Peppe, why don’t you have a tuk-tuk?

Nana Guerreiro
Oct 4
3 min read

I get this question a lot. And it’s a fair one — they’re everywhere in Lisbon and Sintra. They zigzag through the streets, colourful, noisy, charming in their own way. So let me answer, once and for all… with love, with respect, and with my full heart in it: Because that’s not the kind of journey I want to offer you.

Tuk tuks are fun — I get it. They’re quick, they’re open-air, they make for great photos. For a short city spin, especially if you’re tight on time or just want to feel the wind in your hair as you cruise by the monuments, they can be a good option.

But here’s the thing: I don’t believe in rushing through Portugal.

What I do is different. When you travel with me — whether it’s in a comfortable car or van — we don’t just “see things.” We take our time. We talk. We laugh. We stop when we want. We dive deeper.

Think about it like this:

A 4-hour tuk-tuk ride might cover a handful of stops in the city, with a script.

My 8-hour (or more) private tour? It is a completely different experience. You’re not just ticking off sites — you’re spending time in each place, guided by someone who adapts the route to your pace and preferences.

What my private tour gives you:

Comfortable transportation (car or van or minibus up to 57 people of the same group) with air conditioning and space to stretch and rain or shine you'll have all the comfort you need.
A guide who can listen to your interests and share meaningful stories — not shout over traffic noise.
Time to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant — no rush or quick snacks
The flexibility to explore longer, ask questions, or even adjust the plan mid-day
Space for strollers, water bottles, backpacks, or that bottle of wine you just bought

Rain or shine, winter or summer, hills or coast — we’re comfortable, safe, and free to wander farther.

This is not just about transport. It’s about connection. It’s about stories that aren’t on signs. It’s about sharing places I love, and showing you details most people miss.

I give my heart into it, and what makes me happiest isn’t just that you saw the castle or the monastery — it’s that you felt something. That we had a proper conversation. That we shared a coffee (or ginjinha!) in a quiet spot no one else noticed. That you left knowing a little more about Portugal, the Portuguese… and maybe about yourself too.

Nothing against tuk-tuks. Truly. They have their place, and some good friends of mine drive them. Tuk-tuks are fun for 30 minutes. They’re tolerable for 2 hours.

But after 4, many guests tell me they were exhausted, cold (or overheated), and left with more pictures than understanding.

And that is ok, if that is what you are looking for...

But if you’re seeking a deeper, more personal, more flexible way to experience Portugal — from Lisbon to Sintra, from Setúbal to Évora, north to south, small groups, big groups, kids, you name it! — Then maybe, just maybe, you are looking for something similar to what I offer. And what I try to bring every day.

So no, I don’t have a tuk-tuk. But I do have a seat waiting for you.

Day tours from Lisbon

Sintra & Cascais Tour: Palaces, gardens, ocean views, and pastel de travesseiro? Say less. I’ll guide you through Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and we’ll end the day by the sea.
Fátima, Nazaré & Óbidos: Spiritual peace, monster waves, and medieval charm in one perfect day. You won't regret it.
Évora & the Cork Trees: History, wine, and a side of something unexpected.
Setúbal - Palmela: Wine, views, and the stunning Arrábida coastline — with dolphins if we’re lucky. It’s the kind of day that makes you fall in love with Portugal all over again.
Remember: I can also take you on a Lisbon half day tour — quick, fun, and packed with hidden gems only a local would know

With Portugal Journeys With Peppe, all you have to do is show up ready to smile, eat, explore, and maybe dance a little.

My Fleet

No matter your group size or travel style, I’ve got the wheels to match — from comfy SUVs to spacious minibuses and a full-size bus for the party people. Let’s ride in comfort and style!