Sintra Tour: Pena Palace, Cabo Da Roca, Cascais and Belem

Exploring the enchanting region of Sintra is a must-do for any visitor to Portugal. This comprehensive tour offers a chance to discover the stunning Pena Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and savor the flavors of local coastal cuisine. From the dramatic Boca do Inferno to the westernmost point of mainland Europe at Cabo da Roca, the tour immerses you in the breathtaking natural beauty of the area. But the journey doesn’t end there – the historic Belem district in Lisbon, home to iconic landmarks and the renowned Pasteis de Belem, awaits…

Key Points

• This comprehensive 9-hour tour showcases the highlights of Sintra, including the Pena Palace, Cabo da Roca, Cascais coastline, and the historic Belém neighborhood in Lisbon.

• The tour includes a guided visit to the UNESCO-listed Pena Palace, allowing visitors to enjoy the palace’s enchanting architecture and Sintra’s history.

• Guests will enjoy a scenic lunch at a local restaurant, featuring a variety of fresh seafood dishes and regional specialties that showcase the best of Portugal’s culinary heritage.

• The tour explores the dramatic Boca do Inferno and the westernmost point of mainland Europe at Cabo da Roca, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

• The tour also includes a guided exploration of the culturally significant Belém district in Lisbon, with highlights such as the Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and the renowned Pastéis de Belém custard tarts.

Tour Overview

This Sintra tour offers visitors a comprehensive nine-hour experience that showcases the region’s enchanting palaces, scenic coastlines, and cultural highlights.

Led by a multilingual guide, the tour starts with a guided visit to the whimsical Pena Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Guests will then enjoy a scenic lunch at a local restaurant before exploring the westernmost point of Europe at Cabo da Roca.

The tour also includes stops at the dramatic Boca do Inferno, as well as the historic Belém neighborhood of Lisbon.

Throughout the day, travelers will have the chance to savor local cuisine and admire the breathtaking landscapes that have made this region of Portugal so renowned.

Pena Palace Experience

The guided tour of Pena Palace immerses visitors in the palace’s enchanting architecture and Sintra’s rich history.

For 1.5 hours, travelers explore the whimsical Romanticist castle, marveling at its vibrant facades, ornate details, and panoramic views.

Guests discover the palace’s origins as a 19th-century summer residence for the Portuguese royal family. They’ll learn about the architectural influences, from Gothic to Moorish, that shaped Pena Palace’s distinctive character.

Through the guided tour, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for this UNESCO World Heritage site and its place in Portugal’s cultural heritage. The experience offers a captivating glimpse into Sintra’s legacy as a picturesque retreat for monarchs and nobility.

Coastal Cuisine Delight

After exploring the grand Pena Palace, guests sit down to savor a delightful lunch featuring local coastal cuisine at a scenic restaurant.

The 1-hour lunch stop offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Theres some good a variety of fresh seafood dishes, as well as regional specialties and local snacks.

The menu showcases the best of Portugal’s vibrant culinary heritage, with options to satisfy every palate. Whether it’s a hearty fish stew, a tangy octopus salad, or a delectable pastel de nata, this dining experience provides a true taste of the Sintra region.

With its picturesque setting and authentic flavors, the lunch break is a highlight of the day’s adventures.

Breathtaking Cascais Coastline

Next, the tour leads visitors to the dramatic Boca do Inferno, a natural wonder along the Cascais coastline. This rugged sea cave and its crashing waves offer a breathtaking vista, as the guide provides insights into the area’s geology and history. Guests can snap photos and soak in the stunning seascape before continuing on to the westernmost point of mainland Europe – Cabo da Roca.

Standing atop the dramatic cliffs, travelers are treated to panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean meeting the land. The guide shares the cultural significance of this iconic location, adding depth to the experience.

With the dramatic Cascais coast explored, the tour moves on to the historic Belem district of Lisbon.

Westernmost Point in Europe

Towering atop dramatic cliffs, Cabo da Roca marks the westernmost point of mainland Europe, offering visitors a chance to stand at the edge of the continent. This iconic landmark is a must-visit destination on the Sintra tour, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the rugged Atlantic coastline.

Distance	Elevation	Time
9,455 km	140 m	15 mins
from Lisbon	above sea level	at Cabo da Roca

Travelers can explore the area’s hiking trails, snap photos of the picturesque lighthouse, and enjoy the dramatic natural scenery that defines the westernmost point of Europe. With its unique geographic significance and stunning vistas, Cabo da Roca is a highlight of the Sintra tour experience.

Historic Belém Exploration

The tour then takes visitors to the historic district of Belém, where they’ll embark on a guided exploration of this culturally significant neighborhood in Lisbon.

Wandering the charming streets, they’ll marvel at the iconic Belém Tower and the grand Jerónimos Monastery, both UNESCO World Heritage sites.

The highlight, however, is a stop at the renowned Pastéis de Belém, a historic bakery famous for its delectable Portuguese custard tarts. Guests will indulge in these delectable pastries, savoring their flaky crust and creamy filling.

As they savor the local flavors, they’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Belém’s rich history and its enduring culinary traditions.

Practical Information

The tour offers a full-day guided experience, with pickup and drop-off from convenient locations in Lisbon. The duration is 9 hours, with a multilingual guide who speaks Portuguese, Spanish, and English.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for travelers. The tour involves a moderate amount of walking, and customers must bring their own baby seats if needed.

The order of the itinerary may be adjusted due to entry slot availability at Pena Palace, which may occasionally be closed due to fire risk.

Cancellation Policy

Customers can cancel their Sintra tour reservation free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, providing them with flexibility to adjust their plans as needed. This cancellation policy allows travelers to account for unforeseen circumstances without incurring any penalties.

Cancellation Policy
Free up to 24 hours
Before tour date
No refunds within
24 hours of tour

The tour operator’s liberal cancellation terms demonstrate their commitment to customer satisfaction and understanding of the unpredictability inherent in travel plans. This policy gives travelers peace of mind when booking their Sintra excursion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?

No, you cannot bring your own food on the tour. The tour includes lunch at a local restaurant, as well as a Pastel de Belém pastry. The tour package covers all meals and refreshments during the 9-hour excursion.

Is There a Discount for Seniors or Children?

The tour does not offer any discounts for seniors or children. The listed price applies to all participants, regardless of age. Customers must purchase tickets at the full rate for the tour.

How Much Free Time Is Provided at Each Location?

The tour provides approximately 1.5 hours at Pena Palace, 15 minutes each at Cabo da Roca and Boca do Inferno, and 25 minutes in Belém. Lunch at a local restaurant is scheduled for 1 hour.

Can I Opt-Out of Any Part of the Itinerary?

Yes, customers can opt-out of parts of the itinerary. The tour is flexible, and travelers can choose to skip certain activities if they prefer. The guide will accommodate any customization requests within reason.

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Pena Palace?

Photography is generally allowed inside Pena Palace, but visitors may be asked to refrain from using flash or tripods in certain areas to preserve the palace’s historic ambiance. It’s best to check with tour guides or staff for specific photography guidelines.

Recap

The Sintra Tour offers a comprehensive experience showcasing the region’s palaces, coastlines, and cultural highlights.

Visitors can explore the enchanting Pena Palace, enjoy a scenic lunch, and discover the dramatic Boca do Inferno, Cabo da Roca, and historic Belem district.

With its variety of attractions and convenience, the tour provides an excellent way to experience the best of Sintra and Lisbon.