Discover Sintra’S Hidden Gems on Our Walking Tour

Sintra’s captivating charm lies beyond the well-trodden paths. This walking tour invites visitors to uncover the historic town’s hidden gems, from the Gothic grandeur of the Church of São Martinho to the enchanting gardens of the UNESCO-listed Quinta da Regaleira. Along the way, travelers will savor the flavors of traditional Sintra pastries, seeing the local culture. With limited time, this tour provides a comprehensive introduction to Sintra’s rich heritage, leaving those seeking more to delve deeper into the town’s enchanting mysteries.

Good To Know

• Explore Sintra’s historic center, including the Gothic Church of São Martinho and Palace of Setais, for a captivating glimpse into the town’s storied past.
• Discover the UNESCO-listed Quinta da Regaleira, a remarkable estate with intricate Gothic and Manueline-style structures, gardens, and hidden underground features.
• Savor the flavors of Sintra’s traditional pastries, such as travesseiros and queijadas, during a guided tasting for a unique cultural experience.
• Enjoy a 2.5-hour walking tour led by a knowledgeable guide, providing engaging insights into Sintra’s landmarks and hidden gems.
• Explore Sintra’s attractions with a small group of up to 15 travelers, ensuring a personalized and efficient experience.

Tour Overview

Ideal for first-time visitors and those with limited time, this walking tour allows you to discover Sintra’s highlights.

You’ll explore the historic center, admire the Gothic Church of São Martinho, and visit the Palace of Setais.

The highlight is the UNESCO-listed Quinta de Regaleira, a palace and estate with intriguing gardens and crypts.

Throughout the tour, you’ll enjoy tastings of traditional Sintra pastries, giving you a true flavor of the local culture.

Tour Details

The walking tour holds a 4.1 rating from 16 reviews and accommodates a maximum group size of 15 travelers. The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, ending at either the Quinta da Regaleira or the National Palace of Sintra, depending on fire risk. The tour includes a knowledgeable guide and the entrance fee to the Quinta da Regaleira, if selected. However, it’s not wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions, as a moderate level of physical fitness is required.

Tour Details
Rating	4.1
Group Size	Max 15
Duration	~2.5 hours
Ending Location	Quinta da Regaleira or National Palace
Inclusions	Friendly guide, Quinta da Regaleira entrance fee
Accessibility	Not wheelchair accessible

Meeting and Pickup

Travelers meet the tour guide outside Sintra train station, in front of Restaurant Cyntia (2710-523 Sintra, Portugal).

Look for the guide holding a blue flag to identify the group. The tour meets at this convenient location, making it easy for participants to find the starting point.

The meeting spot is situated just steps from the train station, allowing easy access for those arriving by public transportation.

This meeting arrangement ensures a smooth and efficient start to the walking tour, allowing the group to make the most of their time exploring Sintra’s hidden gems.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This walking tour’s inclusions cover a friendly tour guide and the entrance fee to Quinta da Regaleira if that option is selected.

However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though service animals are allowed. It’s also not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions, as travelers should have a moderate level of physical fitness.

The tour doesn’t end at Quinta da Regaleira on certain days due to fire risk, instead concluding at the National Palace of Sintra.

Reviews and Feedback

Positive feedback highlights knowledgeable and friendly guides leading the walking tour. Reviewers praise the guides’ ability to provide engaging insights into Sintra’s history and landmarks. However, some note the challenge of multilingual guidance, which can limit the depth of information shared.

Strengths	Weaknesses
Knowledgeable guides	Multilingual guidance
Friendly and engaging	Limited time for photos

Despite these minor drawbacks, the tour receives an overall rating of 4.1 out of 16 reviews. Travelers appreciate the opportunity to discover Sintra’s hidden gems in a convenient and informative manner. Free cancellation is also a valuable option for those with uncertain schedules.

Sintra’s Historic Center

Sintra’s historic center offers a captivating glimpse into the town’s storied past. Winding streets are flanked by colorful buildings, each with its own unique character.

Visitors can explore the Gothic Church of São Martinho, a striking example of religious architecture, and the Palace of Setais, a former royal residence.

Highlights of the tour include:

• Admiring the intricate tile work and ornate facades of the historic structures
• Wandering through the charming plazas and alleyways, soaking in the local atmosphere
• Discovering hidden corners and lesser-known sites that provide a more authentic Sintra experience
• Sampling traditional Sintra pastries, a delightful culinary highlight of the tour

Traditional Pastry Tasting

Travelers delight in the chance to savor Sintra’s traditional pastries during the walking tour. The tour includes a tasting of these local delicacies, giving visitors a true taste of the region’s culinary heritage.

Sintra is renowned for its unique pastries, each with its own distinct flavors and textures. From the iconic travesseiros, a light and flaky pastry filled with egg cream, to the rich, decadent queijadas, these treats are a highlight of the tour.

The guided tasting allows participants to learn about the history and preparation of these beloved confections, further immersing them in Sintra’s rich cultural tapestry.

This delectable experience complements the exploration of the town’s historic landmarks, creating a well-rounded and memorable visit.

Visiting Quinta Da Regaleira

Quinta da Regaleira, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, captivates visitors with its remarkable architectural features and enchanting gardens.

Highlights of this unique palace and estate include:

• Intricate Gothic and Manueline-style structures, such as the main palace and the mysterious Initiation Well
• Lush, mystical gardens dotted with grottos, tunnels, and hidden symbols
• The Initiation Well, a spiral staircase that descends 27 meters underground
• Scenic hiking trails that wind through the property’s verdant landscapes

Exploring Quinta da Regaleira offers a glimpse into Sintra’s rich history and the imaginative vision of its original owner, the eccentric millionaire Carvalho Monteiro.

Visitors are sure to be captivated by the estate’s architectural wonders and natural splendor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Stop for Lunch During the Tour?

The tour does not include a lunch stop. It’s focused on sightseeing and lasts around 2.5 hours. Travelers can explore Sintra’s dining options on their own before or after the tour.

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Quinta Da Regaleira?

Photography is generally allowed inside the Quinta da Regaleira, but visitors should follow any posted guidelines or instructions from the tour guides. There may be some restrictions in certain areas to preserve the historic site.

How Much Time Is Allotted for Exploring on Our Own?

The tour overview states that the tour duration is approximately 2.5 hours. However, it doesn’t specify how much time is allotted for exploring on one’s own during the tour. The inclusion of Quinta da Regaleira suggests some independent exploration time.

Are There Any Discounts for Senior or Student Travelers?

The tour does not offer any specific discounts for senior or student travelers. However, the overall cost of the tour and Quinta da Regaleira entrance fee may be reasonable for most visitors.

Can We Extend the Tour to Visit Additional Sites in Sintra?

Yes, the tour can be extended to visit additional sites in Sintra. Travelers can discuss options with the guide to customize the itinerary and spend more time exploring the town’s attractions beyond the standard tour.

The Sum Up

Discover Sintra’s captivating history and enchanting gardens on this walking tour. Explore the historic center, marvel at the Gothic church, and learn about the UNESCO-listed Quinta da Regaleira. Indulge in traditional pastries, making this a memorable cultural experience. With limited time, this tour’s a perfect introduction to Sintra’s hidden gems.