Private Tour Sintra With Wine Tastings

Explore Sintra’s UNESCO Heritage Sites with a Private Guide

This Private Tour Sintra With Wine Tastings offers an in-depth day exploring the highlights of Sintra, Portugal’s fairy-tale mountain town. Priced at $191.17 per person, the tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours and includes private transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, and Wi-Fi onboard for maximum convenience. It’s a well-balanced mix of cultural visits and local wine tasting, ideal for those who want a personalized, relaxed experience away from crowded shuttle tours.

The tour starts at 9:00 am, with private transfers from your chosen location around Lisbon, ensuring a seamless start. The guide, possibly multilingual, leads you through some of Sintra’s most renowned sights, all while providing insightful commentary. Despite the included wine tasting, note that tickets to individual sites are at your expense, making it flexible for those who prefer to explore or skip certain attractions.

This tour suits travelers seeking a comprehensive, personalized day trip filled with iconic sights, historical stories, and a taste of Portugal’s wine culture. While it offers a rich experience, it’s important to keep in mind that some site tickets are not included, and the wine tasting at Colares is a small, exclusive experience rather than a large-scale winery visit.

Key Points

• Includes private 2-way transfers with onboard Wi-Fi from Lisbon
• Visits Sintra’s top UNESCO World Heritage sites like Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira
• Wine tasting experience in Colares is part of the itinerary
• Tour duration of 8-9 hours with flexible pickup locations
• Tickets for sites are not included, giving flexibility
• Suitable for travelers comfortable with walking and outdoor exploration

Starting the Day with Seamless Private Transfers

The tour begins early at 9:00 am, with hotel pickup and drop-off in a private vehicle. This setup eliminates the hassle of shuttles or crowded buses, offering a comfortable, air-conditioned ride with free Wi-Fi onboard for catching up on emails or photos. Travelers can select their preferred pickup point around Lisbon, making the experience flexible and convenient, especially after a long flight or busy schedule.

The private transfers also help maximize time, allowing your guide to focus on sharing stories and insights instead of navigating traffic or public transport. This personalized start emphasizes comfort and efficiency, especially when visiting multiple sites across Sintra’s expansive area.

Visiting Moorish Castle: A Glimpse into Sintra’s Moorish Past

The tour’s first stop is the Moorish Castle, built in the 8th century during the Moorish occupation of the Iberian Peninsula. Located about 3.5 km from Sintra’s historic center, the castle offers impressive medieval ruins and panoramic views. Its walls skirt along the mountain ranges, making it a striking sight against the landscape.

Visitors can explore the Royal Tower and the Moorish Cistern, both inside the castle, while appreciating the history of the early Moorish presence. Restorations in 1860 by Dom Fernando II added a romantic touch, with wooded areas around the ruins creating a scenic backdrop. Expect some walking on uneven terrain, but the views from the walls are well worth the effort.

Discovering Pena Palace’s Romantic Charm

The Park and National Palace of Pena is a highlight of this tour, renowned for its 19th-century Romantic architecture. Perched atop Monte da Pena, the palace was built on the site of a former monastery, purchased by D. Fernando de Saxe Coburg-Gotha in 1836 for use as a summer residence.

Though admission tickets are not included, the guide provides a detailed explanation of the palace’s fantastical design, colorful façades, and lush gardens. The terrace offers stunning panoramic views over Sintra’s mountains and coastline, making it a favorite Instagram spot. Visitors can wander through the ornate interiors and enjoy the whimsical atmosphere of this fairytale-like palace.

Exploring Sintra’s Historic Center and Architectural Diversity

Next, the tour takes a relaxing stroll through Centro Historico de Sintra, a UNESCO-listed site filled with picturesque streets and well-preserved buildings from various eras. The area showcases cultural movements ranging from medieval to modern, with narrow alleyways and charming shops.

This part of the tour is free of charge but offers rich scenery and history. You’ll see iconic landmarks like Sintra’s town hall, and the lively atmosphere gives a real sense of local life. The walk is doable for most but involves some comfortable walking on cobbled streets.

Quinta da Regaleira: The Enigmatic Palace

Close to Sintra’s historic center, the Quinta da Regaleira stands out for its mythical symbolism and romantic revivalist style. Built in the early 20th century by Antonio Augusto Carvalho Monteiro, this site blends Gothic, Manueline, and Renaissance elements with esoteric motifs.

The palace and surrounding gardens are a treasure hunt of sculptures, tunnels, and symbolic structures. Guided explanations help uncover the meanings behind its many hidden features. Visitors should prepare for some exploration on foot but will find the atmosphere captivating. Tickets are not included, so visitors can choose to explore freely or revisit parts on their own.

Monserrate Palace and Romantic Park

An additional stop at the Park and Palace of Monserrate offers a chance to see another example of Sintra’s romantic landscape gardens. Created by William Beckford, this lush park features exotic plants and a fantastical palace. The site adds to the diversity of architectural styles and natural beauty experienced during the day.

Wine Tasting in Colares: An Intimate Experience

The wine tasting session takes place at the Adega Regional de Colares, a local winery renowned for its exclusive Colares wines. The visit provides insights into the history and uniqueness of this small-scale wine production, which is cooperative and maintained by few private local producers.

The 2-hour experience includes a guided tour of the winery and a tasting of their wines. While the tickets are included, the experience is described as intimate rather than large-scale, offering a chance to learn about Portugal’s wine heritage in a scenic setting. The small production size of Colares wines makes this tasting special and distinct from more commercial wineries.

The Role of Fantastic Ride in the Experience

The tour is operated by Fantastic Ride, a company that emphasizes personalized service and professional drivers. Their modern, air-conditioned vehicles with Wi-Fi on board ensure a smooth, connected journey. The company highlights their commitment to customer satisfaction and local partnerships, enriching the overall experience.

Practicalities and Additional Information for Participants

Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes due to some uneven surfaces on site visits. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most travelers able to participate. The dress code is smart casual, and a valid passport is required for identification. The tour is private, meaning only your group joins, enhancing flexibility and comfort.

Food and site tickets are not included, giving guests the option to dine at their leisure and explore additional sites independently. The meeting point is flexible, with pickup from various locations around Lisbon, making it convenient for different travelers.

Final Thoughts on the Private Sintra and Wine Tour

This private guided tour offers a well-rounded experience of Sintra’s most notable sights, with the convenience of private transfers and Wi-Fi onboard. The inclusion of a wine tasting in Colares adds a special touch, appealing to those interested in Portugal’s wine culture. The guided visits to Pena Palace, Moorish Castle, and Quinta da Regaleira are highlights, providing a deeper understanding of each site’s significance.

While site tickets are not included, the flexible nature allows travelers to tailor their experience. The small group size (private for your group) and professional guide make this an engaging and comfortable choice for those seeking a personalized day trip from Lisbon. The tour balances cultural discovery with leisure, making it suitable for most travelers who enjoy history, architecture, and wine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are tickets to attractions included in the tour?
No, tickets for sites like Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and Moorish Castle are not included, so you can choose to explore or skip these sites.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, starting at 9:00 am with flexible pickup options around Lisbon.

Is the wine tasting experience worth it?
Yes, the wine tasting at Colares is an intimate experience highlighting Portugal’s rare Colares wines, made by a small cooperative, offering insight into local wine traditions.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to uneven surfaces at some stops, and the dress code is smart casual.

Can I customize the tour?
Since it is a private tour, you can discuss your preferences with the guide regarding stops or pace, within the structure of the itinerary.

Is this tour suitable for families or seniors?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but some walking and outdoor exploration are involved. Seniors should consider their comfort with walking on uneven terrain.

What is the price per person?
The cost is $191.17 per person, offering a comprehensive experience with private transport, guide, and wine tasting included.

How far in advance should I book?
This tour is typically booked 22 days in advance on average, so early reservations are recommended to secure your preferred date.

Who operates this tour?
The experience is provided by Fantastic Ride, known for their personalized service and professional drivers.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there is free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexible planning.

This guided private tour of Sintra from Lisbon combines access to iconic sites, cultural insights, and a taste of Portugal’s wine heritage, making it a well-balanced day trip for curious explorers.