2 Shore Excursions in Portugal to Build a Day Around

1.Sete Cidades Volcano Lakes Shore Excursion

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 198 reviews · 4 hours · from $47Our pick

Travel from Ponta Delgada’s cruise terminal to the Azores’ famous Sete Cidades crater lakes with an English-speaking local guide. You’ll stop at Vista do Rei, Santiago Lake, the village of Sete Cidades, Pico do Carvão, and a pineapple plantation. Guides such as Mario and Denisa add local detail, while the small vehicle helps avoid big-bus crowds.

“This is the second time I've taken a tour to Sete Cidades lakes. First time with my son was a ship tour. This time, with my husband was 100% better! We spent a perfect amount of time for taking photos and the green/blue lakes from an excellent (uncrowded) vantage point. We were able to visit the village in only saw from the hillside last time. Then we stopped at another crater lake (Santiago) which was stunning! Ending with a visit to a pineapple farm and the option of being dropped off in the city centre or back at the ship. It was an incredible day with a knowledgeable guide. Highly…”

Check availability →Read our full review

2.Private & Customizable Safari 4×4 Half-Day Shore Excursion

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 40 reviews · 4 to 5 hours (approx.) Top rated

Take a private open-air 4x4 around Madeira with a local guide such as Nico, Tiago, or Miguel. You can shape the route around viewpoints, villages, forest roads, cliffs, and quieter places, with pickup in Funchal or Caniço. The rough off-road sections add genuine adventure, but expect bumps.

“Our favorite excursion of the entire cruise. Good pickup, and had them drop is near the cable car for the rest of our adventure. A great time”

Check availability →Read our full review