As a Sintra local and archaeologist, I have crafted this tour to ensure you experience the very best that Sintra has to offer within a timeframe of 3 to 4 hours. I've come up with 3 main aspects that capture the essence of Sintra: Culture and Heritage, Mountain and Nature, Coast and Ocean.
In the Culture and Heritage segment of the tour, we'll delve into Sintra's fascinating history, exploring its iconic landmarks. I'll provide captivating insights and historical context that bring these sites to life.
Next, we'll venture to the mountain and forest of Sintra where we will see it's lush nature and exotic beauty making several stops on our way west to the coast to admire the views.
Lastly, we'll embrace the Coast and Ocean, uncovering the captivating beauty of Sintra's shoreline. We'll visit a local beach, the westenrnmost point of europe, Cabo da roca, and a typical portuguese village built on a cliff.
Disclaimer:
Last minute bookings are only confirmed once the guide contacts you.
Inclusions & Exclusions
✔ Private transportation
✔ All mandatory insurance according to Portuguese law
✔ Local tour guide and driver
✔ Pick-up and drop-off at accommodation/meeting point (based on the selected option)
✖ Tickets and entrance fees
✖ Lunch
✖ Guided visit inside the monuments
Departure & Return
Departure:
,
The meeting spot is a cafe called queijadas da sapa 2 minutes away walking from Sintra train station.
Return: End right where it started.
Itinerary
1
Park and National Palace of Pena
I have crafted this tour to ensure you experience the very best that Sintra has to offer within a timeframe of 3 to 5 hours. I've come up with 3 main aspects that capture the essence of Sintra: Monuments, Mountain and Coast.
Our tour is a carefully crafted exploration that showcases the rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes of this remarkable place.
Throughout our journey, we'll make stops that allow you to appreciate Sintra's treasures fully untill we get to the top where we can see the view of the Pena Palace, one of the most wellknown One of the most well-known attractions in Sintra and perhaps in Portugal. Visiting inside is optional. The visit does not include the guide on the inside of the monument. Tickets are NOT included! There are 2 different tickets available: 1. Ticket for the Park 2. Ticket for the Park + Palace. We usually advise for the ticket of the Park, which avoids queues and also allows to visit the outside area of the Palace.
Duration: 1.5 hours
2
Famous for the health giving quality of its waters, the first references to the Fonte da Sabuga date back to medieval times. Here we will stop to have a sip of the "miraculous" water and hear some stories about Portugal.
3
Centro Historico de Sintra
Standing in the historical heart of Sintra, this is the best-preserved medieval royal residence in Portugal, with its early construction dating back to the medieval ages. We will stop at a viewpoint where you'll be able to see the Palace.
4
Castelo dos Mouros
Built by the Moors in the 8th and 9th centuries, it was an important strategic point during the Reconquista, and was taken by Christian forces after the fall of Lisbon in 1147. Considered to the the "crown" of Sintra. We will stop at certain viewpoints where you'll be able to see the Castle.
5
The Chalet Biester was built in the central and northern European architectural style, which was very much in vogue in late 19th century Portugal, as the anachronic paradigm of a summer residence, in Sintra. It is an eclectic project. Its designers took full advantage not only of its architecture and interior decoration which oscillate between belated romanticism and art-nouveau but also its surrounding landscape, as it is located in a garden and leafy botanical park designed by the famous landscape gardener Nogré. We will stop at a viewpoint where you'll be able to see the Bieter Chalet.
6
Sintra boasts one of its most renowned and iconic attractions, a must-see not only in the town but also in all of Portugal. Perched atop the Sintra Hills, this place holds a special spot in Portugal's royal history, symbolizing the zenith of monarchy in the country.
Nestled within an expansive 85-hectare (210-acre) natural park, this magnificent and lush palace has been recognized and celebrated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. We will stop at a viewpoint where you'll be able to see the Pena Palace. Going inside the park or palace is optional. The visit does not include the guide inside the palace. The guide will take you to the entrance and wait for you while you visit the Palace.
7
Sintra Mountains
Once we've immersed ourselves in the rich history and awe-inspiring monuments, it's time to venture further into the embrace of the mountain. Prepare to be captivated by its unparalleled beauty as we traverse its entire range, punctuated by a few carefully chosen stops to relish the panoramic vistas.
Duration: 1.5 hours
8
While touring the mountain range, we will make a quick stop to marvel at a view over the bay of Cascais and the atlantic ocean with marvelous beaches at a distance.
9
Cabo da Roca
Continuing our journey westward across the mountain range, we arrive at Cabo da Roca, that was once called "the end of the world" is the westernmost point of continental Europe. Prepare to be awestruck by the dramatic cliffs that tower over the untamed Atlantic Ocean. This remarkable location will beckon us to pause and take some time to soak in the breathtaking views that stretch as far as the eye can see.
Duration: 45 minutes
10
Azenhas do Mar
After we will visit my favorite local beach in Sintra. Here, you'll be greeted by a pristine stretch of nature and the untamed Atlantic Ocean in all its rugged beauty.
But our adventure doesn't end there.
We have one final surprise in store—a visit to the picturesque village of Azenhas do Mar. Perched on a cliff, this typical Portuguese village gives us "vibes" of Santorini in Greece.
As we make our way back to Sintra, we'll take a different route, granting us a sweeping panorama of the entire Sintra Mountain range that we've just traversed.
When it's time to bid farewell, you have the option to be dropped off either in the historic center of Sintra or at the train station.
Duration: 45 minutes
Additional info
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
