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Book your sunset cruise in Lisbon today; an unforgettable experience!
Have you ever wondered where you have the best view over Lisbon when the sun goes down? The answer is on a boat! Let’s check out the best sunset cruises in Lisbon! This will be a unique experience when you visit the Portuguese capital.
From the water, you get a new perspective of the city, and during your Lisbon boat tours, you’ll learn a lot about the city and its history. You’ll receive a welcome drink and sometimes snacks so you can enjoy your Lisbon boat trip to the max!
I join a boat tour in Lisbon every year, often with visitors and sometimes to celebrate something special. I think booking a boat tour is one of the best things to do in Lisbon! You’re on the water, enjoying the views while sipping wine! I’ll happily share some of these experiences so you can easily decide which Lisbon boat tour suits you best!
What to expect during a sunset cruise Lisbon
Magical sunsets in Lisbon
There are several fantastic Lisbon sunset spots! Especially from Cacilhas, on the other side of the Tagus river. Unsurprisingly, people love to dine in restaurants like Ponto Final and Atira-te ao Rio. Several beaches at Costa da Caparica and Sintra, such as Praia da Ursa, offer mesmerising sunsets over the Atlantic Ocean. But there is another fabulous way to enjoy the late afternoon in Lisbon: by boat!
The Tejo River is the longest river on the Iberian Peninsula. It starts in Spain in the Sierra de AlbarracĆn. It then makes it through Spain and Portugal before entering the Atlantic Ocean near Lisbon, Portugal. Embark on a trip along the 25 April Bridge to enjoy Lisbon from a new perspective!
Where to board your sunset boat tour in Lisbon?
Most cruises leave from the harbour in BelĆ©m. Santa Maria de BelĆ©m is a district west of Lisbon’s city centre, and getting there is straightforward. You can take Tram 15, buses 714, 727 or 728, and by train from Cais de SodrĆ© (direction Cascais). The hop-on hop-off bus also stops in BelĆ©m.
BelĆ©m has two main harbours from which cruises leave. They are close to Torre de BelĆ©m and the monument PadrĆ£o dos Descobrimentos. The tour operator will tell you where to go when you book a cruise. Most operators offer different departure times, so although the sunset experience is fantastic, you can opt for a daytime experience in Lisbon.
Some boats are departing from Terreiro do PaƧo. This location is convenient if you are in Alfama. The route is the same, but you depart from a different harbour. There are fewer options available from this starting point.
Route map of the Lisbon river cruises
Different options to sail on the River Tejo
There are a few different cruises in Lisbon from which to choose. Some tours are 1,5 hours, there are cruises on a catamaran, and you can sail off on a vintage ship. There is the perfect tour for every preference and duration. Let’s look at some options and discover the best Lisbon boat tours.
Cruises for those with little time
If you’re strapped for time, a 1,5 hours sightseeing cruise might be best for you. You’ll receive a welcome drink and tour around the highlights of Lisbon. This tour takes place on a panorama vessel, which is also suitable for larger groups.
There is a lot of space to sit, and you’ll learn a bit more about the main attractions of Lisbon. You’ll enjoy a 360-degree view when you glide past the MAAT, Belem Tower, and Lisbon’s city centre.
āµļø Book the 1,5 hours sightseeing cruise here and ensure your spot on the boat!
Do you have even less time? The express 45-minute boats will be perfect for you! You’ll depart from Terreiro do PaƧo and sail the Tagus River on a classic vessel built in the 18th century!
An extended Tagus River cruise
If you have more time, a more extended cruise is recommended. This boat trip passes historic buildings in Lisbon, the 25th of April Bridge, and other famous sights along the River Tagus. The tour includes a welcome drink and some tasty Portuguese snacks.
Enjoy the Tagus River on a sailboat
A rockier ride is a 2-hour boat trip on a sailboat! Depending on the wind, this river cruise can be an excellent and active way to see Lisbon from the water. But no stress; you can sit and enjoy the views as the experienced crew sets the sails.
You’ll be sipping on a drink of choice whilst sailing along the highlights of the Tagus. The boats usually pass BelĆ©m, Lisbon’s old town, until the Pantheon, Cacilhas, and the Ponte 25 de Abril bridge. A sailboat is excellent for a more intimate experience and small groups.
āµļø Book here and enjoy a fabulous sailing tour on the Tagus River!
The Tagus River on a vintage sailboat
Sailing on a vintage boat is similar but slightly different! This fun experience lasts 2 hours, and you’ll enjoy traditional snacks and a glass of wine. It’s an incredible way to discover Lisbon in style! Book your ticket in advance, as these sell out fast!
Explore Lisbon on a catamaran
The final group option is a catamaran trip in Lisbon! You’ll enjoy panoramic views over Lisbon, and the route on the Tagus River is similar to the above tours. You’ll receive a complimentary drink while the sun slowly creates that orange glow over the water. A catamaran is also fabulous for smaller groups and solo travellers.
āµļø Tickets is available from ā¬ 50,00; read more.
Private boat tour in Lisbon
Do you prefer to rent a boat just with your partner? Then, a private boat tour on a sailing yacht is the most romantic option! Does it get any better than this? The private rent in Lisbon lasts 2 hours, and this will be the most unforgettable experience as a couple.
It’s a great way to propose or celebrate your wedding anniversary! You’ll receive a bottle of sparkling wine or champagne to enjoy Lisbon in a unique setting. This tour is excellent for couples, but groups with more guests are also very welcome.
āµļø Private boat tours are available from ā¬ 305,00; read more.
Boat tours from Lisbon city centre
Only a few Lisbon boat tours leave from the city centre. For example, a 2-hour boat trip on a traditional boat from 1947! You’ll board the ship in Alfama (at Terreiro do PaƧo) and cruise towards BelĆ©m.
A hop-on-hop-off bus stops at the terminal near the docks. The guides will tell you more about the city, and you can enjoy a glass of wine on board.
āµļø Reservations are available from ā¬ 35,00; learn more.
Lisbon boat tour for kids
Do you visit Lisbon with children? Then, there are some unique ways to enjoy the River Tagus! Enjoy the river from a speedboat, or book an excursion to see the dolphins! There are sometimes dolphins around the Tagus River, but you can also visit the animals in the Sado Estuary near Lisbon.
The HIPPOtrip is another fun and wild way to enjoy the city. You’ll step onboard an amphibious bus showing Lisbon from land and water! For other activities in Lisbon with kids, click here.
Here are some amazing options on the Tagus River with kids:
Tip!
Is the weather forecast not great? No worries! When booking Lisbon’s boat tours with reputable companies like GetYourGuide, you can usually change the date of the boat trip. You can cancel 24 hours in advance and get a full refund. Especially when you visit Lisbon in summer, the boat trips are popular and sell out quickly.
What is included in the boat tour in Lisbon
The tour includes often free-flowing white wine (or red!), beer and soft drinks. Some offer one alcoholic beverage, and you can purchase additional drinks. Do you have something to celebrate? Enjoy a glass of champagne when the sun sets! Some also offer traditional snacks such as a pastel de nata or tasty charcuterie.
What makes a cruise in Lisbon an unforgettable experience?
- Breathtaking scenery: Marvel at the views while sailing past landmarks such as the Cristo Rei Statue and the BelƩm Tower.
- Romantic atmosphere: Perfect for a romantic moment in Lisbon!
- Relaxation: The boat tour in Lisbon lets you unwind from a day of sightseeing in the city.
- Memorable moments: You’ll see Lisbon from a different perspective, and for many, it’s one of their favourite activities during the holiday in Portugal.
- Cultural insights: The tour includes a lot of historical information. Your guide will tell you stories about Lisbon and point out landmarks along the way.
- Entertainment: For those who like a party, you can book Lisbon boat tours with a DJ. There will be a sound system and plenty of drinks. Perfect for a group of friends before enjoying the night in town.
FAQ
How long does a boat tour in Lisbon take?
Usually 90 minutes to 2 hours. But you can also take a 45-minute Express Cruise.
Is a sunset cruise in Lisbon worth it?
Certainly! Especially when the sun goes down, this is a magical excursion. Moreover, do you see Lisbon from a completely different perspective?
What sort of boat tours can you do in Lisbon?
There’s something for everyone. Tranquillity seekers will enjoy a sailing tour. If you seek a luxurious experience, you rent your own yacht, while groups might want themselves on a catamaran with a DJ. Many boat trips are suitable for young children.
Do I get something on board?
On most boats, you will receive a welcome drink. Several providers also have snacks from Portugal on the menu. The skipper usually also tells you more about Lisbon during the cruise.
When can I book a boat tour in Lisbon?
The boat trips also take place in the winter months. For example, enjoy the fireworks under your blanket on New Year’s Eve! In the summer, this is an excellent and refreshing activity.
Conclusion
Whichever Lisbon boat tour you pick during your visit, it’s a fantastic way to see the city and catch the sun setting in Lisbon. BelĆ©m has a lot of other activities to offer, and you’ll easily spend a day in this Lisbon district. Explore the JerĆ³nimos Monastery, Pasteis de BelĆ©m, the National Coach Museum, MAAT, and the BelĆ©m Tower.
Remember to read the complete guide about BelƩm for an unforgettable day in Lisbon. A boat tour after a day in BelƩm is a relaxing way to finish the day. It will most likely be a highlight of your trip to Lisbon!
Other amazing tours in Lisbon:
- A photoshoot in Lisbon with Discover Portugal
- 10 Things to know before booking a fun Tuk-Tuk Tour in Lisbon
- Book a sunset cruise in Lisbon
- Discover the best food tours in Lisbon!
- Discover Lisbon by bicycle with Baja Bikes
- Discover the hop-on-hop-off Lisbon tour buses
- 20+ Best tours in Lisbon Portugal
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