Lisbon is a city best explored by foot, tram or even by boat. One of the most atmospheric ways to see Portugal’s capital is on a sunset boat tour in Lisbon. We tried it ourselves, and it turned out to be one of the most romantic and peaceful experiences of our entire trip.
Here’s what you can expect from this unforgettable evening on the Tagus River and why a Lisbon boat tour at sunset should be also on your list.
Lisbon boat tours with a view
Our sunset cruise in Lisbon started around 4:30 p.m., not far from the iconic Torre de Belém. Our boat? A beautifully restored vintage sailing boat with wooden details, white sails and space for only a handful of guests. It was so intimate, relaxed, and full of charm.
As we slowly glided along the Tagus River, we passed some of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks: the Padrão dos Descobrimentos, the 25 de Abril Bridge, and even Cristo Rei. Seeing them from the water adds a completely new dimension — quieter, softer, more cinematic. And with just six other guests on board, the atmosphere felt personal and almost private!
Sunset cruise Lisbon: When the light turns to magic
As the sun began to sink, the magic truly began. The sky bathed the city in rich hues of orange and pink, and the lights of Lisbon began to shimmer on the horizon. It was that kind of beauty that makes you fall silent for a moment, when everything stands still. It felt really like we were the only ones on the river.
Shortly after we set sail, we were served a simple delightful spread of local cheese, fresh bread, Portuguese chorizo and a chilled glass of rosé. It wasn’t a gourmet meal, but it was honest, regional, and exactly what the moment needed.
What made the evening even more special was our skipper João, who shared anecdotes and little-known stories about Lisbon’s maritime past. Especially, his passion for sailing and for the city was noticeable. It added a layer of authenticity that’s hard to describe.
Why this sunset boat tour in Lisbon is worth it
For €45 per person, this Lisbon sunset boat tour includes drinks, food, blankets, and an unforgettable view. There were just six people on board with us, and the vibe was calm, friendly and romantic. Especially for couples, it’s the kind of shared memory you’ll talk about for years. But even solo travelers or families will find the mix of history, scenery, and serenity rewarding.
To book the exact same sunset boat tour in Lisbon, click this link*, where you can see the exact same tour at the top of the page. We strongly recommend booking in advance. Especially during summer, the tour has currently a relatively high demand and is often fully booked.
A Tagus River cruise in Lisbon you’ll never forget
If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience in Lisbon, we can highly recommend this boat tour on the Tagus River. We look forward to your feedback and hope you enjoy your next trip to Lisbon!
And if you loved reading about this sunset boat tour in Lisbon, feel free to check also our guide to Lagos boat tours along the Algarve coast or explore the canals of the “Venice of Portugal” in our article on Aveiro boat tours.
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