Private Half-Day Sintra & Cascais Highlights Tour

Sintra , Portugal

Private Half-Day Sintra & Cascais Highlights Tour

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(4 reviews)

3h - 5h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Short on time but still want a taste of Portugal’s beauty? This private, half-day tour (3–5 hours) is designed for travelers who want a curated, stress-free introduction to Sintra and Cascais.

We’ll explore the gardens and exteriors of Sintra’s iconic sights, stroll the charming streets of the historic center, and enjoy the stunning coastal views of Cascais. No interiors, no rushed groups — just a relaxed pace tailored to you.

As your local guide, I’ll share personal insights, hidden gems, and stories that bring the day to life. Focus on what matters most to you, with plenty of time for photos, fresh air, and memories.

✅ Hotel or cruise port pickup
✅ Private air-conditioned transport included
✅ Entry tickets optional — skip the planning and lines, or choose what you want to visit

End your half day in Portugal relaxed, enriched, and inspired, with the highlights of Sintra and Cascais perfectly paced to your schedule.

Available options

Half-Day Sintra Highlights

Pickup included

Half-Day Sintra & Cascais

Pickup included

What's included

Local guide: Adapts the itinerary to your interests.

Private tour: Your pace, your schedule, no shared groups.

Bottled water: Complimentary

Transportation: Private AC vehicle, fuel, tolls included.

Hotel pickup & drop-off: Door-to-door from Lisbon.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Hotel pickup: Your guide will meet you at your hotel lobby or exit door. If you're in a Lisbon historical district with restricted vehicle access, your guide will meet you at a nearby walking distance meeting point.

Biester Palace in Sintra, built in the late 19th century, blends Romanticism with modernity. It features lush Biester Park, rare trees, and a history rich in mysticism and esoteric intrigue.

Stop 3 Pass by

A fortification founded in the 10th century during the period the Moors occupied the Iberian Peninsula.

Stop 4 Pass by

The enchanting Pena Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site surrounded by lush gardens.

Stop 5

Indulge in leisurely exploration as you wander through the charming historical center of Sintra. Stroll along the quaint, winding alleys of the village and savor the delectable delight of the renowned almond tarts.

Immerse yourself in the allure of Portugal's oldest palace, where the elegance of its centuries-old facades awaits your admiration. Join us on this delightful journey and relish the beauty of Sintra's history and architecture.
Also lunch break can be had over here.

Stop 6

The National Palace of Sintra is the oldest palace in Portugal. It was built over many centuries and has been used by Portuguese monarchs for centuries. It is a symbol of Portuguese history and culture.

Experience the charm of Cascais, a coastal gem waiting to be explored. Enjoy leisurely strolls through its inviting streets, where history meets modern elegance.

Stop 8

Return to your Hotel.

What's not included

Meals & drinks

Gratuities (optional)

Tickets to visit any attractions

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate.

Travel time is included in the tour duration.

Infant seats are mandatory and available upon request.

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.