Mafra, José Franco & Ericeira Tour – A Journey Through History, Culture & Coastal Beauty

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Duration

8 Hours

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

10 people

Languages

English, Espanol, Francais

About this tour

Step into a world where royal elegance meets coastal charm on this private Mafra, José Franco, and Ericeira tour — a perfect escape from Lisbon. Experience the breathtaking harmony of Portugal’s countryside, rich history, and Atlantic beauty all in one day.

From the majestic Mafra National Palace, one of Europe’s most stunning Baroque landmarks, to the enchanting miniature village of José Franco and the idyllic fishing town of Ericeira, this excursion satisfies all your senses — art, architecture, history, and delicious Portuguese cuisine.

Enjoy a comfortable, scenic ride from Lisbon in a private vehicle with a friendly local guide who will share fascinating stories, hidden gems, and the cultural essence of this remarkable region.

Highlights

  • Discover the Royal Convent and Mafra Palace, an 18th-century Baroque masterpiece.
  • Visit one of Europe’s most beautiful royal libraries, home to over 35,000 rare volumes.
  • Explore the miniature village of José Franco, a charming recreation of Portuguese rural life.
  • Stroll through Ericeira, a traditional fishing village turned surf paradise.
  • Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch overlooking the Atlantic coast.
  • Experience authentic Portuguese culture, history, and hospitality in a single unforgettable day.

Included/Excluded

  • Pick-up and return to the hotel in Lisbon.
  • Transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
  • Professional, knowledgeable tour guide
  • Personal and accident insurance
  • Free time to explore at each stop
  • Lunch (free time is provided to eat at your own pace)

Itinerary

Begin your adventure in Mafra, where the awe-inspiring Palácio Nacional de Mafra awaits. This grand Baroque palace, built under King João V in the 18th century, is a symbol of royal power and devotion.

Wander through magnificent royal apartments adorned with period furniture, paintings, and sculptures. The palace complex also includes a stunning basilica with six historic pipe organs and a library considered one of Europe’s most beautiful.

Surrounded by an 8-square-kilometer hunting park, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a masterpiece of architecture and a must-visit on any Lisbon day trip.

Inside the palace lies a true gem — the Mafra Library, one of Europe’s greatest Enlightenment libraries.

Stretching over 85 meters, this hall is paved with colorful limestone and lined with Rococo-style bookshelves made from exotic woods. Its collection of 36,000 volumes includes treasures such as a 16th-century trilingual Bible, the first edition of Os Lusíadas by Luís de Camões, and rare works by Homer.

Even more fascinating, the library’s preservation is aided by a colony of bats that protect the books from insects — a detail that adds to its mystique and charm.

Next, we’ll visit the Vila José Franco, a delightful open-air museum located just outside Mafra. Created by the talented sculptor and potter José Silos Franco, this miniature village vividly captures traditional Portuguese rural life.

You’ll see small-scale replicas of windmills, bakeries, workshops, and homes, all handcrafted to reflect the culture of early 20th-century Portugal.

Don’t miss the chance to taste the famous “pão com chouriço” (bread with sausage) — a local delicacy baked on-site. The village also offers a souvenir shop with handmade pottery and crafts, making it a perfect stop for a cultural and culinary experience.

Our final destination is the picturesque seaside town of Ericeira, renowned for its beautiful beaches, fresh seafood, and world-class surfing waves.

Once a quiet fishing village, Ericeira has evolved into a surfing paradise — the only World Surfing Reserve in Europe. Its cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and lively cafés offer a perfect blend of tradition and modernity.

Enjoy a relaxing lunch at a seaside restaurant, sampling local specialties such as grilled sardines or seafood rice. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the cliffs or relax on Praia dos Pescadores (Fishermen’s Beach), one of Ericeira’s most scenic coastal spots.

Durations

8 hours

Languages

English
Espanol
Francais

Frequently asked questions

Yes, we do pick up at hotels in Lisbon's center too in case you choose that option during the booking process. Make sure that you write the correct address of your hotel or accommodation from where we should pick you up.

This tour has a start time between 08:30 and 09:00 depending on your chosen meeting point.

This tour does involve a certain level of walking, although the guide will always try to drive as close as possible to every visited location. 

All activities will take place throughout the year even if it rains. If the weather conditions are extreme (for example a snow storm) and the organizer cancels the tour, you’ll either be refunded immediately or be able to do the activity on another day.

Most of our activities are carried out during the Christmas season and on the various public holidays, but each activity has its specific calendar. Check the availability and book as soon as possible. During peak season, activities are quickly sold out.

To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

Cancellations must be made by request to support@tourpapy.com, and can be made up to 24 hours prior to the booking starting time.

 

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From: €250,00 €225,00
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