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15 Best Lisbon Tours for the Ultimate Sightseeing Experience

LOOKING FOR THE BEST TOURS OF LISBON?

You’ve come to the right place because this guide will highlight the 15 best Lisbon tours to experience all this unique (and delicious) cuisine has to offer.

As someone who has lived in Lisbon since 2020 , I know that there so many different things to explore in and around Lisbon. And if you are only here for a couple of days, you might not be able to see it all. That’s why a tour is one of your best options.

Don’t have time to read the whole article?

The best Lisbon tour is this Lisbon 3-Hour Sightseeing Tour By Tuk Tuk , with a perfect 5-star ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating 😊

Are you ready for the best tours in Lisbon to explore this magnificent city? Let’s dive in.

Top 3 Picks: Best Tours in Lisbon

Private City Tour: Highlights of Lisbon

→ Personalized experience → Try the famous pastel de Belem

Treasures of Lisbon Food Tours

→ 18 different unique tastings → Small group tour

360º Lisbon: Helicopter Flight, Boat Trip & Old Town Walking

→ Discover a local’s eye view of Lisbon → Premium Small Group Tour

15 Best Lisbon Tours

From tuk tuks to walking tours to the best Lisbon river tours, there are many different types of tours that allow you to explore Lisbon. Here are some of my favorite Lisbon tours.

1. Lisbon 3-Hour Sightseeing Tour By Tuk Tuk

⭐️Rating: 4.8 out of 5 Stars | ⏰Tour time: 3 hours |  🚡 Check rates and availability

Embark on one of the most comprehensive and top-rated Lisbon Portugal tours on this Lisbon 3-Hour Sightseeing Tour by Tuk Tuk .

This thrilling adventure invites you to roam through Lisbon’s iconic neighbourhoods, such as Chiado, Bairro Alto , and Alfama , immersing you in the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.

It was wonderful to be picked up at our flat & brought around the city. He went above and beyond to show us both touristy and local spots. — GERRY   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Your tour Lisbon experience begins by tuk-tuk, allowing you to navigate the city’s cobbled streets and get up close and personal with key landmarks like the Lisbon Cathedral and Santa Justa elevator . Feel the energy of local life, a hallmark of all great Lisbon city tours.

The grand finale of your journey is the breathtaking Portas do Sol viewpoint. As the sun sets over the cityscape, you’ll realize there’s no better way to explore this European gem than through these unique Tuk Tuk Tours Lisbon . Don’t just see Lisbon. Live it!

Best Lisbon Tours

2. treasures of lisbon food tours.

⭐️Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰Tour time: 3.5 hours |  🍽 Check rates and availability

This Alfama Portuguese Food Tour is a popular tour that takes visitors through the narrow streets of Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood, Alfama. 

Led by a local guide , the tour offers a chance to sample traditional Portuguese dishes while learning about the area’s history and visiting landmarks like the King’s Fountain. 

Our guide was friendly, helpful & witty! We were taken to authentic local restaurants with each one having a specialty. We left happy, full & satisfied! — GERRY   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

One of the best food tours in Lisbon, The tour is designed for small groups . It offers 18 homemade, handmade, and unique dishes tastings and is a plastic-free experience. 

Please note that this particular Lisbon food tour is not suitable for vegans or vegetarians. 

3. Private City Tour: Highlights of Lisbon

⭐️ Rating:  5 out of 5 Stars |  ⏰ Tour time:  4 hours |  ⭐️  Check rates and availability

Uncover the essence of Portugal’s capital on this Private City Tour: Highlights of Lisbon tour , ranked among the best private Lisbon tours.

On this intimate journey, delve into the history-soaked neighborhoods of Chiado, Alfama, Baixa, and Belem, sampling the rich culture of this stunning city.

If you ever have the opportunity to go on a tour lead by Vasco you will not be disappointed. This hands down the best tour I have ever done. — Cheryl   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Your Lisbon tour commences with the convenience of pickup in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. You’ll weave through the city’s bustling streets, led by your personal guide , whose engaging commentary brings Lisbon’s storied past to life. A distinctive trait of all exceptional Lisbon City Tours.

The cherry on top of this Portugal Lisbon Tour s experience is the chance to sample the world-famous pastel de Belem. As your day draws to a close, you’ll appreciate the bespoke nature of this journey, setting it apart from other tours in Lisbon.

4. 360º Lisbon: Helicopter Flight, Boat Trip & Old Town Walking

Venture on a Lisbon adventure unlike any other on this 360º Lisbon: Helicopter Flight, Boat Trip & Old Town Walking tour , a distinctive choice among Lisbon day tours.

This unique excursion blends the charm of a guided walk, the thrill of a helicopter ride, and the serenity of a sail on the Tagus River, offering a comprehensive view of the city. Your journey begins in the city center, where you’ll wander the historical streets.

The helicopter ride exceeded expectations. Our guide Flavio was excellent. — Cheryl   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Next, experience the nostalgia of riding Lisbon’s iconic yellow streetcar before setting sail towards Belem, a highlight of Lisbon boat tours. Then the ultimate Lisbon Tour moment awaits as you ascend into the sky on a memorable helicopter ride.

As Lisbon unfolds below, this moment will etch itself into your memories. This 360º Lisbon tour doesn’t just show you Lisbon , it lets you feel, breathe, and live it like never before!

5. Exclusive Private Boat Tour with Local Sailors

⭐️ Rating:  5 out of 5 Stars |  ⏰ Tour time:  2 hours |  ⛵️  Check rates and availability

Steep yourself in the allure of Lisbon with this exclusive 2-hour private boat tour , designed perfectly for groups, families, or couples seeking a memorable journey.

Sail through the dynamic sights of Lisbon. Marvel at the colorful houses of Alfama , the imposing Belem Towe r, and the grand Christ the Kin g statue from the unique vantage point of the Tagus River.

 We got to stop & jump in the water, had a great lunch on board, and enjoyed some great wine & beers — GABRIELLE   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Throughout the tour, the experienced crew will illuminate the history and culture that define Lisbon , enhancing your appreciation of the city. The sailboat is outfitted with all necessary safety equipment, a sound system, and a dedication to accommodating special requests.

This Lisbon sailing tour , one of the best boat tours Lisbon Portugal has, also includes a complimentary welcome drink, allowing you to toast to Lisbon’s beauty.

6. Pastel de Nata Pastry Class

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour time: 2 hours |  🥮 Check rates and availability

Explore the art of making Pastel de Nata, one of the most cherished Portuguese pastries, in a comprehensive, hands-on class at Homecooking Lisbon . 

You’ll master step-by-step techniques and secrets for whipping up these delightful egg custard tarts, making it a breeze to recreate the pastel de nata recipe in the comfort of your own home.

Awesome class! We learned all the tips a written recipe could never give. And soooo yummy pasteis! — JULIE   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

While you might not outdo the famous Pastéis de Belém Pastry Factory, you’ll definitely wow your friends and family with your newfound skills. 

This class lets pastry lovers dig into the history behind these iconic treats. Sign up for a class and get a taste of Portugal’s delicious culinary heritage. 

7. Lisbon Private Tours: Half-Day Eco Tuk Tuk Tour

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour time: 2 hours |  🚡 Check rates and availability

Zip through the labyrinthine streets with ease on this Private Half-Day Eco Tuk Tuk Tour in Lisbon .

From the historic Alfama to the bustling Bairro Alto, this tour showcases Lisbon’s top neighborhoods, all while leaving a minimal carbon footprint — making it one of the best Lisbon eco tours.

Fantastic tour, Francisco was wonderful, very knowledgeable..great driver. Well worth the day. Would recommend. — RICHARD (READ MORE  REVIEWS

Experience an intimate connection with Lisbon’s life and culture as your private guide navigates through narrow lanes where regular Bus Tours in Lisbon can’t venture. You’ll then stop at Graça, to sample the local’s favorite sour cherry liqueur—Ginjinha .

This tour encapsulates the true essence of private tours Lisbon, molded around your interests and preferences. Choose from various tour times for a perfectly personalized adventure. Embrace Lisbon, not as a tourist but as a local, with this exclusive Tuk Tuk journey.

8. Lisbon Tours By Locals: Belém Private Tuk Tuk Guided Tour

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour time: 2 hours | 🏰 Check rates and availability

Prepare for a journey back in time on this Belém 2-Hour Private Tuk Tuk Guided Tour . This trip isn’t just one of your standard Lisbon local tours – it’s a unique adventure that lets you discover the heart of historic Belem.

Silvia was the most amazing guide. So personable, accommodating and knowledgeable. She made the trip fun and easy. Highly recommend! — HOLLY (READ MORE  REVIEWS

You’ll explore iconic landmarks such as the Jeronimos Monastery and the Monument to the Discoveries , all from the comfort of your private Tuk Tuk. You’ll also make a stop at the renowned Pasteis de Belem to savor a scrumptious custard tart. No Lisbon day tours should miss this!

Your guide will fill your journey with rich narratives and local insights – an integral part of the best guided tours Lisbon has to offer.

9. Tastes & Traditions of Lisbon Food Tour

Experience the delicious flavors of Portugal on a guided food tour of Lisbon’s traditional eateries hosted by Devour Lisbon Food Tours .  

You will join a small group and stroll through the cobblestone streets of the historic neighborhoods, sampling several dishes, drinks, and pastries. Indulge in a juicy pork sandwich , savor the famous custard tarts , sip on the famous sour cherry liqueur, and many other tasty treats.

Amazing guide, delicious food, we learned history and had a good time. We were full and will be booking another Devour tour in the future. — MIGUEL (READ MORE  REVIEWS

One of the best Lisbon food tours, this Devour Food Tours Lisbon experience offers a unique opportunity to discover the rich culinary traditions of Lisbon and indulge in the city’s delicious food.

10. Private Historical Jewish lisbon guided tours

⭐️Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰Tour time: 3.5 hours |  ✡️ Check rates and availability

Step into the past on this Private Historical Jewish Tour of Lisbon and experience a side of Portugal’s capital often overlooked.

Led by an expert guide, this tour explores the rich Jewish heritage that lies within the charming streets of Lisbon. As part of this experience, you’ll delve into the heart of Lisbon’s old quarters, where the Jewish community flourished, shaping Portugal’s history significantly.

The walking tour of the Alfama district, and the visit to the tiny temple, were spectacular. We highly recommend our guide, Daniel. — LINDA (READ MORE  REVIEWS

Rated one of the best walking tours Lisbon has to offer, as well as the best Jewish Lisbon tours, you’ll get to walk the charming, narrow streets of Lisbon’s old quarters, including the UNESCO-listed district of Alfama .

Every corner has a story to tell, and your guide is ready to share it all. This is hands-down one of the best Jewish tours Lisbon Portugal offers for anyone looking to go beyond the regular tours of Lisbon Portugal.

11. Lisbon cycle tours: 3-Hour Tour by E-Bike

⭐️Rating: 4.7 out of 5 Stars | ⏰Tour time: 3 hours |  🚲 Check rates and availability

Get ready to pedal your way through Portugal’s capital on this Lisbon: 3-Hour Tour by E-Bike. Offering a unique perspective on the city, these bike tours in Lisbon allow you to comfortably explore the highest viewpoints and most iconic streets.

Your Lisbon bike tours adventure kicks off with a short briefing before you set off to the stunning viewpoint of São Pedro de Alcântara , passing significant landmarks such as the Portuguese Parliament.

The journey continues towards the Castelo de São Jorge area , treating you to a panoramic view of Lisbon from the Miradouro das Portas do Sol . Finally, you’ll wind down into the historic Alfama Quarter, the heart of old Lisbon, before cycling back to the start of the tour at Handelsplatz.

If you’re looking for a unique, fun, and active way to enjoy sightseeing in Lisbon tours, this electric bike tour is definitely one of the best tours of Lisbon .

12. Lisbon Northern Region Wine Tasting Private Tour

Set off on a journey of the senses on this Lisbon Northern Region Wine Tasting Private Tour . This is no ordinary sightseeing venture; it’s an indulgence for the palate, making it one of the best tours Lisbon has on offer for wine lovers.

During this excursion, you’ll discover two of Portugal’s historic wineries located in the charming villages of Cheleiros and Bucelas . In the world of wine tours Lisbon Portugal, this stands out as you get to taste unique local varieties, enriching your knowledge of Portugal’s revered wine regions.

We went from seaside to the mountains! Enjoyed it every single minute and there was always something to see and do. — Frederick (READ MORE  REVIEWS

As part of the Lisbon winery tours, you’ll also have the opportunity to sample artisanal olive oil and traditional bread, products equally celebrated in this region. The private nature of these Lisbon wine tours ensures a bespoke, intimate experience.

Drink in the rustic beauty of the vineyard-surrounded villages and uncover the rich tapestry of tastes that Portugal has to offer. One of the best Lisbon food and wine tours, this is one journey that will leave you with a rich aftertaste of Portuguese culture.

13. Lisbon: Street Art Tour

⭐️Rating: 4.9 out of 5 Stars | ⏰Tour time: 3 hours |  🎨 Check rates and availability

Step off the beaten path and into Lisbon’s vibrant art scene on this Lisbon: Street Art Tour . This tour ranks among the best excursions in Lisbon for those looking to explore the city’s rich street art culture.

On this unique Lisbon street art tours experience, you’ll wander through hidden alleys, open spaces, and buzzing streets, discovering an eclectic mix of graffiti, murals, and large-scale installations.

One of the best tours we ever did! Highly recommended! — ADAM (READ MORE  REVIEWS

One of the best Lisbon small group tours, this Street Art tour offers an intimate look at the city’s urban creativity. Ready to explore Lisbon’s art scene ? Join one of the most unique Lisbon walking tours and see the city through a different lens.

14. Segway Super Tour

⭐️Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰Tour time: 3 hours |  🚲 Check rates and availability

Get a fresh perspective of Portugal’s capital on this Segway Super Tour , one of the most exciting Lisbon Segway tours. Zipping through the city’s heart and the historic district of Alfama has never been this fun!

This half-day tour gives you a comprehensive and effortless exploration of Lisbon’s key landmarks, including the nearly millennium-old Lisbon Cathedral and the Moorish hilltop castle São Jorge , making it one of the best Lisbon sightseeing tours.

Loved this tour… we all had so much fun and the team there were so friendly. Definitely do this if you are in Lisbon and want to see all over. — TIM (READ MORE  REVIEWS

Operated much like a Lisbon city tours bus, this Segway tour ensures you don’t miss a beat of Lisbon’s vibrant city life and cultural heritage. Along the way, there’s even a chance to indulge in some of the city’s delectable local cuisine – yum.

15. Free Walking Tour Lisbon Portugal

⭐️Rating: 4.7 out of 5 Stars | ⏰Tour time: 2.5 hours |  🚶‍♀️ Check rates and availability

Embark on this Lisbon: City Highlights Guided Walking Tour recognized as one of the best free walking tours Lisbon has to offer.

Begin in Praça do Comércio , and weave your way through the city’s vibrant Alfama district , home to narrow streets, iconic landmarks, and bustling local life.

The tour was very informative. Sara knew her history and that is what she focused on. — LINDA (READ MORE  REVIEWS

You’ll pass by the stunning vistas of Portas do Sol viewpoint, and São Jorge Castle, soaking in stories shared by your guide. Delve into the heart of the Baixa district, and enjoy breathtaking views from the Santa Justa Elevator and São Pedro de Alcantara viewpoint.

Concluding in the bohemian district of Bairro Alto, this Lisbon free walking tour gives you a comprehensive insight into this enchanting city.

3 Top Day Tours From Lisbon

Now that I’ve covered the best tours in Lisbon, if you are craving a city escape, there are also plenty of things to do around the city. So here are the best day trips from Lisbon Portugal, including a couple of my favorite spots that I would recommend every traveler head to.

1. Secrets of Sintra/Cascais Natural Park – Fairytale Tour

⭐️Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰Tour time: 8 hours |  🏰 Check rates and availability

Experience a full day of fairytale wonder on this Secrets of Sintra/Cascais Natural Park Tour , one of the best Sintra day tours from Lisbon.

Wander through the many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Pena Palace, on this personalized small-group tour — one of the highlights of all Lisbon tours to Sintra.

Excellent private tour. Our guide was incredibly knowledgable and gave us a fantastic day in Sintra and Cascais.  — CRISTOPHER (READ MORE  REVIEWS

Explore Sintra’s enchanting monuments and enjoy the breathtaking views from Cabo da Roca , the westernmost point of continental Europe. These Lisbon Sintra tours promise an unforgettable journey through the picturesque landscapes and villages that define the Portuguese Riviera.

Your journey doesn’t end in Sintra, though. On your way back to Lisbon, you’ll stop at the charming fishing village of Cascais . This is the ultimate package of the Lisbon tours Sintra has to offer, ensuring a personalized experience and memories to last a lifetime.

2. Wonders of Fátima and Óbidos – Tour to Portugal’s Center

⭐️Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour time: 8-9 hours |  🏰 Check rates and availability

Unveil the rich heritage of Portugal’s heartland with this Wonders of Fátima and Óbidos tour , a standout among the day tours Lisbon has to offer. This private, full-day journey offers an in-depth exploration of the Silver Coast, taking you through historic sites and breathtaking vistas.

First, you’ll experience Fátima’s sacred sanctuaries. As one of the most revered Catholic pilgrimage sites worldwide, it’s a spiritual touchstone that resonates with all who visit.

This was truly a MUST experience.  — cynanne (READ MORE  REVIEWS

Follow the Lisbon tours to Fatima itinerary to the UNESCO-listed Monastery of Batalha , where architectural grandeur meets rich history. Navigate the narrow, winding streets of the medieval town of Óbidos, and breathe in the salty air at the beaches of Nazaré and Praia do Norte.

One of the best Lisbon to Fatima tours, this tour not only offers a cultural immersion but also promises personalized attention from a dedicated guide and comfortable round-trip transport.

3. Porto Private Tour from Lisbon with Douro Cruise and Wine Tasting

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour time: 12 hours |  🍷 Check rates and availability

Discover the enchanting city of Porto with a full-day guided tour from Lisbon . Your private guide will lead you through Portugal’s captivating second city, exploring iconic landmarks such as the cathedral, Sao Bento train station, and Clerigos Tower.

This tour of Porto was a trifecta: great city & wonderful knowledgable guide Susana…private tour in a most comfortable van…climaxing with a river cruise and wine tasting.  — Phyllis   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Following the city tour, embark on a traditional Rabelo boat and cruise down the picturesque Douro River. From the water, you’ll witness the city’s stunning sights and marvel at Porto’s six impressive bridges .

One of the best tours from Lisbon to Porto, this unforgettable day trip will leave you captivated by Portugal’s charm.

👋🏻Want to explore more Lisbon day trips? Here are all the top places you can visit , and here are some of the best day trip tours from Lisbon that you can enjoy. I’ve also written a guide about Lisbon to Porto Day trips.

Best Lisbon Tours: Frequently Asked Questions

What tours in Lisbon are good for avoiding crowds?

If you are looking to avoid crowds, consider private tours such as the Private Historical Jewish Tour of Lisbon or the Private Half-Day Eco Tuk Tuk Tour . Alternatively, explore lesser crowded areas like the artistic streets on the Lisbon: Street Art Tour or go for an e-Bike Tour in Lisbon .

How many days do you need to tour Lisbon?

To get a good feel of Lisbon and explore its main attractions, it is recommended to spend at least three full days. However, if you want to also venture out to nearby regions such as Sintra or Fátima, a week would provide a more leisurely pace.

What to skip in Lisbon?

While everyone’s interests vary, some may argue to skip the Elevador de Santa Justa due to its long queues. It’s beautiful to look at, but you can get similar views from other miradouros (viewpoints) in Lisbon, such as the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, without the wait or the fee.

What is the best way to explore Lisbon?

The best way to explore Lisbon is a mix of walking and using public transportation. Lisbon’s neighborhoods are filled with steep hills and narrow streets, perfect for exploring on foot.

However, for longer distances or to reach certain attractions like Belém, using the efficient tram, bus, or metro system is recommended.

Is Lisbon a walkable city?

Absolutely — Lisbon is a highly walkable city. Its neighborhoods are compact, offering an array of beautiful sights, historic landmarks, and cultural experiences. However, keep in mind that Lisbon’s charming streets are often steep and cobbled, so comfortable shoes are a must!

More Lisbon Travel Articles

I can tell you firsthand that a Lisbon tour one of the best ways to enjoy Lisbon— so I’m glad you landed on this article to book yours.

If you’re looking for more info on traveling to Lisbon Portugal, check out these additional Lisbon travel guides:

• 20 Best Day Trips From Lisbon: Incredible Places To Visit
• 15 Best Boat Tours In Lisbon: An Unforgettable Journey
• 8 Best Pastel De Nata Classes In Lisbon, Portugal
• 40 Best Sights In Lisbon: Exploring Portugal’s Capital
• Wine Tours In Lisbon: 12 Amazing Sip And Savor Experiences
• 15 Food Tours In Lisbon: A Guide To The Best Eats In The City
• Visiting Lisbon? The Best Area To Stay In Lisbon
• The 23 Best Boutique Hotels In Lisbon
• The 28 BEST Vegan & Vegetarian Restaurants In Lisbon
• The Best Fado In Lisbon: 11 Fado Houses To Explore

Final Thoughts: Best Lisbon Tours

All in all, whether you’re seeking the hustle and bustle of a vibrant cityscape, the tranquil allure of a sunset sailing, or the scenic splendor of a sunset cruise, Lisbon offers a multitude of experiences tailored to satisfy every traveler’s appetite.

Still, Don’t Know Which Tour to Choose?

Embrace the city’s rich history, captivating culture, and picturesque landscapes, and leave with memories that last a lifetime.

Yvonne Ivanescu is the founder of Now in Portugal and Now in Rio Swim, an ethical and sustainable swimwear company. She is a writer, editor and marketer with over 10 years of experience.

Storytelling is her second nature and she wants to share the magic of Portugal with the rest of the world.

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Luxury Private Arrábida Tour and Bacalhoa Palace with exclusive Wine taste

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15 Best Wine Tasting Tours in Lisbon to Discover the Unique Flavors of Local Grapes

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Wine aficionados will love the best wine tasting tours in Lisbon , the captivating capital of Portugal. These tours, among the most popular things to do in Lisbon , introduce visitors to the rich wine regions of Portugal .

Guests can savor a range of wines, often paired with delicious local cheeses and charcuterie. Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, sharing insights about the winemaking process and the history of Portuguese wines.

These tours are immersive journeys into the heart of Lisbon wine culture, offering a blend of education, relaxation, and gastronomic delight.

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• wine tasting tours in Lisbon

1 – 2 Hour Wine Tasting and Cheese Lunch in Portuguese Wine Bar

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 328 reviews )

“Interesting selection of wines and a generous charcuterie platter. Wine bar host was knowledgeable and friendly” Jennifer, Viator

A visit to From The Vine wine bar in the company of a friendly guide offers visitors to Lisbon the opportunity to sample a variety of Portuguese wines without leaving the city. This excursion delves into the regional traditions of wine making, and a charcuterie and cheese board that pairs perfectly with the chosen wines is served.

Wine and  cheese tastings in Lisbon are popular and while there are many such tours available, this top rated 2-hour tour includes both of these experiences in a relaxed yet informative way.

On a 2-hour wine tasting and cheese lunch you will benefit from the expertise of both your guide and the wine bar owner.

This is an excellent way to experience some of Portugal’s best wines without needing to travel great distances. The guide and bar owner are knowledgeable, warm and engaging which makes the tour even more memorable.

• wine tours with cheese tastings

2 – Lisbon Small-Group Portuguese Food and Wine Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.7/5 ( 2102 reviews )

“What a great night, great guide (Filipe Roque), delicious food and wine, and wonderful group from all over!” Erin, Viator

The neighborhood of Alfama  is one of the  best places to visit in Lisbon and is a vibrant location that immerses you in the city’s culture and traditions. On an Inside Lisbon small-group Portuguese food and wine tour you can experience some of the region’s defining culinary delights and fine wines.

This is one of several walking tours in Lisbon and is one of the best wine tastings tours on offer, being an ideal introduction to the city and its vast array of eateries and pubs. Along with the obvious opportunity to taste a selection of food and drink, a walking tour brings you closer to the heart and soul of the city and its friendly residents.

Enthusiastic and knowledgeable guides make this a fun and memorable tour. Even in rainy weather conditions you can be assured of a warm welcome at the tasting locations. As an added bonus, you will get great tips on where to eat while in Lisbon.

• wine tours with food tours

Read more: Best walking tours in Lisbon

3 – Private Wine Tasting Tour to the Setubal Wine Region from Lisbon

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 456 reviews )

“We visited 3 wineries and had a lovely lunch at a local Portuguese restaurant. Paulo was super informative about the history of Portugal and wines and took exceptional care of us. We would highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Lisboa!” Heather, Viator

Setúbal is famous for its wine production, particularly its Moscatel de Setúbal, a sweet fortified wine that is highly regarded both in Portugal and internationally. If you’re considering private tours in Lisbon , a wine tour to this region should be a top consideration.

TakingUThere wine tours are full day tours that depart Lisbon. These private day trips combine insight into the process of wine-making, a glimpse into the culture and traditions of Portugal, and wine tastings . With local food pairings, this tour is an immersive excursion encompassing Setúbal’s regional flavors.

Wine tours in Setubal are a great shore excursion for cruise passengers and visitors to Lisbon. Comfortable vehicles and enthusiastic and knowledgeable guides add value to the experience. A stop at the tile factory is highly recommended if you have the time.

• See price & reviews

4 – From Lisbon: Évora and Monsaraz Day Tour with Wine Tasting

Rating: ⭐️ 4.8/5 ( 100 reviews )

“The trip was excellent. The guide was very attentive. We really like Evora, a cozy city.” Josélia, Getyourguide

Visit Alentejo, one of Portugal’s most scenic regions on a full day trip with Tugatrips Tours . The tour winds through the plains replete with olive groves and vineyards, and includes time in the fascinating medieval village of Évora .

Monsaraz is also included on the itinerary, and you can explore this village built within the castle walls before enjoying a wine tasting while overlooking one of Europe’s largest artificial lakes.

Comfortable transportation, local guides and the option of a hotel pick up and drop off, make this a tour to consider. You also have the option of arranging a private group booking.

A tour to Évora and Monsaraz offers a good balance between sightseeing and wine tasting. The guides are friendly and entertaining and have a good knowledge of the area’s history and culture. The visit to the Roman temple and Chapel of Bones are highlights on this scenic excursion.

• Évora tours from Lisbon

5 – Private Full-Day Arrábida Wine Tour and Food Tasting

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 413 reviews )

“This tour was great. It was nice to step out of the hustle and bustle of Lisbon (…) Wine tasting experinece was fun and interesting. Would highly recommend the tour if you get the opportunity.” Nadia, Viator

Arrábida is an area where many of Portugal’s top wines are produced. Look Around Tours are one of the companies that offer  private tours in Lisbon and their food and wine tour to Arrábida is highly recommended.

On this type of tour, you can taste some of the wines, cheese and olives and other fresh produce the region is known for, see some of the spectacular natural parks and visit several attractions and landmarks.

A visit to a local fresh produce market, a traditional tile factory, wine estates and farms and a medieval castle are just a few of the memorable aspects of this engaging excursion.

A private wine and food tour to Arrábida is perfect if you want to customize your sightseeing or are celebrating a special occasion. The scenic views are spectacular and the stop at the tile factory is just one of the tour highlights.

• Arrábida tours from Lisbon

Read more: Best day trips from Lisbon

6 – Undiscovered Lisbon Food & Wine Tour with Eating Europe

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 1466 reviews )

“The food and wine tour was wonderful — lovely walk through interesting parts of the city along with a sampling of (plenty of) Portugal specialties.” Maureen, Viator

Immerse yourself in the lifestyle and cuisine of Lisbon on an Eating Europe food and wine tour. As you walk through the historical heart of the city, your guide will introduce you to the local history and a few local gems that serve local wines and traditional Portuguese fare.

Whether you are a first time visitor wanting an orientation tour or a regular to the Portuguese shores, this tour savors Baxia and Mouraria’s culinary scenes, supporting local businesses and wineries, which each offer their own unique flair.

A visit to a local fado house run by a Michelin star chef is a highlight of this tour. The guides are attentive and knowledgeable, and the small group experience adds to the fun atmosphere. This is a great way to explore the city and sample its culinary delights.

• food tours in Lisbon

Read more: Best food tours in Lisbon

7 – Sintra: Full-Day Tour from Lisbon with Wine Tasting

Rating: ⭐️ 4.8/5 ( 55 reviews )

“We thoroughly enjoyed our tour. Truthfully, it was the best we’ve ever had.” Susan, Getyourguide

Visitors rave about this full day tour to Sintra and its easy to see why. Lisbon on Wheels has designed an itinerary that includes several of the region’s most popular attractions including, Sintra , the whimsical  Pena Palace , the National Palace of Sintra and the ancient Castle of the Moors .

Apart from the obvious allure of the scenery, this tour also takes the time to introduce you to the highly regarded wines that are grown in the region and traditional Portuguese fare. A stop at the most westerly point of mainland Europe is just another reason to love this tour.

The guides on this tour receive consistently excellent reviews. Every effort is made to accommodate your requests within the allotted time and depending on the day, you may have the chance to enjoy a breath-taking sunset from Pena Palace or visit a few of Lisbon’s hidden gems.

• Sintra tours from Lisbon

8 – Lisbon: 1-Hour Portuguese Wine Tasting Session

Rating: ⭐️ 4.7/5 ( 107 reviews )

” A very enjoyable hour spent in a stylish wine bar, learning key notes about Portugal’s wine regions while tasting wines from three of those regions (and snacking on some olives and a nut mix).” Rochelle, Getyourguide

Portugal is not only a great destination if you are seeking the sun, it is also known for its wines and other tasty Mediterranean fare. A 1-hour wine tasting experience at From The Vine wine bar introduces you to the region’s wines in a relaxed and informative way.

This wine tasting includes details about the history of Portuguese wine making and the complexities of the wine-making processes including the growing of the varietals and their regions.

You will have 3 wines to taste during the experience, each with its own unique region and palate. Once the activity ends, you can remain at the venue for further tastings or to enjoy a meal, or continue to your next stop.

A tasting at From the Vine wine bar is a fantastic way to spend a short time learning about Portuguese wines. If time is limited, this is the perfect experience. The guide is engaging and extremely knowledgeable and the stylish but relaxed atmosphere of the wine bar is warm and inviting.

9 – Arrabida and Sesimbra Small-Group Day Trip from Lisbon with Wine Tasting

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 310 reviews )

“Delicious wine with a good small group of people, enjoyed our tour guide a lot and learned more than we expected to!” Thomas, Viator

Inside Lisbon full day tours of Arrábida and Sesimbra afford visitors an entertaining and informative excursion that is considered one of the top tours to do while visiting Portugal.

These small group tours are limited to 8 participants to ensure individual attention. There are scenic drives, wine tasting opportunities, a beach stop, a visit to  Arrábida Natural Park , and time permitting a stop at  Sanctuary of Christ the King ,  one of the  best tourist attractions in Lisbon .

A tour to Arrabida and Sesimbra is a nature lover’s delight with magnificent scenery around every bend. Friendly, knowledgeable guides and a small group format are all part of the tour’s allure. You will definitely leave the tour more informed about the wine, history and culture of the area.

• Arrabida tours with wine tastings

10 – Lisbon Private Setúbal Region Wine Tasting Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.9/5 ( 110 reviews )

“We had such a beautiful day with Paolo as our guide. It was like being out with a friend. He has so much knowledge about the wines and the region. The vineyard tours and tastings were wonderful.” Fran, Getyourguide

There are many private tours in Lisbon to choose from, but if you want to explore the region, appreciate the natural beauty of Portugal and experience the generous hospitality of the locals, a private Setúbal Region tour will appeal to you.

This type of tour offers personalized service and the opportunity to slightly tailor your itinerary should you so desire. Wine production and the history of Portuguese viticulture are some of the points of interest on this excursion which visits both traditional and more modern wine cellars.

A private tour is a real treat and being able to learn more about the various wines from an enthusiastic wine guide made the experience even better value. The locations are well chosen and the authentic local activities made the tour even more memorable.

11 – Intimate Live Fado Show in Lisbon with Port Wine

Rating: ⭐️ 4.8/5 ( 1134 reviews )

“This is a delightful evening. You really get a feel for how important and how good fado is. The musicians are outstanding and the intimate setting is perfect.” Ian, Getyourguide

Fado music has its roots in Portugal’s rich maritime history. The soulful melancholic music is traditionally played in pubs and cafés and provides a moving insight into the country’s musical heritage.

A Fado experience is usually an intimate one which is often paired with the opportunity to sample some of the fortified port wine produced in the nearby Porto region. A tour with Lisboa em Fado also incorporates short videos outlining the history of this specific genre into the evening of  Fado shows in Lisbon .

The video introduction to Fado provides an excellent grounding that touches on the history and development of the genre. The show itself is melancholic and moving, and the performing artists are top class, especially the guitarists.

• fado shows in Lisbon

Read more: Best Fado shows in Lisbon

12 – Lisbon: Winery Experience with 4WD Tour and Wine Tasting

Rating: ⭐️ 4.9/5 ( 48 reviews )

“The tour was incredible. We went to visit the “Quinta da Almiara” winery in Torres Vedras and we were delighted.” Danielle, Getyourguide

If you are looking for a fun experience that combines adventure and wine tasting, then this 4×4 and wine tasting experience is one of the best wine tasting tours in Lisbon to select. World Experience operates this excursion that combines wine tastings and  jeep tours in Lisbon .

The tour also includes a fair amount of sightseeing with visits to the mill in Torres Vedras, an ancient wine press or Lagar’ and other cultural points of interest.

This is a fun tour that offers a different perspective of the local vineyards. Tastings are presented by local winemakers or winery hosts who also share stories of the growing and production processes. The winery restaurant is excellent and the serving staff are very knowledgeable about the wines on the menu.

• wine tastings tours in Lisbon

13 – Lisbon: 2-Hour Wine and Tapas Tasting Session

Rating: ⭐️ 4.8/5 ( 63 reviews )

“Excellent place for Wine Tasting! Andrea was extremely knowledgeable! Wines and food were first class! Staff was friendly as well! Its a Portugal must to do!” Aimee, Getyourguide

Description: 1You can tour the best of Portuguese wines and artisanal foods without having to leave Lisbon for a 2-hour wine and tapas tasting experience at Lisbon Winery .

The host introduces many of the region’s boutique wines and vintages from small volume wine producers, and pairs them with a delicious tapas board. That includes items such as cheeses, gourmet sausage and chorizo and Portuguese pata negra ham are served

Perfectly paired food and wines are the highlight of this pleasurable wine tasting experience. The best part of the experience was the fact that the sommelier took the time to understand our personal preferences and served wines accordingly. The Tawny Port rounds off a wonderful evening.

• tapas experiences in Lisbon

14 – Portuguese Wine History & Amazing Landscape

Rating: ⭐️ 4.9/5 ( 24 reviews )

“Our expectations were absolutely exceeded. Brilliant tour with a great tour guide. Perfect for exploring the surrounding area and learning about the history of Lisbon and its wine past.” Dennis, Getyourguide

Sit back and relax on a scenic tour of some of Portugal’s most historic wine country. Among the attractions you will see are the Vasco da Gama Bridge and the Moorish Palmela Castle.

Along with tasting locally produced Moscato, the tour includes time to enjoy Portinho Beach in Arrabida Natural Park.

Lisbonbylocals are known for their small group and private customizable itineraries that focus on highlighting the best aspects of Lisbon and the surrounding areas.

This tour is carefully planned to provide visitors views of some of Portugal’s most scenic locations. There is plenty of time to hear stories of the region’s history and to enjoy the tastes of some of the delicious food and wine the area is famous for.

15 – Taylor’s Port – Wine Shop & Tasting Room

Rating: ⭐️ 4.4/5 ( 7 reviews )

“Amazing selection, prices and quality. The ports are exceptional and the shop has everything from new to 50 years old” Neia, Tiqets

Some of Portugal’s finest Port is available for tasting at Taylor’s Port wine and shop and tasting room. This tasting room is part of the Três Séculos group and offers an upmarket and exclusive tasting locale.

Tawny, ruby, rosé and white port wines will be familiar after your time spent learning about their differences and you will love the creamy pastier de nada that are served as an accompaniment.

A venue that serves exceptional Port wines of many vintages, including some as old as 50 years. Welcoming hosts share their knowledge and then allow you to enjoy the tasting experience.

How to book wine tasting tours in Lisbon?

You will find many different wine tasting tours offered by various tour operators and several travel websites offer tours that can be booked online. It is worth comparing tours and operators as similar tours may be offered at discounted rates by preferential partners. Prices can vary from one website to another and it is always advisable to read the reviews before making your decision.

You can search for the best wine tasting tours in Lisbon on TourScanner and compare offers, read reviews and check prices.

• compare wine-tasting tours in Lisbon

The 10 best things to do in Lisbon

From sweeping views to street art, discover what makes Lisbon one of Europe's top city breaks at these top attractions

Lisbon is a city steeped in history and traditions that are still at play today. Begin by exploring centuries-old attractions such as the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos or the Torre de Belém, before hopping on a wooden tram through the city's prettiest and most historic streets. You can also join a walking tour to seek out the stories behind the families that have been salting cod and preparing piri-piri chicken for generations, tasting as you go. But the city has a modern side too, with creative and colourful street art sprayed onto the sides of different buildings. Discover the best things to do during a visit here and the top attractions to get to the heart of what makes Lisbon so wonderful.

Below our experts share their top tips for making the most of your time in the city, while here you'll find our guides focusing on Lisbon's best  hotels ,  restaurants ,  bars  and  shopping , plus how to spend a  weekend in Lisbon . 

Find an attraction by area

Bairro alto, avenidas novas, cais do sodré, explore a centuries-old monastery.

This imperious 15th-century Manueline monastery was built to commemorate Vasco da Gama's 'discovery' of India. The main attraction of the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos is the delicate Gothic chapel that opens up on to a grand monastery, in which some of Portugal's greatest historical figures are entombed.

Insider’s tip:  If you are visiting over a weekend, choose a time when mass is being held, allowing you to access the church without a queue and see it in its full glory as a church rather than a museum.

Contact:   patrimoniocultural.gov.pt Price: ££; free on the first Sunday of each month

Peer at the Atlantic from inside an impressive tower

The early 16th-century Torre de Belém stands out over the mouth of the Tejo, guarding the entrance to the city's harbour. It is a symbol of maritime Lisbon, and is reached via a walkway raised out over the water on timbers. Inside it is filled with intricate stonework and has wide Atlantic views.

Insider’s tip: Look for the rhinoceros sculpted on the base of a turret, which is considered to be the first sculpture of such an animal in Western European art. It probably depicts the rhinoceros that King Manuel 1 sent Pope Leo X in 1515.

Contact:   patrimoniocultural.gov.pt Price: £

Survey the city from the castle walls

The winding medieval streets of Lisbon's most ancient neighbourhood, Alfama, twist up to the city's Moorish pinnacle, Castelo de São Jorge. The dusk-orange walls of the ancient castle date back to the ninth century and lord over the city – they are visible from almost every street. The view from the top isn't bad either.

Insider’s tip: Don’t just visit the castle, but also dip into Lisbon’s imposing 12th-century cathedral nearby and then head for a coffee at Audrey's Café in hotel  Santiago de Alfama , from which you look onto the church where Christopher Columbus got married.

Contact:  castelodesaojorge.pt Nearest metro: Santa Apolónia Price: ££

Get the inside scoop on Alfama

There are lots of free walking tours in Lisbon, many hosted by students who benefit from tips, but nothing comes close to Discover Walks, a company rolled out globally which has garnered high praise. There is a wide choice of options, but start with the free 90-minute tour of Alfama, Lisbon’s most fascinating district where history is writ large on every narrow street.

Insider’s tip: This tour has something for everyone: history, yes, but it also explores Lisbon’s music, fado, its flag, its patron saint and the famous azulejos (tiles) that characterise the city. Take a camera and flat shoes for the hills and cobblestones.

Contact: discoverwalks.com Price: £

Hop aboard a tram to scoot up Lisbon's steep hills

The most charming way to tick off a few sights is by riding the wooden tram 28 as it rumbles through Lisbon's prettiest and most historic streets. Starting at the foot of Bairro Alto, the vintage carriage trundles through the shopping districts of Baixa and Chiado before lurching and labouring past the churches and castles on the cobbled hills of the Alfama and Graça neighbourhoods.

Insider’s tip: Avoid carrying any valuables aboard the tram if possible and safeguard your mobile, handbag and wallet as this ride is infamous among locals for being one which pickpockets target as it is mainly used by tourists.

Departs: From Praca Luis de Camões to Graça every 15 minutes Price:  £

Discover a remarkable private collection of art

One of the 20th century's great philanthropists, Armenian Calouste Gulbenkian, left much of his art and historic artefacts to his favoured city, Lisbon. The museum set up in his honour, Museu Calouste Gulbenkian, now houses one of Europe's most epic collections. Look out for priceless Hellenic vases, ancient Chinese porcelain and paintings by Rembrandt, Monet and Van Dyck. There's also an affiliated modern art museum opposite.

Insider’s tip: Don’t miss the special room dedicated to French artist René Lalique, which holds a superb collection of his jewellery and glass. It's just one example of an impressive body of work on the decorative arts.

Contact:  gulbenkian.pt Nearest metro: Entrecampos Price:  £

Scope out the best street art

Underdogs is a cultural platform based in the capital and founded by Lisbon’s best known street artist, Vhils. By prior arrangement, you can book a three-hour guided tour to visit a variety or urban art all over the city, such as Obey Giant by Vhils and Shephard Fairey. You can also visit the platform's gallery to view the current works on exhibition.

Insider’s tip: The tour ends at the Underdogs Art Store in Cais do Sodré, where you can buy limited editions of the work visited, as well a wide range of signed editions by Vhils and other artists and book by and about them.

Contact: under-dogs.net Nearest metro: Cais do Sodré Price: £££

Tickle your tastebuds with classic Lisbon dishes

Culinary Backstreets offers three very different tours (each celebrating a different neighbourhood), which take you into a hidden Lisbon where generations of families have been salting cod and preparing piri-piri chicken over charcoal pits. On the Song of the Sea tour, you'll wander into food markets and past docks in search of cod fritters and goose barnacles in the narrow streets of the working class district of Alcântara.

Insider’s tip: As much about the people and the place as the kitchen, these tours are for keen foodies with an appetite for everything, but make sure you try the little known Portuguese sheep cheeses, rich in both variety and flavour.

Contact: culinarybackstreets.com Price: £££

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Lisbon, Porto and the Douro Valley

Escorted tours | Riviera Travel

See Jerónimos Monastery and other treasures in Lisbon. Visit the Royal Palace at Sintra, taste port in Porto and explore the lush Douro Valley.

This aristocratic hill town to the west of the city is studded with fairytale palaces, botanical gardens and wild woodlands. It is famous for its misty, cool microclimate, which is one of the main reasons royalty would retreat here from Lisbon during the hot summers. The train to Sintra departs from Rossio station every 20 minutes and takes about 40 minutes. 

Insider’s tip: Allow a whole day to visit Sintra, which poet Lord Byron described as an 'Eden'. In between the gardens and historic palaces, treat yourself to a lunch at the elegant 18th-century Palacio de Seteais , now a luxury hotel.

Cascais, Estoril and beyond

These neighbouring beach towns are the best of the city's seaside suburbs. Destinations in themselves, they are connected by an Atlantic-front promenade. The region's best beaches (Adraga, Guincho and Grande) are found on the coastal road north, beyond Cascais. From Cais do Sodré station, the coastal train to Cascais and Estoril leaves every 20 minutes and takes about 40 minutes. 

Insider’s tip: Stop for a drink at the charming old Hotel Palácio in Estoril. Built in the 1930s, the hotel maintains its air of grandeur and was the setting for Bond film On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.

The best hotels in Lisbon

Memmo Príncipe Real

9 Telegraph expert rating

Altis Avenida

InterContinental Lisbon

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European cities hope jet-setting Taylor Swift fans will splash the cash for Eras tour

The superstar arrives in Europe next month – and Swifties, tourist boards and venues are already preparing

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Tim Brown, 44, and his wife, Marcella, 34, may not consider themselves bona fide “Swifties”, but when it was announced last June that Taylor Swift would be visiting their corner of the globe this summer they could not resist joining the scramble for a pair of tickets.

A post-pandemic appetite for live music events has fuelled huge worldwide interest in the American singer-songwriter’s Eras tour, which surpassed in $1bn sales in November to become the highest-grossing series of concerts in history.

The pop culture event of the summer will arrive in Europe next month, kicking off in Paris on 9 May and wrapping up in London on 20 August with 49 dates in between in Sweden, Ireland, Portugal, Germany, Poland, Austria, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands and Switzerland.

The unique nature of the tour’s ticketing system, which was tweaked after a number of hitches last year, means there will be a mass movement of travelling fans who will not only be Swiftie in affiliation but swift-like in their willingness to travel across the continent.

In expectation of intense demand, Ticketmaster introduced a pre-registration system that rewarded some early applicants with access codes to the ticket sale proper, via staggered windows for each city.

Notionally designed to prioritise genuine fans over “scalpers” – people who buy and resell tickets for a quick profit – the pre-sales system also meant many fans registered for tickets in multiple destinations across Europe to increase their chances.

Tim and Marcella, who live in Norwich, registered not just for the nearest concerts – in London and Liverpool – but also in Amsterdam and Lisbon. The pair got lucky with a pair of €91 tickets in the Portuguese capital and have turned the trip into a weekend break. “I used to live in Lisbon so I thought why not kill two birds with one stone,” Tim said. “We booked ourselves flights and four nights’ accommodation the same day.” They are far from alone.

Katie Soo, the chief business officer of DICE, a rival ticketing company, said: “The excitement and uncertainty inherent in the ticket-purchasing process might have inadvertently incentivised fans to apply for tickets in multiple cities, thereby increasing the likelihood of travelling across Europe to attend the concerts.”

Hotel prices

Several European cities have already reported a sharp rise in demand for hotel and short-term rental accommodation over the summer, when the Swift hurricane will arrive. In Edinburgh, Liverpool and Cardiff, rooms at the Travelodge chain around Swift’s June dates have been sold out since August 2023, a month after tickets for the shows went on sale.

In Paris, where fans anticipate Swift to debut an updated version of the Eras show with songs from the new Tortured Poets Department album, 80% of hotels and apartments listed on Booking.com are already full up. In Warsaw on 2 August, only 9% of hotels listed on the same site are still available.

Not all of the 18 cities covered by the Eras tour are obvious tourism destinations. From 17-19 July, Swift will play three concerts at the 65,000-capacity home ground of the football club Schalke 04 in Gelsenkirchen in Ruhr valley, western Germany. The city’s less-than-familiar name prompted one US chatshow host to quip that “the place might not even exist”.

Yet even in Germany’s rust belt the influx of Swift fans is temporarily transforming the hotel market: any two-bedroom apartments that remain available are going for €800-2,000 a night, with cheaper accommodation available only in surrounding cities that are just as off the usual tourist track as Gelsenkirchen, such as Essen, Bochum or Herne.

Cities with stricter rules on allowing Airbnb-style holiday lets and a more limited stock of short-term rental apartments are reporting a particularly marked increase in rates during Swift’s visit, with about 30% year-on-year spikes in rental rates in Cardiff, Edinburgh and Milan, according to AirDNA, a data analytics company specialising in the short-term rentals market.

Of all the tour’s European stops, Vienna is experiencing the most notable impact on its rental market, with booking rates for the nights of Swift’s concerts recorded in February 44% higher than at the same point the previous year. By the end of March the number of nights booked in the Austrian capital for the length of Swift’s stay in the second week of August had risen by 430% compared with the same period in 2023.

When Luke Tilden’s wife, Tatjana, suggested last summer that the couple buy their 13- and 15-year-old daughters, Lena and Maya, tickets to a Taylor Swift gig for Christmas, the 53-year-old Briton initially waved it off. “There’s no chance in hell we’d get a ticket without paying through our noses, I thought,” said Tilden, who works as an interpreter at the European parliament in Brussels.

But after pre-registering for tickets in London, Paris and Munich, the Tildens got unexpectedly lucky for four tickets in southern Germany and have turned the concert visit into a mini-holiday: “We’ll visit the in-laws in Bavaria, enjoy the countryside, do a bit of hiking.”

The hope in cities across Europe is that this will be replicated on a massive scale, with fans’ excitement translating into generous spending sprees on food, shopping and leisure. In Stockholm, for example, where authorities are expecting 159,000 visitors to arrive from 135 countries in mid-May, the chamber of commerce has forecast a spending boost of €50m. “We hope the whole town will buzz from the Eras tour,” said Tomas Andersson, a spokesperson for the Swedish capital’s tourism board.

Whether fans will necessarily act like ordinary tourists, however, is up for debate. “Pop-culture tourists do not necessarily care about traditional buildings and authentic restaurants,” said Maria Lexhagen, a professor at the European Tourism Research Institute, Mid Sweden University.

“Joining up with other fan communities is stronger motivation, as is the idea that they might get closer to the stars themselves. Many of them will map out where Swift is spending her time in the city – they will seek out seemingly marginal but meaningful places like back alleys or coffee shops.” Venues may be hoping for a repeat of Sydney in February, when Swift swept into an unassuming Italian restaurant in the suburbs and sent its name into global media headlines.

In Stockholm the tourism board said it was expecting bookshops and secondhand clothes stores, rather than museums and royal palaces, to attract most of the arriving visitors. Some venues are being proactive: one restaurant within walking distance of the multipurpose Friends Arena in the Solna municipality is putting on a “Taylor Swift brunch experience” with a karaoke stage; the waterfront nightclub Debaser is hosting a pre-concert party on 16 May, an all-ages all-day party with a Swift-themed quiz on 19 May and an afterparty the day after.

Environment

As the Swift circus rolls across the continent, the transport infrastructure of urban centres will also be put to the test. Around the tour’s three-night stop in Dublin at the end of June, Irish Rail has announced additional late-night services to Cork and Limerick to meet an expected increase in demand. Extra tram and bus services are likely to be announced nearer the time.

Unlike rail operators, most airlines do not have capacity to charter additional flights. Due to yield management – airlines adjusting prices based on expected demand – a scramble for airborne journeys into cities that host the Eras tour is more likely to result in more expensive tickets rather than additional flights.

Officials at Lisbon airport said no additional flights had been chartered around Swift’s concerts on 24 and 25 May but that demand would probably be reflected in slightly higher load factors. A spokesperson for Amsterdam Schiphol said general aviation slots could be requested at short notice but nothing out of the ordinary had been logged so far.

Calculating the environmental impact of the tour with any certainty was difficult, experts said. “We can expect that some Swift fans will travel a long way to see one, if not several, shows across Europe”, said Stefan Gössling, a professor of tourism at Linnaeus University in Kalmar, Sweden. “But measuring the environmental impact of these trips is extremely difficult – it would involve a lot of guesswork.”

This did not mean the carbon footprint was negligible. “Every flight taken by a person adds to demand and hence influences supply considerations,” Gössling said. “The greater the demand, the more aircrafts are in service.”

The pop star’s carbon footprint is easier to estimate. Swift owns two jets by the French manufacturer Dassault, whose journeys are trackable. During the 2023 leg of the Eras tour, Swift’s planes spent 166 hours crisscrossing the US in about 75 individual journeys, though it is possible they were used by people other than the singer.

According to data available through the open-access aviation tracker ADS-B exchange, Swift’s jets caused carbon emissions of about 2,830 tonnes of CO 2 equivalent over the course of the US Eras tour – about 1,700 times the annual contribution of an average person.

A spokesperson for Swift told US media last year that in advance of the tour’s start in March 2023, the pop star bought more than double the carbon credits needed to offset all tour travel. Carbon offset credits are tradable certificates that allow purchasers to compensate for emissions by investing in environmental projects that claim to reduce carbon emissions, though recent studies have questioned the efficacy of these schemes.

Additional reporting by Ajit Niranjan

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an ethereal lightness takes over studio gameiro's VAULT apartment in lisbon

Inside the vault apartment by studio gameiro.

Studio Gameiro completes The VAULT as an integrated residential project, spanning approximately 157 sqm in size and located in a singular building on the historic and creative Rua de São Bento street in Lisbon . ‘ As good and long lasting stories go, we wanted to take this challenge a bit further as a unique opportunity to go that extra mile, and were extremely fortunate to find such an interesting couple moving into the city who handed us the challenge to design and build something completely unique which played, and twisted, with the usual notions and principles of space,’ shares the studio. 

mimicking the Arch of São Bento in lisbon

The perfect metaphor for the VAULT apartment by Studio Gameiro (see more here ) is that the inside of the apartment mimics what the street has lacked for decades, and which used to define it as a starting and finishing point: the Arch of São Bento. The fact that the arch still exists nowadays in another square of Lisbon, and that the marks of this ‘uncoupling’ are still deeply visible on the street itself (and on the tiny rocky side which connects it to the National Parliament), gave the team an extra shot of energy to create something deeply rooted on the notion of the unexpected/unusual. This historic but grounded reference to arched forms is now perceived throughout its operational/logistics framework, and its visual identity.

curved ceilings and ethereal atmospheres

As residents enter from the living room, the social area is revealed in full display, with a corridor leading to the dining room. Here, a bespoke dining table with a Travertine Creme top occupies the center of the space. It rests on a solid Iroko wood structure which evokes the traditional style of centuries-old dining tables, and which is accompanied by six restored chairs designed by Gianfranco Frattini for Cassina . A classic revisited, something borrowed from memory, something pushing forward. This space is then smoothly connected to a breakfast corner, casual and chic as it could be. This small room, almost like a roundabout, gives one of the structural elements of this project: a strong character embedded with an almost floating, ethereal lightness. This contradiction of sorts permeates the entire apartment.

The continuation of the curved ceiling leads us to the bespoke kitchen, where Moleanos countertops, a brass pendant element and extensive storage units (which aesthetically and structurally follow the tone of the walls) stand out. Bespoke brass handles, in the shape of hooks, make magical appearances as playing hide and seek. The kitchen provides access to a small patio, ideal for a short break (and a good book on cold Winter nights). The opposite path leads to the private area of the apartment which is traversed by a corridor that begins and ends with a stone arch. Full circle and the perfect metaphor for the project itself.

This corridor leads to the bedrooms and a family bathroom, ultimately leading to the impressive entrance of the master suite. This room, with its incredible scale and width, has an almost cinematic visual flair that defines what we were very keen to have as a foundation stone: space as playful and functional as it could. These layers work as different ‘levels’ to create smooth transitions between each area, allowing us to create quiet spaces, reminiscent of the Roman aqueducts which had basins to calm and re-direct the water’s flow. It is as if all these historical references came together to create ‘free flow’ areas to promote smooth transitions between each room.

a deep and rich material palette by studio gameiro

The use of materials such as Moleanos limestone and brass is a nod to the aqueduct’s heritage and technical expertise as an Architecture and Design wonder. As textures go, the stone permeates all prominent areas like the arches which divide the spaces, the kitchen countertops and the bathroom sinks, while shiny brass represents a much more industrial character, alluding to the hooks that held lighting cables in the tunnels. This material, which sometimes wrongly rhymes with brash, is poetically edited into signature pieces, as it is discreetly incorporated into the project with a functional purpose. From the entrance there are two side paths which ‘divide’ the apartment into complementary ‘half moons’.

From the common areas of both kitchen and dining room, the same sense of openess permeates the acess to the sleeping rooms, accessed through another set of arched corridors. This ‘suspension’ framework is intricately connected to the apartment’s storyline. As the arch was part of the same technical design of the Aqueduto das Águas Livres which used to supply water to Lisbon, the curved ceilings and arches guide us through it like a meander/path, much like water was guided through the arches of the aqueduct to people’s homes for centuries. Similar to the soft and mysterious lighting of those tunnels (which have an almost cinematic and stage/set display), light is skillfully designed to illuminate warm-textured surfaces coated with lime stucco stone.

Moreover, a dark wood baseboard delineates and contrasts with the areas where the existing wooden flooring has been repurposed. In a way, the VAULT is a singular departure for Studio Gameiro as it made us to push any artistic and structural boundaries we still had (which were very few) into a full scale experimental approach to materials. Finally, the shape of the stone basins also inspired the design of the three sinks in the apartment’s bathrooms (and again, made it possible for the studio to create tailor made solutions keen on keeping track of the best of craft in Portugal). ‘ Every project has the ability to change how we work. That happened here too. But this one also made us look into everything with a different perspective. Where most saw an arch which needed to maintain its ‘suspension’, we just turned it upside down into a trampoline to jump higher,’ conclude the designers.

project info:

name:  The VAULT 

location:  Lisbon, Portugal

architect:  Studio Gameiro |  @studiogameiro

design team: João Gameiro, Alexandre Cisneiros, Barbara Dzavanova, Patrícia Brito Pereira

contractor:  Blue Art move

stonework: Ladridecor , Alfredo Antunes Flor , Formas de Pedra

metalwork: Candelar

textiles: Teresa Gameiro , Vidal Fabr

carpentry: Alberto&Alberto, Patrique Santos, MNIR, OnlyWood

ceramics: Marta Raimundo

photographer:  Francisco Nogueira |  @francisconogueira

completion year: 2023 

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