Porto Beyond the Postcards

We just got back from Lisbon and our tour with João from Lisbon Gems Tours was the highlight of the trip. He didn’t feel like a tour guide—he felt like an old family friend showing us around his city. Super knowledgeable, engaging, and genuinely passionate about Lisbon. He brought the history to life and showed us both the must-see spots and hidden gems we would have never found on our own. The experience felt completely personalized, and his recommendations helped us throughout the rest of our trip. If you’re visiting Lisbon, book João—you won’t regret it. — Brian & Family

Twice we’ve had the pleasure of João’s company in Portugal. Everywhere we go he never runs out of interesting stories or facts, and he always knew where to take us that was worth seeing and we probably wouldn’t have found ourselves. His skills at smoothly navigating conversation between groups of people and his van through narrow streets in Lisbon were both very impressive. I’m sure we’ll be back for a third tour someday. I wholeheartedly recommend.

We had the best time in Portugal with Joao! His passion and knowledge brings everything to life and we learned so much!! He is the best guide we ever had!! Highly recommend this company. Great service and goes above and beyond!

John is simply the best!!! Worked in the travel business for 35 years and never had quite this experience. His knowledge, command of the language and personality surpass anyone with whom Ive ever toured. Recommend him in highest regard and for everyone. I learned more from him than any other history professor I’ve had, and his enthusiasm is contagious!!

We had the absolute pleasure of traveling through Lisbon and surrounding areas with João and his brother and we can't rave enough about the experience! Our group of 9–11 people was treated to a personalized tour that felt more like a family adventure than a formal service. From day one, the drivers were warm, friendly, and incredibly knowledgeable. They answered every question we threw at them with genuine passion and always had fascinating stories and historical insights to share. Their recommendations for food, sights, and hidden gems were spot-on and made our trip that much more special. They also drove us from Lisbon to Porto, planning stops along the way so we could see even more of Portugal’s beauty. By the end of the journey, it honestly felt like we were saying goodbye to extended family. If you're visiting Portugal and want a comfortable, engaging, and fun way to explore this is the company to book. We wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone looking to make their trip truly unforgettable!

Some of the sweetest and most knowledgeable people we have ever met. It is very clear their passion for their country and what they do and for getting to know people in general. They go to great lengths to ensure a lovely experience and that everyone was safe, comfortable, and having fun; any and all questions were always welcome as well. Transportation was clean, comfortable, and new, and were able to travel with a group of 11 seamlessly. Genuinely some amazing people which includes the owner who is just as involved in the day to day. Extremely responsive and accommodating, can’t say enough good things- highly recommend!

Joao is one of the best tour guides I’ve ever had! He is extremely knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and passionate about Portugal’s history. He truly cares about giving the best tours possible and he knows all of the best city views and attractions to visit with shortcuts to avoid long lines. He truly made our family’s experien

I had the absolute pleasure of touring Portugal with Lisbon Gems Tours, and I can confidently say it was one of the highlights of my entire trip. Our guide, João, was nothing short of amazing — incredibly knowledgeable, kind, and with the kind of personality that makes you feel instantly at ease. He didn’t just show us the sights — he brought the history, culture, and spirit of Portugal to life in a way that felt deeply personal and engaging. His passion for his country is contagious, and his sense of humor and warmth made every moment enjoyable. We laughed, we learned, and we left feeling like we had made a new friend. Everything was smooth and beautifully organized, from hotel pickup to timing and comfort. João went above and beyond to make sure we had the best experience possible. I highly recommend Lisbon Gems Tours to anyone wanting something beyond the usual tourist routes — this is the real Portugal, shown to you by people who love it. Thank you, João, for a truly unforgettable day! — Sarah Clarke