From Lisbon: Best of Sintra, Estoril Coast and Two Palaces 8H

Explore the enchanting beauty of Sintra and the Estoril Coast on this private full-day tour from Lisbon. Visitors will marvel at the iconic Pena National Palace and have the option to discover another majestic palace. With free time in the picturesque UNESCO-listed Sintra village and the coastal town of Cascais, this tour promises a perfect blend of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. But what hidden gems await along the way?

Key Points

• Explore the UNESCO-listed Sintra village with its colorful architecture and charming atmosphere during a 30-minute free exploration.
• Visit the extravagant 19th-century Pena National Palace, one of Portugal’s Seven Wonders, known for its vibrant colors and intricate Romanticist architecture.
• Enjoy free time in the coastal town of Cascais to stroll along the beachfront promenade and browse boutiques and cafes.
• Stop at Estoril to admire the elegant architecture and beachfront, and visit Boca do Inferno, a dramatic coastal cliff formation.
• Benefit from a private air-conditioned mini van, driver/guide, and the option to visit an additional palace: National Palace of Sintra, Queluz Palace, or Quinta da Regaleira.

Tour Overview

This private full-day tour from Lisbon takes visitors to explore the picturesque region of Sintra and the Estoril Coast.

The highlight is a visit to the Pena National Palace, one of Portugal’s Seven Wonders.

Travelers can also choose to visit one additional palace, including the National Palace of Sintra, Queluz Palace, or Quinta da Regaleira.

The tour includes time to wander the UNESCO-listed village of Sintra and see Cabo da Roca, Europe’s westernmost point.

It concludes with free time in the coastal town of Cascais.

Throughout, travelers are accompanied by a private driver/guide.

Tour Details

The private full-day tour from Lisbon to Sintra and Cascais lasts 8 hours.

It’s highly recommended, with 10 reviews and a 100% traveler rating.

The tour includes a private air-conditioned mini van, driver/guide, comfort pack, and local Travesseiros tasting.

Pickup and drop-off are from Lisbon central hotels or the cruise terminal.

Entrance fees and guided tours inside palaces aren’t included, and there’s a limited baggage allowance of one standard suitcase per person.

Smart casual dress is recommended, and smoking or eating inside the vehicle isn’t permitted.

Gratuities are also not included.

Sintra Village Exploration

After exploring the tour details, the first stop on the itinerary is Sintra village.

Visitors will have 30 minutes to freely explore this UNESCO-listed, picturesque town. Nestled in the Sintra Mountains, the village boasts colorful architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and historical landmarks.

Guests can wander through the charming plazas, browse local shops, and admire the stunning natural setting. This introduction to Sintra sets the stage for the day’s palace visits and coastal discoveries.

With free admission, the village exploration provides a taste of the region’s unique character and beauty.

Pena Palace Visit

Although the tour begins with the charming village of Sintra, the highlight of the day is the visit to Pena National Palace.

This extravagant 19th-century Romanticist castle sits atop a hill, commanding sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can explore the palace’s whimsical exterior, adorned with vibrant colors and intricate architectural details.

Inside, the opulent interiors showcase the luxurious tastes of the Portuguese royal family. From the terraces, guests can gaze out over the lush forests and the distant Atlantic Ocean.

The Pena Palace visit provides a captivating glimpse into Portugal’s regal history and dazzling aesthetic.

Choice of Additional Palace

Along With the captivating Pena Palace, the tour offers visitors the opportunity to explore one of three other renowned palaces in the Sintra region. Guests can choose to visit the National Palace of Queluz, the National Palace of Sintra, or the mystical Quinta da Regaleira. Each palace boasts unique architectural styles and rich histories, providing a glimpse into Portugal’s regal past.

Palace	Description	Duration
National Palace of Queluz	An 18th-century Rococo-style palace, known for its ornate interiors and beautiful gardens.	20 minutes
National Palace of Sintra	A well-preserved medieval palace with distinctive conical chimneys and intricate tilework.	20 minutes
Quinta da Regaleira	A whimsical estate featuring mystical tunnels, grottos, and a deep initiation well.	20 minutes

Cabo Da Roca and Atlantic Ocean Views

The tour then takes visitors to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe. This dramatic coastal viewpoint offers stunning panoramas of the Atlantic Ocean.

Visitors can:

1. Admire the rugged cliffs and crashing waves that define this iconic European landmark.
2. Capture memorable photos of the lighthouse and dramatic landscape.
3. Breathe in the crisp, salty air and feel the power of the ocean.

After taking in the natural beauty of Cabo da Roca, the tour continues onward to the charming coastal town of Cascais for further exploration.

Free Time in Cascais

What does the free time in Cascais entail? After exploring the dramatic cliffs and charming villages, the tour allows 30 minutes of free time to wander the picturesque coastal town of Cascais.

Visitors can stroll along the lively beachfront promenade, admiring the yachts in the marina and browsing the chic boutiques and cafes.

With its mild climate and scenic seaside setting, Cascais offers a relaxing respite from the historical sights.

This quaint fishing village turned upscale resort provides a glimpse into the laid-back Portuguese coastal lifestyle before the tour returns to Lisbon.

Stops at Estoril and Boca Do Inferno

After enjoying the charming seaside town of Cascais, the tour makes two additional stops – first in Estoril, then at Boca do Inferno.

In Estoril, visitors have 15 minutes to take in the elegant architecture and beachfront promenade.

Next, the tour stops at Boca do Inferno, a dramatic coastal cliff formation where the Atlantic waves crash against the rocks.

Visitors can:

1. Admire the striking natural scenery.
2. Listen to the thunderous sound of the waves.
3. Capture photos of the impressive geological features.

From here, the tour continues on to its final destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option to Visit More Than One Additional Palace?

The tour offers the option to visit one additional palace, such as the National Palace of Queluz, National Palace of Sintra, or Quinta da Regaleira. There’s no option to visit more than one additional palace on this tour.

Can We Customize the Itinerary to Visit Other Attractions?

Yes, the tour can be customized to visit additional palaces or attractions. The itinerary is flexible, allowing travelers to choose which second palace they’d like to see or explore other sights in the Sintra-Cascais region.

What Snacks or Meals Are Provided During the Tour?

The tour includes a "Travesseiros" pastry tasting but does not provide any other snacks or meals. Travelers are responsible for bringing their own food and drinks, as the tour has a limited baggage allowance.

Is There an Option for a Private Guide Rather Than a Driver/Guide?

The tour does not offer an option for a private guide. It includes a driver/guide who provides commentary throughout the day. Private tours are for your group only, without a separate guide.

Do We Need to Purchase Entrance Tickets in Advance or on the Day?

Entrance tickets to the palaces are not included in the tour price and must be purchased separately, either in advance or on the day of the tour. It’s recommended to purchase tickets in advance to avoid long queues.

The Sum Up

This private day tour from Lisbon offers a captivating blend of Sintra’s UNESCO-listed village, the striking Pena Palace, and the scenic Estoril Coast. Visitors can explore Sintra’s charming streets, marvel at the vibrant Pena Palace, and enjoy free time in the coastal towns of Cascais and Estoril, all while taking in the dramatic Atlantic Ocean views. It’s a perfect way to discover the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of this enchanting region.