How far is Sintra from Lisbon?

Sintra is approximately 30 kilometers west of Lisbon, about a 30–40 minute drive.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Yes, the tour is family-friendly with manageable walking distances and engaging sights for all ages.

Are meals included on the tour?

The tour includes a stop at Piriquita Tea House but food and drinks are purchased separately.

What is the best time of day to visit Pena Palace?

Visiting early in the morning or late afternoon helps avoid the largest crowds and captures the best light for photos.

Can the tour be customized?

Yes, as a private tour, Estrela d'Alva works with guests to tailor stops and pacing.

Is there much walking involved?

You can expect moderate walking on uneven paths and some hills, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Sintra Private Half Day Tour with Estrela d'Alva Tours | Castle

A short drive west of Lisbon leads to Sintra, a region of forested hills and vivid palaces that seem to spill from the pages of a history book. Estrela d'Alva Tours offers a private half-day journey to this extraordinary locale, combining Portugal’s rich cultural past with its lush natural terrain. The focal point of the trip is the Pena National Palace, a kaleidoscope of pastel colors perched atop giant granite outcrops within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. Architecturally, Pena breaks from traditional styles with its eclectic mix of Romanticism, Moorish, and Manueline touches, all supported by the rugged backdrop of granite boulders and sweeping views of the Atlantic coast. The tour’s private format allows for a personalized pace—a chance to wander through the hilly streets that weave between antique cottages and local artisan shops, avoiding the crowded main routes. Stopping at Piriquita Tea House offers a genuine taste of Sintra with traditional travesseiros, flaky pastries that capture the region’s culinary heritage. What makes this experience stand out beyond the historical sites is the immersive encounter with Sintra’s unique microclimate, often shrouded in mist that cloaks the ancient forests and adds an otherworldly feel to the surroundings. Perfect for travelers based in Lisbon seeking to step away from urban life for a few hours, Estrela d'Alva taps into the quieter, greener side of Portugal. By blending cultural landmarks with the rugged outdoors, this private tour stakes a unique claim as both an accessible and intimate escape, showcasing one of Europe’s most distinctive landscapes and its layered history within a manageable half-day window.