Sintra & Coast Full Day Tour by What to do in Portugal
Difficulty
easy
Duration
Approx. 8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; some walking on uneven terrain required
Overview
Spend a day traversing Sintra’s palaces, coastal cliffs, and seaside towns with What to do in Portugal’s guided full-day tour. Taste local pastries, visit iconic landmarks, and witness Europe’s western edge in one immersive experience.
Sintra, Cascais and the Coast Full Day Tour
All ages! • Approx. 8 hours • Try traditional pastries!
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About This Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable 8-hour journey through Sintra's stunning landscapes, featuring breathtaking views of the Pena Palace and Moorish Castle. Enjoy local pastries, explore charming towns, and visit Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of Europe. With a flexible itinerary and a friendly guide, adventure awaits at every turn!
Drive to the top of the mountain with stops for photos of the Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle!
Suggested Itinerary:
- Duration: Approx. 8 hours
- Pick up at requested hotel/apartment/cruise at 09:00 or another time suggested by you
- Drive to Sintra
- Free time to visit the centre of the town and try the traditional pastries (Travesseiro and Queijada) in one of the local factories
- Drive to the top of the mountain with stops for photos of the Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle (Optional visit to one of them)
- Free time for lunch (we can recommend some nice local restaurants - no tourist traps!)
- Head on to Quinta da Regaleira (Optional visit)
- Drive through the scenic roads of Sintra down to Azenhas do Mar, a beautiful town overlooking the Atlantic, stopping on the way at the Palace of Monserrate for a photo
- Stop at Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe
- Head down to Guincho Beach, the "Surfers' Paradise"
- Stop at "Boca do Inferno", a rock formation where you can take some photos
- Free time to wander around the streets of Cascais
- Drop off at the starting point or another place that is convenient for you
Note that:
- Our itinerary is always flexible, so if you want to cut it short or add different stops or places to visit you can do that by just telling the driver (that's why private tours are a lot more fun!)
- If you don't want to visit the monuments inside, we can add other places like viewpoints or some secret spots that only the locals know about to fill in the time
- Our tours can be done in English, Portuguese, Spanish or French (subject to availability)
- You should wear comfortable clothing and shoes as there are some parts of the tour where we have to walk to reach certain places
What's Included:
- Pick up and drop off at your hotel/apartment/cruise
- Bottled water
- Wi-fi
- Friendly guide/driver
- Comfortable air-conditioned mini-van or small car depending on group size
- All travel expenses (gas, insurance, tolls, parking costs)
- All insurances required by Portuguese law (personal and liability)
Exclusions:
- Personal expenses
- Tickets to monuments
- Food and drinks
Adventure Tips
Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes
Some sections involve walking on uneven paths near castles and coastal rock formations; sturdy footwear will help you move with ease.
Bring a Light Jacket
Coastal areas like Cabo da Roca and Guincho Beach can be windy and cooler, even in summer, so layering is advised.
Carry Local Currency
While most places accept cards, some smaller shops or pastry vendors in Sintra prefer euros in cash for quick purchases.
Stay Hydrated
The tour involves exploring under varied sun exposure; bottled water is provided but bring your own if preferred.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Seagulls and cormorants soaring near the coast
- Ibiza swallowtail butterflies in Sintra’s woodlands
History
Sintra’s palaces date back to the 19th century Romanticism period, embodying Portugal’s royal heritage against a backdrop of centuries-old Moorish fortifications.
Conservation
Efforts to maintain the natural forests of Sintra and protect the coastal cliffs at Cabo da Roca emphasize low-impact tourism and preservation of delicate ecosystems.
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Adventure Hotspots in Lisbon
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Support and grip for walking trails and historic sites.
Light Waterproof Jacket
Protects against occasional spring rain showers.
spring specific
Sunglasses
Helpful for reducing glare during coastal stops.
summer specific
Daypack
Convenient for carrying water, snacks, and camera gear.