Sintra: Discover the Magic of Portugal’s Most Fascinating City

Sintra , Portugal

Sintra: Discover the Magic of Portugal’s Most Fascinating City

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About this experience

"Embark on an unforgettable adventure through Sintra with our exciting guided tour. Discover the magic of this charming town as we explore its cobbled streets, majestic palaces and lush gardens. From the iconic Moorish Castle to the stunning National Palace of Sintra, every step will transport you to centuries of history and mystery. Our expert guides will take you to the most notable places, sharing fascinating stories and hidden secrets along the way. Book now and join us for an unforgettable experience in the heart of Sintra!

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Sintra: Discover the Magic of Portugal’s Most Fascinating City

What's included

Passionate local guide

Authentic local tips

Good vibes and a friendly atmosphere

Photo-worthy stops

Detailed itinerary

Our tour of Sintra will start in front of the Sintra City Hall. From this point we will take a walk through its historic center to learn about the long past of one of the most fascinating cities in Portugal.

We will begin the tour of this beautiful World Heritage city by heading towards the National Palace of Sintra. While we appreciate its exterior architecture, a very particular detail will catch our attention: its conical chimneys. This is not the only differentiating feature of the building. The window frames also stand out.

After admiring the exterior architecture of the palace, our next stop will take place at another unique monument: the Seteais Palace.

A large stone arch presides over the main entrance to the Seteais Palace. We will look at the inscription detailed in this frontispiece, as it will provide us with interesting clues about Sintra's past.

However, not everything is history in the city. The town also stands out for its gastronomy and, more specifically, for its pastries. During the tour we will pass by some of the most renowned pastry shops in the city, whose star product is the delicious Sintra queijadas.

We will finish this guided visit of Sintra by taking a look at the fascinating Pena Palace from a distance. We will offer you some curious facts about this “storybook castle” so that those who wish can visit it on their own at the conclusion of our guided walk through Sintra.

What's not included

No food and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Look for the guide with an orange flag or umbrella in front of the Sintra Town Hall. They will be waiting for you to start the tour.

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.