Sintra

Tours

The palace is situated in the eastern part of the Park of Pena, which one has to pass through to reach the steep ramp built by the Baron of Eschwege that provides access to the castle-like building. The palace itself is composed of two wings: the former Manueline monastery of the Order of St. Jerome and the wing built in the 19th century by King Ferdinand II. These wings are ringed by a third architectural structure that is a fantastical version of an imaginary castle, whose walls one can walk around and which comprises battlements, watchtowers, an entrance tunnel and even a drawbridge. In 1838, King Ferdinand II acquired the former Hieronymite monastery of Our Lady of Pena, which was built by King Manuel I in 1511 on the top of the hill above Sintra and had been left unoccupied since 1834 when the religious orders were suppressed in Portugal. The monastery consisted of the cloister and its outbuildings, the chapel, the sacristy and the bell tower, which today form the northern section of the Palace of Pena, or the Old Palace as it is known. King Ferdinand began by making repairs to the former monastery, which, according to the historical sources of that time, was in very bad condition. He refurbished the whole of the upper floor, replacing the fourteen cells used by the monks with larger-sized rooms and covering them with the vaulted ceilings that can still be seen today. In roughly 1843, the king decided to enlarge the palace by building a new wing (the New Palace) with even larger rooms (the Great Hall is a good example of this), ending in a circular tower next to the new kitchens. The building work was directed by the Baron of Eschwege. The 1994 repair works restored the original colors of the Palace’s exterior: pink for the former monastery and ochre for the New Palace. In transforming a former monastery into a castle-like residence, King Ferdinand showed that he was heavily influenced by German romanticism, and that he probably found his inspiration in the Stolzenfels and Rheinstein castles on the banks of the Rhine, as well as Babelsberg Palace in Potsdam. These building works at the Palace of Pena ended in the mid-1860s, although further work was also undertaken at later dates for the decoration of the interiors. King Ferdinand also ordered the Park of Pena to be planted in the Palace’s surrounding areas in the style of the romantic gardens of that time, with winding paths, pavilions and stone benches placed at different points along its routes, as well as trees and other plants originating from the four corners of the earth. In this way, the king took advantage of the mild and damp climate of the Sintra hills to create an entirely new and exotic park with over five hundred different species of trees. The Palace of Pena was designated a National Monument in 1910 and forms part of the Cultural Landscape of Sintra, which has been classified by UNESCO as World Heritage since 1995.

Discover sintra’s beautiful landscape and architecture. Walk the narrow streets of Sintra in your free time and visit the emblematic Quinta da Regaleira with our fantastic tour guide. Its patrimonial importance has led UNESCO to declare it a World Heritage Site, so it is undoubtful a must site to visit due to their countless sculptures, gardens and fountains that you will discover there. You will also learn all the details of the famous Initiation Well, hidden in the northern part of the Quinta. It is a nine-story spiral well that symbolizes the nine circles of hell or paradise. In total, 27 meters that will make your hair stand on end. Take some free time to stroll through Sintra and purchase lunch if you're feeling hungry. Get recommendations on what to see, eat and buy in the area. Afterward, begin a guided tour of the main landmarks of Sintra, and hear about local secrets and stories. Arrive at the romantic Pena Palace in Sintra, which has a profusion of styles much in accordance with the exotic taste of Romanticism, such as Neo-Gothic, along with other Oriental styles such as Neo-Moorish and Indo-Gothic. Explore the ancient castle, which was one of the favorite residences of the royal family throughout the 19th century. Walk through the fairytale-style building and learn about its fascinating history. It is also listed among one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean from Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe. This dramatic and scenic spot is famous for its wild beauty and historic lighthouse. The return from Cabo da Roca to Lisbon is a breathtaking drive, where panoramic views of the Atlantic combine with the beauty of the Portuguese coastline. As the journey continues, cliffs and choppy ocean waters can be seen, while Praia do Guincho, famous for its waves and rugged scenery, appears on our way. As you approach Cascais, the charm of the small fishing village comes to the fore, with its golden beaches and relaxed atmosphere.

Book a combination of a self-guided audio tour for your smartphone and a skip-the-ticket line entry for the Quinta de Regaleira in Sintra. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site at your leisure. Gain valuable insights into one of Sintra’s main and most well-known attractions. Receive your ticket by email, download the audio tour on your phone, and travel back in time to the glory of the Quinta da Regaleira. Put on your headphones and discover the aquarium, Fountain of Abundance, and greenhouse as well as the castle’s treasures. Benefit from in-depth research combined with original storytelling that will make your visit engaging and informative. Learn historical information and hear lesser-known stories about the 16th-century estate.

Unlock the city of Lisbon with the flexible Lisbon Card. Enjoy unlimited travel on city transport, and free admission to 52 museums, historic buildings, and more. Benefit from discounts at a vast range of attractions, vouchers for different shops, and a handy guide that explains how to use the card. After exchanging your GetYourGuide voucher for the magnetic card, the Lisbon Card immediately provides 24-hour, 48-hour, or 72-hour access to the public transport system. Eligible on the Carris metro, buses, trams, and cable railways, it also works on CP trains between Cais do Sodré and Cascais, and trains between Oriente, Rossio, and Sintra.   Enjoy free access to the Jerónimos Monastery, the Belem Tower, the National Tile Museum, the National Coach Museum, and others. Admire stunning palaces, including the Mafra National Palace and the Ajuda National Palace. Ride the famous Santa Justa Lift, and much more—all with one card. During Christmas week, opening hours may vary. Public museums may be closed on December 24th, 25th, 31st and January 1st. Please check in advance.

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Portugal’s most breathtaking landscapes, where history, nature, and culture blend seamlessly. Begin your adventure in the magical town of Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its fairytale charm, historic palaces, and lush surroundings. Stroll through its picturesque alleys, admire the colorful architecture, and feel the echoes of the past as you explore this enchanting village. Your guide will share fascinating stories and local secrets, giving you a deeper connection to Sintra’s royal legacy. Next, make your way to Pena Palace, one of Portugal’s most iconic landmarks. Perched high on a hill, this vibrant and eclectic palace offers jaw-dropping views of the surrounding countryside. Wander through its lavishly decorated interiors, inspired by Romanticism, and explore the extensive gardens filled with exotic plants, hidden pathways, and serene lakes. Feel as though you’ve stepped into a real-life fairytale as you uncover the beauty and grandeur of this royal retreat. Leaving Sintra behind, embark on a scenic drive along Cabo da Roca’s incredible coastline, where dramatic cliffs meet the vast Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views as you make your way to Guincho Beach, a stunning location known for its golden sand dunes and powerful waves. This stop offers the perfect opportunity for sightseeing and capturing incredible photographs, with sweeping ocean vistas and a magnificent backdrop of Cabo da Roca in the distance. Your final stop is Cascais, a charming coastal town that seamlessly combines elegance with a laid-back atmosphere. Stroll through its vibrant streets, lined with boutique shops, stylish cafés, and historic mansions. Enjoy some free time to explore at your own pace—relax on the beach, wander through the bustling marina, or indulge in a delicious seafood meal at one of the local restaurants. As you make your way back to Lisbon, take in the scenic drive along the Estoril coastline, a glamorous retreat once favored by European royalty. Join us for a day of history, breathtaking scenery, and unforgettable moments. Whether you’re a history lover, nature enthusiast, or simply looking for an extraordinary day trip, this experience is designed to give you the very best of Sintra and Cascais!

The Castle of the Moors was classified as a National Monument in 1910 and it also forms part of the Sintra Cultural Landscape classified by UNESCO as World Heritage Site in 1995. It soars 412 m above sea level and looms high above the surrounding forest.  The 10th-century Moorish castle’s dizzying ramparts stretch across the mountain ridges and past moss-clad boulders the size of small buses. The best walking route here from Sintra-Vila is not along the main road but the quicker, partly off-road route via Rua Marechal Saldanha. The steep trail is around 2 km, but quiet and rewarding.  Once you reach the castle, the views over Sintra’s palace-dotted hill, across to the glittering Atlantic are breathtaking. Along the walkways, you can admire the unique landscape that in the foreground features Sintra town and its town hall, the Palace of Pena and the hills. In the background, admire the extensive plain running northwards and the Atlantic Ocean.

> Small groups of up to 8 people. This tour is in English. > Choose between two options: With Chambers or Without Chambers. If you'd like to explore the interiors of Pena Palace, including its chambers, select the 'With Chambers Included' option. >If the option is selected "Tour without Tickets" - 10 euros per person will be collected at the pick-up point for the ticket to and only of Gardens and the famous viewpoint terrace of Pena Palace. If you would buy tickets by your own for chambers, please advise us the entry time booked. > If you made separate bookings and want to be in the same group, let us know the day before. > Escape Lisbon and go on a full-day, guided journey to some of Portugal’s most popular locations - the iconic Pena Palace in Sintra, the inspiring cliffs of Cabo da Roca, and the glamorous seaside town of Cascais. > Your journey from Lisbon starts at the famous city of Sintra, whose Romanticist architecture, historic estates and villas, and numerous royal palaces and castles have made it a UNESCO World Heritage site. > Beginning the tour in the morning will improve the chances of avoiding long lines, and our guide starts the tour through the exotic gardens and finishes the first part on the impressive interiors of the Pena palace. Marvel at the palace’s fairy-tale-like appearance, beautiful facade, and extravagant interior. > Next, head over to the center of Sintra and get free time to wander on your own. Get recommendations of the city’s must-see locations as well as the best restaurant options for delicious traditional Portuguese, > Continue to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe, and take in the impressive views of the ocean crashing against the high rocky cliffs. If weather permits, stop at Guincho Beach, whose strong winds and high swells have made it a popular surfing and kite destination. > Lastly, arrive in Cascais, an elegant seaside resort town on the Portuguese Riviera. Walk around the lovely city center and make sure to check out Cascais’ luxury marina, its charming fishing port, and a restored fort that houses many local craftsmen. > After your free exploration time in Cascais, relax back on board our air-conditioned vehicle and admire more breathtaking views of the Portuguese coast as you make your way back to Lisbon.

Escape the bustling streets of Lisbon and step into a world of romance, mystery, and stunning coastal beauty on this full-day shared tour to Sintra and Cascais. This experience combines the charm of Portugal’s most iconic landmarks with the comfort of traveling in a small group, ensuring a memorable and intimate journey. Your day begins with a short drive from Lisbon to the enchanting town of Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its fairytale-like palaces and lush landscapes. The first stop is the Pena Palace, perched high on a hill and one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal. Explore its colorful exterior, rich history, and stunning gardens while taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Next, delve deeper into Sintra’s magic with a visit to the Quinta da Regaleira, a unique estate famous for its Gothic architecture, mysterious tunnels, and the iconic Initiation Well. Wander through the estate’s fascinating gardens as your guide unveils the legends and symbolism hidden in its design. After your morning explorations, enjoy some free time in the heart of Sintra Village. Here, you can savor the flavors of traditional Portuguese cuisine at a local restaurant or indulge in the town’s famous pastries, such as Travesseiros or Queijadas. Following lunch, the journey continues to the beautiful seaside town of Cascais, once a humble fishing village and now a sophisticated coastal destination. Stroll through its charming streets, visit local shops, or relax by the scenic harbor. Admire the blend of traditional and modern architecture that makes Cascais so unique. Throughout the day, your expert guide will share fascinating insights into the region's history, culture, and traditions, making the journey as enjoyable as possible. With comfortable transportation and a small group setting, you’ll enjoy a relaxed pace and personalized attention.

Experience Quinta da Regaleira at your own pace with an e-ticket and an engaging self-guided audio tour on your smartphone. Receive your ticket by Email, download the app and the audio tour on your phone, and travel back in time to the glory of the Quinta da Regaleira. Put on your headphones and discover the aquarium, Fountain of Abundance, and greenhouse as well as the castle’s treasures. Learn historical information and hear lesser-known stories about Sintra.  Benefit from in-depth research combined with original storytelling that will make your visit both engaging and informative. Gain valuable insights into one of Sintra’s main and most well-known attractions, the Quinta da Regaleira, and relate to your surroundings in an entirely original way.

Four kilometers from Sintra’s historic center is the unique Monserrate Palace, located in the center of a beautiful 30-hectare park. The Park and Palace of Monserrate were included in the Cultural Landscape of Sintra, which was been classified by UNESCO as World Heritage Site in 1995. The 19th-century castle is known not only for its unique Moorish-Gothic-Indian style architecture but also for its surrounding gardens.  Over the years, the gardens have welcomed plant species from all over the world. In the various gardens, you will find surprisingly contrasting scenery, from tree ferns from Australia and New Zealand, to agaves and yuccas from Mexico. Seek out the Himalayan rhododendron and the bamboo-fringed Japanese garden abloom with camellias. Enjoy a stroll along the paths and discover ruins, lakes and waterfalls.