Do I Need to Book Tours in Lisbon in Advance?
Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is one of Europe’s most sought-after travel destinations. With its rich history, vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes, the city attracts millions of visitors each year. As a result, many tourists wonder: Do I need to book tours in Lisbon in advance?
The answer depends on several factors, such as the time of year, the type of tour, and the kind of experience you’re looking for. Some tours and activities require advance booking due to high demand, while others can be enjoyed spontaneously.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore this question in depth, covering different types of tours, the best ways to plan your visit, and essential tips to avoid last-minute hassles while exploring Lisbon.
1. The Importance of Planning Your Trip to Lisbon
Booking tours in advance can ensure a more seamless and organized experience. Since Lisbon is a highly visited city, certain attractions and activities tend to sell out quickly, particularly during peak season (spring and summer, from April to September).
If you’re interested in visiting specific locations or joining popular excursions—such as a day trip to Sintra, a food tour, or a cruise along the Tagus River—booking in advance is highly recommended. This allows you to secure your spot, choose the best time slots, and avoid long lines or disappointment.
However, if you prefer a more spontaneous travel experience, Lisbon also offers plenty of options that don’t require advance reservations. Below, we’ll break down which tours should be booked ahead of time and which can be arranged on the spot.
2. Tours That Should Be Booked in Advance
2.1. Day Trips to Sintra, Cascais, and Fátima
One of the most popular activities for visitors in Lisbon is a day trip to Sintra, Cascais, or Fátima. Sintra, in particular, is a must-visit destination with its fairytale palaces, castles, and lush landscapes.
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Why book in advance?
Pena Palace, Sintra’s most famous attraction, often has long waiting times. Booking in advance allows you to skip the ticket lines and select a preferred time slot.
Guided tours from Lisbon to Sintra tend to sell out quickly, especially during peak months.
If you’re looking for a private or customized tour, advance reservations ensure availability and better service.
If you plan to visit both Sintra and Cascais in one day, a guided tour is the best option. These tours typically include transportation and entrance fees, making logistics much easier.
2.2. Boat Tours on the Tagus River
Seeing Lisbon from the Tagus River offers a unique perspective of the city’s skyline. Popular options include sunset cruises, dinner cruises, and private yacht experiences.
Why book in advance?
Sunset cruises are among the most sought-after experiences and tend to sell out.
Some cruises include dinner or wine tasting, requiring reservations for catering and seating arrangements.
Booking in advance ensures you get a spot at your preferred time and day.
If you want a romantic evening cruise or a private sailing experience, securing your reservation early is highly recommended.
2.3. Food and Wine Tours
Portuguese cuisine is one of Lisbon’s biggest attractions, and food tours are a fantastic way to explore it. These tours usually include tastings of pastéis de nata (custard tarts), Portuguese cheeses, codfish dishes, and local wines.
Why book in advance?
Many food tours are small-group experiences, and spots fill up fast.
Some restaurants and wineries require prior reservations.
Booking ahead ensures a more intimate and well-organized tour.
If you’re interested in visiting wineries outside Lisbon (such as in Setúbal or Alentejo), early reservations are crucial. Many wineries only accept pre-booked visits.
2.4. Fado Shows
Fado, the traditional Portuguese music genre, is a must-see cultural experience in Lisbon. Many tourists want to enjoy an evening in a Fado house in Alfama or Bairro Alto.
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Why book in advance?
Famous venues, such as Clube de Fado and Mesa de Frades, fill up quickly.
Many Fado performances include dinner, and early booking guarantees a better table.
Some Fado houses only have limited performances per night.
If you want to enjoy an authentic Fado experience, it’s best to secure your reservation in advance.
3. Tours That Can Be Booked Last-Minute
3.1. Walking Tours of the Historic Center
Walking tours through neighborhoods like Alfama, Baixa, Chiado, and Bairro Alto are a great way to explore Lisbon. Many of these tours operate on a “pay-what-you-want” basis (free walking tours).
Why is advance booking NOT necessary?
Several companies offer multiple tours per day.
Many guides accept walk-in participants, meaning you can simply show up at the meeting point.
Great option for those who prefer flexibility in their itinerary.
However, if you’re looking for a private walking tour, booking ahead is advised to ensure availability.
3.2. Tram 28 Ride
The Tram 28 is one of Lisbon’s most iconic experiences, taking passengers through the city’s main historical districts.
Why is advance booking NOT necessary?
Tickets can be purchased on the spot at the tram stop or onboard.
Since it’s public transport, reservations are not required.
Tip: To avoid crowds, take Tram 28 early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
3.3. Museums and Less Crowded Attractions
Some museums and landmarks in Lisbon, such as the National Tile Museum, the Fado Museum, and the National Pantheon, don’t typically require advance booking.
Why is advance booking NOT necessary?
These sites generally have shorter lines.
Tickets can be easily purchased at the entrance.
However, for more popular attractions like the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower, booking tickets in advance is recommended to avoid long queues.
4. When to Book in Advance and When to Wait?
Whether or not to book tours in Lisbon ahead of time depends on your travel style.
When to book in advance?
✅ If traveling during peak season (April to September)
✅ If you want exclusive experiences (private tours, food tastings, boat cruises)
✅ If visiting high-demand attractions (Pena Palace, Jerónimos Monastery)
✅ If you have a tight itinerary and want to avoid surprises
When to wait and book last-minute?
🔹 If you prefer spontaneity and don’t want a fixed schedule
🔹 If you’re doing outdoor activities that don’t require entrance tickets
🔹 If you want to explore Lisbon at your own pace
Conclusion
Booking tours in advance can be a smart strategy to secure tickets, avoid long lines, and make the most of your time in Lisbon. Popular excursions—such as day trips to Sintra, boat cruises, and food experiences—should be reserved early, especially during high season.
However, many experiences in Lisbon, such as walking tours, museum visits, and Tram 28 rides, can be enjoyed spontaneously. A good balance between pre-planned activities and flexible exploration ensures a stress-free and enjoyable trip.
If you already have specific attractions in mind, book as soon as possible! But if you enjoy discovering a city on the go, Lisbon offers many options that don’t require advance reservations.
Enjoy your trip to Lisbon! 🚀