Lisbon to the Alqueva Lake Towns: Private day trip

Explore a timeless hilltop village of whitewashed walls, castle views, and artisan Alentejo whimsy.

Located high above the Alentejo plains, Monsaraz is a medieval relic of a town where time slows down. Step through the fortified gate and stroll Rua Direita, flanked by whitewashed houses, artisan shops, and ancient stone. Visit the hilltop castle and climb its battlements for sweeping views over the Alqueva reservoir. Pause in the quiet charm of Praca Dom Nuno Alvares Pereira and admire Igreja Matriz’s modest elegance. In just 60 minutes, this serene village reveals layers of tradition, beauty, and soul - best savored with a bite of migas com entrecosto or a sip of local red wine.

Unwind by Portugal’s inland sea, where boat tours and stargazing reveal Alentejo’s hidden beauty.

Alqueva is Europe’s largest artificial lake, a shimmering inland sea that reshaped the Alentejo landscape. Start your visit at the Luz Museum, where you’ll discover the moving story of a village sacrificed to rising waters. Then, take a boat from the Monsaraz or Amieira marina for a tranquil cruise past cork forests, whitewashed estates, and empty islets. If your timing’s right, linger into twilight under the Alqueva Dark Sky Reserve - the world’s first certified starlight destination - where stars blaze uninhibited by light pollution.

Step into Portugal’s pottery capital for handmade ceramics, creative workshops, and warm hospitality.

Known as Portugal’s pottery capital, Sao Pedro do Corval spins tradition into every colorful swirl of clay. Along Rua das Olarias, over 20 family-run studios open their doors - wander in to see artisans shape pitchers, bowls, and figurines by hand. Pop into the Casa do Barro Museum for a deeper look at the town’s ceramic heritage, from Roman amphorae to folk designs. Visit Atelier de Olaria Francisco to paint your own tile or simply admire the craft in motion. Within just an hour and a half, this warm, ochre-toned village offers hands-on culture, best followed by a bowl of lamb stew or almond cookies.