7 Best Sintra Tours from Lisbon to Take in 2024
Have you been wondering which are the best Sintra Tours from Lisbon to take?
I’ve got you covered!
Just a short distance away from Lisbon, Sintra is a fairytale-like town nestled amidst lush hills and mystical forests, boasting enchanting palaces and captivating gardens. Its enchanting landscapes hold many incredible sights and hidden gems, so many in fact that taking a Sintra tour from Lisbon is the best way to experience this magical place.
Sintra is one of the most popular day trips from Lisbon. And, for good reason. I’ve been twice, and it’s worth returning to. A destination where it’s impossible to see it all in one day.
Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply craving a break from Lisbon city life, these tours to Sintra will transport you to a fairy tale world that feels straight out of a storybook.
So get ready for an extraordinary experience that will leave you mesmerized by the beauty of Portugal’s crown jewel – Sintra!
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My Top 3 Picks: Sintra Tours from Lisbon
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sintra Highlights and Pena Palace
✅ Small group
✅ 3 Sintra Palaces and Sintra Old Town
Sintra, Cabo, Cascais
✅ 8.5 hours
✅ 3 picturesque locations near Sintra
Private Sightseeing Sintra Tour
✅ Private Tour
✅ Choose your own adventure
5 Best Tours to Sintra from Lisbon
1. From Lisbon to Sintra: Highlights and Pena Palace Full-Day Tour
⭐️ RATING: 4.8/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8 hours | ✅ Book it!
Start the tour by exploring the beautiful Pena Park as you make your way up to the architectural wonder of Pena Palace.
Indulge in some free time in Sintra’s vibrant city center, where you can wander through charming streets, browse local shops, and savour a delicious lunch at one of the cozy cafes.
Discover the magical Quinta da Regaleira, a mysterious estate filled with secret tunnels, enchanting gardens, and hidden symbols. One of the standout highlights will be a visit to the Initiation Well.
Finally, visit the captivating Monserrate Palace, known for its exquisite architecture and botanical splendour. This tour of Sintra hits all the highlights.
Our guide was fun and knowledgeable. I would not advise anyone going to these sites in Sintra without a guide. It really enhances the visit to these palaces.
A traveller from USA
Some considerations to keep in mind before booking this tour:
- this tour involves a lot of walking and in some cases uphill
- lunch is not included in this tour
- entrance fees to the palaces are not included
2. From Lisbon to Sintra, Cabo da Roca and Cascais Tour
⭐️ RATING: 4.8/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8.5 hours | ✅ Book it!
The first stop is the incredible Pena Palace! For a couple of hours, explore the beautiful gardens and admire the vibrant colours of the architecture. Take a self-guided tour of the interior and exterior.
Enjoy free time in Sintra, where you can explore its charming streets, visit local shops, and indulge in delicious Portuguese treats and lunch.
Next will be a quick stop to admire the Instagram-worthy coastal views at Azenhas do Mar, a picturesque cliffside village perfect for a memorable photo stop. Next stop will be to the westernmost point of Europe, Cabo da Roca, and admire the awe-inspiring vistas of the Atlantic Ocean.
Close out your Lisbon day trip with a quick stop in the enchanting town of Cascais, known for its stunning beaches and quaint atmosphere.
I enjoyed all of the locations we went to. I suggest taking this tour if it’s your first time visiting Portugal.
A traveller from USA
Some considerations to keep in mind before booking this tour:
- this tour does not include an entry ticket to Pena Palace and Park
- lunch is not included in this tour
- the time spent in Cascais is only 30 minutes
3. From Lisbon to Sintra, Regaleira, Pena Garden, and Cascais Tour
⭐️ RATING: 4.7/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 9 hours | ✅ Book it!
Explore Sintra’s old town at your own pace where you can meander through charming streets, discover local shops, and soak up the atmosphere.
Next, delve into the mystical realm of Quinta da Regaleira with a guided tour, unravelling its intriguing secrets and hidden symbolism.
Enjoy a delightful lunch in Sintra on your own and rejoin the group for a stroll through the enchanting Pena Park, surrounded by lush greenery and awe-inspiring views.
On the way back to Lisbon, there will be a memorable stop at Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe, where you can soak in the dramatic coastal scenery.
Finally, enjoy a bit of free time in the picturesque town of Cascais, where you can relax by the beach, explore charming streets, or indulge in some shopping.
Our guide was terrific! She is very knowledgeable about the area, explained the history, and gave us some fun facts!
A traveller from Canada
Some considerations to keep in mind before booking this tour:
- this tour does not include an entry ticket to Pena Palace, only Pena Park
- lunch is not included in this tour
- the time spent in Cascais is only 30 minutes
4. From Lisbon to Sintra, Regaleira, Pena Palace Tour
⭐️ RATING: 4.6/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8 hours | ✅ Book it!
Spend the morning with a guide at the mesmerizing Quinta da Regaleira, where you’ll explore the enchanting palace interiors and delve into the mystical depths of the world-famous Initiation Well.
Afterward, enjoy a lunch break in Sintra’s Old Town, where you’ll have ample free time to wander the charming streets and discover hidden gems at your own pace.
In the afternoon, a guide will bring you to the magnificent Pena Palace and Gardens. Spend your time exploring the pretty gardens as well as touring the brightly coloured UNESCO Heritage Site of Pena Palace.
The sights were spectacular and we were so happy to able to skip the lines and crowds because we were with our guide.
A traveller from USA
Some considerations to keep in mind before booking this tour:
- this tour does not include the entry ticket to Pena Palace or Park
- visiting both castles does require some walking and uphill
- lunch is not included in this tour
5. From Lisbon to Quinta da Regaleira, Sintra and Pena Palace Tour
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 9 hours | ✅ Book it!
Start your day at the romantic and mystical Quinta da Regaleira where you will find its secret tunnels and enchanting gardens, not to mention the Initiation Well.
In Sintra city centre, enjoy a delicious lunch after you’ve strolled the charming streets.
Next, join a guided tour and be prepared to be mesmerized by the grandeur of Pena Palace, with its vibrant colours and interesting architecture. Learn about the family who lived in the Palace.
Finally, visit the charming coastal town of Cascais, where you can stroll along picturesque beaches, and the charming streets of its Old Town.
The trip allowed a good balance between guided tour and free time.
A traveller from UK
Some considerations to keep in mind before booking this tour:
- this tour does include the entry ticket to Pena Palace with a guided tour
- this tour does not include an entrance ticket to Quinta de Regaleira
- lunch is not included in this tour
2 Best Sintra Private Tours
1. From Lisbon to Sintra on a Sightseeing Private Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 7.5 hours | ✅ Book it!
Choose your adventure! This private, customized tour gives you the freedom to choose two sites that pique your interest. Whether you opt for the fairytale-like Pena National Palace, the mystical Quinta da Regaleira, the historic Castle of the Moors, the enchanting Monserrate Palace, or the majestic Sintra National Palace, you’ll have the flexibility to curate your own unforgettable cultural adventure.
Your guide will bring you to Sintra’s Old Town and share the best places to eat and other hidden gems. This would be the best Sintra tour for those that want a truly personalized experience.
You are in the best hands and will have a fun filled day and learn a lot about places you visit!
Traveller from Canada
2. From Lisbon to Sintra, Cabo da Roca, Cascais & Estoril Private Tour
⭐️ RATING: 4.9/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8 hours | ✅ Book it!
Get ready for you’re very own private Sintra tour that covers all the highlights! Kick off your adventure at the stunning Pena Palace nestled in the Sintra Mountains. Marvel at its vibrant colours and romantic 19th-century architecture—a true national treasure.
Next, you’re off to the historical center of Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and lose yourself in its charming streets filled with quaint shops and restaurants. Grab a quick bite while here.
Then you’re off to explore the mystical Quinta da Regaleira palace and gardens, where you’ll explore the famous Initiation Well that leads you to secret passages and grottoes.
Next, your tour guide will whisk you away to the dramatic coastline of Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point in Europe. Then, it’s off to the enchanting seaside resort town of Cascais, known for its romantic old buildings that once attracted royalty during summers.
Finally, pass through the Portuguese Riviera town of Estoril, where you can catch a glimpse of the famous casino that inspired the James Bond novel ‘Casino Royale.’
Very well worth the money to have a guided experience. No stress of figuring things out, insights from a local perspective, and fitting way more into the day than you can do alone.
Traveller from USA
Why Should I Take a Lisbon to Sintra Tour?
Deciding between taking a tour or exploring Sintra independently ultimately depends on your personal preferences and travel style. Both options have their advantages, so let’s explore the benefits of each.
Tours in Sintra
- Convenience: Joining a tour saves you the time and effort of planning your itinerary, organizing transportation, and figuring out the logistics. The tour company takes care of these details, allowing you to relax and focus on enjoying the sights.
- Expert Guidance: Local guides provide valuable insights, historical context, and interesting stories about the landmarks you visit. Their expertise enhances your understanding and appreciation of Sintra’s rich history and cultural significance.
- Efficiency: Tours often have carefully crafted itineraries that optimize your time, ensuring you visit the must-see attractions without the hassle of navigation or worrying about getting lost. This is particularly helpful if you have limited time and want to experience as much as you can.
- Transportation: All of the Sintra tours provide transportation, saving you the trouble of arranging public transportation or renting a car. This can be especially beneficial if you’re not comfortable driving in unfamiliar areas or prefer a more relaxing journey between attractions.
Exploring Sintra Independently
- Flexibility: Going alone gives you the freedom to set your own pace and explore the sites that interest you most. You can spend as much time as you want at each location, linger in places that capture your attention, and deviate from the traditional tourist path if you desire.
- Personalized Experience: Without a tour group, you have the opportunity to immerse yourself fully in the ambiance of Sintra. You can wander through the streets at your own leisure, discover hidden gems, and create your own unique itinerary based on your interests.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Exploring independently allows you to control your expenses more effectively. You have the flexibility to choose budget-friendly dining options, skip attractions that don’t align with your preferences, and potentially save on the cost of a guided tour.
- Spontaneity: Going alone enables you to be spontaneous and adjust your plans on the fly. You can take detours, explore off-the-beaten-path areas, and follow your instincts without being tied to a predetermined schedule.
My Recommendation
Sintra is one of those destinations where it really is best to go on a group tour or perhaps even consider Sintra private tours because:
- Efficient Transportation: Sintra’s hilly landscape and scattered attractions can make getting around a bit challenging. Waiting for buses or figuring out the public transportation system can be time-consuming, especially if you’re trying to fit multiple sights into your day. Personal experience tip: bus routes in Sintra do not run frequently and you could be waiting up to 30 minutes.
- Avoid Long Lines: Sintra’s popular attractions, such as Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira, draw large crowds, resulting in long queues to enter. With a tour, you can benefit from skip-the-line access to these attractions. The tour operator has pre-purchased tickets or reserved time slots, allowing you to bypass the lengthy queues and maximize your time exploring the sites.
- Skip the Train Station Hassle: Navigating the train system and ensuring you catch the right train to Sintra can be a bit confusing, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area. Personal experience tip: There is only one train from Sintat to Lisbon and often you will be waiting up to 30 to 40 minutes to catch it.
- Solo Traveller-Friendly: Taking a tour to Sintra is especially advantageous for solo travellers. Exploring a new destination alone can sometimes feel daunting, but joining a tour provides an opportunity to connect with fellow travellers and potentially make new friends. Personal experience tip: Being part of a group allows you to share the experience with like-minded travellers and provides a social element to your trip.
Based on my personal experience, I recommend booking one of these best Sintra day tours from Lisbon!
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FAQs About Taking a Tour of Sintra
What are the best Sintra day tours available from Lisbon?
There are several great Sintra day tours available from Lisbon. Some popular options include tours that cover places such as Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and the Moorish Castle.
How long is a typical Sintra day tour from Lisbon?
A typical Sintra day tour from Lisbon usually lasts around 8 to 9 hours. This duration allows for a comprehensive exploration of the main attractions in Sintra and the surrounding areas, as well as sufficient travel time to and from Lisbon.
Are guided tours in multiple languages available for Sintra day tours?
Yes, many Sintra day tours offer guided commentary in multiple languages. English is commonly provided, and depending on the tour, you may find options for additional languages such as Spanish, French, German, or others.
Can I book a private Sintra day tour from Lisbon?
Yes, private Sintra day tours from Lisbon are available. Booking a private tour allows you to have a personalized experience, with a dedicated guide and the flexibility to customize the itinerary according to your preferences.
As a Holidaymaker
These Sintra tours from Lisbon offer a captivating experience that should not be missed! With its enchanting palaces, mystical forests, and breathtaking views, this small town truly has something for everyone.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply seeking some relaxation amidst stunning surroundings, Sintra will not disappoint. From the moment you step foot in this magical place to the time you bid it farewell, you’ll be left with memories that will last a lifetime. So why wait? Embark on a Sintra tour from Lisbon and let yourself get lost in the beauty and wonder of this extraordinary destination.
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