Tour Details
- Duration
- 4 hours
- Product Type
- Tour
- Venues
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- National Palace of Sintra
- Quinta da Regaleira
Select a date
Tour Description
For centuries, the charming town of Sintra has served as a relaxing summer retreat for the elite of Portuguese society, and gained international acclaim in the Romantic period as a source of inspiration for such writers as Lord Byron, who referred to Sintra as “glorious Eden.” Nowadays, the cultural landscape of Sintra is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. On this half-day trip from Lisbon in the company of a historian, you will delve into the magic and mysteries of Sintra for half a day, visiting a carefully chosen selection of monuments to get a feel for what has proved so captivating for lovers, royals and storytellers alike.
Your first stop is the Vila Palace, or National Palace of Sintra, the best-preserved medieval residence in the whole of Portugal. You will admire the mix of architectural styles (Moorish, Manueline and Mudéjar to name a few) and learn about the different warriors and kings who have occupied this castle. You may visit the Swan or Magpie Rooms, each named for the depictions of their namesake birds painted on their ceilings. As much of the castle remains unchanged for 500 years, you will gain a riveting insight into the residents' stories through the motifs and symbols that adorn its many rooms.
Your first stop is the Vila Palace, or National Palace of Sintra, the best-preserved medieval residence in the whole of Portugal. You will admire the mix of architectural styles (Moorish, Manueline and Mudéjar to name a few) and learn about the different warriors and kings who have occupied this castle. You may visit the Swan or Magpie Rooms, each named for the depictions of their namesake birds painted on their ceilings. As much of the castle remains unchanged for 500 years, you will gain a riveting insight into the residents' stories through the motifs and symbols that adorn its many rooms.
After the National Palace, you will make your way into the historic center of Sintra, the charming heart of this picturesque region. You will be delighted with sweeping views over quaint pastel-colored villas and rocky hills, where photo opportunities are endless.
Following this, you will venture up the hill to the truly mysterious and magical Quinta da Regaleira. You will explore the sprawling 5-floor palace, taking in the exuberant Gothic features and learning about the Quinta’s many owners. Your expert will help you connect the intricate details and decorations of Quinta da Regaleira with the larger context of European history.
With our packed itinerary of key sites, along with the freedom to keep exploring on your own, you will surely be left convinced that, in the words of the great Portuguese novelist Eça de Queirós: “Everything in Sintra is Divine, There is no corner that is not a poem.”
Interested in a tour in Lisbon? Try our Lisbon Old Town Walking Tour or our Baixa Walking Tour of Lisbon including Bairro Alto & Chiado.
Experts
- Vila Palace
- Sintra historic city center
- Quinta da Regaleira
- Gardens of Quinta da Regaleira
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Are train tickets from and to Lisbon included?
No, the tour starts in Sintra directly, and train tickets for travelers coming from other cities are not included.
Are train tickets from and to Lisbon included?
No, the tour starts in Sintra directly, and train tickets for travelers coming from other cities are not included.
Is this tour appropriate for children?
This walk is not a part of our official family program. That said, we may be able to arrange a visit with a family-friendly guide. Please contact us.
Is this tour walking intensive, and/or wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, this tour is not accessible for individuals with health, mobility or walking issues, nor is it suitable for families with small children. The itinerary includes extensive walking on natural terrain and gravel, with significant inclines and uneven and steep steps. Due to the nature of these venues, there is limited access to wheelchairs or strollers and no elevators. This tour is recommended for those who are comfortable with a moderate or high level of activity.
Where You'll Start
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250 Reviews
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Estela showed us the best way to visit Sintra to get the most out of a half day tour. Started early, 9:30, to beat the lines and the heat of the day. Felt kind of sorry for the many folks stuck in a large tour or fending on their own. We recommend Estela most highly. Thank you.
Nancy
Jul. 22, 2024
Jose was a PHENOMENAL guide - we could not have asked for any better! He was so passionate about Portuguese history that it came alive for us during our Sintra tour. As my boyfriend and I peppered him with all sorts of questions while we toured Regaleira and the National Palace, he knew *everything*, and managed to provide not just the history of Sintra but the history of Portugal from it's historical founding to just about present day. His introduction to this country really set the stage for our knowledge across the whole rest of our trip, and we couldn't be more grateful! Highly recommend everyone tour with Jose!
Alexandra
Jul. 21, 2024
Excellent!! Gui was very knowledgeable. We learned so much from him and really enjoyed our visit to Sintra.
Stacy
Jul. 16, 2024