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Half-Day Sintra Tour

Explore the charming and mystical landscape of Sintra
From US$194 for 1 person
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Tour Details
Duration
4 hours
Product Type
Tour
Venues
  • National Palace of Sintra
  • Quinta da Regaleira
Photos & Highlights
  • Spend half the day in Sintra accompanied by a leading expert
  • Unique, personal tours for the intentional traveler. Choose from private tours for just you and your party, or join a small group tour with other travelers
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 adventure in the company of a historian, you will delve into the magic and mysteries of Sintra, 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.
 
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.”
 
Experts
Rita Rita
Local Guide
Catarina Catarina
Local Guide
Ilidia Ilidia
Local Guide/Tour manager
Cecilia Cecilia
Local Guide
Jaime Jaime
Local Guide
Jose Jose
Historian
Sara Sara
Local Guide
Raquel Raquel
Local Guide
Rui Rui
Local Guide
Estela Estela
Art Historian
Rute Rute
Historian
Guilherme Guilherme
Local Guide
Ian Ian
Archaeologist
  • Vila Palace
  • Sintra historic city center
  • Quinta da Regaleira
  • Gardens of Quinta da Regaleira
For more information about Context Tours, please visit our FAQs.

Book with confidence — see Context's flexible cancellation policy here.

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
(4.85) 290 Reviews

Reviews can only be left by Context customers after they have completed a tour. For more information about our reviews, please see our FAQ.

Jose was phenomenal! He’s a true historian and we loved learning so much on our tour. He was so knowledgeable and fun! Obrigada, Jose!
Although we realize that weather was horrendous we didn’t think she was very helpful in giving us any suggestions on dealing with it. Her lunch recommendation was . Also to say that one of two stops of the tour is being changed soon was inappropriate!
As always, Estela moved us through the crowds, gave me interesting history and information. Most enjoyable!