Alges may be best known as a seaside suburb just outside Lisbon, but it also offers a surprising variety of tours that make for memorable days. Whether you’re interested in exploring Portugal’s marine life, tasting local flavors, or soaring over the coast with a helicopter, Alges has something to satisfy different interests. Among the options, we particularly like the Vasco da Gama Aquarium Entry Ticket for families or marine enthusiasts, and the Cabo da Roca and Sintra Helicopter Tour for those seeking a truly unforgettable perspective on Portugal’s scenic coast. The latter delivers panoramic views that you’ll remember long after your trip ends.
What makes Alges especially appealing for tours is its proximity to Lisbon’s top attractions combined with the chance to combine land-based experiences with thrilling aerial views. Plus, many of these tours offer a personal touch, like the helicopter flights that let you see Sintra’s palaces from above or Cascais’ beaches from a new angle. Let’s take a closer look at each of these exciting options.
1. Vasco da Gama Aquarium Entry Ticket
Get your ticket to the Vasco da Gama Aquarium, one of the oldest museum aquariums in the world. Located in Alges, this facility offers a look at native aquatic animals, especially those from Portugal’s coast, in an environment that’s both educational and charming. The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, giving plenty of time to explore the exhibits and learn about Portugal’s oceanic discoveries.
The aquarium’s standout features include a virtual window to the ocean that lets you feel like you’re underwater, live specimens from the Portuguese coast, and an impressive oceanographic collection once owned by King Carlos of Portugal. It’s a perfect stop if you’re traveling with kids or interested in marine life. Reviews highlight its accessibility and the engaging nature of the exhibits, rating it 4.7/5 from 20 reviews. The cost is just $17 per group (up to 4), making it a budget-friendly choice.
This tour is ideal for families, marine lovers, or anyone wanting a relaxed, informative experience without leaving the Lisbon District. It’s a straightforward visit but packed with interesting sights and facts.
Bottom Line: A must-see for marine enthusiasts and families with kids, offering a close-up look at Portugal’s coast and oceanic history without breaking the bank.
2. Lisbon: Market Experience & Cooking Class
For those who love to taste and cook, this Lisbon market and cooking class provides a hands-on experience of Portuguese flavors. Starting with a visit to the local market, you’ll explore the aromas, colors, and seasonal products that make Portuguese cuisine special. Afterwards, you’ll head to the kitchen to learn how to prepare traditional dishes with a professional chef.
The class lasts about 3 hours, making it an immersive experience that’s both fun and educational. Participants get to enjoy their cooked meal afterward, along with stories behind each dish. The reviews are glowing, with a perfect 5/5 score from 5 reviews, praising the friendly atmosphere, organization, and delicious food. The cost is $91 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the quality and depth of the experience.
This tour is perfect for food lovers, couples, or anyone interested in Portuguese culture through its cuisine. It’s a great way to bring home a new skill and authentic recipes. Keep in mind, it’s a full, interactive session, so comfortable clothes and an interest in cooking are recommended.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you want to get hands-on with Portuguese cooking and enjoy a lively, authentic meal with plenty of storytelling.
3. Lisbon: Cabo da Roca and Sintra Helicopter Tour
At number 3, this helicopter tour over Cabo da Roca and Sintra is a bucket-list experience. For around $2,069, up to 3 people can enjoy a 45-minute flight that covers some of Portugal’s most iconic sights from the sky. This tour starts at Lisbon Helicopters and takes you on a private flight over Lisbon’s Atlantic coast, including Estoril, Cascais, and the dramatic cliffs of Cabo da Roca.
What makes this tour stand out is the panoramic perspective it offers. You’ll see the cosmopolitan vibe of Estoril, the surfing beaches of Guincho, and the breathtaking views from the Cape Roca, Europe’s westernmost point. The itinerary includes stops at Sintra’s palaces, Pena Palace, and Quinta da Regaleira, giving you a rare bird’s-eye view of the lush hills and ornate architecture.
Guests rave that 45 minutes was “perfect,” and many mention the impressive views of the coast, Sintra castles, and Lisbon from above. The tour suits travelers with a higher budget seeking an extraordinary experience, especially those who want to see the region’s highlights from a unique perspective. Keep in mind, this is a private, high-end experience, so it’s not your typical sightseeing tour.
Bottom Line: Perfect for special occasions or those who want a once-in-a-lifetime view of Portugal’s coast, Sintra, and Lisbon from above.
4. Lisbon: Helicopter Tour over Estoril & Cascais
For a shorter, more accessible aerial adventure, the Helicopter Tour over Estoril & Cascais lasts about 20 minutes and costs $916 per group. It offers a quick but exciting flight over Lisbon’s Sun Coast, showcasing the Tagus River estuary, Sao Julião da Barra Fortress, and the charming towns of Cascais and Estoril.
This tour is highly praised for its clear communication and informative pilot commentary. Many reviews mention how the flight “started right on time” and provided spectacular views of the coastline, beaches, and historic fortifications. It’s a great choice for travelers who want a taste of the helicopter experience without a long commitment or high cost.
It’s suitable for those on a tight schedule but still eager to see the coast from above. The flight’s brief duration makes it ideal for adding to a day of sightseeing or as a special birthday surprise. Just keep in mind that some might find 20 minutes a bit short if they want more extensive aerial coverage.
Bottom Line: An excellent quick trip for first-time helicopter riders or those with limited time who still want impressive coastal views.
5. Lisbon: Helicopter Tour over Cascais & Cabo da Roca
Rounding out our list is the Helicopter Tour over Cascais & Cabo da Roca, lasting 30 minutes for $1,130 per group. This flight takes you from Lisbon over the Atlantic coast, giving spectacular views of the Tagus River, Sao Julião Fortress, Cabo da Roca, and the charming town of Cascais.
Guests appreciate the breathtaking scenery of cliffs, beaches, and historical sites. During the flight, you’ll see landmarks like the Cascais Citadel and the natural beauty of Cabo da Roca, Europe’s westernmost point. The route includes several scenic stops, ensuring a comprehensive aerial experience that captures the essence of Portugal’s coast.
Reviews note the stunning vistas and the professionalism of the pilot, with many saying it’s a highlight of their trip. Suitable for those who want a longer helicopter experience or want to see both Cascais and Cabo da Roca in one flight. The longer duration provides a more relaxed viewing experience, making it worth the higher price for many.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded helicopter tour perfect for travelers wanting a full coastal perspective, combining natural beauty with historic sites.
$1,130 per group up to 3
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting the best experience in Alges, consider your interests, budget, and time. If you’re traveling with kids or want a low-key day, the Vasco da Gama Aquarium offers a relaxing, educational visit. For food lovers, the market and cooking class provides a taste of Portugal you can take home. If you’re after an unforgettable aerial experience, the Cabo da Roca and Sintra helicopter tour is hard to beat for its panoramic views and exclusivity.
For those with limited time or seeking a quick thrill, the Estoril & Cascais helicopter tour offers a short but spectacular flight. Meanwhile, the Cascais & Cabo da Roca helicopter tour is ideal if you want to see a broader stretch of coast with more relaxed pacing.
Booking early is recommended, especially for helicopter tours, as spots fill fast during peak seasons. Match your choice to your priorities—whether it’s budget, adventure, or culture—and enjoy your time in Alges and beyond.
Final Thoughts
Alges offers a surprising variety of tours that cater to different interests and budgets. From visiting Portugal’s historic aquariums to soaring over Sintra’s palaces or cruising along the coast in a helicopter, there’s no shortage of ways to make your trip memorable. For families, the aquarium is a quiet, educational delight; for romance or adventure, the helicopter tours promise stunning views and thrill.
If you’re planning ahead and booking early, you’ll secure your spot on these popular experiences. Whether you want to explore marine life, learn Portuguese cuisine, or fly over famous landmarks, Alges has something to make your visit unforgettable.