How to Plan Your Sintra Tour in Lisbon

Sintra is a picturesque town located just outside of Lisbon that boasts a multitude of historical landmarks and breathtaking vistas. The charming town is nestled in the wooded hills of the Serra de Sintra, with a myriad of viewpoints overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and Lisbon coast. Visiting the town of Sintra should definitely be on your Lisbon travel itinerary. In this post, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to plan your Sintra tour in Lisbon, outlining everything you need to know about the tour and its highlights.

Overview of the Sintra Tour

The Sintra tour is a guided excursion that will take you on a journey through some of the most stunning locations in the town of Sintra. You will visit the Moorish Castle, the Park and National Palace of Pena, Quinta da Regaleira, and Sintra’s historic center. The tour is conducted on a private basis, which means that you will have the flexibility to explore each site at your own pace. Furthermore, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by air-conditioned minivan, and all entrance fees.

Highlights of the Tour

The Sintra tour is a great way to discover the town’s highlights in just one day. Here are some of the highlights of the tour:

Moorish Castle

The Moorish Castle is a fortification that dates back to the 8th century. It is one of the most remarkable landmarks in Sintra, offering stunning panoramic views of the town and the Atlantic Ocean.

Park and National Palace of Pena

The Park and National Palace of Pena is a magnificent castle that was built in the 19th century. The palace is a great example of Romanticism architecture and features a blend of Moorish, Gothic, and Renaissance styles.

Quinta da Regaleira

The Quinta da Regaleira is a sprawling estate that boasts a labyrinth of underground tunnels, grottoes, and fountains. The estate’s gardens are beautifully landscaped and offer a tranquil escape from the bustling town of Sintra.

Sintra’s historic center

Sintra’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site that features a network of cobbled streets, charming shops, and picturesque cafes. The town’s historic center is also home to the stunning National Palace of Sintra.

What’s Included in the Tour

The Sintra tour includes the following:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Private tour
• Transportation by air-conditioned minivan
• All entrance fees.

Please note, food and drinks are not included in the tour.

How to Book the Sintra Tour

Booking the Sintra tour is easy. You can book the tour online by visiting the following website: book the tour here. Alternatively, you can contact your hotel concierge or a local tour operator to arrange the tour for you.

Conclusion

The Sintra tour is an excellent way to explore the charming town of Sintra and discover its hidden gems. By following this guide, you will have all the information you need to plan your Sintra tour easily. Remember to book your tour in advance, wear comfortable shoes, and bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lisbon

If you’re planning a trip to Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, you might have some questions. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about Lisbon.

1. What is the best time to visit Lisbon?

Lisbon is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. The peak tourist season is June to September when the weather is hot and sunny, and the beaches are bustling. However, the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and autumn (October to November) offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices. Winter (December to February) is the off-season, but you can still enjoy the city’s cultural offerings without the crowds.

2. What are the must-see attractions in Lisbon?

Lisbon has many attractions, but some of the must-see ones include:

• Belem Tower
• Jerónimos Monastery
• Castelo de São Jorge
• Praça do Comércio
• Avenida da Liberdade
• The National Museum of Ancient Art

3. What is the best way to get around Lisbon?

Lisbon has an excellent public transportation system that includes buses, trams, and a metro system. The metro system, in particular, is an efficient and inexpensive way to get around the city. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also widely available.

4. What are the best neighborhoods to stay in Lisbon?

Lisbon has many neighborhoods, but the best ones to stay in depend on your preferences. Some of the popular neighborhoods for tourists include:

• Baixa: This is the city’s historic center and has many tourist attractions.
• Chiado: This trendy neighborhood has many shops, restaurants, and cafes.
• Bairro Alto: This lively neighborhood is known for its nightlife.
• Alfama: This is the oldest neighborhood in Lisbon and has narrow streets and medieval buildings.

5. What is the food like in Lisbon?

Lisbon has a vibrant food scene that includes traditional Portuguese dishes such as grilled sardines, codfish, and pastel de nata. The city also has many international restaurants that serve cuisines such as Italian, Japanese, and Indian. The Mercado da Ribeira is a great place to sample different types of food in one location.

6. Is it easy to communicate in Lisbon if you don’t speak Portuguese?

Most people in Lisbon speak English, especially those who work in the tourism industry. However, learning some basic Portuguese phrases can be helpful and appreciated by the locals.

7. What is the weather like in Lisbon?

Lisbon has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. The average temperature in the summer is around 28°C (82°F) while in the winter, it is around 15°C (59°F).

8. What is the currency used in Lisbon?

The currency used in Lisbon is the euro.

9. Is Lisbon a safe city?

Lisbon is generally a safe city, but like any big city, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to keep your belongings safe.

10. What are some day trips from Lisbon?

Lisbon is a great base for day trips to nearby attractions such as:

• Sintra: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its castles, palaces, and gardens.
• Cascais: This coastal town has beaches and a charming old town.
• Óbidos: This medieval town is surrounded by walls and has a castle.

Final Thoughts

Lisbon is a beautiful city with many attractions and things to do. By being aware of the above common questions, you will get better prepared for your upcoming trip. With a little bit of planning, you can have an unforgettable experience in Lisbon.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Lisbon

Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, is a picturesque destination with a rich history, culture, and architecture. The city is known for its glorious sandy beaches, gothic architecture, traditional trams, and sumptuous food. Here is a comprehensive guide that will help you to make the most of your time in Lisbon.

1. Explore the historic district of Alfama

Alfama is one of the oldest districts in Lisbon, and exploring this neighborhood should be your top priority when in Lisbon. The winding narrow streets, the pastel-colored buildings, and the traditional Portuguese tiles will take you back in time. Take a walk around and discover the tiny squares, the beautiful churches, and the small shops. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Santa Luzia viewpoint, where you can enjoy magnificent views of the city.

2. Ride the Tram 28

One of the most fun things to do in Lisbon is to ride the iconic Tram 28. The Tram 28 route will take you through some of the most historic and picturesque areas of the city, including Alfama, Baixa, and Graça. It is a great way to get around the city and see more of Lisbon’s beautiful architecture.

3. Visit the Jerónimos Monastery

The Jerónimos Monastery, located in the Belem area of Lisbon, is one of the most important landmarks in the city. The monastery was built in the 16th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don’t miss out on the chance to see its beautiful architecture and the famous tombs of Vasco da Gama and famous Portuguese poet, Fernando Pessoa.

4. Discover the Belem Tower

The Belem Tower is one of the most famous landmarks in Lisbon and is an iconic representation of Portuguese architecture. The tower was built in the 16th century to defend Lisbon from invaders and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Make sure to take your time and admire its intricate design.

5. Visit the Berardo Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art

The Berardo Museum is located in the Belem area and offers a unique collection of modern and contemporary art from around the world. You can see works of art by some of the most famous artists, including Salvador Dali, Jackson Pollock, and Pablo Picasso. If you are passionate about art, then this is a must-see attraction in Lisbon.

6. Explore the Park of Nations

The Park of Nations is a futuristic area of Lisbon that was built for the World Expo in 1998. The area offers a modern experience with diverse tourist attractions. Don’t miss the chance to take a ride on the cable car, visit the Lisbon Oceanarium, or take a walk around the beautiful gardens.

7. Enjoy the Lisbon nightlife

Lisbon is known for its vibrant nightlife, and it is an experience you don’t want to miss. Head to the Bairro Alto neighborhood, which offers a wide range of bars, clubs, and restaurants. The nightlife scene in Lisbon is famous for its eclectic music, and you’ll find everything from traditional fado to modern electronic music.

8. Taste the local cuisine

Portugal is famous for its delicious seafood, and Lisbon is no different. The city has a rich cuisine with unique flavors, so be sure to try some of the local delicacies. Make sure to try the traditional dishes, like Bacalhau (salted cod), grilled sardines, and Pasteis de Nata (a tasty custard tart).

Conclusion

Lisbon is a beautiful city that offers a lot of worthwhile experiences, from its unique architecture to its delicious food. If you are looking for a great holiday destination, then this should be on your list. Make sure to explore Alfama, ride Tram 28, visit the Jerónimos Monastery and Belem Tower, see contemporary art at the Berardo Museum, explore the Park of Nations, enjoy Lisbon’s nightlife, and taste the local cuisine. With these tips in mind, you are sure to have an unforgettable trip to Lisbon.