Lisbon Sunset Cruises on the Tagus

Seeing Lisbon from the water is one of the city’s best experiences, especially as the sun goes down behind the 25 de Abril Bridge. Here’s a guide to sunset cruises and boat trips on the Tagus, from sailing boats with a glass of wine to the cheap commuter ferry.

Quick answer: book a sunset sailing trip (about 2 hours), usually from the docks near Alcântara or the riverfront. You’ll sail past Belém Tower, the Monument to the Discoveries, under the 25 de Abril Bridge, past Cristo Rei and along the Baixa waterfront. Drinks are often included. See Lisbon sunset sailing or all Tagus cruises.

Types of cruise

Sunset sailing

Small sailing boats with a skipper and a small group, often with wine or sangria. It’s the most romantic option. See romantic Lisbon.

Catamaran and motor boat cruises

Larger boats with a bar and more space. They’re good for groups and families.

Private boats

Hire a boat for a celebration or a proposal.

The ferry

The cheapest river trip: the commuter ferry from Cais do Sodré to Cacilhas. Ride across for the views and seafood on the other side.

What you’ll see

• Belém Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries. See Belém.
• The 25 de Abril Bridge, which looks a lot like San Francisco’s Golden Gate.
• Cristo Rei on the south bank.
• Praça do Comércio and the Alfama hillside.
• The sunset towards the ocean.

Tips

• Timing: sunset is around 9pm in June and before 5:30pm in December. Cruises are scheduled to match.
• Bring a layer: it gets breezy on the water.
• Book ahead in summer: small sailing boats fill up fast.
• Seasickness: the river is usually calm, but it can be choppy near the mouth of the Tagus.

More: the best sunset spots in Portugal, the best Lisbon tours and the best boat trips in Portugal.

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