Lisbon is the sunny capital of Portugal nestled along the midwestern coast of the country. The hilly metropolis is filled with pastel-colored buildings, immaculate architecture and a profound history dating back thousands of years.

With so much to see and do, one of the best ways to conquer the city is with a high-flying helicopter tour in Lisbon, crossing land, river and sea.

Here's all you need to know about helicopter tours, one of the most exhilarating outdoor activities in Lisbon.

What are the most popular helicopter tours in Lisbon?

Helicopter tour to Belém in Lisbon

Sail high above the ancient city of Lisbon on this exciting helicopter tour to Belém. This excursion begins with an arrival at the Lisbon heliport from where you’ll board your aircraft and take flight.

Once in the air, you’ll journey high above the city to catch sight of some of the greatest monuments and landmarks preserved in time. Marvel at magnificent aerial views of the Tagus River, Belém Tower, Jeronimos Monastery, several different museums and the MAAT with its iconic wave shape.

Speed over the 25th April Bridge where you’ll catch breathtaking views of the Cristo-Rei statue, arms opened wide to Lisbon below. Afterward, you’ll head back to the heliport, closing out the journey with sights of the Tagus Estuary as you land.

Helicopter tour to Cascais and Cabo da Roca in Lisbon

This thrilling helicopter tour soars along the Lisbon coastline to Cascais on a private ride.

After you board your chopper, you’ll fly high above the city westbound until you reach the shoreline, passing by Carcavelos Beach, the Cascais Marina and Cape Roca.

Admire views of mainland Europe's westernmost point as you travel in this three-seater helicopter. Admire the beauty of Guincho Beach and Hell's Mouth cave before heading back to Lisbon to close out the excursion.

Helicopter tour to Sintra from Lisbon

On this exciting aerial tour, you’ll fly from Lisbon to the medieval town of Sintra, known for its exquisite castles and colorful palaces.

You’ll begin by boarding at the city heliport, from where you’ll journey west until you reach the charming resort destination. You’ll soar up and over Sintra Mountain where you’ll find the awe-inspiring Castle of the Moors that was built in the first millennium.

Your pilot will share fascinating details about the residence that was constructed during the Arab occupation of the Iberian peninsula. Afterward, you’ll fly by the 19th-century Pena Palace, which was created by the King of Portugal when he married Queen Mary II.

Marvel at the bright yellow and red colors that cover the castle as you venture high above the stunning scenery. From there, you’ll pass by Sintra town and Sintra Palace, making your way through lush green forests before arriving back in Lisbon.

What other sightseeing activities can be combined with helicopter tours in Lisbon?

Helicopter ride plus Old Town tour and boat trip in Lisbon

This unique combination tour ventures through the beautiful land, waters and sky surrounding Lisbon. The action-packed excursion begins with a meetup in Rossio Square where you’ll join your guide for either a historical walking tour through the Old Town.

Become immersed in the rich history of the second-oldest European city with a visit to the Church of St. Roque, the ruins of the Carmo Convent and a ride on one of the classic yellow trams. Afterward, you’ll head to downtown Lisbon and later the Alfama District to admire the grand architecture and beauty of the Cathedral of Lisbon. Finish the first portion of the tour with a visit to the Praça do Comércio square which connects to the massive Tagus River estuary.

From there, you’ll board a boat cruise down the famous Tagus River to Belém, one of the most popular neighborhoods in Lisbon. Pass by museums and visit the 16th-century UNESCO World Heritage-listed Belém Tower before heading to the heliport for the final leg of the journey.

Sail high above the metropolis for a bird’s eye view of the Portuguese capital, catching sights of the iconic 25th April Bridge and Jerónimos Monastery. Finish with a hotel drop-off back in central Lisbon.

What are the prices of helicopter tours in Lisbon?

A helicopter tour over Belém in Lisbon costs about €350 for a group of up to three people, while a private tour that ventures west to Cascais and Cabo da Roca costs around €1,000 for a group of up to three people.

For a helicopter tour that explores the Sintra region, you can also expect to pay around €1,000 for a group of up to three people.

A combination tour that includes a walk or bicycle ride through Old Town, a boat ride on the Tagus River and a short helicopter flight over the capital typically costs €130 per person for a maximum of four people.

Is anything included in the price?

All helicopter tours in Lisbon include the cost of the helicopter ride itself. Most excursions offer roundtrip transportation for an additional fee.

A combination tour of Old Town Lisbon, a boat ride down the Tagus River and a helicopter flight also includes a professional guide, a yellow tram ticket and an air-conditioned ride back to your hotel for drop-off.

Where does it start?

Most helicopter tours begin at the Lisbon Heliport in Passeio Marítimo de Algés near the VTS Tower. Combination tours that begin with a walking tour in Old Town Lisbon typically begin in the center of the city.

How much flight time do I get?

The majority of helicopter tours in Lisbon last 30 minutes for the duration of the of the flight itself, while combination tours could run as long as 5 hours including other activities.

Are these flights safe?

Helicopter flights in Lisbon are safe, but there is a maximum weight limit for participants. Check with your tour operator to make sure you meet the requirements.

Pregnant travelers and those with serious medical conditions are advised to consult their doctor beforehand.

Are children allowed?

Children are allowed, but depending on the tour, children below the age of two may not be able to participate.

What happens in case of bad weather?

Helicopter tours in Lisbon may be canceled if weather conditions are unsuitable, but you can reschedule your trip or get a refund.

When is the best time to book a helicopter tour in Lisbon?

The best time for a helicopter tour is in the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild and pleasant. Most helicopter tours run in the morning when there are clearer skies and less turbulence.

You may choose to take a helicopter tour at the beginning of your trip to get a bird's-eye view of the city. This also gives you other days to enjoy the ride in case your tour is canceled.

Which other popular outdoor activities can be done in Lisbon?

Travel tips

Always listen to the safety briefing provided by the staff or pilot.
Make sure you wear closed-toe shoes.
Depending on the time of year, it might be cooler up in the air, so bring a light jacket or sweater.
Avoid wearing loose items like hats that could fly off during the flight.
If you're prone to motion sickness, consider taking an over-the-counter remedy about an hour before the flight.

Helicopter Tours in Lisbon