Sintra Walking Tour - The Portuguese Fairytale

Sintra , Portugal

Sintra Walking Tour - The Portuguese Fairytale

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About this experience

With its exotic landscape and climate, Sintra became the place where the nobles and aristocrats from the XIX century started to build their summer palaces and since then, it's attracted visitors from all over the world.

Classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1995, Sintra is considered by many the most beautiful city in Portugal.

From Jardim Correnteza, we'll make our way through the narrow streets of Sintra Village, to discover its history, traditions, culture and have the chance to try the famous local pastries.

We'll have the chance to see the Sintra National Palace, one of the oldest palaces in Portugal and learn a bit more about the Portuguese Royal family, the Moorish Castle built to protect the city from invaders, discover the secrets of the majestic Quinta da Regaleira, to wonder at the incredible Palácio da Pena, built on the top of the hill, next to a former monastery by King D. Fernando II in the XIX century and much more.

Available options

Sintra Walking Tour - The Portuguese Fairytale

What's included

professional tour guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

One of the most incredible Palaces in Sintra with a lot of influence from the Templars, the Rose Cross, the Order of Christ and the Masonry. The massive area is covered with plants from all over the world and its incredible tunnels connections leading you from one place to another.

Stop 2

The oldest Palace in Sintra, being originally built during the moorish rule in the VIII Century. It was the favorite by most of the Kings in Portugal. The actual Palace has some influence of different architecture styles, such as Gothic and Manueline.

Stop 3

Castle built in the VIII century by the Moors to protect Sintra. It was refurbished in the XIX century by King Fernando II.

Stop 4

This is one of the most incredible Palaces in Europe. Built by the King Fernando II in the XIX century, it's an unique place with its influence from the Neo-Manueline, New-Gothic, Neo-Renaissance and Neo-Islamic. It's one of the 7 wonders of Portugal and definitely a must.

Sintra city hall is a beautiful example of Neo-Manueline Style in Sintra.

This beautiful fountain was built in the XX century, remembering the Moorish fountains from the Arabic World.

The first open air Museum in Portugal.

This little pastry shop became famous for making Queijadas for King Carlos I in the late XIX Century and it's still in business.

The parish of Sintra started to be built in 1147 after the conquest of Sintra by King Afonso Henriques.

The oldest Hotel in the Iberian Peninsula

This wonderful Palace was built in the XVIII century and now holds a luxury Hotel.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

10 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Look out for the guide with an orange umbrella

Important notes

Sintra is normally a little bit colder than Lisbon so we always recommend to take a sweater, water and a snack.

About Sintra

Sintra is a picturesque town on the Portuguese Riviera, known for its 19th-century Romanticist castles, palaces, and lush gardens. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a fairytale-like atmosphere with its unique blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Pena Palace

A 19th-century Romanticist palace perched on a hilltop, known for its vibrant colors and eclectic architectural styles.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours €14 (adult ticket)

Quinta da Regaleira

A mystical estate with lush gardens, hidden tunnels, and the famous Initiation Well.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours €10 (adult ticket)

Moorish Castle

A medieval castle with origins dating back to the 8th century, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Sintra's past.

Historical 1-2 hours €8 (adult ticket)

Praia da Adraga

A beautiful beach with golden sand and dramatic cliffs, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.

Beach Half-day Free

Monserrate Palace

A stunning 19th-century palace set in a lush, romantic garden, showcasing a blend of Gothic, Moorish, and Indian architectural styles.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours €8 (adult ticket)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Trajana

A traditional pastry filled with various ingredients like meat, cheese, or sweets.

Snack Can be vegetarian or vegan depending on filling.

Bacalhau à Brás

A classic Portuguese dish made with shredded cod, eggs, and thinly fried potatoes.

Main course Contains fish and eggs.

Pastel de Nata

A famous Portuguese custard tart with a flaky pastry crust.

Dessert Contains dairy and eggs.

Sardinhas Assadas

Grilled sardines, a popular dish in coastal regions.

Main course Contains fish.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park Surfing at Praia da Adraga Beach relaxation Wine tasting Visiting historic palaces and castles Exploring local markets Swimming and sunbathing at local beaches Visiting museums and indoor attractions

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

These months offer the best weather with pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists compared to the summer peak.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Portuguese
Widely spoken: English, Spanish, French
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (WET), GMT+2 (WEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Sintra is a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Be cautious when using ATMs at night

Getting there

By air

Lisbon Portela Airport • 28 km

By train

Sintra Station

By bus

Lisbon Sete Rios Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Trains are the most efficient way to get around Sintra and its attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Town Center Park of Pena Colares

Day trips

Cascais

20 km • Half day

A charming coastal town known for its beaches, historic center, and vibrant atmosphere.

Lisbon

30 km • Full day

Portugal's capital city offers a rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse attractions.

Cabo da Roca

25 km • Half day

The westernmost point of mainland Europe, offering stunning coastal views and dramatic cliffs.

Festivals

Sintra Music Festival • June to September Sintra Halloween • October Sintra Christmas Market • December

Pro tips

Visit Pena Palace early in the morning to avoid crowds.
Explore the town on foot to discover hidden gems and charming streets.
Try local pastries like Pastel de Nata and Trajана for an authentic taste of Sintra.
Use the Viva Viagem card for convenient and discounted public transportation.
Book tickets for popular attractions in advance to avoid long queues.