Private Sintra Day Trip with Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira & Cascais, Lisbon

5.0 (1 review)
Spend the day exploring the UNESCO-listed landmarks and landscapes of Sintra and the Portuguese Riviera.

Overview

This private day trip to Sintra introduces you to the cultural treasures and natural beauty of this storied region just outside Lisbon. It begins with a pickup from your city hotel, followed by a scenic drive west as your expert guide shares insights and stories of the area. Start at Pena Palace, learning about the colorful hilltop structure's history and enjoying its spectacular views, then head into the village to stroll the charming cobbled streets. The mystical estate at Quinta da Regaleira is next, where you'll descend into the remarkable Initiation Well before wrapping up with a visit to the historic coastal resort of Cascais.

Highlights

  • Explore the hilltop Pena Palace as your guide explains the history of this Romantic landmark
  • Stroll through Sintra's historic center and stop by a local bakery for some sweet treats
  • Descend into the mysterious inverted tower at Quinta da Regaleira
  • Relax in the coastal town of Cascais or spend some time on its golden beaches

Know before you go

Duration
7 hours
Recommended for
12 years old & up
Group
Private

What you'll do

Your Sintra adventure begins with a convenient pick-up from Lisbon, setting the stage for a day filled with history, culture, and beautiful natural landscapes. You'll travel in comfort with your private guide, who'll share engaging tales and facts about the region as you make your way through the scenic Portuguese countryside. The drive itself is a treat, offering glimpses of rolling hills and coastal views.

Upon arrival in Sintra, your first destination is the iconic Pena Palace. Perched atop a hill, this whimsical structure is a masterpiece of Romantic architecture. As you explore its colorful facade and opulent interiors, your guide will explain its unique history and architectural significance. You'll learn about the palace's origins as a monastery and its transformation into a royal residence, all while soaking in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Your journey continues with a stop in Sintra's historic center. Stroll along the cobblestone streets, where you'll find a mix of charming shops, bakeries, and cafés. This is the perfect time to refuel with some of the town's best local treats, like a travesseiro (puff pastry filled with almond cream) or a queijada (Portuguese milk tart). Then it's on to the enchanting Quinta da Regaleira and its famous Initiation Well, an inverted tower steeped in Knights Templar myths. 

Your final stop is the coastal town of Cascais. Once a quaint fishing village, today this stylish seaside resort is popular with Lisbon locals as a summertime retreat. Armed with recommendations from your guide, you'll have plenty of time to stroll along the picturesque marina, explore local boutiques, or relax at a waterfront café before the drive back to Lisbon.

Start times

  • Daily
    7:50 am

What's included

  • Private day trip to the Sintra area with a professional guide
  • Entry tickets to Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off in Lisbon
  • Free time to explore Cascais

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Traveler reviews

Marnie
Marnie H.
Richmond, VA | Reviewed on Apr 08, 2025
LOVE LOVE LOVE
You have to do this trip, and ask for Filippa as your guide. She is one of the owners of the company and she is the best. Sintra - I have no words for the place other than magical. La Quinta de Regaleira is a must - what a beautiful, special place. She gave us time in the little town of Sintra for lunch and pointed out places to eat and sample the local sweets. She was so good at showing us around and explaining what we were seeing, then giving us space and time to explore...
Read more

LOVE LOVE LOVE
You have to do this trip, and ask for Filippa as your guide. She is one of the owners of the company and she is the best. Sintra - I have no words for the place other than magical. La Quinta de Regaleira is a must - what a beautiful, special place. She gave us time in the little town of Sintra for lunch and pointed out places to eat and sample the local sweets. She was so good at showing us around and explaining what we were seeing, then giving us space and time to explore on our own.
Cabo de Rocas and Cascais were the icing on the cake of this trip. What a great way to see beauty outside a huge city.

Tips for future travelers

Take an umbrella.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport

Like what you see?

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