Royal Palace Tours in Lisbon with Magnificat Tours
Difficulty
easy
Duration
7–8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; expect moderate walking with occasional stairs.
Overview
Step into Portugal’s royal heritage with Magnificat Tours’ private day trip to three iconic palaces near Lisbon—Queluz, Mafra, and Ajuda—each revealing rich history and grand architecture.
The Royal Tour
From €50 per person | Three monuments in Queluz, Mafra and Lisbon! | 8h
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a private royal tour from Lisbon, visiting three stunning palaces in one day. Experience the grandeur of Queluz, the Baroque beauty of Mafra, and the historic Ajuda Palace, all while enjoying breathtaking landscapes and rich Portuguese history. This unique journey promises unforgettable memories and exclusive access to magnificent architecture.
Tour like a Royal! Visit 3 palaces in a single day on this private royal tour departing from Lisbon. Drive through gorgeous landscapes and discover the beautiful architecture and rich history of Portugal in the three monuments in Queluz, Mafra, and Lisbon!
Rates
From €50 per person (All Ages) Tour can take up to 14 people. Prices change according to the number of people in the group.
Duration
8 hours
Physical level
Easy
About
Spend the day visiting breathtaking landscapes and Portugal's unique monuments on this private royal tour. After being picked up in Lisbon, the tour will begin with a drive towards Queluz National Palace.
This was Europe's last Rococo palace to be built - explore the beautiful gardens and rich interiors. Everyone visits Sintra, few visit Queluz!
Then we will drive you towards Mafra. Hometown of one of the most magnificent European Barroque convent and palace, it has a library considered to be one of the most beautiful in the world. After spending some time exploring the Palace floors, Convent floors and also the Basilica - we will stop for a typical Portuguese lunch.
Afterward, we will drive through the countryside towards Lisbon for our last Royal experience: the Ajuda Palace. Built to become the official residence after the 1755 Earthquake, it suffered severe damages with fire later on. Today it's still going under renovations yet it does home some very impressive halls and pieces.
The tour ends with a return to your pick up point.
What's included?
- Bottled water
- Hotel/port pickup and drop-off
- Private tour
- Transport by air-conditioned minivan or by private vehicle
Exclusions
- Meals
- Gratuities
- Personal Expenses
- Guided tours inside monuments,
- Entry/Admission - National Palace of Queluz
- Entry/Admission - Palacio Nacional de Mafra
- Entry/Admission - Ajuda National Palace
Please note
- Infant seats available
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Stroller accessible (if carried)
- This experience operates in all weather conditions (dress appropriately) as long as safety is secured. However, it may be canceled due to extreme weather conditions. If so, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- Delayed departures may result in partial or total cancellation of tour and you will not be entitled to a refund.
- Duration of tour may vary according to weather conditions and traffic impact
- This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable shoes
This tour involves considerable walking on stone floors and outdoors, so sturdy, comfortable footwear is recommended.
Bring sun protection
Much of the sightseeing happens in open gardens and courtyards—wear a hat and apply sunscreen to stay protected.
Carry a light water bottle
Staying hydrated during the day-long tour is important, especially when visiting outdoor palace grounds.
Plan for photography
These palaces boast stunning architecture and landscapes; bring a camera or smartphone for ample photo opportunities.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Mediterranean songbirds frequent the palace gardens
- Occasional sightings of European rabbits in surrounding estate grounds
History
The Palace of Mafra was constructed as a symbol of King João V’s wealth from Brazilian gold, blending religious devotion and royal power in its design.
Conservation
Efforts are ongoing to preserve the delicate frescoes and gardens of these historic estates, balancing visitor access with cultural heritage protection.
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Adventure Hotspots in Lisbon
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Supports long periods of walking on varied surfaces throughout the day.
Sun hat or cap
Protects from strong sun while walking around open palace grounds.
summer specific
Reusable water bottle
Staying hydrated is important on this full-day tour.
Light jacket
Useful for cooler mornings, evenings, or indoor areas with draft.
fall,winter,spring specific