Private Tour in Sintra Discover the Treasures of Portugal

Discover Sintra's top sights on a private guided tour from Lisbon, including the Castle of the Moors, Pena Palace, and charming historic streets, with personalized service.

A private tour of Sintra for up to three people offers a tailored experience of one of Portugal’s most enchanting destinations. Priced at $232.29 per group, this 4 to 5-hour journey from Lisbon combines scenic views, historic sites, and charming town walks. The tour features private transportation, Wi-Fi, and a bottle of water, making it both comfortable and convenient. With pickup included at the start and a mobile ticket, travelers can enjoy a flexible and intimate exploration of Sintra’s highlights, with the option to customize the experience.

While the tour does not include admission tickets for the monuments, it provides an excellent opportunity to visit Castelo dos Mouros, the Park and National Palace of Pena, and the picturesque streets of Sintra’s historic center. Booking in advance—often around 8 days prior—ensures a smooth experience. This tour suits those who value a personal touch, want to avoid large group crowds, and are keen on discovering Sintra’s most iconic sights at a relaxed pace.

Key Points

  • Private and personalized experience with your own group of up to 3 people
  • Includes transportation, Wi-Fi, and bottled water for comfort
  • Visits three main stops: Castelo dos Mouros, Pena Palace, and Sintra town center
  • Duration of 4 to 5 hours, ideal for a half-day trip
  • No included tickets, so plan to purchase entry rights separately
  • Accessible most travelers, but not recommended for motor deficiency

Exploring Castelo dos Mouros and Its Stunning Views

The Castelo dos Mouros is the first stop on this Sintra adventure, offering spectacular panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape. Built in the 8th century, this ancient fortress invites exploration of its historic walls and towers. The breathtaking views from the castle provide an excellent photo opportunity, capturing the lush hills and the town of Sintra below.

Although admission tickets are not included, the walk around the castle grounds remains a highlight, especially for those who enjoy historical ruins and scenic overlooks. Expect about an hour at this site, with plenty of time to wander and take in the sights. The location’s elevated position makes it a favorite for the stunning landscape visible from the walls.

The Colorful Charm of Pena Palace and Its Gardens

After the castle, the Palacio da Pena takes center stage. This spectacular palace is renowned for its vivid colors and eclectic architecture, standing out as a true icon of Sintra. The 2-hour visit allows ample time to admire the exterior, explore the beautiful gardens, and appreciate the interior rooms if you choose to purchase tickets separately.

The Palacio da Pena is a must-see for its unique design and panoramic views over Sintra and beyond. The vibrant colors and intricate details make it an unforgettable sight. The palace’s location on a hilltop means you get breathtaking vistas of the surrounding countryside, perfect for photos and soaking in the scenery.

Strolling Through Sintra’s Historic Streets and Sample Regional Sweets

The tour offers around 1 hour and 30 minutes for a leisurely walk through Sintra’s historic center. This picturesque town is famous for its colorful buildings, craft shops, and lively Republic Square. Here, visitors enjoy a coffee break and can sample regional sweets like the renowned Queijada and the Sintra Pond.

This part of the tour provides a relaxed pace to appreciate the charm of Sintra’s streets, admire the architectural details, and snap photos of the vibrant facades. The walk is free of admission costs, giving flexibility to explore at your own pace or relax at a pastry shop.

Comfort and Convenience of Private Transportation

Throughout the tour, private transportation ensures a smooth journey between sites. The vehicle is equipped with air-conditioning and Wi-Fi, making the travel comfortable and connected. The pickup at Restauradores Square simplifies logistics, while the drop-off back at the starting point consolidates the experience.

This private setup allows for a more tailored pacing, avoiding crowded buses or large groups. It’s especially appealing for those who prefer a relaxed and personal approach to sightseeing, with the ability to ask questions or adjust the pace if desired.

Tips for Visiting and Cost Considerations

Since admission tickets are not included, travelers should plan to purchase entry to sites like Pena Palace and Castelo dos Mouros separately. The cost of tickets varies, so budgeting accordingly is advisable. The tour’s price of $232.29 covers transport, Wi-Fi, bottled water, and the personalized guide service.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, although it’s not recommended for individuals with motor deficiencies due to the walking involved at some sites. The flexible timing and short duration make it an excellent choice for a half-day adventure from Lisbon.

Meeting Point and Booking Details

The tour departs from Restauradores Square in Lisbon, at Praça dos Restauradores. The experience ends back at the same meeting point, making logistics simple. Booking typically occurs 8 days in advance and offers the reassurance of free cancellation up to 24 hours before.

This tour is managed by LxTours, a provider known for private and personalized experiences. The mobile ticket delivery adds convenience, and the small group size ensures a more intimate and engaging atmosphere.

Comparing Similar Sintra Tours

While this private experience emphasizes comfort and customization, other options like small group day trips or tuk-tuk tours are also available. For example, the Sintra and Cascais Small-Group Day Trip or tuk-tuk sightseeing tours provide different pacing and group sizes but may include different sites or experiences.

This private tour is particularly well-suited for those who prioritize flexibility, personalized service, and visiting the main highlights at their own pace.

Sintra Private Tour: An Engaging Half-Day Experience

This private tour in Sintra offers a balanced mix of history, scenery, and local charm within a manageable time frame. With scenic views from Castelo dos Mouros, the colorful splendor of Pena Palace, and a stroll through Sintra’s historic streets, it captures the essence of the area without feeling rushed.

The private transport and personalized approach make it ideal for small groups seeking a relaxed and tailored visit. While the ticket costs for sites are not included, the overall experience provides excellent value for those who appreciate comfort and exclusivity.

Travelers who enjoy local sweets and picturesque towns will find this tour particularly appealing, especially considering the positive review describing it as “a fantastic day” with “unique places and landscapes.” This experience is a practical, enjoyable way to explore Sintra’s most iconic sights with ease.

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Private Tour in Sintra Discover the Treasures of Portugal



5.0

100% 5-star

“Unique places and landscapes.”

— A Tripadvisor Reviewer, Feb 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in this private Sintra tour?
The tour includes private transportation, Wi-Fi, a bottle of water, and pickup and drop-off at Restauradores Square in Lisbon.

Are admission tickets for sites included?
No, tickets for the monuments like Pena Palace and Castelo dos Mouros are not included and must be purchased separately.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 4 to 5 hours, allowing ample time to visit key sites and enjoy a relaxed pace.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but it is not recommended for motor deficiency because of walking involved at some sites.

Where does the tour start and end?
It departs from Restauradores Square and ends back at the same meeting point in Lisbon.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made around 8 days in advance to secure availability.

What makes this tour different from group excursions?
The private nature allows for a more customized experience, quicker site visits, and the flexibility to focus on personal interests.

What kind of views will I see from Castelo dos Mouros?
Expect breathtaking panoramic views of Sintra and the surrounding landscape from the castle’s ancient walls.

Is food or drink included?
No, meals are not included; however, you can enjoy local sweets and coffee in Sintra’s streets.

Is this tour suitable for photographers?
Absolutely, with scenic vistas and vibrant architecture, it provides excellent opportunities for photos at every stop.

This private Sintra tour combines comfort, flexibility, and the chance to see Portugal’s captivating town without the rush of larger groups. It offers an excellent way to experience Sintra’s iconic sites and charming streets at your own pace.