History tours · SHOW
The good historical shows & performances fill weeks ahead and the best of them go first. Below: the 8 to book early, what each includes and how they differ.
At Lisboa em Fado in central Baixa, you’ll hear a 50-minute live Fado concert with two singers and two guitarists, performed without microphones. Short films and English explanations with Portuguese subtitles introduce Fado’s roots, Lisbon, and the Portuguese guitar. Your ticket includes Port wine or juice.
“I loved the experience, and that it was interactive”
In Porto’s Miragaia quarter, spend one hour hearing two Fado traditions from musicians seated just meters away in a historic tavern. The show begins with Coimbra Fado, linked to university students, then shifts to traditional Fado. Your ticket includes one glass of Port wine or water. Expect Portuguese-language hosting and a quiet, no-microphone setting.
“A lovely experience, a taste of 2 types of Fado. Highly recommended”
Meet your host at the blue doors near Lisbon Sé Cathedral for a 50-minute Fado performance in an old stone venue. Hear male and female singers, guitar music, song explanations, and stories about Fado’s origins. Your ticket includes Portuguese wine or another drink, with the show ending at the same entrance.
“so cool to see and all the artists are amazing. it's like a little cave stage which is really cool and i think a fado show like this is a must when in portugal!”
Spend 2.5 hours walking through Old City with a guide such as Tom, John, Maria, PJ, or Carla. See Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell Center, Elfreth’s Alley, Franklin’s grave, and the President’s House, then view George Washington’s War Tent at the Museum of the American Revolution. The group is capped at 12.
“This was a very rich and full walking tour remembering the American Revolution. PK helped us to understand the flow of events and to make it real.”
Spend 2.5 hours at Arona Pyramid in Playa de Las Américas for a fast-moving music show covering Mozart, Beethoven, Elvis, The Beatles, Queen, ABBA, Pink Floyd, and Michael Jackson. Expect live vocals, musicians, dance, theater, acrobatics, costume changes, and a 15-minute break. Seats are not assigned, so arrive early.
“Great international cast, recognised virtually all the music choices, would have liked some Meatloaf, especially when the motorbike appeared”
In Lisbon’s Alfama district, singer and host Mário Lundum leads a one-hour Fado session with Portuguese guitar, traditional songs, and stories about Lisbon’s musical soul. The show is presented in Portuguese and English, with time for audience interaction and a complimentary glass of Port wine.
“Last night was my first time experiencing Portuguese culture firsthand, and it couldn’t have been more unforgettable. I went to hear Fado for the very first time, not knowing exactly what to expect, only to leave completely mesmerised. The duo held the room in a kind of reverent stillness, their music heavy with longing, love, and something beautifully unspoken. One young and one older but equally powerful and knowledgeable! Simply fantastic! For a few moments, it felt entirely reasonable to imagine Alfama as my secret home, a place I could return to whenever life needed slowing down. That, I think, was the true sentiment of the music an ache that…”
Travel to Gloria Aspendos Arena for Fire of Anatolia, a large-scale Turkish dance performance staged in the ancient Aspendos Theater. You will see 120 dancers combine folk dance, ballet, modern choreography, dramatic lighting, and fast footwork in the shows Troy or Evolution. Transfers from Side may be added, while dinner is available with selected Kemer and Alanya options.
“Magnificent show. Professional dancers. Not the expected touristic attraction. An amazing experience in an ancient roman theatre”
Visit São Bento da Vitória Monastery with an English, Portuguese, or Spanish-speaking guide, then hear one hour of Fado in a small chapel with Portuguese guitar and Fado viola. A Port wine and monk-made Singeverga liqueur tasting are included. The total experience lasts 90 minutes.
“Unique atmosphere for the Fado. The tour and history of the monastery were very interesting. Lovely Fado singer with two excellent musicians. A lovely sound from the Portuguese guitar. Worth a visit.”
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