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A Self-Guided Sintra Day Trip: Hiking to Sintra’s Palaces

Sintra is a beautiful place to hike, but we found Sintra hiking trail information was hard to find for independent travelers. Tour websites were steering people to the tour bus circuit and we had to do a lot of online research to find any sort of trail maps or clear hiking directions.

After visiting Sintra with a We Hate Tourism tour, we really wanted to see more. So we decided to do a day trip to Sintra on our own , taking the train from Lisbon one weekday morning in early November and walking to the various palaces.

Updated: January 2024. Originally published: Dec 2017.

In this post, I’ll share what we did and what we learned along the way so other independent travelers can have an easier time visiting Sintra on their own. We’ll include self-guided hiking options as well as some alternatives.

What travel restrictions and rules are in place in Lisbon? Find post-pandemic travel updates for Lisbon here: What you need to know about Lisbon travel right now

Sintra Trail Maps

Hiking trail maps for Sintra are hard to find online. (Update: You can now download a few trail maps here , although they’re not as easy to follow as the ones posted on site.)

Once we were in Sintra, we did come across some trail maps posted at the Moorish Castle and Pena Palace, which would have been nice to have beforehand, although the trail we initially took is not included on either.

Here are both Sintra walking maps (note that in the second map, the town at the bottom is actually North of the castle):  

How to get to Sintra from Lisbon by train

Conveniently, there’s a direct regional train to Sintra that leaves from Rossio station in the heart of Lisbon. You can purchase tickets at the counter on the top floor for “urban” lines.

At the time of this writing, reusable cards are 50 euro cents and a round trip to Sintra is 4.60 euros.

If you already have a reusable Viva Viagem card (also used for the bus, trams, and metro), make sure you’ve used up any single journey tickets or other credit. You can only have one “type” of ticket on the card at a time.

We arrived to Rossio around 7:20 a.m., and there was only one person in line at the ticket counter (this is early November). The train was waiting for us and left at 7:41 on the dot, mostly empty.

There’s nothing spectacular to see on 40 minute journey except Lisbon’s aqueduct at the beginning, then it’s just suburbs and graffiti’d train stations.

We arrived in Sintra around 8:20 with the train almost empty again. In retrospect, it would have better to take the 8:11 a.m. train since few things are open in Sintra before 9 a.m.!

Click here for the Lisbon to Sintra train timetable PDF – the Rossio to Sintra line is in red.

Walking up to Sintra’s historic center

Exiting the train station, we followed signs to the town center. There’s a nice wide sidewalk and a pretty setting with statues along the way.

Be aware that Google Maps may show you a shorter walking route from the train station, but the main road is actually preferable and there’s less elevation change.

Since we arrived before 8:30, only one cafe was open, across from National Palace . The town was just starting to wake up and no tour buses were present yet.

We waited with a handful of others for the historic Piriquita bakery to open at 9, with the delicious scent of pastries wafting into the street.

I can’t remember the name of the long sugar-covered pastries with jam filling, but they’re our favorite. We ordered two of those plus one quiejada , an espresso, and a coffee with milk (5.80 total).

The bakery was founded well over a century ago and has even opened a second shop in town – one is closed on Tuesday and the other closes Wednesdays.

For anyone looking to hike straight up to the Moorish Castle, there’s a trail sign across from Piriquita on the corner of another shop. (This is actually the way we came back down.) The sign mentions that corresponding walking maps are available at the Sintra info center.

Not sure you want to hike Sintra on your own? You can also do a half-day trekking tour of Sintra with a guide.  You’ll meet the guide at the National Palace in Sintra, so just follow our directions up to this point. Morning and afternoon walking tours are available. >> Book the Sintra Half-Day Trekking Tour <<

Walking to Regaleira Palace

Freshly fortified by pastries, we started the short walk to Regaleira Palace . There was a sign on the road leading out of town from the southwest so we knew we were headed the right way.

We also came across the hop-on hop-off bus circuit map. If you don’t want to walk, that’s always an option.  Purchase full day Hop On Hop Off bus tickets here > 

When the road started heading uphill, we began to see the palace grounds. We continued walking all the way around the corner to the open gate.

At 9:35 a.m., the grounds had just opened. There was no line for Quinta da Regaleira tickets and just a slow trickle of people entering.

We enjoyed exploring the grounds without crowds, starting with the mysterious Initiation Well. We followed various underground tunnels, found curious rock structures and caves, and were generally in awe of the eccentric landscape architecture.

I’ll let the photos speak for themselves…

We entered the actual palace building at 10:45 a.m. The top floor wasn’t open so we walked through in about 5 minutes. Ready to move on, we took advantage of the bathrooms in another building before heading out for the rest of our hike.

Monserrate Palace

Note: If you have time and want to visit more palaces, I’d recommend starting with Monserrate first . 

We saw it on our first visit to Sintra. It’s really beautiful – especially the mansion itself. The gardens are also lovely but they pale in comparison to those of Regaleira, so do Monserrate first and you’ll be increasingly impressed!

Monserrate is further up the road from Regaleira and is almost always less crowded.

If you don’t have enough time for both, prioritize Regaleira over Monserrate when possible.  

Rampa da Pena Trail from Regaleira

We got confirmation from a security guard that there was indeed a trail entrance further up the road, though we got the impression he was rarely asked about it. So we followed signs to Monserrate and before too long, we saw the trail and sign on the left.

We entered the trail around 11 a.m., which was walled on both sides the entire way until it put us back out onto the winding road heading up to Pena Palace.  

We noticed that a tuk tuk driver was guiding some tourists through a gate across the road, so we followed them in to check it out.

It was the perfect place for our picnic lunch. We sat on some rock outcroppings and had views of both Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle perched on their respective hills.  

Although it wasn’t marked, we suspected that the hiking trail is actually supposed to continue through that same gate, as there was a pretty prominent dirt path leading in the direction of Pena Palace (though slightly downhill).

Since we weren’t sure, we returned to the road and followed it up to the Pena entrance.

Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle

Not including our lunch break, it took us less than an hour to hike from Regaleira to the top of the hill .

We first came upon one of the entrance areas and a parking lot for Pena Palace , where we could see part of the gardens through the gate.

It’s still a big climb uphill from the ticket booth to reach the palace itself, and we hear the lines can get long, so a visit to Pena could potentially take up the rest of the afternoon. We decided to skip it.

If you want to avoid the very long lines at Pena Palace , it makes sense to book in advance. Book a Pena Palace and Park Skip-the-Line Ticket >

From the Pena parking lot, there was a nice dirt path that became cobble stone after we passed a viewpoint of the Moorish Castle.

Soon, we were approaching a ticket booth for the Moorish Castle on the nearby road, but we turned left and continued along the stone paths toward the castle.

Tickets for the Moorish Castle are collected at the ‘inner circle wall’ so you can see a bit of the outer grounds without paying.

Book Castle of the Moors private tour here>

I recommend checking out the nice short video inside the chapel that depicts the area’s history. Between the chapel and the inner wall/ticket entrance, you can also look into two old burial grounds.

From the Moorish Castle, there’s a cobbled pathway and stairs leading down to the road back into town. I believe there are a couple ways down, so we just followed the signs to Centro Historico and enjoyed the nice views.

We came down this stairway – the path from Sintra to the Moorish Castle is well marked so it should be easy to follow if you’re doing the reverse of our trip. (Apologies to the tourists we caught in our pictures!)

We left the Moorish castle around 12:10 and were back at the train station by 12:45 p.m, just in time for the 1 o’clock train back to Lisbon. There was a marked difference when we passed through Sintra’s town center on the way back – it was no longer quiet, and we had to dodge people in the alleys.

All in all, our self-guided Sintra day trip was a success. We loved exploring Sintra’s serene hiking trails and spending more time around in its magical palaces.

Each visit has left us wanting to go back for more – as long as we can stay off the beaten path and avoid the growing crowds of tourists!

If you have any questions about making a day trip to Sintra from Lisbon or about hikes in Sintra, please let us know in the comments. If you’re an expert in this area, we’d love to hear your advice and suggestions for the best walks in Portugal!

✈️ Protect your Sintra trip with Travel Insurance – We’ve started using Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing for affordable evacuation, international medical, and trip coverage.

For further reading:

– Self-Guided Walking Tour Itineraries for 3 Days in Lisbon – What Not to Miss in Lisbon (On A Budget) – Is the Lisbon Card worth it? – Where to stay in Lisbon

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22 Comments

Thanks for your post. Yesterday we found a footpath up near the Igreja de Santa Maria. And there is a coffee shop open at 7 am. It’s on the road which is next to the Municipal building which turns right downhill that google maps tells you to go, and if you turn left you are on flat sidewalk next to road.

Thanks for writing in and adding this great tip!

What is the name and location of this cafe?

Thanks for visiting our blog, Craig. I believe you are referring to the Piriquita Bakery, which we have linked to their webpage in the post so you can find more information. It seems there are actually two locations, and you can find the map on their Contact page: https://piriquita.pt/pages/contactos

The trail maps are not hard to find, but maybe they were not available when you visited back in 2017. You can download a detailed pdf guide to the trails on the Parques de Sintra website. The guide includes the Santa Maria trail, the Lapa Trail and the Seteais trail. The page is: https://www.parquesdesintra.pt/en *UPDATE: PAGE NO LONGER EXISTS* The link to the pdf is at the bottom of this page. We will be visiting Sintra soon and found your article to be very helpful

Thank you, Jack. I have updated our post with that link. The online maps don’t seem quite as easy to follow as the ones we came across on site, but at least it’s something!

Those are really great pictures of some pieces of history, it’s weird to think how many used to call those home.

Hi, thanks for the great info on hiking. On the trail down from Moorish Castle back to Sintra, do you pass by Vila Sassetti? Also, is there a trail to Monserrate? The road from Sintra doesn’t appear to have a sidewalk. Thanks

Hi Pete. Glad to hear you’ve found the info helpful. We were only able to record details about the hike we did ourselves, but we did capture those photos of the trail maps so hopefully they can be used to find other options. I think you’re right about the road to Monserrate not having a sidewalk, though I think you could walk it just fine if you’re cautious and alert to vehicles around the curves.

Hi Michelle

Thanks very much for all the detail, that’s really helpful.

I am planning for our Sintra trip one day early in November, as you suggested we will take the 8:11am train from Rossio and just arrive before 9am.

What I propose is on the opposite direction with you did: take the bus to the Pena, stay for ~1.5 hours and then walk to the Castle, after that I want to take the Rampa da Pena Trail to the Regaleira. Below is some question may you can help:

– Is there a clear sign on the way out of the Castle point to the trail to Regaleira?

– Is the trail safe and difficult? and any high slope? as we have two female cousin coming with us, they are not quite strong.

– For the Pena-Castle-Regaleira-National Palace, if we are not in a hurry do you think we can leave by 4pm?

Thanks in advance and really appreciate for the info.

Hi Li. So glad you found our post to be helpful! I think that route sounds like a great plan. The trail is not difficult or very steep, and the way you are doing it will be mostly downhill. I do not think you’ll be able to depart by 4pm if you want to go *inside* all of the castles – I would recommend viewing the Moorish Castle and National Palace from the outside only so that you can take your time. As for getting from the Moorish Castle down to Regaleira, honestly the signage could be better. From the castle grounds, you’ll actually head back toward Pena palace and you should find a trail map in the parking lot below Pena (the second map on this post, titled Percurso Pedestre at the top). You can either find the trail from the same parking lot, or follow the road as it winds down toward Regaleira/Monserrate and connects up with trail further down. I hope that helps and please let us know how it goes!

Hello, thank you so much for the information! My husband and I will be in Portugal in October and I’ve been looking for info like you’ve provided….so I’ve looked into the Lisbon city pass options just to see if it’s worth it to see more in the buildings in Sintra…how much did it cost for you to go in Regaleira? And which location is the famous descending stairwell, and is it free to walk through there? Thank you so much in advance! I greatly appreciate the info!

Hi Schylo. I’m glad you found our post helpful – that’s our aim. Up to date costs can be found through the link we included for Regaleira in the post. At the moment, cost for adults is 6 euros. The stairwell/well is on the Regaleira grounds, so you’d need to pay that entrance fee to see it. Happy travels.

hi! We are traveling tot lisbon next week and we are still not sure about wich sintra castle we want to visit. What about the coloured one? We do love this alternative option, before its get crowded!

Hi Joyce. Thanks for stopping by the blog! The colorful castle you’re referring to is Pena Palace. We didn’t go inside that one ourselves. Obviously, it’s the most popular for a reason – great views, beautiful colors. But we don’t regret our decision to do Quinta da Regaleira instead. Not only are the grounds fascinating to explore and just as photo-worthy, it will likely be less crowded. To be honest, you can’t go wrong. Choose one and enjoy it for what it is!

We will be in Lisbon mid September live to do some hiking .thank you for all information Did you do porto too From madrid planning to do Porto/lisbon /sintra and will walk all the way down to the south of Lisbon Or should I get from madrid-lisbon and do Porto/sintra ???? Thank you

Hi Helen. Thanks for your message. We did not make it to Porto, although we’ve heard great things. If you’re planning to go from North to South, then starting in Porto certainly makes sense. I think it just depends on your preferences and transportation costs from Madrid. Enjoy the trip!

I’ll be in Sintra in just under 2 weeks. These pictures were amazing and the information was super helpful. I can’t wait to explore!

Hi Erin. Glad to hear the post was helpful. Have a wonderful trip!

Hi there – how long do you think it will take to do train station –> Regaleira –> Moorish castle / pena palace –> train station, all walking? I’d much prefer waking / hiking over waiting for buses, but slightly concerned about time.

Hi Yali. Since we left at 7:20 and got back around 2pm without doing a second palace, I would just add another 2-3 hours per palace to our timeline. If you were to do Regaleira, the Moorish Castle, AND Pena Palace, you may be getting back after dark, especially if the line for Pena is long. If that’s the case, I would prioritize Regaleira and Pena, just walk past Moorish Castle on your way back to town.

This looks amazing! Love your photos! Thanks for the info!

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Home » Travel Guides » Portugal » 15 Best Sintra Tours

15 Best Sintra Tours

Located in the Greater Lisbon area along the Portuguese River, Sintra is a city of about 400,000 residents that’s particularly well-known for its abundant castles and palaces.

For those staying in Lisbon looking for a convenient day trip option, Sintra is usually no more than an hour away, depending on traffic, which is often bumper to bumper during rush hour and other peak travel times.

Sintra is one of the country’s architectural wonders and is also known for its friendly people, vibrant food and art scenes, and stunning natural beauty.

Below are 15 of the best tours of Sintra that previous visitors have ranked highly.

1. Sintra Walking Tour with Palace, Castle, and Old Town Visit

After meeting their guide at a central location and getting an overview of the day’s events, guests of this Sintra walking tour will set out to visit many of the city’s most iconic attractions.

Especially for those who’ve never been, the city is an alluring mix of historical and contemporary sites. Depending on the interests of guests, tour stops can be personalized to ensure maximum value.

Of course, the tour’s centerpieces are palaces, castles, and the Old Town area, but there are also natural and cultural attractions.

Tours last four hours, start mid-morning and have a relatively casual pace.

2. 3 ½-Hour Rock Climbing Experience

For those who’ve never tried it, rock climbing is among the most exhilarating full-body workouts you’re ever likely to have.

Eager climbers will meet their guide either in the morning or the afternoon, after which they’ll get an intro to rock climbing, all the gear they’ll need, and a safety briefing before heading into nature to put their newfound mountaineering skills to the test.

Within sight of the Moorish Castle, Palacio da Pena, and the majestic Sintra Mountains, participants will experience a unique blend of exercise, nature, and history that their tour bus bound counterparts can only dream of.

View Prices & Reviews

3. Sintra Heritage Hike

Sintra-Cascais Natural Park is just a short drive from the city center. It is crisscrossed with a network of hiking trails that are appropriate for a wide range of ages and levels of physical activity.

On this full-day tour, nature-loving hikers will leave the city’s hustle and bustle in the rearview mirror and delve into an idyllic setting characterized by towering cliffs, rocky coastlines, otherworldly sand dunes, and quiet forests dotted with lakes and streams.

You’ll get up close and personal with the 8th century Moorish Castle and Pena Palace, which looks like it leaped from the pages of a fairytale.

4. Portuguese Beaches and Colares Private Jeep Tour

Sintra’s coastal location gives lovers of sun, sand, and surf easy access to many of the country’s most amazing beaches.

This seven-hour private beach and Jeep tour includes morning pick-up at your accommodation and a brief meet and greet with your guide before the adventure gets underway.

After boarding their trusty 4×4 Jeep, guests will set out to explore not only several beaches and stretches of undisturbed coastline but the region’s mountainous interior as well.

Make sure to charge your camera because the views will be nothing short of breathtaking; you’ll get up close to Monserrate Palace, Pena Palace, and the Moorish Castle.

5. A Taste of Pena Palace Food Tour

Whether you’re staying in Sintra, Lisbon, Ericeira, or Cascais, this tour has you covered. It includes either hotel pick-up or a convenient meeting point at an easy to reach central location.

Once in Sintra, guests will head to Pena Palace.

It’s the perfect place to start, as it’s considered one of the most impressive and historically significant attractions in the entire country.

Guests will learn about its history and take in its impressive architecture before heading off to experience other sites and sample some of the country’s most flavorful cuisine.

Plan on enjoying everything from Portuguese coffee and fresh pastries to port wine and queijadas.

6. Pena Palace, Cascais, and Natural Park Day Tour

Tours that offer multiple options are popular with travelers who prefer to focus their energies on the attractions that interest them the most.

On this six-hour morning tour, guests can opt to explore a number of the city’s most prominent symbols, like the Moorish Castle, the National Palace, or the Convent of the Capuchos before heading into the hinterlands.

The Sintra Natural Park offers a variety of scenic gems that include impressive boulder fields, sweeping ocean views from the continent’s westernmost location, and the rugged landscape of Cabo da Roca.

Tours begin and end in Sintra and include a relaxing lunch in a traditional restaurant.

7. The Inquisition’s Hand Private Walking Tour at Night

The Inquisition was a particularly dark time in the history of Spain, and according to historians, thousands of residents lost their lives in purges designed to uphold the country’s Catholic traditions.

Thankfully, those days are long gone, but there are a number of attractions in Sintra that are tied to events from the 15th century.

This private night walking tour begins in Sintra’s historic center and includes the services of a local guide-historian, who’ll take guests to relatively obscure corners of the city and regale them with fascinating tales of life back then.

Highlights include the Pena, Royal, and Seteais palaces.

8. All Monuments and Cabo da Roca Self-Drive Tour

Regardless of whether you’ve got just a few hours or a whole day to spare, this self-drive tour from Sintra would be a great way to see the Portuguese countryside at your own speed.

Before the tour begins, guests can plan their route and the things that they want to see, so when they get their electric car, they can set out without wasting valuable time.

From historic villages and impressive monuments to castles, palaces, and large tracts of undeveloped coastline along Cabo da Roca, there are options for participants of nearly all stripes.

Tours meet at a central location and include an overview of local driving laws and a tutorial on how to operate their e-car.

9. Sintra Half-Day Trekking Tour

There’s definitely no shortage of activity options in and around Sintra for those who value physical exertion as much as they do sightseeing and cultural immersion.

This half-day trekking tour begins at the National Palace, where guests will rendezvous with their guide and get an overview of the day’s events.

After a casual walk around the park, trekkers will pass several key attractions, like the Palacio da Pena, Sintra Castle, and the National Palace.

Along the way, you’ll benefit from your guide’s interesting insights and have ample time to take photos, ask questions, and relax at a café with a traditional pastry and cup of coffee.

10. Private Half Day-Tour of Key Highlights

The stretch of coastline between Sintra and Cascais is one of the most scenic areas on the coast and features an impressive array of historic attractions and amazing views of rivers, the ocean, and the cliffs just inland.

Guincho Beach is popular with wind, kite, and body surfers. It is just a hop, skip, and a jump from Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, where the bulk of the tour will take place.

Along with their guide, guests will visit palaces, castles, and a number of vista points, as well as sample traditional Portuguese food in a quaint village.

Tours can begin and end in either Sintra or Lisbon and include round-trip transportation.

11. Sintra Full-Day Road Bike Tour

The hills and winding roads leading out of Sintra along the coast are perfect for bikers intent on seeing things from a street-level perspective.

After meeting their guide at the train station in central Sintra, energetic bikers will head toward Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, where they’ll get up close and personal with Pena Palace, the Moorish Castle, and some of the most stunning scenery in the region.

Tours include a nice mix of hilly and flat terrain, picturesque villages, undeveloped natural areas, and a visit to Cape Roca—the westernmost tip of the European continent.

Click the link below for important booking details.

12. Guided Sightseeing Tour by Tuk-Tuk

Sintra’s designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site means that lovers of history and culture can spend days exploring and never run out of new attractions to see.

Though walking, biking, and bus tours are plentiful, many guests agree that seeing the city by tuk-tuk is definitely the way to go.

Tours meet at a convenient central location and include stops at many of Sintra’s most impressive historic sites that include castles and palaces featuring Egyptian, Moorish, and Renaissance architectural influences.

Two-hour tuk-tuk tours include the services of a local guide and are available in multiple start times and four languages.

13. Legends and Medieval Stories Private Walking Tour

Not every tour of Sintra includes the services of a guide who’s also a historian; that’s exactly what makes this legends and medieval stories private walking excursion such great value.

Starting in the city’s historic center, participants will set out to explore Sintra’s history and culture while hearing interesting and obscure tales of intrigue, war, corruption, and long-standing family feuds from their chaperone.

Sintra Castle is one of the tour’s most impressive and historically significant highlights. Those who choose to trek to the top will have impressive panoramic views of the city and countryside far below.

14. 2-Hour Private Surf Lesson at Praia Grande

For those who’ve never climbed onto a board and hit the waves, learning to surf may seem a bit intimidating.

Though it’s not something that can be mastered in just a few hours, this private surf lesson experience offers participants of most ages and levels of physical ability the chance to get up to speed relatively quickly.

Everyone will get a board and wetsuit and be paired with an experienced and patient instructor, who’ll give them an overview of basic safety and surfing techniques before taking to the water.

Tours meet at a convenient location, take place at Praia Grande, and are laid back and stress-free.

15. Sintra Life and Death at the Capuchos Convent Guided Tour

For those who prefer to sleep in and spend the morning relaxing before taking in Sintra’s sites, this early afternoon guided tour of the Capuchos Convent would be a great fit.

Located in the Sintra Mountains, the convent is steeped in history, legend, and lore, and many guests are surprised to learn that it was far from an idyllic setting where dedicated monks prayed, mediated, and worked for the good of the common man.

The convent’s history stretches back centuries, and the tour features both in and outdoor portions.

Tours last about five hours in total, three of which will be spent on-site before guests are returned to the original starting point in town.

15 Best Sintra Tours:

• Sintra Walking Tour with Palace, Castle, and Old Town Visit
• 3 ½-Hour Rock Climbing Experience
• Sintra Heritage Hike
• Portuguese Beaches and Colares Private Jeep Tour
• A Taste of Pena Palace Food Tour
• Pena Palace, Cascais, and Natural Park Day Tour
• The Inquisition's Hand Private Walking Tour at Night
• All Monuments and Cabo da Roca Self-Drive Tour
• Sintra Half-Day Trekking Tour
• Private Half Day-Tour of Key Highlights
• Sintra Full-Day Road Bike Tour
• Guided Sightseeing Tour by Tuk-Tuk
• Legends and Medieval Stories Private Walking Tour
• 2-Hour Private Surf Lesson at Praia Grande
• Sintra Life and Death at the Capuchos Convent Guided Tour

THE 10 BEST Sintra Walking Tours

Walking tours in sintra.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Walking Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers

• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Sintra Small Group Tour from Lisbon: Pena Palace Ticket Included

2. Sintra Small-Group with Regaleira, Pena Palace, Roca and Cascais

3. Half-day tour to discover Sintra, the romantic village

4. Sintra Private Tour from Lisbon

5. Sintra Mountain tour, with Tickets Pena Palace & Moorish Castle

6. Sintra, Cabo da Roca and Cascais, full day tour (8H)

7. Sintra and Quinta da Regaleira excursion by train from Lisbon

8. From Lisbon: Sintra Highlights and Pena Palace Full-Day Tour

9. Private Tour Sintra-Cascais w/ Hotel Pick-Up

10. Small group tour - The Beautiful Cascais

11. Sintra with Pena Palace & Cabo da Roca Hiking from Lisbon

12. Sintra and Cascais Private Sightseeing Tour

13. The most complete day trip from Sintra to Cabo da Roca

14. Sintra Walking Tour and Quinta da Regaleira Guided Visit

15. Private Getaway in Sintra - Through the Hills to the Coast

16. Pena Palace Full Day Sintra

17. Sintra, Pena Palace Visit & Cascais Sailing Trip from Lisbon

18. Sintra walking tour

19. Royal Walk through Sintra: Between Palaces and Mystical Nature

20. Hike in Sintra: Pena Palace, Moorish Castle, Quinta da Regaleira

21. Journey Through the Royal Mysteries in Sintra

22. Sintra Stories by Portugal Stories

23. Sintra Walking Tour

24. Sintra Full Day tour from Lisbon - small group tour

25. Excursion from Lisbon to Setúbal: Nature, Beach and Wine Tasting

26. Sintra Private Tour - Luxury Van, Pick-up & Drop Off Lisbon

27. Sintra Climbing Tour and Visit to Castelo dos Mouros

28. Private tour - The Beautiful Cascais

29. Climbing Experience in Sintra

30. Sintra Private Tour from Algarve

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Explore the Enchanting Castles of Sintra: A One-Day Self-Guided Tour

Sintra is one of those destinations which seems too magical to believe it’s real. It’s a charming town full of fairytale castles, historic battlements and a rich tapestry of cutesy stores and gourmet cafes. There is much to do here, but many only have one day to spend. I remember when I was researching day trips to Sintra from Lisbon, I felt overwhelmed by the choices and options and didn’t know how much time I would need or how many things I could fit into my one day. After finally deciding on what we wanted to see and working out the kinks for myself on our trip out there, I’ve compiled what I think is the best itinerary for your day trip to Sintra.

Sintra Castles Itinerary

This itinerary features all the great sights, some time to relax, the best ways to avoid the crowds (as much as possible) and have fun exploring along the way! The itinerary takes us first to  Pena Palace , then through the lush palace gardens, which lead us up to the ruins of the medieval  Moorish castle . After touring these ancient stone walls, we head to the “millionaires manor,” the  Quinta da Regaleira . Once thoroughly mindblown by these fantastical castles, it’s time to wander through the old town of Sintra, where we’ll stop for dinner and dessert before heading back to Lisbon. The blog post is broken up into each section of the itinerary, so if you want to skip to a specific portion, there are links below.

How to Get to Sintra

Sintra is easily accessible from Lisbon by trains leaving from  Rossio station . The trip requires no transfers and takes around 40 minutes. The round-trip journey costs just 4.50€, making it one of the most cost-efficient day trips. While trains are out to Sintra almost every 40 minutes, I highly recommend getting the train before 8 am. The train schedule changes slightly throughout the year, so I didn’t want to give you an exact time but leaving before 8 am means you’ll arrive before 9 am giving yourself plenty of time to get to your first destination with some time to spare before it opens.

Sintra seems to explode with tourist buses as the morning wears on, so early really pays off. Any chance of being tired is worth it for the experience of arriving at Pena Palace without having to wait in huge lines and fight the enormous crowds to see what’s around you. Also, have a metro card loaded with funds to tap on and off the train or buy your train tickets in advance. Even super early in the morning, there was a lineup at the ticket counter. We were happy to have our pre-loaded metro cards, which meant we could just tap right on them, ensuring we made it onto the train in time. It was surprising how critical those few minutes were in the outcome of our day.

Purchasing your tickets in advance for  Pena Palace  and the  Moorish castle  is recommended. Adult tickets to  Pena Palace  are 14,00€ for exterior and interior tours or 7.50€ for the park and exterior of the palace only. The  Moorish Castle  costs 7.60€, but you’ll save 5% when you buy online. By taking care of this step in advance, you’ll save on time upon arrival and booking online also gets you 5% off!

Tickets are valid for the entire year, so even if you buy them and plan on visiting one day, which gets rained out, you can easily change things around without being beholden to ticket dates and times. You can also purchase them on your phone and show the e-ticket, no need to print out the physical document. The  Quinta da Regaleira  ticket line is significantly less busy, and you can buy those tickets at the gate. Since it’s the last destination of the day, it’s nice to leave it as an option in case you’re too tired or decide to spend more time elsewhere. Tickets into  Quinta da Regaleira  costs 8€.

Admission Options for Pena Palace

There are two options for  Pena Palace admission.  One is to tour the palace’s exterior and royal gardens. The other option will get you entry into the interior of the castle. If you are confident you’ll arrive early and are keen on seeing the rooms inside, go ahead and buy that ticket. But the lineup to get inside can get insanely long. They need to control the number of people who enter the buildings (something which isn’t monitored outside), so this often results in lengthy queues.

We were there as close to the opening as possible, and even we had to wait about 20 minutes to get inside. When we left, the line looked to be almost 2 hours long. While I thoroughly enjoyed touring the interior, there is no way it’s worth 2+ hours of waiting in line. If you think you can miss the interior, the gardens, and the exterior ticket is an excellent option since I think the best parts of the castle are the exterior anyway. It will save you a few euros and potentially a lot of time. If you did purchase a ticket for the interior tour but the lineup to get inside is gigantic, I would advise coming back right before closing when the crowds have cleared out.

When to Visit Sintra

Sintra is always busy. Yes, the winter will most likely be the least busy, but it’s also chilly and can be a bit grey. Since most of the things to see are outside, it’s not always the most comfortable time to explore. The height of the summer holidays is equally as miserable but instead because of the intense heat and crowds. Springtime is the happy medium of pleasant weather and medium crowds. Monday-Thursday is the best chance you’ll see a small group reduction.

Avoid holidays when possible, as these bring in Portuguese tourists. As mentioned before, the earlier in the morning you arrive, the better chance you’ll have at beating the bus tours, which are the most significant crowd control issue. Always the most comfortable time to explore.

Pena Palace

Pena Palace is open all year round except December 25th and January 1st. During the Summer ( March to October ), the palace is open from  9:45 am until 7:00 pm  (last entry 6:15), and the park is open from  9:30 am until 8:00 pm  (last entry 7:00 pm). In the Winter ( October to March ), the palace & park are open from  10:00 am until 6:00 pm.

Moorish Castle

The Moorish Castle is open all year round except December 25th and January 1st. Last entry 1 hour before closing time. In the Summer ( March to October ), the hours are  9:30 am until 8:00 pm , and in the Winter ( October to March ), the hours are  10:00 am until 6:00pm.

Quinta da Regaleira

Quinta da Regaleira is open all year round except for December 24th and 25th, and January 1st. On December 31st, the opening hours are limited. During the Summer ( April to September ), the hours are  9:30 am to 7:00 pm , and in the Winter ( October to March ), they are  9:30 am to 6:00 pm.

Arrival in Sintra

There are two (well, three) options for getting around in Sintra. The first is to take the public buses, primarily  bus #434 , which services most of the tourist attractions you’ll be visiting in Sintra. This bus tends to have big lines up at the train stop since everyone getting on needs to purchase their day ticket, which slows things down. But once you have your pass, it’s super easy to jump on and off throughout the day. Tickets for this bus cost 5€ for a 24-hour pass.

Ubering to the Palace

The second option is jumping in an  Uber . Ubers are a great way to get around Sintra but be warned that because some of the streets are one-way, up a long and winding hill, some drivers might take a while to get to you or might cancel frequently. The Uber ride from the train station to Pena Palace is around 6€ depending on the time of day and the weather. If you’re travelling with 3 or 4 people, Ubers can save you money compared to the bus pass. You don’t need to use transportation more than twice in this itinerary. If you haven’t used Uber before,  download the app  and use my referral code,  rds9f , to get $5 off your first ride!

Walking Option

The third option is to walk. Walking from the train station to Pena Palace is a long journey, but if you’re keen on hiking, this is a great opportunity. Just leave yourself some extra time to hike up to the castle and still arrive at the gates at 9:30 am. Walking to and from the other points in our tour is a great way to save time and see some beautiful things along the way. While some of this tour will be on foot, it’s been tested with people of all fitness levels and ages, so there is no need to worry. If you feel like you need to take a break, remember that taking a seat, literally anywhere in Sintra, will always result in one of the most spectacular views you can get anywhere in the world.

Pena Palace  opens at 9:30 am. Even before this, the crowds lined up outside the gates to get inside this magnificent dwelling. Looking at this sumptuous and over-the-top architectural masterpiece, it’s hard to imagine that this site was once where a very modest monastery once stood.

History of Pena Palace

The Hieronymite monastery was built in 1503 in honour of the Virgin Mary, who is said to have appeared at the top of the mountain in a vision. After falling to ruins over the years due to religious upheavals,  King Ferdinand II,  who had been in love with this spot since he was a child, decided to buy the buildings and the surrounding lands. Construction of the new royal estate began in 1838.

Ferdinand was obsessed with romanticism in art and architecture. He wanted his contemporary summer house to feel like something out of a storybook. Oddly enough, the palace’s construction was taken on by a mining engineer,  Wilhelm Ludwig von Eschwege . Perhaps this was because the Prince and his wife wanted their full say in the castle’s design. Yet they needed Eschwege’s planning prowess to help them achieve the look of a castle sprung forth from the rocks. There really is no one style to be found here. Instead, it’s a patchwork quilt of influences and themes. Ferdinand wanted to include Medieval and Islamic elements and Neo-Renaissance, Neo-Gothic, and Neo-Manueline. The Manueline architecture was the most iconic style in Portugal at the time. It was the millennial pink of its time.

Entrance to the Palace

While the entry gates are just off the roadside, the palace is a fair bit uphill from the main entrance. There is a mini-bus which runs up to the top, but it costs 3€ and more than the money, the line you need to wait in to get onto the bus is a huge inconvenience. Although a little long, the walk-up is actually quite enjoyable. If you have mobility issues, just take it slow and spend the extra time resting between spurts admiring all the beautiful flora and fauna in the garden.

At the top of the hill, the golden yellow walls, blue tile and red-painted exterior of the palace begin to emerge from the trees. Seeing this palace in real life is nothing like seeing the pictures. I really don’t think they can do it justice. Walking up those cobblestone steps makes you feel like you’re walking into a fantasy.

Door of Alhambra

The entryway into the castle is called the  Door of Alhambra . It was inspired by the Alhambra Door of Justice in Granada, Spain. The doorway is covered in brightly painted tiles and decorated with various elegant leaves. Ferdinand wanted this gateway to be where his visitors left the real world behind and stepped into his dream world.

Open passing through the archway, we step into the ‘ Coach Yard .’ This was as far as horses and carriages could come, and guests would make their way to the palace on foot. Standing here, we can look up at the ‘ Monumental Gateway .’ The gateway’s design is a blend of architectural elements found all over Lisbon and which the Prince wanted to see incorporated into his palace.

The facade is covered in diamond-shaped stones, referencing the  Casa dos Bicos  in Alfama. On either side of the top of the gateway, we have arched domes, completed with rope-like decoration; the same was on the famed  Tower of Belem . The exterior is finished in a series of round balls reminiscent of the  Cunhal das Bolas  in Barrio Alto. In the centre of the arch, on the very top, is a pair of crossed swords atop a knight’s helmet, with a plume of lush feathers springing out of the top.

Upper Courtyard

Step through the archway and make your way around the swirling passageway to the upper courtyard. It’s here you’ll finally have the chance to study the tiles which make up the exterior hue of this building. Tiles, or  Azulejos  as they are called in Portuguese, have a strong history in Portugal, dating back to the 13th century. The Moors brought them here, who invaded much of Spain and Portugal in the 1200s. The word azulejo in Arabic means “ small polished stone .” In Islam, they believed in  aniconism , the avoidance of images of sentient beings in art. As such, geometric shapes became the most popular form of decor. As such, most of the tiles brought with them from Islam continue this tradition. The geometric and natural forms are striking, and their colours haven’t faded significantly over the years.

The Triton Portico

The Triton Portico  is one of the most impressive elements of Pena Palace. Triton is meant to serve as an allegorical of the world’s creation. The facade is divided into two factions, the aquatic world below and the terrestrial world above. They are separated by Triton, a monster half man and half fish but a part of both worlds. Bits of corals surround Triton’s feet; above him, you can see the carved grape vines and leaves blossoming wildly. The Portuguese were a seafaring nation, and aquatic symbolism was always an important aspect of their artistic culture.

Interior Tour of Pena Palace

After studying the first courtyard, you can visit the interior if you buy a ticket. This part of the tour often gets very crowded, and the line can get long, so best to do it right away when the line is shorter. The palace’s interiors are located inside the old Hieronymite convent. As such, the layout follows the design of the former convent exactly. As you enter, you’ll step right into the open cloisters. Look up and see how the open-air hallways continue on both palace floors. This place is covered in azulejos, and ghastly faces stare down at you, carved in the gargoyles above.

Dining Room

The dining room is one of the most impressive rooms on the first floor. The dining room has the most remarkable ceilings made of intricate ribbed vaults and lined with tiles. The table is set like they’re still awaiting their visitors. Each piece of furniture was made for this exact space, the images of Portuguese animals of the forest carved into the backs of the chairs.

Plaster and paint were used to create illusions throughout the interior. This technique is called ‘ Trompe-l’ œil ,’ French for “to deceive the eye.” Objects in three dimensions are here created in a two-dimensional forced perspective. In King Carlos’ studio, we find a painting of Nymphs and Satyrs playing in the Park of Pena, which is believed to have been painted by the King himself.

Interior Ornamentation

Stucco was used to decorate the ceilings of the interior, some designed in the shapes of pine cones, leaves and branches. In other rooms, we find the ceilings patterned with Islamic designs in the stucco. Walking from room to room, you feel like you’re entering another world.

One of my favourite parts of touring the interior was all the personal touches, decorations, knickknacks and treasures. The little things which make a house, a home. They were those fascinating treasures that made the castle feel like someone really lived there.

Upstairs, the  Noble Hall  is one of the most impressive spaces. Compared to the relatively small sizes of the bedrooms, this reception hall was where the King took advantage of space. It was here where large parties were thrown, and the who’s who of Lisbon’s high society would come during the summer. The Noble Hall was inspired by the Ottoman Court. Iron replicas of Turkish kings are on either end of the room; they hold huge golden torches. Comfortable red leather sofas on either side of the hall were designed with mirrored canopied behind them to make the room appear much larger. It was also an excellent way for the elite to spy on those around them!

The last room you’ll see is the old kitchen, a real hit with chefs and foodies. Here are all the original kitchen utensils, pots and pans and other antique items found in the antiquated Portuguese kitchens. The kitchen felt enormous when the rooms were all rather small, but it must have taken an army to feed the tremendous parties which were no doubt held here.

Arches Yard

After exiting the interior, you have the chance to now tour the opposite side of the outside of the palace. Walk underneath Triton’s arch out to the  Arches Yard . This is where you’ll find the beautiful golden-yellow Moorish arches, which create a window onto the village of Sintra and across the countryside below.

There is nothing to compare this view to; it seems to go on and on forever on a clear day. From atop this peak, you can spy on all the rich estates below, one of which is actually owned by Madonna, the queen of pop herself! Sintra is still where the rich and famous come to escape the city and live in some of the most lavish properties in the world.

Convent of the Order of Christ

Take the chance to turn your eyes away from the incredible view and look toward one of the ornate windows on the main facade. This piece was inspired by the chapter house window in the  Convent of the Order of Christ  in Tomar. The window is surrounded by alchemical symbols, some of which seem to have a mystical aura. Much of Sintra’s more obscure lore lies in its prominence as a Masonic hub. The Convent of the Order of Christ was a 12th-century stronghold for the Knights Templar. Once its order was disbanded, it is said that the Masonic Temple was formed to continue its mission. It is rumoured that King Ferdinand was himself a grand master of the Masonic Order and, as such, influenced much of Sintra’s history as a Masonic centre of power.

Standing guard over the Arches Yard is the sizeable red clock tower atop the old monastery chapel. The chapel’s steeple is embellished with white and emerald green tiles, which beautifully contrast the red and yellow walls and the blue (or grey, in our case) sky.

The chapel remains unchanged from its 16th-century design. 22 monks would come to pray here during their time at the monastery. The walls are entirely covered in green and white polychrome tiles, which still shine inside the darkened chapel. In a small alcove are the ornate alabaster and black marble altar made by  Nicolau de Chanterene  in 1532. The expressions he managed to carve out of the solid marble defy earthly conventions making it feel all the more holy.

Opposite the altar is one of the few remaining original stained glass windows from the monastery. The coloured used within this design is so striking, and it’s hard to believe this piece is a few hundred years old. I loved how quiet it was inside the church; most people skipped it as they rushed in those group tours. But I was glad to have stopped inside as it was a wonderful moment to pause and reflect on the beauty around me.

The Wall Walk is just down the stairs from the chapel, a small passage leading you around the back of the palace. While the narrow walkway looks over a steep hillside, the brave will be rewarded with one of the most incredible views across Sintra. Standing on this side of the palace, you can see the Moorish Castle on the other side of the forest.

After touring the castle, the cafe on the terrace is a great spot to grab lunch. Although the restaurant here is rather expensive, the cafe is surprisingly cheap, with a selection of delicious Portuguese pastries, sandwiches and more. If you brought your lunch, this is also a good opportunity to break out the picnic. While there might be better places to eat in town, it would take ages to get there and back, so instead, enjoy the great atmosphere around you while enjoying a simple lunch.

Gardens of Pena Park

Follow the map at the bottom of this post to find the pathway through the  Gardens of Pena Park,  which will take us toward the Moorish Castle. The map they give you when you enter is really confusing, and honestly, as long you’re headed down, you’re probably on the right path. Just keep your eyes open for signs of Moorish Castle. The Gardens of Pena Park have dozens of hidden secrets you’ll stumble upon. Stone couches, glass-walled greenhouses, tiny Islamic gazebos, and dozens of flowers. Compared to the hundreds of people at the palace, these pathways around the gardens feel empty. We were often the only ones there, and despite the confusing map, we had a blast exploring and getting lost all along the way.

The gardens cover over 200 hectares of land around the castle. If you love hiking, you should definitely try to come out here and explore the entirety of the park. This could take you all day and is certainly not for those in a rush, but if you have the time to space, there are many amazing things to discover. We only saw a tiny part of the gardens, but even that was absolutely incredible.

Variety of Flora and Fauna

King Ferdinand wanted this garden to not only exemplify the beauty of Portugal but also plants and flowers from all over the world. You’ll spot everything from Magnolias, Japanese Cryptomeria, Chinese Ginko, American Sequoia, Cypress, Red Cedar, and tree ferns from New Zealand and Australia.

No matter what time of year you come, something is almost always blooming. Finding your way toward the exit can be challenging since the park was designed as a labyrinth. But as long as you’re headed toward the Pena Garden entrance, you’re on the right track!

Upon exiting the Gardens of Pena Park, walk about 10 minutes uphill toward the entrance to the  Moorish Castle . The Moorish Castle is a stark contrast to Pena Palace. There are no colours to be found here, only the natural grey of the rocks and bright greens of the forest around it. While the entrance to the castle is right off the side of the road, the journey towards the original entry is about a 15-minute walk from there. You’ll stroll along a rolling pathway leading you around the castle walls’ exterior. Look up as you examine the old stone walls above the steep hillside around you.

History of the Moorish Castle

The Moorish Castle is one of the oldest parts of Sintra. It was built in the 8th and 9th centuries by the Moors. The term “Moors” was a general term used to name the Muslim inhabitants of Portugal. They brought with them their rich architectural histories, which generations would continue to be inspired by. In 1147, the Christian forces of the  Reconquista  fought the Moorish people and took the castle for themselves. It was used for military defence during the 14th century. But eventually, it feels like ruins when it is no longer needed for security. Over the next few hundred years, it became almost completely abandoned. With earthquakes, fires and neglect, many thought the castle would be lost to the ages.

But when King Ferdinand II bought Pena Palace, he also took some interest in the Castle of the Moors. Ferdinand really did have a passion for history. He took it upon himself to start preserving the remains of the castle and rebuilding the portions beyond repair.

Moorish Chapel

Upon entering through the castle’s main gates, you’ll see one of Ferdinand’s new constructions, a small chapel. This chapel contains relics found on the site, some from the Neolithic area (5000 BC). Important artifacts from the 10th-12th century Islamic cultures have also been found and are now on display inside the chapel. Outside the chapel, you can see a glass cover atop the stones displaying replica bones from where bodies were discovered buried beneath the castle floor. The King pointedly collected the bones and placed them in a small tomb. A large stone marks the spot with an engraving which says, “ What man has joined only God will set apart. “

Upon entering through the  Curtain Wall , to the left of the archway is the site of the old stables. A newly built stylized wooden structure marks the spot where you can grab a hot drink on a cold day or a cold drink on a warm day. Either way, it’s a nice place to recharge to hike up the castle walls.

Phases of Construction

Take a closer look at the walls of the castle. See if you can make out the four distinct different layers of which they’re made up. Each one tells the story of the people who ruled over this structure. The first layer is made of granite blocks which rest on the bedrock over what was once an Islamic house and silos in the 12th century. The second phase was a reconstruction using ancient techniques made in the 12-13th century. The third phase was built in the 19th century when King Ferdinand took possession of the castle and helped with its restoration. The last stage was built in the 20th century when the building became a tourist destination run by the government. Steps were taken to ensure its safety and strength for future generations.

The large open courtyard is called the  Pracad de Armas , where the military garrison would gather in the 13th century. When it was remodelled by King Ferdinand later in the 19th century, it was made into a garden oasis space for contemplation. It is still a beautiful area for people to sit and enjoy the view if they cannot manage the hike up the walls.

Exploring the Ruins

We visited on an especially windy day. Despite this, we walked the entire way to the top of the walls for a spectacular panorama of Sintra and Pena Palace. Walking up these walls, you feel like an explorer discovering ancient ruins. When you finally make it to the top, the scene is stupendous. Pena Palace seems so far away; it was hard to imagine that you were standing on that yellow terrace only hours ago.

The walk down from the tower is much more leisurely. Although the landscape is the same going down as it was going up, somehow, it seems different, almost like getting another angle on the entire vista. It’s incredible to observe the lush bushes, trees and flowers that sprout from within the rocks themselves.

Next, it’s time to head over to the  Quinta da Regaleira . To get to this palace, you can summon an Uber from the Moorish Castle (be warned, this can take some time since the castle is located at the top of a one-way street, we had multiple Ubers cancel but eventually got one. It just takes some patience). The Ubers are extremely well priced at approximately 6-9 euros.

You can also take the bus 434 towards the  Palácio Nacional de Sintra  and then walk the rest of the way (approx. 13 mins). You can also take the tuk-tuks, which wait outside the Moorish Castle. This is probably the fastest option, they are always waiting there but their speed and availability come at a price (about 5 euros per person). If you’re in a rush, it’s a great option to get around if money isn’t a problem.

History of the Quinta da Regaleira

The Quinta da Regaleira was the summer palace of  António Augusto Carvalho Monteiro , or ‘ Monteiro the Millionaire’  as he was better known at the time. King Ferdinand made it popular to come and build spectacular palaces in Sintra, and Monteiro wanted in on the trend. So many rich aristocrats were building summer houses in Sintra, but Monteiro wanted his to be jaw-droppingly ornate. He wanted it to be even more fantastical than the King’s palace. Spread across the hillsides of Sintra, Monteiro created a veritable garden of Eden for himself and his family.

Luigi Manini

The palace was designed by the Italian architect  Luigi Manini .  Upon  his visit to the palace, Lord Byron called it “ a glorious Eden. ” poet  L.V. de Camões  wrote that it was “ an oasis where one could imagine that every pool and stream has nymphs in its waters .” Monteiro believed in primitivism, and as such, the layout of his gardens may have been carefully designed. But the plants were left to grow as they pleased, and in this wildness is where we find some of the most beautiful parts of the palace. The tree spread across the grounds seemed to almost camouflage the buildings below, swallowing them up whole beneath their lush green leaves. Only parts of the structures can be seen peeking out from beneath, giving visitors only clues about where to find those secrets.

Regaleira Chapel

Upon walking in, before visiting the main interior of the palace, first explore the grounds. Standing close to the entrance is the Regaleira Chapel. Its architecture is so similar to the palace’s that it almost looks like a minature version. Inside is a richly decorated interior, with stucco carved into elaborate shapes and decorations dripping off the ceiling. Delicate leaves seem to grow out of the walls, and it feels like if you could reach out and touch them, they would perhaps wilt under pressure. Frescoes depicting Teresa of Ávila and Saint Anthony are painted onto the walls and ceilings. At the same time, the windows are made of brilliant blue stained glass.

Free Masons

On the floor, the richly hued tiles form the shape of the armillary sphere of the Portuguese discoverers. This symbol you’ll more than likely have seen all across Lisbon. The armillary sphere is a model of constellations in the sky which was used to help the Portuguese navigate the globe. These scientific discoveries helped the Portuguese become wealthy explorers. As such, science was almost believed to be just as powerful as religion. And the Free Masons thought science was the guiding light in the world’s darkness. Around the sphere, you’ll see various pentagrams. The pentagram is a five-pointed star often associated with mysticism and the occult. Rumours abound of Monteiro’s association with the Knight Templar. He designed this entire palace as Masonic Temple, and symbolism from their order can be found all over if you know where to look.

God’s Promenade

Continue walking along the path towards the  Gods Promenade  and grotto. This little area features dozens of statues of classical gods hidden amongst the sweeping greenery. Among the flora, see if you can spot the many cedar and acacia trees which grow in the garden. These trees are of special importance as they were often associated with the Free Masons. Cedars are considered the symbol of eternity as these trees are some of the strongest and longest-living trees on earth. Cedar trees were thought the be what the Temple of Jerusalem and the Ark of the Covenant were made of. Acacia trees are evergreen and, as such, a symbol of the soul’s immortality.

You’ll find secret tunnels throughout the park, some of which have no artificial light, and you need to break out your iPhone flashlight to find your way. I kept wondering if, at one point, we would be turned away or be met with an “off-limits” sign, but that never happened. We were totally left to explore the park-like our own playground. These secret tunnels help lead you to the grounds of the palace. Walk down to the grotto and find your way through the tunnels up the hill, and you might find yourself standing at the bottom of the famed Initiation Well.

Initiation Wells

There are two  Initiation Wells  located on the property. Even though they are called ‘wells,’ they have never used a water source; their purpose is entirely ritualistic. It is thought that these wells were once more linked to the Knights Templar and mysticism and perhaps used in initiation ceremonial rites. Both of the wells contain a set of winding stairs. In many cultures, these winding stairs are thought to represent both life and rebirth.

The largest well contains nine platforms. These nine levels were thought to symbolize the nine sections of Purgatory and the nine circles of Hell from  Dante’s   Divine Comedy . At the bottom of the well, as both seen from above and below, is a large compass inlaid over a Knights Templar cross. With symbols like these, it’s hard to ignore all the rumours about the Masonic symbolism in the palace. The smaller well, named the ‘Unfinished Well’ is its walls are rougher and more naturalist, and it feels much more ominous to explore as it was created out of mother earth herself.

Portal of the Guardians

You’ll find the Portal of the Guardians in the centre of the upper portion of the grounds. This building is made of two towers connected by a central pavilion. In the centre are two angry lizards clamouring over a giant conch shell. Above are a series of fillagree above the archway carved into the shape of fish heads. Behind the entrance, you’ll find one of the hidden passageways into the Initiation Well.

You’ll find more mystical influences inside many of the little caves and grottos. Inside this cave, we found the image of the blazing star hanging above the centre of the room, suspiciously anchored to the ceiling with a pulley so the star could be lowered or raised. The blazing star is special for the Knight Templar as it represents man’s knowledge and how intelligence is the secret to bringing light into the darkness. The sun is often seen in areas where a ritual was practised, and it was especially ominous here in the echoing cavern, the eyes of the siren sitting above the fountain the only ones looking back at us.

Interior of the Palace

The final part of the grounds to explore is the palace’s interior. Auspicious gargoyles stare down at any visitors stepping inside, and the greying walls make the otherwise ubiquitous sandstone look very grim. The castle is covered in ornate capital and gothic pinnacles. A fantastical octagonal tower is atop the palace, like the topping to a wedding cake.

The first room is one of the most impressive. The dining room’s main feature is the incredible hunting scene carved into the stucco on the fireplace mantle. Atop the mantle is a statue of a woodsman. Across the room, beautiful hand-painted wallpapers depict more scenes of country life in Portugal. It’s both regal and quaint, all at once. The rest of the rooms are just as ornate, although the use of wood throughout keeps it feeling more like a lodge than a castle.

Village of Sintra

After touring all these famous castles and palaces, it’s finally time to head back into the town of Sintra and explore the tiny streets and hidden alleyways before heading home. You can easily walk from the Quinta da Regaleira into the main part of the village, and the walk is part of the fun! I was amazed at how, as the day wore on and the tourist began to journey back, the city started to open up and once more feel like just another quiet, little village.

There are so many charming cafes and shops in the main parts of town; each one is worth poking your head inside if something catches your eye. Their post office was one of my favourite random places. I stopped in awe at the beautiful tile work that continued throughout the little building.

Outside the  Palácio Nacional de Sintra  is a great place to take a seat and enjoy the view of the colourful houses stacked on top of each other and look up, way up, to see the walls and towers of the Moorish Castle high above you.

Dinner & Dessert

If you aren’t rushing to get home, it’s worth stopping for dinner in town at Tascantiga. This little cafe covered in red and white gingham table clothes serves traditional Portuguese tapas in a friendly environment where you feel like family the minute you walk in the door.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Eva D. (@ohh.eva) on Feb 23, 2017 at 6:07am PST

For dessert, you must head to the famous Casa Piriquita for the traditional Sintra pastry, Travesseiro de Sintra (or Sintra’s Pillows). These flaky rectangular desserts are stuffed with whipped egg custard and almonds and look like tiny, fluffy pillows. They are the perfect thing to grab and enjoy on your train ride back to the city.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Cléa Mendes (@cleam esquita) on May 18, 2019 at 4:41am PDT

Leaving Sintra

Sintra is incredible; many tourists flock here, but there’s a reason they do. If you come early, you’ll get ahead of the big groups. Whenever you feel like there’s too much of a crowd in one area, it’s usually pretty easy to just wander somewhere else and wait for those clusters to leave. I wish we had chosen to spend a night in town since I would have loved to walk the streets at night when almost all the day-trippers headed home, and you would have the city practically all to yourself. If that works for your schedule, I would definitely recommend doing that. But a whole day in Sintra still was plenty of time for us to see everything on our list at a gentle enough pace to soak it all in.

Have you been to Sintra, or are you planning a trip there? Let me know your favourite spots or any questions you have in the comments!

Happy Travel Adventurers!

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Great Article – thank you for sharing. Is there any chance we can walk from the Moorish Castle to Quinta da Regaleira? If so how long is it and is it hard or easy?

Ideally I would like to take a bus or Uber up to Peña Castle hike to Moorish Castle hike to Quinta Da Regaleira and hike back to town.

The Creative Adventurer

Hi Sonja, while the walk from Pena to the Moorish Castle is relatively short, the walk from Moorish to Quinta da Regaleira is a bit challenging, although not impossible. It’s called the Percurso de Seteais Trail. They rate the hiking trail as challenging, and it takes a minimum of 1 hour and 20-30 minutes (at a decent pace) to complete.

You can see a map of the walk here: https://bit.ly/3EKAMkj and another map here: https://www.parquesdesintra.pt/media/pspaaztf/brochura_percursos_pedestres.pdf

I’d instead recommend taking the bus up to Pena, hike to Moorish, and then hop on the #434 bus to go down to Sintra Vila (National Palace). From the National Palace, it’s only a 15 minutes walk to Quinta da Regaleira. And it’s a lovely walk through the little town. Hope this helps!

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Discover Nature - Walking Paths

Each Tour has been tested by experienced hikers from our team. We have hand selected some of the best paths to explore Sintra's Natural Park and Forests. The Tours are graded by level of difficulty and walking time. They can also be experienced with mountain bikes.

Tour 1: Santa Catarina

The enchanted Forest walking tour.

Time: 2 hours Difficulty: Easy

Tour 2: Path to Pena

The Sintra Park Tour

Time: 4 hours Difficulty: Medium - Difficult

Tour 3: The Stone Forest

Ultimate Sintra Park Tour

Time: 6-8 hours Difficulty: Difficult

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Sintra Walking Tour

Nestled atop rolling hills, along a beautiful coastline, the magical town of  Sintra  filled with ancient castles, elegant palaces and lush gardens promises breathtaking views and unforgettable memories. Perfectly located just outside the hustle and bustle of Lisbon was forever the retreat of the kings, gentry and artists. Visit with us the place where beauty of nature and architecture act together to leave you enchanted and inspired. Come to visit  Sintra  and touch a wonder!

This charming town, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has seen the footprints of various cultures and civilizations. From the early Celtic tribes and Romans who recognized the land’s mystical aura,  Sintra ‘s history took a defining turn during the 8th century with the Moorish conquest. They saw its strategic value and built a mighty castle here, remnants of which stand until today. The 15th and 16th centuries marked  Sintra ’s golden age, as Portuguese nobility, lured by its mesmerising beauty and cool climate, made it their sanctuary, away from the court’s intrigues. The  Sintra  National Palace rebuilt during this era reflects the time of prosperity with Portugal’s Age of Discoveries. However,  Sintra ‘s true transformation came in the Romantic era, in the 19th century – it sealed the town’s destiny as an everlasting muse for poets, artists, and dreamers, a legacy that remains relevant to this day.

Join us on our journey through the heart of  Sintra , starting with the Jardim da Correnteza, a true gem of gardening art. From there, we’ll walk around the historic town centre, pausing to marvel at the Sintra  National Palace, a stunning architectural monument, known for its iconic chimneys and rich tapestry of Moorish tiles. We will admire the ancient Moorish Castle and its mediaeval ramparts. We will also stop at the mystique Quinta da Regaleira, a palace teeming with symbolic motifs, intriguing grottoes, and the famed Initiation Well. Our walk culminates at the crown jewel of  Sintra , the Palácio da Pena, a Romanticist masterpiece perched high above the countryside, blending Gothic, Egyptian, Moorish, and Renaissance features into a spectacular fusion of imagination and grandeur.

Don’t just dream of magic, come, witness it with your own eyes! Secure your spot on our next walking tour of  Sintra  and join us on an unforgettable journey through time and beauty!

During this 2,5-hour tour you will see and dicover:

• Jardim Correnteza
• Sintra National Palace
• Moorish Castle
• Quinta da Regaleira
• Palácio da Pena
• and much, much more!

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19 Best Sintra Tours from Lisbon: Unlock the Secrets of Sintra

LOOKING FOR THE BEST SINTRA TOURS FROM LISBON?

Look no further because this guide will highlight the top 19 Sintra tours to experience this historic town. 

Sintra is a town like no other. With its stunning natural beauty and centuries-old architecture , it’s enough to make anyone feel like they’ve stepped into a fairytale. 

From the majestic Pena Palace to the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira , it’s easy to see why this enchanting destination has long been revered as one of Portugal’s most beloved destinations.

Don’t have time to read the whole article?

The best Sintra tour from Lisbon is the Lisbon: Pena Palace, Sintra, Cabo da Roca, & Cascais Daytrip , with over 4,000 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ reviews 😳🤯

Experience all that Sintra offers with one of these 19 incredible tours. Whether you’re looking for a guided tour or an independent adventure, there’s something for everyone here. 

From cultural sightseeing to nature trails , these amazing Sintra tours will show you all there is to love about this town outside Lisbon.

So pack your sense of wonder and get ready for an unforgettable experience!

Top 3 Picks: Best Sintra Tours From Lisbon

Secrets of Sintra & Cascais

→ Ideal for first-timers short on time → Small group & personalized experience

Private tour with private Guide

→ Local guide + more intimate tour → Customizable tour

Tour Sintra Palaces via Tuk-Tuk

→ Private transport for just your group → Skip the long walk with a tuk-tuk

Best Sintra Tours from Lisbon

These Sintra excursions and tours will introduce you to the special magic of Sintra. Without further ado, let’s get to this list so you can discover what are soon to be your favorite Sintra day tours.

1. Lisbon: Pena Palace, Sintra, Cabo da Roca, & Cascais Day Trip

⭐️Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰Tour time: 3.5 hours |  🏰 Check rates and availability

Join TugaTrips on a full-day journey to discover the beauty and history of Sintra, its romantic Pena Palace, and the stunning coastlines of Cabo da Roca and Cascais. 

Start your day in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Sintra , where you can take a guided tour of the colorful Pena Palace or have some free time to explore. 

Continue to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe, to take in the impressive ocean views crashing against the high cliffs. 

 The tour was planned great with enough time to both enjoy the places and take pictures. Filipe was a wonderful guide. — GERRY   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

You’ll then visit the elegant seaside resort town of Cascais . You’ll stroll through the charming city center, check out the luxury marina , and explore the restored fort. 

Return to Lisbon in the afternoon with memories and photos to last a lifetime. 

This is one of the best Sintra day tours from Lisbon , as it gives you the choice between shared tour or private tour options.

2. Sintra Private Tour with Cellar Visit & Wine Tasting

⭐️Rating: 4.6 out of 5 Stars | ⏰Tour time: 8 hours |  🏰 Check rates and availability

Discover the beauty and history of Sintra on this tour that will take you to some of the most iconic and picturesque locations in the area

Your first stop is the Palace of Queluz , built in the 18th century as the official royal residence of King Pedro IV of Portugal.

From there, you’ll visit the historic town of Sintra and discover its picturesque streets, including Sintra National Palace, fountains, and shrines. 

 Wow what an incredible experience. From the beautiful views in Cascais, Colares with amazing food and unique wines to historical Sintra each was magical. — ANTONIA   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Head up to the Moorish Castle for panoramic views of the region. Then, see the Pena Palace , a mix of architectural styles and a great example of 19th-century Romanticism. 

After a stop at the most westerly point in continental Europe , you’ll head to the Adega Regional de Colares wine cellars.

A popular wine producer in operation for two centuries, you’ll learn about the winery’s history, visit the cellar, and taste its unique wines.

This is one of the best tours of Sintra Portugal for people who want a more unique Sintra experience, which includes a winery visit. It is also a great option for anyone looking for Sintra private tours. 

3. Sintra Tour in talking-car with GPS Audio guide

⭐️Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰Tour time : 3 hours |  🏰 Check rates and availability

Experience Sintra on your own schedule with this self-guided Sintra tou r in a car equipped with a GPS and talking audio guide. 

Explore the stunning Palácio da Vila , the mystical Quinta da Regaleira , the grand Palácio de Seteais, the lush Parque and Monserrate Palac e, the historic Moorish Castle , the enchanting Gardens and Pena Palace , the secluded Convento dos Capucho s and Peninha , and more. 

 Enjoyed the travel info on the way to our chosen sites. We rented the full day. Easy to park anywhere. — CARLA(READ MORE  REVIEWS )

The audio guide is available in seven languages and provides fascinating stories and commentary that you won’t discover alone. 

With the freedom to travel at your own pace, this Sintra self-guided tour (half day Sintra tour) is perfect for those who want to experience Sintra’s highlights at their own leisure.

4. Private tour with private Guide: Palaces of Sintra & Gardens

⭐️Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰Tour time: 8 hours |  🏰 Check r a tes and availability

Immerse yourself in the regal splendor of Sintra on this full-day private guided tour from Lisbon , where you’ll walk in the footsteps of royalty through palaces and lush gardens.

Straight out of GQ magazine, Miguel promptly arrived in a sleek black Mercedes van. Fluent English was only surpassed by his charm & perfect manners. — ANDREW   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Discover the opulence of 19th-century aristocracy as you explore the UNESCO-listed town of Sintra and its breathtaking surroundings.

This captivating journey takes you through Romanticist architecture and pristine gardens designed for Portuguese kings. Marvel at the harmonious blend of nature and grandeur as you wander through gardens, admire majestic castles, and visit charming handicraft shops.

With a private local guide, you’ll enjoy a more intimate and personalized experience, making this tour perfect for couples or families seeking to delve into the enchanting world of Sintra’s royal past.

5. Tour Sintra Palaces via Tuk-Tuk

⭐️Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰Tour time: 8 hours |  🏰 Check rates and availability

Take in the breathtaking views of Sintra’s most famous attractions with this private tuk-tuk tour! 

Visit Pena Palace, the Moorish Castle , and take a break to explore independently . Along the way, you will be regaled with exciting stories and informative commentary about each of these stunning sites. 

 We will never forget this tour! The Tuk Tuk was a super unique and fun way to see all the sites of Sintra in a short period of time. — LUBA   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Have a worry-free trip with private transport for your group and flexible timing that suits your schedule. Hear untold stories along this enchanting tour and have an unforgettable experience!

6. Secrets of Sintra/Cascais Natural Park – Fairytale Tour

Discover the beauty of Sintra’s UNESCO-listed landscape s on this personalized small-group tour. 

Explore the Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira estate , take in the views from Cabo da Roca , the westernmost point of continental Europe, and stop in the picturesque fishing village of Cascais for a short walk. 

 Alex is amazing! This was legit the highlight of our trip. I would do this experience every time I came to Lisbon because of how much fun I had. — HAMZA   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Your local guide will show you non-touristic viewpoints inside the natural park and allow you to decide which monument you wish to visit inside.

As a special treat, you will have a wine-related surprise before leaving Sintra. The perfect Sintra and Cascais tour. 

This is one of the best tours in Sintra for those who want a personalized experience exploring Sintra’s beautiful landscapes.

7. From Lisbon: Sintra, Cascais, and Belem Full-Day Tour

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰Tour time: 8 hours |  🏰 Check rates and availability

Discover the magic of Sintra on this full-day Lisbon Sintra Portugal tour that includes stops in Cascais and the Lisbon neighborhood of Belem.  

Get ready to explore Sintra, a town filled with medieval streets, grand palaces, and charming chalets. Then take a trip to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe.

 We had a great day with our guide Gonzalo. He made sure that we were always ahead of the big queues. — GREON (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

You’ll then continue southward to Cascais and Estoril –known for their characteristic cosmopolitan atmosphere. 

Enjoy the gardens of the iconic Estoril Casino before hitting the stunning sandy beaches along Portugal’s coast as you return towards Lisbon. You’ll also make a stop in Belem to watch how ships used to sail centuries ago on voyages to discover new worlds. 

This is one the best tours of Sintra Portugal as it is the perfect way to discover the beauty and history of the region and the Portuguese coast. The perfect tour, includes Sintra Cascais  Estoril and parts of Belem. 

8. Sintra: Beaches and Colares Tasting Tour

Discover the hidden gems of Sintra on a private tour that takes you beyond the popular tourist spots.  With a friendly guide, you’ll explore this r egion’s beautiful countryside, traditional rural villages, and stunning beaches. 

Start by heading to Colares, a small village known for its wine-making traditions . Visit the oldest wine seller in the country and learn about Portugal’s wine culture. Next, visit Praia Grande and Praia Pequena , two of Sintra’s most beautiful beaches. 

Stop at Azenhas do Mar , a charming coastal town with a heavenly location, and Adraga Beach, a wild and scenic spot. Finally, head to Cabo da Roca , the westernmost point of Europe, for stunning ocean views. 

 We only had a few days in Lisbon, and we are so happy that we got away from the city crowds and did this tour! — LOUISE   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Along the way, you’ll also sample a variety of Portuguese wines and enjoy a traditional “petiscos” (tapas) meal. This is the perfect Sintra wine tour for those looking to experience the less-visited, off-the-beaten-path gems of Sintra with a focus on wine and gastronomy.

9. Historical Jeep Tour Sintra

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰Tour time: 6 hours |  🏰 Check rates and availability

Explore the historical sights of Sintra with ease on this small group tour by classic UMM Jeep . 

Climb aboard an open-top chauffeured 4WD and visit the magnificent Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle . Marvel at Quinta da Regaleira’s Initiation Well and soak in the breathtaking views from Cabo da Roca. 

 What a day we had. We didn’t know what to expect but it turned out to be the best day on our vacation to Portugal. — PALLE   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Enjoy a wine-tasting sessio n followed by pastries from Sintra’s Old Town before checking out hidden gems around town—all explained in great detail thanks to your knowledgeable and friendly driver/guide. 

Entry tickets are included in the tour for select attractions, making this a unique Sintra Jeep tour perfect for any Jeep-lover.

10. Sintra Full-Day Private Tour – A Journey through Wonderland

⭐️Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰Tour time: 8-10 hours |  🏰 Check rates and availability

Embark on an unforgettable private day tour of Portugal’s most romantic corner , Sintra. Witness magical palaces and estates that seem to have come straight out of a fairytale and explore popular royal holiday destinations with your own personal guide. 

Visit two UNESCO World Heritage Sites , Pena Palace, and Quinta da Regaleira, take a leisurely stroll around the historical town of Sintra, and enjoy the fresh sea air in Cascais. Get tips on the best local spots for lunch or pastries from your guide. 

Every place we visited we thought we had an “upper hand” on knowing what it was all about, because he definitely knew his stuff. — DIANA (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

With a driver and transport organized by your guide, you can tailor your journey to make the most out of every second in this hidden corner of paradise. 

A private Sintra full-day tour that is personalized. Is there anything better?

This Sintra Palaces tour is the best for those who want a private and personalized fairytale experience in Sintra. This is hands down the best private tour Sintra has to offer. 

11. Private Vintage Countryside Gastronomic Tour

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰Tour time: 4.5 hours |  🏰 Check rates and availability

Discover the hidden gems of Sintra, Mafra, and Ericeira on this private tour with a local guide. Travel in style in a classic car, and explore the beautiful landscapes, including a secret waterfall, an inactive volcano, and the charming villages of Sintra and Mafra. 

 This tour is a MUST DO to get away from the heat and the crowds! The best part of the experience was Diogo and Rita, who were exceedingly kind hosts. — ANDY   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Enjoy a gastronomic experience and picnic with local products in a rustic village . Visit the National Palace of Mafra and take a free walk in the world surf reserve of Ericeira, known for its Portuguese cobblestone streets and stunning Atlantic coast views. 

Experience the sounds of natur e, the smells of the countryside , and the unique local flavors while riding in a sustainable, classic car. Perfect for families and groups of up to 8, this tour is a unique and memorable way to explore the area.

12. Archaeological Sintra Tour in a Classical car

⭐️Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰Tour time: 4.5 hours |  🏰 Check rates and availability

Discover Sintra in its raw and authentic state with a local archaeologist and tour guide who has been involved in archaeological excavations in the area. 

Explore off-the-beaten-path places not typically visited by tourists and learn a unique perspective on the area’s past cultures and secrets. 

Being an actual local archaeologist he provides a wealth of knowledge and detail you can’t find elsewhere. — JAMIE   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Your tour guide expertise means you’ll be provided with a wealth of local advice , ensuring an incredibly authentic experienc e of Sintra. 

Experience Sintra away from the crowds and immerse yourself in the area’s rich history and culture on this epic Sintra tour from Lisbon. 

13. Wonders of Sintra & Coast Sintra Guided Tour

⭐️Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour time: 6 hours |  🏰 Check rates and availability

Experience the beauty and history of Sintra and its surrounding areas on this tour led by a knowledgeable Sintra tour guide. 

With a small group, you’ll visit the charming village of Colares and take in the stunning scenery at Azenhas do Mar beach .

Visit Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe, and explore the c olorful Pena Palace and UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sintra’s historic center. 

This is a wonderful trip to see Sintra. An excellent way to see the Castle if you don’t have the entire day. — CARMEN   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

With over five different stops , this Sintra tour Portugal offers a unique look at the region’s hidden gems.  

Take advantage of the opportunity to see Colares, Azenhas do Mar, Cabo da Roca, and Centre Historico de Sintra in this Sintra full-day tour.

14. Sunset Hike, Tapas & Wine at Secret Beach 

⭐️Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour time : 4 hours |  🏰 Check rates and availability

Embark on an adventure of a lifetime on this Lisbon to Sintra tour that includes wine, tapas, and a visit to a gorgeous secret beach. 

Start off with a leisurely off-road trip along the beach shores before heading to the iconic Cabo da Roca cliff for an exhilarating hike down to the secret Ursa beach and back. 

 The jeep ride, hike to the beach and picnic were awesome!! We enjoyed tapas and wine on the beach! — JENNIFER   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

As the sun sets over the Atlantic Coast, indulge in crisp glasses of wine and tapas while listening to soul-lifting music. 

End the day with a visit to the f amous fisherman village of Cascais , making this tour the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. 

For an incredible Sintra Cabo da Roca tour, that includes a visit to a secret beach, look no further than this inside Lisbon Sintra tour . 

15. Sintra Tour Tailor-Made (Personalized)

⭐️Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰Tour time: 4 hours |  🏰 Check r ates and availability

Experience the beauty and history of Sintra in a personalized way on this tailor-made Sintra tou r run by a local family-run business. 

Explore Sintra your way and at your own pace . From the grandeur of Pena Palace–one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal–to the extravagant neo-Manueline gardens of Quinta da Regaleira, whatever you choose, each stop on the tour will leave you in awe. 

 ❝ Francisco was kind, patient, and very knowledgeable about Sintra and the surrounding areas. — SHAMIR   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

If palaces aren’t your thing, then opt to enjoy the stunning views at Cabo da Roca or take a swim in the crystal clear waters of Praia das Azenhas do Mar.  

Whatever you choose, it can be done. This is one of the best Sintra day tours for anyone looking to create their own unique experience in Sintra. 

16. Sintra – Cascais: 6-Hour Electric Bike Tour from Lisbon 

⭐️Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰Tour time: 4 hours |  🏰 Check rates and availability

Enjoy Sintra on the back of an electric bike , which comes in 4 different modes of assistance , making exploring the area easy and effortless. 

You’ll meet your guide at Rossio station and catch the train to Sintra, where you’ll have the option to visit the National Palace or spend most of the tour exploring the natural park of Sintra-Cascais. 

You’ll be visiting Quinta da Regaleira , known for its symbolism and mystery, and the 18th-century palace turned 5-star hotel, Seteais. 

From there, you’ll take in the stunning views of Monserrate Park and Palace and discover the charming village of Colares , known for its vineyards.

AMAZING tour!!! What a great experience riding electric bikes all the way to the highest point of Sintra (lovely views) and then crossing pretty towns. — CHARLIE   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

For lunch, you’ll have a break at Azóia before continuing on to Peninha Sanctuary for panoramic views. 

End the tour with a final look at Pena Palace before returning to Lisbon through the beautiful town of Cascais. 

This Sintra bike tour is perfect for the adventurous soul regardless of activity level. 

17. From Lisbon: Sintra and Cascais Natural Park Private Tour

⭐️Rating: 4.9 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour time: 8 hours |  🏰 Check rates and availability

Take a journey to Sintra, the destination of choice for Portuguese royalty, and experience the unique atmosphere of its pristine Natural Park . 

As you ride from Lisbon to Sintra, marvel at Pena Palace, an architectural masterpiece in the European Romantic style . The next stop is Sintra Villa , before setting off to Roca Cape , the westernmost point in Europe. 

Our guide, Ligea was outstanding. Our guide tailored the tour to our interests. — MARK   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Then it’s time for a swim at beautiful Guincho Beach . You’ll end your day with a visit to Cascais–once a fishing village turned royal resort. Today is known as the Portuguese Riviera. 

This is an excellent Lisbon to Sintra day tour for those wishing to explore Portugal’s stunning historical and natural attractions. 

18. The Best of Sintra and Estoril Coast, Two Palaces and Pastry Tasting 

⭐️Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰Tour time: 8 hours |  🏰 Ch eck rates and availability

Embark on a private full-day tour of Sintra and Cascais from Lisbon and explore two beautiful palaces while tasting delicious traditional pastries. 

Visit the picturesque Pena National Palace, stroll through the UNESCO-listed historic center of Sintra village and take in breathtaking ocean views at Cabo da Roca . 

Our trip was tailored to our needs, eliminating things we had done before, and incorporating things we hoped to do. — ELIZABETH   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

From there, you’ll head to Cascias. Here, you will have some free time to explore the charming coastal town before returning to Lisbon. 

Along this unique Sintra tour Lisbon, you will visit seven stops, including Casino Estoril, Centro Historico de Cascais, Boca do Inferno, Cabo da Roca, Sintra National Palace, Centro Historico de Sintra and Park and National Palace of Pena. 

Step into Portuguese tradition and culture with this unforgettable Lisbon and Sintra tour . 

19. Sintra Free Walking Tours | Free Tours Sintra

If you want to see the best of Sintra in half a day, this Sintra Free Tour is definitely the right choice.

This free walking tour Sintra is a great introduction to the region. You’ll learn more about the birth of Sintra, and its XIX-century romantic expansion and visit many of the major Sintra attractions . This Free tour Sintra also offers tour-goers dozens of local tips and plenty of things to do in Sintra once the tour is over. 

Remember that even though the Sintra walking tour may be free , entrance to many of the palaces is not. If you plan to visit any of the Sintra palaces, make sure to book tickets in advance, especially if you are coming during high season, as queues can be incredibly long.

Sintra Tours from Lisbon FAQ

Where is Sintra?

Sintra is located in the western part of Portugal, in the Greater Lisbon region.

What are some of the top attractions in Sintra?

Some of the top attractions in Sintra include the Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, Tapada Nacional de Mafra, and Castelo dos Mouros.

Is Sintra Portugal worth visiting?

Sintra is a popular tourist destination for its picturesque landscapes, historic palaces and castles, and charming villages. It is worth visiting for its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and delicious local cuisine.

Note: We also have a Sintra Day Guide. Want to learn more? 👉 A Sintra Day Trip: Your Complete Guide .

Why is Sintra famous?

Sintra is famous for its beautiful palaces and castles, including the Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. It is also known for its picturesque landscapes and charming villages, making it a popular tourist destination.

Which is better, Sintra or Cascais?

Sintra and Cascais are popular tourist destinations in Portugal but offer different experiences. Sintra is known for its historic palaces and castles, while Cascais is known for its beaches and coastal towns. It depends on what you’re looking for in a vacation. However, there is also the option of taking a Cascais Sintra tour, which includes a stop in both locations. 

Is Sintra cooler than Lisbon?

Sintra offers a cooler climate than Lisbon due to its higher elevation and coastal proximity. The misty hillsides of Sintra make its weather much more changeable and unpredictable, with large fluctuations in temperature throughout the year. Expect sudden rain showers as well as sunshine. 

What should I wear in Sintra?

Sintra has a Mediterranean climate, so it’s best to wear comfortable shoes and clothing that can be layered. The temperature in Sintra can change in a minute. Be prepared for hot and cold temperatures and a lot of walking. Bring extra layers in your backpack or day bag.

What is the best way to explore Sintra?

The best way to explore Sintra is to take one of the many guided tours available. With knowledgeable local guides, you can learn about the history and culture of this remarkable destination while visiting its most impressive sites.

Is Sintra a day trip from Lisbon? 

Sintra is a popular day trip destination from Lisbon, as it is only a 30-40 minute train ride from the city center.

Is a day trip to Sintra worth it?

A day trip to Sintra is worth it. With its UNESCO-listed landscapes, historical palaces, estates, and natural park, it offers a unique and magical experience. However, there are many things to see in Sintra, so you won’t be able to see everything in just one day. It’s important to decide beforehand what you want to see, as you will only be able to enter one of the palaces. Make sure to plan your itinerary accordingly and prioritize the sights that interest you the most. This will help you make the most of your time in Sintra.

Can you do Sintra in half a day?

Can I do a Sintra half day tour? While it is possible to see some of the main sights in Sintra in half a day, it is recommended to spend a full day to fully appreciate the town and its surroundings fully.

Can you see Sintra without a tour?

Yes, you can explore Sintra on your own. Take a stroll through its cobbled streets and admire the beautiful architecture; visit some delightful gardens, such as Tapada Nacional de Mafra or Quinta da Regaleira; or hike up to Castelo dos Mouros for stunning views from above. However, if you are limited on time, it is recommended to do one of the many day tours to Sintra from Lisbon available. 

What do I need to know before going to Sintra?

Before visiting Sintra, it’s essential to be aware that the town is located on a hill, and many of the main palaces and sights are scattered around the hillside, making it difficult to explore on foot. It’s recommended to take a tour, a Sintra bus tour, or a tuk-tuk to get around. Additionally, it’s a good idea to research the different palaces and attractions beforehand to plan your visit and purchase tickets, as some places can get crowded.

What is the best day to go to Sintra?

The perfect days to visit Sintra are midweek, such as Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday, to avoid the crowds of tourists from Lisbon cruise ships and locals on long weekends.

Is it easy to get to Sintra from Lisbon?

Sintra is easily accessible from Lisbon by train or bus. The train ride takes around 30 minutes, while the bus takes around 45 minutes. However, it may be a little tricker to see all palaces as they are located on a hill outside the main part of town. That is why Sintra tours from Lisbon are recommended. 

Can you get around Sintra without a car?

Yes, it is possible to get around Sintra without a car, but it can be a bit more challenging. The town of Sintra is relatively small and walkable, but the main palaces and attractions are located outside and scattered around a hill. While it is easy to get to Sintra by train from Lisbon, getting to the main palaces by foot can be difficult. The best option is to take a Sintra day trip tour, bus, or tuk-tuk to see the main sites. However, this will depend on your physical condition and the distance you are willing to walk.

Is Sintra a walkable city? 

Sintra is a small town, and most of the main sights can be reached by foot. However, some palaces and castles are on hills and may require a bit of uphill (strenuous) walking—nevertheless, Bus 434 runs from the castle to Sintra train station. You can buy a single ticket from the driver for 4 euros.

Should you buy Sintra tickets in advance?

It is recommended to buy tickets in advance, especially for the more popular palaces such as Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle, as they can get very crowded and it’s possible to wait in long lines. This way you can avoid waiting in long lines. 

How much is a taxi from Lisbon to Sintra?

The taxi cost from Lisbon to Sintra can vary, but it is generally around 30-40 euros.

Are there Buses in Sintra?

Many hop-on-hop-off bus tours include the Sintra Cascais Tour. The companies include Carristour Sintra tour (Carristur Sintra tour), Yellow bus Sintra tour, and Cityrama Gray Line Portugal .

Are there tuk tuks in Sintra Portugal?

Yes, there are tuk-tuks available in Sintra, Portugal. They can be a convenient way to get around the town and visit palaces and monuments, especially if you prefer not to walk or avoid crowds. Tuk-tuks are typically operated by private companies and can be booked in advance or on demand. Prices will vary depending on the company and distance traveled. There are also some Sintra tuk tuk tours available. 

How do I get from Sintra station to Pena?

To get from Sintra train station to Pena Palace, take the CP – Sintra line to reach the station. Once there, board bus number 434 or 516, which will take 25-30 minutes to reach the palace. This is the best way to get to the palace from the station. Another recommendation is to take a Sintra Pena Palace tour. 

Are there any activities for kids in Sintra?

Yes! Kids will love exploring Parque Natural de Sintra-Cascais with its fun trails, playgrounds, and breathtaking landscapes. Or take them on a fantastic adventure at Moors Castle for an exciting day out.

Final Thoughts Best Sintra Tours from Lisbon

From the lush greenery of its natural parks to the stunning palaces and estates, Sintra is genuinely a magical corner of Portugal. Whether you visit on a private or small-group tour Sintra Portugal, by car, or on foot, you’ll be treated to a personalized and enriching experience. So which one of the Sintra tours from Lisbon did you like?

With so much to see and do in Sintra, it’s worth planning and deciding which sights and landmarks you want to prioritize. And remember to savor the local flavors, from wine tastings to traditional pastries, as you explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Whether interested in history and culture or just taking in the breathtaking views, a day trip to Sintra is worth it. 

So pack your camera and get ready to discover why this corner of Portugal has captured the hearts of visitors for centuries.

Ready to go on a Sintra from Lisbon tour? Now you are all set with our Best Sintra Tours from Lisbon.

Yvonne Ivanescu is the founder of Now in Portugal and Now in Rio Swim, an ethical and sustainable swimwear company. She is a writer, editor and marketer with over 10 years of experience.

Storytelling is her second nature and she wants to share the magic of Portugal with the rest of the world.

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Sintra Tour

Step into a world of wonders with our sintra tour, fell in love with the city of sintra.

We are sure all of you have seen a photo of the yellow Pena Palace. Yeah, we all know it's incredible! That's why it is a must to visit during your tour in Portugal. Besides Pena Palace, Sintra tour has much more to surprise you with. A Sintra tour with The Walking Parrot is the best way to explore the narrow streets and the magnificent palaces located in the city. Our Sintra tour takes you on a journey through the city's rich history and enchanting architecture. Visit Sintra for a day tour and fall in love with it. Book our spot now!

Romance in Portugal

Don't miss the opportunity to explore the vibrant streets and visit three of Sintra's most stunning Portuguese castles in our Sintra tour.

Discover the hidden gardens

A magical place you can not miss in our Sintra tour

Sintra tour .

Explore the stunning charm of Sintra, a must-see Portuguese destination in our offered Sintra tour. With lush forests surrounding the city, Sintra's narrow, picturesque streets lead to iconic spots like Pena Palace and Moorish Castle. Getting here from Lisbon is a breeze, and our guided Sintra tour offer deep insights into Sintra's history and its majestic castles.

Sintra is a top Portuguese destination that should be on your list for the tours. Join The Walking Parrot's Sintra tour to discover colorful streets, Pena Palace, and all the city's landmarks. Our Sintra tour provides an immersive experience, where you'll not only witness the beauty but also delve into the rich history and stories behind each site. Don't wait any longer – book your Sintra tour now for an unforgettable experience!

​Customer Reviews

Very fun and informative. Everything was explained wonderfully. definitely recommend to try SIntra tour!! A wonderful place for friends to gather Loved the tour! Very fun and informative. Everything was explained wonderfully. definitely recommend!!

Loved the tour!

We had a great city tour with Olaf during quite 3 hours throughout the interesting places he gave us lot of explanation and stories about Sintra. I truly recommend this tour and this guide. Thanks to him.

Great city tour

Olaf was an amazing guide! Very attentive gave us also some clues about the city and even enjoyed a lunch with us! Truly recommended.

Olaf is great

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• What food is Lisbon famous for? Lisbon is renowned for its delectable pastries called "Pastéis de Nata," which are custard-filled tarts with a flaky crust. Another popular dish is "Bacalhau à Brás," a flavorful codfish and potato dish. Seafood, especially grilled sardines, also holds a special place in Lisbon's culinary scene.
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• Is it worth doing a food tour in Lisbon? Absolutely, a food tour in Lisbon is well worth it. It offers a fantastic opportunity to delve into authentic Portuguese flavors and experience the rich culinary heritage of the city.
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• What can I expect during The Walking Parrot's Fado tour in Porto? During The Walking Parrot's Fado tour in Porto, you can expect an enchanting evening filled with the mesmerizing sounds of Fado music. You'll have the opportunity to enjoy the silk voices of talented singers while sipping on a glass of wine.
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Happiness Promise

There are hundreds of thousands of guides and tour operators around the world. Figuring out who to trust is stressful and hard.

That’s why we started 10Adventures Tours, we’re here to make it easy to find a great guide or tour operator. We handpick the best local guides and tour operators for 10Adventures, working to ensure you have great guides and a great trip.

We know it sucks to show up in a different country and find out the tents are junk, the guide incompetent or the route different from what we thought we were getting.

We want to give our users peace of mind that you’ll have a great trip and offer a guarantee that we will work with you to make it right.

How does this work? Well, if you feel that something about your trip didn’t’ meet your expectations, let us know. We will then work to gather the details and figure out where things went wrong. If something indeed wasn’t as described, or went wrong with your trip, and the problem was within the control of either oursleves, the guide or the tour company, we will then work out a refund with you that’s proportional to the scale of the problem.

Obviously the best way to make a great trip is to tell your local guide or tour operator and give them the chance to fix the solution while you are on your trip. Most things can be solved by telling your guide when the issue develops. If that doesn’t solve it, then email us right away. Please don’t wait to voice your concerns until the trip is over, as it’s much harder to solve issues after the fact.

We work hard to make sure you have a great trip. If something isn’t right, please email  [email protected]  and we will get to work right away.

Group Trips

Group travel can be chaotic and messy, which is why going on a trip with family or friends is the fun part and planning the trip, well… isn’t. But what if the group travel experience of your dreams could be organized without the hassle of you needing to plan every detail?

With 10Adventures group tours, you’ll be the mastermind behind an unforgettable trip without the need to worry about logistics, payments, or who can get time off for a holiday.

The VIP-level service of our Travel Advisors allows you to organize the adventure of your dreams, customize it exactly how you want to, and watch the savings roll in as more of your friends and family sign up for the once in a lifetime experience you created. It’s that simple!

Take the first step on your next group adventure by contacting one of our Travel Advisors today.

The window to travel as a family only narrows with time. Make the most of it by exploring the world together and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Why share a travel experience with people you don’t know? Spend your hard-earned vacation surrounded by close friends on the adventure of a lifetime.

Shared travel experiences strengthen bonds and are the perfect way to come together as colleagues to solve challenges in a way that just can’t be done in an office environment.

Connect with members of your club or social circle over shared interests like food, culture, and the outdoors.

• VIP Service: Have a dedicated Travel Advisor who is always a call or a click away.
• Cost Savings: More people mean a lower cost per person. And there are additional discounts for children and shared rooms.
• Customizable: You are in charge and choose the start date, length, itinerary, accommodations, and other services.
• Easy Payment: Flexible payment schedule, and most importantly separate invoices so you aren’t left paying for other people.
• Private: Just you and your group making memories that will last your lifetime.
• Quality Time: There’s no better way to travel than alongside family and or friends. Enjoy quality time exploring the world with those you love most.

Sintra to Cascais Walking Tour

Chat with us on our contact page or fill out the form below!

Discover the palaces and beaches of the Portuguese Riviera on this 8-day walking tour

Take the first step towards a private travel experience, customized just for you.

About this tour:

What travellers are saying about 10Adventures

Jennifer W.

Why travellers choose this tour

At 10Adventures, we take care of the details so that our guests can focus on making memories. Enjoy these key features on this tour.

We're Canadian

Book with a Canadian company whose mission is to help you travel the world.

Accommodations

Accommodations for 7 nights are included on this tour.

Don't worry about meals. 7 breakfasts are included on this tour.

Check out the 'What's Included' tab for more info on personal transfers during your tour.

Local Support

Travel stress-free knowing in-country local support is available by regular phone or WhatsApp to support you during your tour.

Payments Made Easy

Enjoy the flexibility and ease of staggered payments in your own currency using your choice of credit card.

Route Resources

Route notes, maps, and/or a trail app make navigation on this tour a breeze.

Park Entrance Fees

Included where possible! Check the 'What's Included' tab for more info on park entrance fees during your tour.

Luggage transfers

Take a load off, with optional or included luggage transfers. Check inclusions for further details.

Accommodation for Sintra to Cascais Walking Tour

This tour is based in 2-star and 3-star hotels. All accommodations offer private rooms with ensuite bathrooms and basic amenities.

In some cases, the accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other comparable accommodations.

Single Rooms and Solo Travellers Rooms are double occupancy. The price for a single room or solo traveller is as indicated above.

Nova Sintra Hotel in Sintra

This bright and cozy hotel has been run by the same family for over 70 years and is a charming blend of traditional and modern. A beautiful sun terrace boasts lovely views overlooking the Sintra mountains.

Arribas Sintra Hotel in Colares

The most Western hotel in Europe, located in the middle of Praia Grande, on the magnificent coast of Sintra.

Hotel Baía in Cascais

The Hotel Baía Cascais is a family hotel located in the village of Cascais, right by the sea.

Hotels on Standard Tour

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Sintra to Cascais Walking Tour Details

Overview for sintra to cascais walking tour.

The 8-day Sintra to Cascais Walking Tour is a spectacular adventure that will sweep you up in a fascinating whirlwind of Portuguese history while immersing you in the natural beauty of the Portuguese Riviera. This mesmerizing walking tour in central Portugal will guide you from regal Sintra to sun-kissed Cascais, inviting you to explore the region's coastal trails and breathtaking landscapes at your own pace.

For decades the families of Portuguese nobility flocked to Vila de Sintra (Sintra), spending their summers in opulent royal palaces and majestic medieval castles. Today, the area is still populated by some of Portugal's most wealthy, but the historic center of Sintra has now become an exceptional place to explore on foot.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sintra is famous for its nineteenth-century Romanticist architecture on full display in its multitude of historic estates, villas, and gardens. You'll visit Sintra's three most prominent monuments on this tour, taking in the beauty and splendour of the Castelo de Mouro, the Palacio da Pena, and the Palacio Nacional.

Leaving the glitz and glamour of Sintra behind, you'll enjoy scenic routes through vineyards, pine forests, and charming fishing villages along the coast. Enjoy overnight stays in Sintra and at lovely seaside accommodations in Colares and Cascais.

If luxurious palaces, beautiful natural landscapes, and a cool sea breeze sound like your ideal setting for an epic walking adventure, then the Sintra to Cascais Walking Tour won't disappoint. Book your spot on this tour today!

Itinerary for Sintra to Cascais Walking Tour

Your tour begins in Sintra, where you’ll be welcomed at your pleasant family-run hotel, just outside the historic town center.

After you’ve settled in, enjoy views of Sintra and the surrounding rolling hills from the hotel’s peaceful terrace and perhaps set out on a little walk to acquaint yourself with the whimsical town.

Explore the Sintra Palaces

Prepare to be awe-struck, as today’s walk will introduce the former summer getaways of Portugal’s royals and nobility.

Up first, a steep ascent leads you to the Castelo de Mouro (eighth to twelfth-century), an impressive Moorish castle that lords over Sintra, built strategically on a rocky outcrop. Next, you’ll explore the Palacio da Pena, followed by the Palacio Nacional.

You may find yourself in a daze of luxury following the palace visits, so enjoy some fresh air as you explore the vast palace grounds, home to remarkable gardens. A final descent via Vila Sasseti will guide you back into the center of town.

Convento dos Capuchos and Azoia

This morning, following a short transfer, you’ll kick off the day with a visit to the Convento dos Capuchos. In this sixteenth-century Franciscan monastery, you’ll appreciate the tranquillity of the serene setting.

Next, you’ll navigate magical Mediterranean woodlands leading you to a final descent to Azoia. From Azoia, catch the bus back to Sintra.

Explore the Sintra Manor Houses

Like so many other countries in Europe, the nineteenth and twentieth centuries in Portugal were influenced by the sweeping winds of the Romantic era. Today, you’ll see this fact on full display as you explore the luxurious interiors of some of Sintra’s romantical style mansions, built by nobles and the wealthiest merchants. Some of the homes are still occupied by residents today, while others have been converted into super-luxe hotels.

Walk Northbound to Arribas via Azenha do Mar

Say farewell to the wealth and romance of Sintra this morning as you head north through sprawling fields, vineyards, and pine forests toward the dramatic coast.

Reaching the pretty fishing village of Azenha do Mar, you’ll join the GR-11, taking it south to your seaside hotel in Colares. Enjoy a dip in the hotel’s gigantic saltwater pool to top off an exciting day on foot.

Praia Grande Loop

Set out from your hotel this morning, joining the long-distance walking path GR-11, also known as Costa Atlantica . The gorgeous coastal path will guide you south as you trace ancient fishermen’s trails until you reach the village of Ulgueira.

The trail continues, granting you beautiful views of the Cabo de Roca and the beach-lined coast as you continue the loop back to Praia Grande, via the village of Almoçageme.

Bound for Cascais

Your final day of walking begins with a transfer to Azoia, inviting you to pick up the GR-11 again and follow it along the coast. On the way, you’ll encounter the seventeenth-century fortress of Fortaleza de Guincho, which has since been converted into a luxury hotel.

You have the option to end today’s walk after 8 kilometres, taking a bus to Cascais instead of walking the full 17.5-kilometre route.

Once in Cascais, enjoy this lively beach town, where you’ll have no trouble finding a suitable spot for tonight’s farewell dinner and drinks!

This morning, your walking tour comes to an end. Check out of the hotel and head to the airport to depart.

Tour Highlights

Highlights for sintra to cascais walking tour.

Discover impressive UNESCO sites as you explore the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park on foot.

Be swept up in the charm of Sintra as you admire its towering mountains, beautiful forests, and noble palaces.

Navigate scenic coastal trails and Mediterranean woodlands, stopping off at monasteries and castles along the way.

Enjoy gorgeous seaside accommodations in Colares and Cascais, ending your days with a cool dip in the Atlantic Ocean.

What's Included

What's included for sintra to cascais walking tour.

7 breakfasts are included on this tour.

Transportation during the Tour

All transfers according to the itinerary are included on this tour. Luggage transportation according to the itinerary is included on this tour on Days 5 and 7. Airport transfers are not included, but can be arranged in advance as a supplement.

Also Included

• Detailed route maps
• GPS tracks and waypoints
• 24-hour phone assistance

Not included

• Extra transfers
• Visas if required
• Meals or drinks and snacks not previously mentioned
• Tourist taxes if applicable
• Travel insurance

Optional Extras

• Activities and excursions unless otherwise mentioned as included
• Single room supplements
• Airport transfers

Dates & Prices

Dates and prices for sintra to cascais walking tour.

The departure is available on any day of the week. Prices below are per person:

Departures from November 1 st to 30 th , 2023:

• Solo traveler: $1,075 USD
• Single room (group of 2+): $995 USD
• Sharing a double room: $595 USD
• Sharing a triple room: $675 USD

Departures from December 1 st to 20 th , 2023:

• Solo traveler: $1,175 USD
• Single room (group of 2+): $1,095 USD
• Sharing a double room: $650 USD
• Sharing a triple room: $725 USD

Departures from December 21 st to 31 st , 2023:

• Solo traveler: $1,275 USD
• Single room (group of 2+): $1,195 USD
• Sharing a double room: $725 USD
• Sharing a triple room: $795 USD

Departures from January 1 st to March 24 th , 2024:

Departures from March 25 th to 31 st , 2024:

• Solo traveler: $1,525 USD
• Single room (group of 2+): $1,450 USD
• Sharing a double room: $825 USD
• Sharing a triple room: $875 USD

Departures from April 1 st to May 25 th , 2024:

• Solo traveler: $1,425 USD
• Single room (group of 2+): $1,350 USD
• Sharing a double room: $775 USD
• Sharing a triple room: $850 USD

Departures from May 26 th to June 25 th , 2024:

Departures from June 26 th to September 30 th , 2024:

• Solo traveler: $1,775 USD
• Single room (group of 2+): $1,675 USD
• Sharing a double room: $925 USD
• Sharing a triple room: $995 USD

Departures from October 1 st to 31 st , 2024:

Departures from November 1 st to 30 th , 2024:

Departures from December 1 st to 20 th , 2024:

• Solo traveler: $1,295 USD
• Single room (group of 2+): $1,225 USD
• Sharing a double room: $695 USD
• Sharing a triple room: $825 USD

Departures from December 21 st to 31 st , 2024:

Accommodation

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Tour Booking Process

Booking process for sintra to cascais walking tour.

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Frequently asked questions for Sintra to Cascais Walking Tour

How hard is the Sintra to Cascais Walking Tour?

We rate this tour a 2 / 5. The tour is comprised of moderate day walks 3 to 5 hours long, excluding breaks. Roads can sometimes be stony, and walkers will traverse hilly or mountainous routes, but they are always well maintained.

Do I need a visa to travel to Portugal?

Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website , though you should verify with your government.

Are meals included on the Sintra to Cascais Walking Tour?

Do I need insurance?

Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover any activities you plan to do, including walking and hiking. Get your Travel Insurance .

How do I get to Sintra to start this tour?

The nearest airport to Sintra is Lisbon Airport (LIS). From Lisbon Airport, you can reach Sintra by public transport, which takes approximately 1 hour. Alternatively, you can book a private transfer from the airport to Sintra in advance as a supplement during the booking process or arrange your own private transfer.

Where does the Sintra to Cascais Walking Tour end?

The tour ends in Cascais. From Cascais, you can reach the Lisbon Airport (LIS) by public transport, which takes approximately 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can arrange a private transfer to the airport in advance as a supplement during the booking process or arrange your own private transfer.

Do I need special vaccines to travel to Portugal?

Check with your family doctor.

Are there any travel restrictions for Portugal?

Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.

When is the best time to travel to Spain for this tour?

The best time to travel to Portugal for this walking tour is during the spring, summer, and fall when the weather is at its best. This tour is available year-round.

Tour Difficulty

Difficulty for sintra to cascais walking tour.

Read about our scale for Tour Difficulty Ratings.

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Home » Travel » Destinations » 1 Day Sintra Itinerary: A Super Efficient Guide

1 Day Sintra Itinerary: A Super Efficient Guide

Nestled in the scenic central mountains of Portugal, Sintra is unlike any other town I’ve visited. Taking a day trip to Sintra is like visiting a theme park for architecture lovers. From the rainbow towers of Pena Palace to the Gothic mansion of Quinta da Regaleira, this 1 day Sintra itinerary covers the area’s highlights as efficiently as possible.

Sintra is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most popular attractions in Portugal. Every year, millions of visitors flock to the former residences of the rich and royal families.

Unfortunately, the area’s old and winding roads weren’t built to handle the mass tourism we see today. Between the one-way streets and constant traffic jams, driving in Sintra can get frustrating quickly.

When you only have a day in Sintra, you don’t want to waste precious time stuck inside an Uber!

I truly believe the best way to see Sintra is on foot. And that’s why I designed this itinerary as a Sintra walking tour.

You’ll start at the colorful Pena Palace, the highest point in town. From there, you’ll work your way down to the Castle of the Moors, a.k.a. the great wall of Portugal.

After another downhill hike to the town center, you’ll have lunch and check out the dual-coned National Palace. And finally, the day trip ends at the mysterious grounds of Quinta do Regaleira.

Now I’ll be honest: this is a pretty ambitious itinerary. But I’ll share a few tips and tricks along the way to make things easier on your legs (did I mention Sintra was on a mountain?). You could start by doing some squats while you read this Sintra guide!

This post contains affiliate links. For more information, click here .

Sintra Day Trip Guide

• Pena Palace
• Castle of the Moors
• Lunch in Sintra Town Center
• Sintra National Palace
• Quinta da Regaleira

Map of Sintra Walking Tour

Tips for taking a sintra day trip, guided day trip tours of sintra, where to go after this 1 day sintra itinerary, 1 day sintra itinerary, 9:15am: arrive at pena palace.

Of all the places to visit in Sintra, Pena Palace is the most popular. And that’s why I recommend you arrive 15 minutes before the 9:30am opening time.

If you’re coming from the train station, you’ll definitely want to take an Uber up here . Otherwise it’s a 45 minute uphill walk, and that’s not the best way to start your day in Sintra!

Fortunately, Uber is quite affordable in Portugal, and the ride should only cost you about 7 euros.

Before you can even get into the queue for the palace grounds, you need an entry ticket. When we arrived on a weekday during the off-season, there were already dozens of people waiting in the ticket line.

To save yourself the time and hassle of waiting in this line, you should buy your tickets online in advance. It was so convenient to walk right into the entrance queue and show our tickets on my phone.

Buy your skip-the-line tickets for Pena Palace here!

There are two separate tickets for Pena. One grants you access to the gardens and terraces, while the other includes access to the state rooms.

I definitely recommend the full ticket. The state rooms were beautifully decorated and had some amazing views through the windows. You’ll also get access to the stunning multi-floor inner courtyards.

9:30-11:15am: Explore Pena Palace

Photos cannot do Pena Palace justice. The whole experience of exploring the grounds, turrets, and balconies was wondrous and a bit surreal.

Given its vibrant primary color palette, you’d be surprised to learn that it started out as a monastery from the Middle Ages.

In the 1800s, King Ferdinand greatly expanded the existing structure into a summer palace for the royal family. When the Portuguese monarchy was deposed in 1910, the site became a national monument and museum.

After passing through the entrance gate, you’ll start out in the gardens beneath the palace. You can enjoy the lovely trees and flowers here as you wind your way up to the terrace.

Once you’re inside the palace walls, it’s hard to know where to look. The colors, details, and archways all demand your attention at once.

But don’t get overwhelmed, because you need to make an important decision at this point: explore the exterior or head straight for the state rooms.

As you can probably tell from the lack of people in my photos, I chose to explore the towers and terraces first. I wanted to get as many photos of this extraordinary place as possible before the crowds swelled.

However, you could certainly go into the state rooms first and have them mostly to yourself.

My favorite spot in Pena Palace was the rear area, which had a clock tower and a massive wall of blue tiles.

This area also has stunning views over the town below. Photographing this area was a major highlight of my Sintra day trip.

The state rooms are elegant and full of surprises. Be sure to look out the sitting room windows for a view of the Castle of the Moors!

You might have noticed that Pena Palace is surrounded by a massive park, which has everything from a swan-filled pond to a charming chalet house.

Unfortunately. with a 1 day Sintra itinerary, time is very limited. Unless you speed through the palace, you won’t have much time (if any) to properly explore the gardens.

11:15am: Walk to Castle of the Moors

Luckily, the walk from Pena Palace to the Castle of the Moors is quick and easy. Just head back to the main entrance and follow the Estrada da Pena north. There will be signs pointing to the Moorish Castle along the way.

Eventually you’ll see the brown ticket building on your right. Just like Pena Palace, it’s much faster to buy your ticket online in advance.

Buy your skip-the-line tickets for the Castle of the Moors here!

From here, it’s a short but steep walk up to the castle.

11:30am-12:30pm: Explore the Castle of the Moors

Don’t let the name fool you. The Moorish Castle is more akin to the Great Wall of China than a typical European home for medieval royalty. But that doesn’t make it any less epic.

I think the Castle of the Moors is one of Sintra’s most impressive sites. Originally constructed in the 8th century, the site was rebuilt several times, which is why you can still walk the walls without them crumbling beneath your feet.

Once you pass through the ticket gate, you’ll see a lovely little garden with stone steps leading upwards. After a few minutes of steep climbing, you’ll reach the walls.

From up here, you can reach multiple overlook towers with views all the way to the ocean. The walls leading towards the castle ruins do get narrow at times, so take care when passing others.

Fortunately, the intense climb to the highest tower is wide enough that you don’t need to feel guilty when stopping to catch your breath!

If you’re visiting Sintra in the summer, you’ll want plenty of water and maybe a hat to keep the sun off your head. There’s absolutely no shade up on the walls, and I could feel my scalp starting to burn where my hair was parted.

Save me for later!

12:30-2pm: Travel to Sintra town center and eat lunch

I know I said this was a Sintra walking tour. But you do have four choices for going from the Moorish Castle to the town center: bus, Tuk Tuk, Uber, and walking. Each of these options takes roughly 30 minutes, though the vehicle routes will be faster in the off season.

• Bus 434 runs from the castle to Sintra train station. You can buy a single ticket from the driver for 4 euros.
• There will be Tuk Tuks waiting outside the castle exit that can take you to the town center for about 5 euros per person.
• An Uber from the castle to the town will cost about 7 euros. However, it could take a long time for one to arrive depending on traffic.
• There’s a nice, shaded walking path that runs from the castle exit path to the town centre. Look for signs that point to the Sintra Centro Historico.

After a long morning of hiking, we were famished. There are plenty of lunch restaurants in Sintra, but I can personally recommend Sopa d’Avó.

For 9 euros per person, we had a veritable feast of traditional Portuguese food. And the English-speaking staff meant I didn’t have to struggle with Portuguese after a tiring morning.

2:15-3:45pm: Visit the National Palace

My biggest regret about our day trip to Sintra was missing the National Palace. I was looking forward to seeing the famous azulejo tile salon, and the beautifully painted Swan Room.

Unfortunately, we couldn’t make it happen due to personal circumstances. So you’ll just need to enjoy it for the both of us!

Next to Pena Palace, the National Palace of Sintra is the most frequently visited site in town. Thus, you should absolutely get your tickets online in advance.

Buy your skip-the-line tickets for the Sintra National Palace here!

Although I didn’t explore the palace, my fellow travel blogging friends recommend spending an hour to 90 minutes here.

3:45-4pm: Walk to Quinta da Regaleira

Good news: the last stop on this Sintra day trip is only 15 minutes away from the National Palace! Simply exit the palace and head southwest on the main road (N375). Follow the road as it curves north, and you’ll eventually see the ticket entrance for Quinta da Regaleira.

The queue to enter depends heavily on the day of the week and time of year. Because it’s so late in the day, you probably won’t have any trouble buying a same-day ticket on a weekday in the off season. When we arrived around 3pm, we only waited in line for about 5 minutes.

Based on what other travelers have told me, however, the lines can be long even in the late afternoon. So I recommend buying a skip-the-line ticket in advance, especially if you’re visiting Friday-Sunday or any time May-September.

Buy your skip-the-line tickets for Quinta da Regaleira here!

4-5pm: Explore Quinta da Regaleira

If you’re a fan of Indiana Jones, Uncharted, or Tomb Raider, you’ll love Quinta da Regaleira. Exploring the grounds made me feel like a modern day adventurer.

There are overgrown gardens, Gothic buildings rising from the trees, damp caves, and even a spooky well that spirals deep into the ground. I half-expected to see Lara Croft or Nathan Drake sneaking around the place…

Although Quinta da Regaleira looks like a mystical old ruin, it was actually designed in the 1900s. When you combine this with Pena Palace and the Castle of the Moors, you can see why I compare Sintra to a theme park!

Your tickets come with a map, and you’ll find multiple signs pointing to the major highlights.

We worked our way to the Initiation Well first, explored the grounds, and wrapped up at the gorgeous Gothic mansion. Frankly, I can’t think of a better way to round out your 1 day Sintra itinerary!

Part of the magic of Quinta da Regaleira lies in discovering it as you explore. I don’t want to ruin the surprises here, so I’ll let these photos be the teasers.

Because of the site’s unique history, architecture, and hidden secrets, it’s definitely worth booking a live guided tour to get the full experience.

Click here to access the full interactive map!

• The best day to visit Sintra would be either Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday. This will help you avoid the Lisbon cruise ship tourists and the locals who visit as part of a long weekend.
• Bring good walking shoes, especially if you’re doing the hike from Castle of the Moors to Sintra town center.
• A water bottle is a must. There are several public fountains where you can refill.
• If you’re visiting Sintra in the fall or spring, you should layer up. Temperatures can change dramatically based on the time of day and your elevation.
• You might not have great cell reception in Sintra, so keep that in mind if you’re planning to take an Uber.

Taking a Sintra day trip from Lisbon

Getting to Sintra from Lisbon is very straightforward. You can catch a direct train from Lisbon to Sintra at Rossio Station. There are three trains departing every hour, and the journey takes about 40 minutes.

Note that you can’t book advance tickets on this line, so you’ll need to buy them at the station.

For this one day in Sintra itinerary, you’ll want to take an Uber or Tuk Tuk from Sintra train station to Pena Palace.

Taking a Sintra day trip from Cascais

Getting to Sintra from Cascais is quick and easy by car. Taking an Uber only cost us $15 and took 35 minutes. Although we use public transit 90% of the time, it just didn’t make sense in this case.

If navigating a mountain town in a foreign country isn’t your thing, no worries! You can book a guided tour with a local expert for a surprisingly affordable price.

• Cascais: This charming beach town is only 30 minutes away from Sintra. Discover what to do in Cascais with my detailed guide!
• Lisbon: A short train ride will take you to the capital city, where you can spend a few days in Lisbon enjoying incredible architecture and vibrant culture.
• Porto: Head north and spend 2 days in Porto exploring the colorful Ribeira and eating the best food in Portugal.

19 thoughts on “1 Day Sintra Itinerary: A Super Efficient Guide”

This was very valuable Thank you

Thanks Ian, glad you found it useful!

Really nice content… made my trip easy and saved time on research! Thanks.

Thank you for this post! We will be here in January and will follow your guide. It’s exactly what we need.

We’re hoping to go soon, this will be super helpful, thanks! 🙂

Thank you very much for this itinerary! Next week we are visiting Lisbon and planning to visit Sintra as well. Your guide will be very helpful!

Lucky me, I’m staying in Sintra for 2 days, so I was able to split your fabulous tour in half and take my time. I honestly don’t know how you would do all of this in 1 day…massive amounts of walking! I much prefer stopping here and there for a cold glass of wine. 🍷🥰

Going there this May. This is very helpful. Thanks a lot!

Loved this. Wish you’d mention where to park if you arrive with a car! Thanks.

Hi Caroline. If you plan on driving to Sintra, I recommend parking near the train station in one of the large lots, and then doing this itinerary in reverse (starting at Quinta da Regaleira). Once you finish at Pena Palace, you can then take an Uber or bus back down the mountain to retrive your car and head home. Just note that going this way will be a major workout, as you’ll be walking uphill the whole time!

This blog is so helpful. We are going next week! Thank you so much for all the tips, very valuable information.

This was a great summary. We’re going in October and I’m having a terrible time deciding what areas of Sintra to see, where to go inside vs. just stay outside. Originally I thought I’d just do the outside of the Pena Palace to give me time to see other spots. But your description makes me want to do the inside as well. If picking between Queluz or Monserrate Gardens, which would you add on? (as well as Quinta La Regaleira. Would you choose either of those more than the Moorish castle?

Hi Ruby, glad the itinerary was helpful. Queluz is a fair distance outside of Sintra proper, so you’d want to stop there before or after traveling around Sintra park. I’d suggest skipping the Sintra National Palace in lieu of Queluz or Monserrate. Queluz would probably be easier to add into this itinerary, as you could travel into Queluz-Belas Station by train directly from Sintra Station.

Hi Chelsea,

I followed your itinerary to a tee and it worked wonderfully! I was able to see everything, including the national palace and eat at the Sopa restaurant (got squid stew for 9 euro). Only things to consider; if doing an audio guide through the app cloud guide to download the tour info first as wifi is spotty, and to visit the initiation well last (after 5 pm) when the kids head home. I went there first at 4 pm on a Wednesday and still had to wait 30 mins. Glad I did Peña first, was out of there by 11:15 while those who arrived at 10:30 waited an hour plus to get in. Thanks so much for your itinerary! Abrigado

Thank you so much, Michael! I’m pleased you enjoyed your trip, and appreciate the extra tips.

Off there tomorrow (Thursday Sept 22nd 2022) and going to follow your advice pretty much to the letter. Sounds great and thanking you in advance… ❤️

I am on my way there right now, flying from Nantes in 4 hours. I will follow your guided tour for Sintra. Thank you

This trip sounds perfect for me. I am going late September 2023. Can you please tell me how difficult the hills are walking this tour. Very strenuous?

Hi Laura, I think the most strenuous part of this itinerary is the climb up to the top of the Castle of the Moors. It’s a lot of steps and fairly steep in areas. However, it all depends on how in shape you are (there were elderly women making the climb when I visited and they did fine, just moved slowly).

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Sintra: Guided Walking Tour

Like a tapestry woven with threads of history and beauty, Sintra beckons visitors to explore its winding streets and majestic palaces. As travelers step foot on this guided walking tour, they are greeted with a rich tapestry of sights and stories that unfold with each step.

From the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira to the iconic Pena Palace, this tour promises a glimpse into a world where past and present collide in a harmonious dance. Join the journey and uncover the secrets that lie hidden within Sintra’s ancient walls…

• Panoramic views, architectural heritage , and botanical gardens explored in a 3-hour guided walking tour.
• Live guide in French, English , and Portuguese , with small groups limited to 10 participants.
• Tour includes skip-the-line tickets, food, and drinks , with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
• Not suitable for mobility impairments, but offers detailed historical landmarks and attractions itinerary.

Here's some more nearby activities we've reviewed

• Sintra: Pena Palace and Park Entrance Ticket
• Sintra: Quinta Da Regaleira E-Ticket & Optional Audio Guide
• Lisbon: Sintra, Pena Palace, Cabo Da Roca, & Cascais Tour
• Sintra: Quinta Da Regaleira Skip-The-Line Entry Ticket

Tour Overview

Set out on a captivating guided walking tour in Sintra, delving into the architectural heritage , scenic views , and historical landmarks of this enchanting village.

The tour offers scenic routes that showcase the breathtaking panoramas of the village, allowing participants to enjoy its beauty.

As you explore, you’ll also have the opportunity to experience the local cuisine, savoring traditional dishes and drinks that reflect the region’s culinary delights.

From charming cafes to hidden gems, the tour provides insights into the flavors that define Sintra.

This culinary aspect adds a unique dimension to the journey, offering a taste of the rich cultural tapestry that makes Sintra a must-visit destination for foodies and history buffs alike.

Experience Highlights

Explore panoramic views of the village, uncover architectural wonders , and wander through lush botanical gardens on the Sintra Walking Tour, enjoying a journey filled with historical landmarks and fascinating attractions.

The tour offers breathtaking village panoramas, allowing participants to admire the beauty of Sintra from elevated vantage points. As you explore the architectural heritage, you’ll encounter magnificent structures showcasing the rich history of the region.

The botanical exploration adds a serene touch to the experience, with vibrant flora and tranquil settings along the way. From the intricate details of historical landmarks to the peaceful ambiance of botanical gardens, every moment on this tour promises an enriching and captivating adventure through the wonders of Sintra.

Participant Information

When preparing for the Sintra Walking Tour, participants are advised to check availability, select dates , and ensure they’ve essential items like comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. Comfortable attire is crucial for this excursion due to Sintra’s mountainous terrain, which involves ups and downs.

Participants should note that baby strollers, large bags , pets (except assistance dogs), and unaccompanied minors aren’t allowed on the tour. Meeting point restrictions must be adhered to for a smooth start, ensuring all participants gather promptly at the designated location.

It’s important to be prepared for the tour to take place rain or shine, with medium to hard difficulty levels expected throughout the journey.

Important Tour Information

Amidst Sintra’s enchanting landscapes and architectural wonders , participants must be prepared for a journey that promises both scenic beauty and physical challenges. Sintra’s mountainous terrain involves ups and downs, with some parts of the tour presenting medium to hard difficulty levels.

Tour proceeds rain or shine unless tracks or roads are closed, ensuring an adventurous experience regardless of weather conditions. Visitors should consider the weather when packing, as the tour takes place in all conditions. It’s essential to wear comfortable shoes and bring a windbreaker or jacket as the weather can change quickly in the region.

Be ready to navigate through the challenging terrain and embrace the elements for an unforgettable exploration of Sintra’s captivating beauty.

Customer Reviews

Participants of the Sintra Walking Tour have showered high praise on the guide, Alexandria , for her exceptional knowledge, helpfulness , and thoughtfulness throughout the tour. Alexandria ‘s expertise was a standout feature, with customers commending her ability to assess group needs and provide an enriching experience.

Many reviewers expressed their satisfaction with the level of service, with some even requesting Alexandria’s guidance for tours in Lisbon. The reviews highlighted Alexandria’s outstanding performance, with one reviewer specifically thanking her for the exceptional experience.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we have reviewed.

• From Lisbon Sintra, Regaleira, Pena Palace, and Cascais Tour
• From Lisbon: Pena Palace, Regaleira, Sintra & Cascais Tour
• From Lisbon: Sintra and Cascais Private Tour
• Sintra: Private and Customizable Tour
• Sintra: Hop-on Hop-Off Bus Travel Pass
• Sintra: Guided Tour and Entry Ticket to Quinta Da Regaleira

Common questions

Are restroom facilities readily available along the walking tour route in sintra.

Restroom availability along the walking tour route in Sintra is limited. Participants should be aware of this restriction. Age limit may apply due to the nature of the tour. It’s advisable to plan accordingly.

Is There a Recommended Age Limit or Minimum for Participants Joining the Guided Walking Tour in Sintra?

There is no specified age limit for the guided walking tour. While accessibility accommodations are limited, the tour is not recommended for those with mobility impairments. Comfortable shoes, a jacket , and appropriate attire are essential.

Are There Any Specific Dietary Restrictions or Preferences That Can Be Accommodated During the Tour’s Food and Drink Inclusions?

During the tour’s food and drink inclusions, specific dietary restrictions like allergies can be accommodated. Vegetarian options are available upon request. Participants should inform the guide in advance to ensure a pleasant dining experience.

How Much Walking or Physical Activity Is Involved in the Tour, and Is There an Option for Participants to Opt Out of Certain Sections?

The tour involves moderate to challenging physical activity due to Sintra’s terrain. Participants with mobility limitations may find some sections difficult. Opting out isn’t possible, but the guide can suggest alternative routes or provide assistance as needed.

Are There Any Specific Items or Souvenirs Recommended for Purchase During the Guided Walking Tour in Sintra to Enhance the Experience?

When exploring Sintra with a guided walking tour, participants can find unique gifts and cultural mementos like handmade ceramics, local crafts , and artisanal products. These souvenirs enhance the experience, serving as reminders of the picturesque village.

Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• Sintra ALL PALACES – SmALL Groups (2-6pax) PRIVATE TOUR
• Private Jeep Safari in Sintra
• Lisbon: Airport Transfer To/From Cascais, Estoril, or Sintra
• To/From Lisbon Airport: Cascais, Estoril or Sintra Transfer
• Lisbon: Sintra Highlights Smartphone Exploration Game
• Private Tuk Tuk Tour Around Sintra
• Sintra: Half Day Trekking Tour
• Sintra: Walking Tour With Palace, Castle, and Old Town Visit
• Sintra: National Palace Entry Ticket With Audioguide
• Sintra Myths and Legends Interpretative Center Entry Ticket
• From Sintra: Pena Palace Express Hassle-Free Guided Tour

Experience the enchanting village of Sintra like never before with a guided walking tour that promises panoramic views, architectural wonders, and botanical marvels. With a knowledgeable guide and small group sizes, this 3-hour tour offers an intimate and immersive experience.

Skip the ticket lines, enjoy inclusions like tickets to Quinta da Regaleira, and uncover the hidden gems of Sintra. Book your tour today and embark on a journey you won’t soon forget.

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