear Carlos. It was a pleasure making this walking tour with you, and as I said when we first met, Lisbon is always up and down-hill. But doable... ;-) Hopefully we meet again, maybe further south in Morocco! Warmest Regards and all the best for you all, Joao D.
Elaine L.
“Favourite tour!”
I have been in Portugal for a month, and this is the favourite thing I've done. No words can describe how beautiful the views are in Arrábida. The small towns we drove through were so charming. You will not regret booking this tour with João.
Joao D.
And hello again, dear Elaine, Thank you so very much for the reviews! Glad that we could make a difference in your stay here in Portugal. Nature has always a beauty of it's own and makes our job easier... ;-) Hope to have you back soon! Warmest Regards, Joao Dickmann
Elaine L.
“Óbidos and Mafra ”
This is my second tour with João and I have no regrets. Óbidos is a very photogenic town, and it's amazing to see the well-preserved Moorish walls that have been around since the 8th Century. The palace at Mafra is massive, and I am grateful that João was there to guide me through all the rooms. To be honest, I preferred this tour to Sintra, as it felt less “touristy”.
Joao D.
Hello again, dear Elaine, Thank you very much for your trust and friendship. Óbidos & Mafra are "special" locations to visit, as it shows different places around Lisbon that are not that much visited. Thank you for all. Regards, Joao Dickmann
$250/ per group
More tours by Joao D.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/5548/e5da9157-c288-4962-aaa2-651fa3a7243d.JPG)
From Palaces to the Atlantic: Discover Hidden Sintra
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the enchanting landscapes of Sintra and the sun-kissed coast of Cascais. This private sightseeing adventure is designed for travellers who crave authentic experiences, hidden gems, and the freedom to explore at their own pace, far from the crowds.
From Palaces to the Atlantic: Discover Hidden Sintra
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/5541/94387.jpg)
Private Lisbon Historic Walking Tour
On this private tour of Lisbon you’ll get a full introduction to the Portuguese capital’s historic. It´s monuments, palaces, churches, and typical historical neighbourhoods. Visit sites that are of interest to you, on a full day of discovery. Also you can customize it to your requirements. Your guide will give you a taste of local life, and also make stops for some delicious local pastries if you so wish it.
Private Lisbon Historic Walking Tour
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/5542/94395.jpg)
Discover the Wines of Setúbal: A Private Wine Adventure from Lisbon
Embark on an unforgettable journey through one of Portugal’s most breathtaking wine regions! This exclusive, full-day guided tour whisks you away from Lisbon to the sun-kissed hills and lush valleys of Setúbal, where world-class wines, local delicacies, and stunning landscapes await.
Discover the Wines of Setúbal: A Private Wine Adventure from Lisbon
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/5812/98228.jpg)
Private Historic Obidos and Mafra Tour
Leave the traditional Lisbon & Sintra tours, and join this private tour to Óbidos and Mafra. Discover the palace of Mafra. A magnificent building that was only possible due to the Brazilian gold that poured into the country. Therefore allowing King João 5th to carry out the building of the biggest baroque palaces from the 18th century. Step back centuries, and see the well-preserved Museum Village of Óbidos.
Private Historic Obidos and Mafra Tour
Other Popular Off the Beaten Path Tours in Lisbon
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/16140/ec4a7f05-8b83-420e-992f-e295fac28a82.jpeg)
Exploring Lisbon in Comfort: A Private Tour of the City's Best Highlights
The Private Highlights of Lisbon Tour is a personalized and exclusive way to discover the best that Lisbon has to offer. With my help, you'll explore the city's top attractions, hidden gems, and local favorites at your own pace.
Exploring Lisbon in Comfort: A Private Tour of the City's Best Highlights
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/60195/fbd5efaa-978d-49e6-bdcb-715415ac8c48.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/22094/997f5ad4-52b4-49bb-a6a3-31e187a916f2.jpg)
Private Coastal Portugal Tour from Lisbon – Óbidos, Nazaré, Peniche & Baleal
Especially for Atlantic coast lovers, families, and seafood enthusiasts, this private tour uncovers the hidden gems of Portugal’s West Coast. Travel with a local guide to medieval Óbidos, the “Village of Queens,” for a walking tour and a taste of its famous cherry liqueur. Discover Cabo Carvoeiro’s dramatic cliffs, the Baleal peninsula, and enjoy a traditional seafood lunch in Nazaré or Peniche, home to giant waves and rich fishing culture. Explore Portugal’s Atlantic coast like a local.
Private Coastal Portugal Tour from Lisbon – Óbidos, Nazaré, Peniche & Baleal
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/93682/9d212052-980f-467f-9b15-3d7f54bf1690.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/22069/749c2d8a-9a5c-484f-8677-8ff3eceb3f6a.jpg)
Lisbon to Arrábida & Setúbal Private Tour – Scenic Atlantic Coast, Local Market & Hidden Gems
Escape Lisbon for a private journey to Arrábida’s breathtaking landscapes, the Atlantic coast, and Setúbal’s lively market. Taste fresh seafood, explore hidden gems, and uncover local stories. From the Sado River estuary to dramatic cliffs, enjoy history, nature, and authentic flavors at your own pace — all away from the crowds and in first-class comfort.
Lisbon to Arrábida & Setúbal Private Tour – Scenic Atlantic Coast, Local Market & Hidden Gems
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/14147/360d3668-1dff-4258-9d7f-40b42a76346e.jpg)
Sintra - The delights of a Romantic escape Private Tour from Lisbon
Experience the magic of Sintra with me! Explore fairy tale palaces, scenic vistas, and hidden gems. Delve into its romantic past and indulge in local delights. Customizable tours tailored to you. Let's uncover the beauty of Sintra together!
Sintra - The delights of a Romantic escape Private Tour from Lisbon
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/53410/74d2a210-fe8c-4b33-8d76-fff95101a405.png)