Hidden Gems: Sintra & Cascais Private Tour With Wine Tasting

Perched on the lush hills of Portugal’s Atlantic coast, Sintra and Cascais beckon travelers with their captivating blend of history, architecture, and natural wonders. Explore the enchanting historic center of Sintra, admire the whimsical Pena Palace, and discover the esoteric mysteries of Quinta da Regaleira. Indulge in the region’s renowned wines during a private winery tour, then gaze upon the dramatic cliffs of Cabo da Roca before uncovering the charming coastal town of Cascais. This private tour offers a unique opportunity to uncover the hidden gems that make this corner of Portugal so irresistible.

This experience made our list of the 11 Best Wine Tours In Sintra.

Key Points

• Explore the historic charm of Sintra’s quaint streets, admiring ornate buildings, medieval churches, and lush gardens.
• Discover the grandeur of Pena Palace, a 19th-century Romantic palace with captivating architectural design and panoramic views.
• Explore the mystical traditions of Quinta da Regaleira, with its ornate palace, initiation well, and landscaped gardens.
• Experience the cultural heritage of the Sintra National Palace, a well-preserved royal residence with Manueline and Moorish architectural styles.
• Indulge in a guided winery tour and tasting at the historic Regional de Colares Winery, followed by a visit to the breathtaking Cabo da Roca and charming Cascais.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Explore Sintra’s Historic Center

On the private tour, visitors can explore Sintra’s historic center, marveling at its charming architecture and witnessing the town’s rich cultural heritage.

The tour’s first stop in Sintra provides an opportunity to wander through the quaint streets, taking in the picturesque sights and absorbing the historic ambiance. Visitors can admire the ornate buildings, medieval churches, and lush gardens that dot the landscape.

The tour guide will share fascinating insights into Sintra’s past, bringing the destination’s storied history to life. Whether strolling through the town square or discovering hidden alleyways, this exploration of Sintra’s historic heart promises to be a highlight of the private tour.

Discover Pena Palace Grandeur

After exploring Sintra’s historic center, the tour takes visitors to the magnificent Pena Palace.

This 19th-century Romantic palace, perched atop a hill, captivates with its whimsical architectural design and vibrant colors. Guests have roughly two hours to marvel at the palace’s exquisite interiors, wander through its lush gardens, and take in the panoramic views overlooking the surrounding landscape.

The palace’s blend of architectural styles, including Moorish, Gothic, Manueline, and Renaissance elements, creates a truly unique and striking visual experience. Travelers can explore the palace’s opulent royal apartments, ornate chapels, and verdant terraced gardens, all while learning about the property’s rich history and cultural significance.

Optional: Quinta Da Regaleira

If travelers wish to further enjoy Sintra’s enchanting landscape, they can opt to visit the Quinta da Regaleira, a whimsical 19th-century estate renowned for its palace, chapel, and enigmatic underground tunnels and grottos.

The Quinta da Regaleira offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s rich history and mystical traditions. Visitors can explore:

• The ornate Regaleira Palace, with its Gothic and Manueline architectural elements.
• The Chapel of the Holy Grail, a testament to the estate’s esoteric influences.
• The Initiation Well, a spiral staircase leading to a series of subterranean passages and grottos.
• The lush, landscaped gardens, which feature hidden pathways, lakes, and cascading waterfalls.

Optional: Sintra National Palace

Along With the Quinta da Regaleira, visitors can also explore the historic Sintra National Palace, a well-preserved royal residence that has served as a seat of power for Portuguese monarchs over the centuries.

Known for its distinctive Manueline and Moorish architectural styles, the palace features ornate interiors, intricate tilework, and a distinctive double conical chimneys.

Visitors can wander through the palace’s grand halls, private chambers, and courtyards, gaining a glimpse into the lavish lifestyles of Portugal’s former royalty.

With its rich history and impressive design, the Sintra National Palace is a must-see attraction for those seeking to enjoy the cultural heritage of this enchanting region.

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Winery Tour and Tastings

The tour’s winery visit provides an opportunity to sample the region’s renowned Colares wines.

Visitors embark on a guided tour of the historic Regional de Colares Winery, where they learn about the winemaking process and the unique terroir that gives these wines their distinctive character.

During the tasting, guests savor a selection of the winery’s finest offerings, gaining a deeper appreciation for the nuances and complexities of this renowned Portuguese wine region.

The winery visit includes:

1. A guided tour of the historic facilities
2. An explanation of the unique Colares terroir
3. A tasting of the winery’s premium wine selections
4. The chance to purchase wines and souvenirs.

Breathtaking Cabo Da Roca

Nestled at the westernmost point of continental Europe, Cabo da Roca beckons visitors with its breathtaking coastal scenery and dramatic cliffs that plunge into the crashing Atlantic waves.

During the tour, travelers will enjoy a 45-minute stop at this iconic location, where they can take in the stunning views, snap photos, and explore the area. The guide will provide insights into the history and significance of Cabo da Roca, one of Portugal’s natural wonders.

Visitors can stroll along the clifftops, taking in the fresh sea air and feeling the power of the ocean below. This is a highlight of the tour, offering a chance to connect with Portugal’s rugged and picturesque Atlantic coastline.

Charming Cascais Coastal Town

After exploring the dramatic cliffs of Cabo da Roca, the tour takes visitors to the charming coastal town of Cascais. Situated along the picturesque Portuguese Riviera, Cascais offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and seaside ambiance.

Visitors can stroll along the quaint seaside promenade, admiring the pastel-colored buildings and lively cafes. The tour includes a guided visit to the town’s highlights, such as:

1. The charming historic center with its cobblestone streets and picturesque plazas.
2. The Citadel of Cascais, a former royal summer residence with stunning ocean views.
3. The bustling marina, home to a variety of yachts and fishing boats.
4. The stunning Boca do Inferno, a dramatic coastal formation carved by the powerful Atlantic waves.

Tour Inclusions and Pricing

This private tour includes a variety of experiences to make the most of your day. Guests receive one palace ticket and a wine tasting tour, or alternatively, two palace tickets per person. Plus, the tour provides a local pastry treat, a private guide, private transportation with air conditioning, and bottled water throughout the day.

The total price for this 8-hour private tour starts from $184.56 per person. Guests can enjoy the flexibility of being picked up and dropped off at their preferred locations in Lisbon, Setúbal Municipality, Sesimbra, Almada, or Sintra.

The tour also offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring peace of mind for travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour to Visit Additional Sites?

Yes, the tour can be customized to visit additional sites. Clients can discuss their preferences with the tour operator and request modifications to the standard itinerary, subject to availability and additional costs.

Are Any Additional Meals or Snacks Included in the Tour?

The tour includes a local pastry, but additional meals or snacks are not provided. Travelers can bring their own food or purchase snacks at stops along the way, such as in Sintra or Cascais.

How Many People Can Be Accommodated in the Private Vehicle?

The private vehicle can accommodate up to 15 people comfortably. The exact capacity may vary depending on the specific vehicle used for the tour. It’s best to inquire about the vehicle details when booking the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?

Yes, the tour can be extended beyond the standard 8-hour duration. Customers can contact the tour operator to request an extended itinerary, which may incur additional fees. The extended tour allows more time to explore the sights at a leisurely pace.

What Is the Policy for Guests With Special Dietary Requirements?

The tour provider accommodates guests with special dietary needs, such as vegetarian or gluten-free, upon request. They’ll work to provide suitable alternatives during the wine tasting and lunch portions of the tour.

Recap

Sintra and Cascais offer an enchanting blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty.

This private tour lets you discover the whimsical Pena Palace, explore Sintra’s historic center, and savor renowned Portuguese wines.

You’ll also marvel at the dramatic cliffs of Cabo da Roca and delight in the charming coastal town of Cascais.

This comprehensive experience showcases the hidden gems of this captivating region.

You can check availability for your dates here: