Highlights of Sintra & Lisbon, private experience (day-tour)

Discover the Best of Sintra and Lisbon on a Private Day Tour

This private day tour offers a comprehensive look at some of Portugal’s most famous sights, all within approximately 8 hours. For $189.73 per person, you get a personalized experience that covers the spectacular gardens of Pena Palace, the charming streets of old Sintra, and key landmarks around Lisbon including Belém, the Lisbon Cathedral, and the Rua Augusta Arch. The tour is perfect for small groups of up to 7 people, ensuring an intimate and flexible exploration.

The tour starts at 8:00 am with a convenient pickup service at your hotel, making transportation effortless. While monument tickets are not included, the outside views of each site, combined with insightful commentary from your guide, make this an enriching experience. The guides are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to share engaging stories about Portugal’s history and culture.

Key Points

• Private Group Experience: Up to 7 guests for a personalized tour.
• All-Inclusive Highlights: Visits to Pena Palace gardens, Sintra’s old town, Guincho Beach, and Lisbon’s historical landmarks.
• Flexible and Customizable: Guided outside of monuments, with recommendations for local food and sights.
• Taste and View: Enjoy local pastries, scenic sea views from Guincho Beach, and impressive monument exteriors.
• No entrance fees included: Ticket costs are separate but the outdoor views provide plenty to see.

Starting the Day at Pena Palace’s Gardens

The tour begins with a visit to the Park and National Palace of Pena, a vivid example of 19th-century Romantic architecture. Sitting over 500 meters above sea level, the palace offers sweeping views and a spectacular setting. The architecture combines Manueline and Moorish influences, creating a fairy-tale-like atmosphere.

Your guide explains the significance of King Ferdinand II, who was an artist and lover of Sintra, and his vision for this unique castle and park. The gardens feature over 500 plant species from around the world, adding to the exotic feel. While you won’t go inside, viewing the exterior and gardens provides plenty of photo opportunities. Expect about 1 hour 30 minutes at this stop.

Exploring Sintra’s Medieval Old Town

Next, the tour takes you into Sintra’s charming old town, characterized by narrow, winding streets and a vibrant atmosphere. Here, you can feel the history of the area while walking past medieval architecture. The National Palace of Sintra stands out as an important monument, used by monarchs until 1910. Its architecture displays a mix of Gothic, Manueline, Renaissance, and Romantic styles, with the largest collection of Mudejar tiles in Portugal.

During this stroll, it’s recommended to sample the local pastry “Travesseiro”, which is a sweet treat loved by locals. This part of the tour lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, offering a relaxed pace to soak in Sintra’s unique character.

Scenic Stop at Guincho Beach with a View of Europe’s Westernmost Point

After exploring Sintra’s streets, the group stops at Guincho Beach for about 15 minutes. This spot provides breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the westernmost tip of continental Europe. The rugged coastline and powerful waves make for dramatic photos and a quick chance to breathe in fresh sea air before heading back toward Lisbon.

This stop is purely scenic—no entry tickets are required—and offers a moment to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Portugal’s coastline.

Discovering Belém’s Historic Monuments

Back in Lisbon, the tour visits Belém, a historic neighborhood famed for its maritime discoveries. Here, the group spends approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, exploring iconic sites like the Mosteiro dos Jeronimos and Belém Tower. The Jerónimos Monastery, built starting in 1501, showcases late Gothic and Manueline architecture. It symbolizes Portugal’s Age of Discoveries and was the departure point for Vasco da Gama’s voyage to India.

The Belém Tower, over 500 years old, served as a ceremonial gateway for explorers and played a crucial role during Portugal’s global explorations. Both sites are admired for their architectural grandeur and historical significance. Visitors get great photo opportunities, even if they only view the exteriors, as tickets are not included.

Passing Through Lisbon’s Historic Heart at Praça do Comércio

Continuing the tour, the Rua Augusta Arch, known as Arco do Triunfo, marks the entrance to Praça do Comércio, Lisbon’s main square. The arch commemorates the city’s recovery from the devastating 1755 earthquake. The group stops briefly to admire this monumental gateway before moving on to Lisbon Cathedral.

The Lisbon Cathedral, built in 1147, is the oldest church in the city and provides a striking example of Roman Catholic architecture. The tour concludes with a quick stop here for photos and explanations before the descent back to your accommodation around 4:30 pm to 5:00 pm.

Practical Details: Transportation and Group Size

The private nature of this tour means your group only participates, providing a more tailored experience. The tour includes WiFi onboard and hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring seamless logistics. The group size of up to 7 allows for personalized attention from your guide, who shares insights into Portuguese history, culture, and gastronomy.

Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level, as some walking is required, especially at Pena Palace, which involves a 20-minute walk uphill. The tour’s timing and pacing are well-balanced, giving enough time at each stop without feeling rushed.

What’s Not Included and Tips for Visitors

While the exterior views and gardens of Pena Palace are included, monument tickets are not. It’s recommended to buy tickets in advance to avoid queues, especially for Pena Palace. Lunch is also not included, so travelers can choose to dine in Belém, where many cafes and restaurants are available.

Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven streets and up hills. The tour is LGBTIQ+ friendly, welcoming all guests to enjoy Portugal’s hospitality.

Why Choose This Tour: Strengths and Considerations

Strong points include the expert guides, praised for their knowledge and friendliness. The scenic stops—from Pena Palace’s architecture to Guincho Beach’s views—are highlights that stand out. The private setting ensures a more relaxed and flexible experience, perfect for those who value personalized attention.

A possible limitation is that monument tickets are not included, so planning ahead for entrances enhances the experience. Also, the 8-hour duration suits those looking for a full but manageable day trip. The tour suits travelers who want to see major sights comfortably, with a focus on history, architecture, and stunning scenery.

Experience the Best of Sintra and Lisbon with an Expert Guide

This private tour combines Portugal’s royal palaces, medieval streets, and scenic coastlines into a well-organized day. The knowledgeable guides make history come alive, sharing stories that enrich each stop. The balanced itinerary ensures you enjoy the highlights without feeling hurried.

With excellent reviews and consistently high ratings, this tour appeals to those seeking a personalized, insightful exploration of Sintra and Lisbon. The combination of cultural landmarks and natural beauty makes it a well-rounded choice for history buffs, architecture lovers, and scenery seekers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves some walking, especially at Pena Palace, which requires a 20-minute uphill walk. Moderate physical fitness is recommended.

Are entrance tickets included in the price?
No, monument tickets are not included. It’s advisable to purchase tickets in advance for sites like Pena Palace to avoid queues.

What are the start and end times of the tour?
The tour begins at 8:00 am with hotel pickup and concludes around 4:30 pm to 5:00 pm with drop-off.

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included, but there are dining options available in Belém.

Can I bring my own snacks or drinks?
Yes, bringing snacks or drinks is fine, especially for the scenic stops like Guincho Beach.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is private for up to 7 guests, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is the tour LGBTIQ+ friendly?
Yes, the tour welcomes all guests and is described as LGBTIQ+ friendly.

What should I wear for the tour?
Wearing comfortable shoes is recommended, especially for walking at Pena Palace and Sintra’s streets.

How do I book this tour?
Booking is available through the provider, Moovearound, with confirmation received upon booking.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its private setting, expert guides, and carefully curated stops like Pena Palace, Sintra town, Guincho Beach, and historical Lisbon landmarks make it a memorable and relaxed way to see Portugal’s highlights.