A Day at the Royal Palaces of Queluz and Ajuda With a Visit to Belém

Exploring Portugal’s regal past is a captivating journey, and this tour offers a chance to explore the country’s storied heritage. Visitors will embark on a guided exploration of the stunning Queluz National Palace, a testament to 18th-century opulence, before marveling at the grandeur of the Belém Tower and the historic Jerónimos Monastery. The day culminates with a visit to the impressive Ajuda National Palace, where one can imagine the lives of Portugal’s former monarchs. This immersive experience promises to transport guests through the eras, leaving them with a deeper appreciation for the nation’s remarkable royal legacy.

Key Points

• Explore three iconic Portuguese royal palaces: Queluz, Belem Tower, and Ajuda, providing insight into the country’s regal history and architectural heritage.
• Discover the 18th-century Queluz National Palace, known as the "Portuguese Versailles," with its Baroque architecture and elaborate gardens.
• Visit the 16th-century Belem Tower, a UNESCO-listed site, and enjoy free time to explore the Belem area, including the Jerónimos Monastery.
• Tour the 19th-century Ajuda National Palace, the last royal residence in Portugal, and admire its ornate interiors and panoramic city views.
• Enjoy seamless transportation and guides, with the tour including entry tickets, air-conditioned transportation, and complimentary water.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

For this tour, visitors can expect a price ranging from $79.61 per person.

The tour lasts 8 hours and is available in English, Portuguese, and Spanish. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour also offers a "reserve now, pay later" option, allowing travelers to secure their spot without an upfront payment.

During the tour, visitors will explore the National Palace of Queluz, Belém Tower, and the Ajuda National Palace, with free time in the Belém area.

Included in the price are entry tickets to the palaces, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and a complimentary bottle of water.

Itinerary

The tour starts at the Cinema São Jorge parking area, which is accessible via Metro (Avenida station) and Carris buses.

The first stop is the National Palace of Queluz, known as the Portuguese Versailles, where visitors will spend 2 hours exploring the palace.

Next, the tour makes a 30-minute stop at the iconic Belém Tower.

Afterwards, there’s 2 hours of free time to explore the Belém area, including the Jerónimos Monastery.

The final visit is to the Ajuda National Palace, the last royal residence, for another 2-hour guided tour.

The tour then returns to the starting point at the Cinema São Jorge.

Queluz National Palace

The National Palace of Queluz, also known as the "Portuguese Versailles", is the first stop on the tour. This magnificent 18th-century palace showcases the opulence and grandeur of the Portuguese monarchy. Visitors will have 2 hours to explore its exquisite interiors, including the Throne Room, the Royal Chapel, and the stunning Banquet Hall.

Highlights of Queluz National Palace
Stunning Baroque architecture	Impressive royal art collection
Elaborate gardens and fountains	Intricate azulejo tile work
Lavish royal apartments

The palace’s well-preserved state and attention to detail provide a fascinating glimpse into the lives of Portugal’s former rulers. This stop sets the tone for the rest of the tour, immersing visitors in the rich history and heritage of the country.

Belém Tower and Area

After exploring the grandeur of Queluz National Palace, the tour moves on to the iconic Belém Tower.

This 16th-century fortified tower stands as a testament to Portugal’s maritime prowess, overlooking the Tagus River. Visitors are given 30 minutes to wander the tower’s distinctive Manueline architecture and take in the stunning views of the river and the Belém area.

Following the tower visit, the tour provides two hours of free time to explore the vibrant neighborhood of Belém.

This allows guests to visit the nearby Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and discover the charming cafes, museums, and cultural landmarks that make Belém a must-see destination in Lisbon.

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Ajuda National Palace

Following the visit to the iconic Belém Tower and the free time to explore the surrounding Belém area, the tour continues on to the Ajuda National Palace.

This grand 19th-century palace served as the last royal residence in Portugal before the monarchy was abolished. Visitors can marvel at the ornate interiors and impressive architecture during the 2-hour visit.

The palace offers a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the Portuguese royalty. Key highlights include:

1. Ornate halls and salons decorated with intricate frescoes and gilded details
2. The Throne Room, showcasing the grandeur of the former royal court
3. The Royal Chapel, a stunning example of Neoclassical design
4. Expansive gardens offering panoramic views of the city and the Tagus River.

Meeting Point

The tour meeting point is located at the Cinema Séo Jorge parking area. It’s accessible via Metro (Avenida station) and Carris buses, making it convenient for participants.

This central location provides a straightforward starting point for the day’s exploration of the royal palaces. From here, the group will depart in an air-conditioned vehicle with an accredited driver, kicking off the journey to Queluz National Palace, Belém Tower, and Ajuda National Palace.

With all the necessary transportation and logistics taken care of, guests can look forward to a seamless and enjoyable experience visiting these historic royal residences.

Customer Reviews

Based on the provided information, guests have already shared their positive experiences from the tour. The overall rating for this excursion is a stellar 5/5 based on 2 reviews.

The feedback highlights the helpfulness of the driver and the quality of the air-conditioned vehicle used for transportation.

Some key takeaways from the customer reviews include:

1. Knowledgeable and accommodating driver
2. Comfortable, well-maintained vehicle
3. Seamless experience moving between the different palaces and sites
4. Overall satisfaction with the pacing and content of the tour

These positive reviews suggest that this is a well-organized and enjoyable way to explore the royal palaces and Belém area of Lisbon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour does not explicitly mention whether participants can bring their own food and drinks. However, the included amenities indicate that a complimentary bottle of water is provided, but no other outside food or beverages are mentioned.

What Is the Dress Code for Visiting the Palaces?

The tour recommends smart casual attire for visiting the palaces. Comfortable walking shoes are advised, as the tour involves extensive walking. Guests are encouraged to avoid wearing overly casual or revealing clothing out of respect for the historic sites.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour does not mention any discounts for seniors or students. Pricing is listed as $79.61 per person, with no indication of reduced rates for specific age groups or student status.

How Do I Redeem My Voucher for the Tour?

To redeem the voucher, simply present it to the tour operator at the starting point, Cinema São Jorge parking area, on the day of the tour. No additional steps are required to use the pre-purchased ticket.

Can I Extend the Free Time in Belém to Explore More?

Yes, you can extend the free time in Belém. The tour itinerary includes 2 hours of free time, which allows you to explore the area further. However, extending the free time would require making additional arrangements with the tour operator.

Recap

Discover the opulent charm of Portugal’s royal history as you explore the captivating Queluz National Palace, the iconic Belém Tower, and the grand Ajuda National Palace. This immersive day tour offers a glimpse into the nation’s regal past, blending stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and free time to savor the vibrant Belém district. An unforgettable experience that immerses you in the splendor of Portugal’s royal legacy.

You can check if your dates are available here: