Private Sintra Tour with Pena Palace and Moorish Castle Visits

4 hours 30 minutes Free CancellationPickup availableInstant confirmationPrivate tourGuided Operated by Ó Turista! Tours and Trips 5.0 from 151 reviews

Why we love it?

The Sintra Mountains Private Tour offers a 4.5-hour guided experience through the stunning landscapes and historical sites of Sintra, Portugal. Ideal for history enthusiasts and nature lovers, this tour includes visits to the Moorish Castle and the iconic Pena Palace, both rich in architectural beauty and cultural significance. A local guide shares captivating stories about the region while participants enjoy a complimentary tasting of Sintra’s renowned "travesseiro" pastry. The itinerary also features a stop at the picturesque Sabuga fountain, enhancing the overall experience of this enchanting destination.

Inclusions

  • Pena Palace and Park entrance tickets included (Essential visit)
  • Moorish Castle entrance tickets included
  • Guided explanation around Pena Palace (exterior & terraces), followed by free time for a self-guided interior visit
  • Local expert guide and storyteller
  • Complimentary tasting of Sintra’s famous “Travesseiro” pastry
  • Water and coffee included
  • Comfortable transportation throughout the experience
  • All mandatory insurance included

Itinerary

Stop 1

Welcome to the Serra de Sintra, a breathtaking mountain range just a few kilometers from Lisbon and part of the Sintra UNESCO World Heritage landscape. Covered in lush forests, dramatic hills, and hidden valleys, this natural park creates the magical setting that made Sintra one of Europe’s most romantic destinations.

As you travel through the winding mountain roads, discover ancient viewpoints, historic estates, and the unique microclimate that allows exotic plants from around the world to flourish. The Serra de Sintra is where nature, history, and architecture come together—home to iconic landmarks such as Pena Palace, the Moorish Castle, and Monserrate Palace, all surrounded by extraordinary natural beauty.

Stop 2

Fonte da Sabuga, in the historic center of Sintra, is a traditional mineral spring known for its natural waters rich in calcium and magnesium. For centuries, locals have believed these waters to have therapeutic properties, particularly associated with benefits for the skin, muscles, and respiratory system.Located near the old Sintra village streets, the spring has long been part of the town’s daily life and heritage. Historically used by residents and visitors alike, Fonte da Sabuga remains a small but meaningful symbol of Sintra’s cultural traditions, offering a glimpse into the local history that shaped this UNESCO World Heritage destination.

Stop 3

Discover the historic Moorish Castle (Castelo dos Mouros), a medieval fortress located high in the Sintra Mountains, Portugal. Built during the Moorish occupation of the Iberian Peninsula, this ancient castle offers impressive stone walls, towers, and panoramic views over Sintra, the Atlantic coast, and the surrounding hills.

Walking along the castle ramparts, visitors can admire one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in the UNESCO-listed Cultural Landscape of Sintra, making it a must-see landmark when exploring the region.

Stop 4

Get ready to discover Sintra’s most iconic landmark, Pena Palace, a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site located at the summit of the Sintra mountains. With your ticket included and a guided visit through the palace and its surrounding park, you’ll admire the colorful fairy-tale architecture, breathtaking views over the region, and the unique botanical treasures that make this royal residence one of Portugal’s most famous attractions.

Stop 5

Next, we’ll explore the historic center of Sintra on foot, wandering through its charming cobblestone streets filled with traditional shops and local culture. We’ll stop at the famous Piriquita pastry shop, one of Sintra’s most iconic bakeries, where you can taste the traditional Travesseiro de Sintra and other regional sweets.

You’ll also have the opportunity to try a glass of ginjinha, a traditional Portuguese cherry liqueur, and browse handmade products crafted by local artisans.

Stop 6

In the heart of Sintra village stands the Sintra National Palace, instantly recognizable by its iconic twin conical chimneys rising above the historic royal kitchens. This remarkable palace reflects centuries of Portuguese history, having served as a royal residence throughout much of Portugal’s monarchical era.

With its distinctive silhouette dominating the village skyline, the palace remains one of Sintra’s most emblematic landmarks and a key symbol of the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Please note: this stop includes exterior viewing only. Interior visits and entrance tickets are not included.

Stop 7

Pastelaria Piriquita is one of the most iconic pastry shops in Sintra, Portugal. Founded in 1862, this historic bakery is famous for its traditional sweets, especially the renowned Travesseiros de Sintra and Queijadas de Sintra.

Located in the heart of Sintra’s historic center, Pastelaria Piriquita attracts both locals and visitors with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked pastries. The Travesseiros, made with crispy puff pastry and filled with a delicate almond and egg cream, are considered one of Sintra’s most famous desserts. The traditional Queijadas de Sintra, with their soft texture and subtle flavor, are another beloved local specialty.

Today, Pastelaria Piriquita remains a must-visit stop for anyone exploring Sintra’s culinary traditions.

Please Note

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Stroller or pram accessible
  • Limited mobility accessible
  • Suitable for all types of people
  • Private Tours are conducted in English, Portuguese or Spanish
  • Please inform us if you have any dietary restrictions
  • Please inform us if you have any children under 12 years old joining the tour, so we can arrange special kids seating. Please note this is a mandatory legal requirement
  • LGBTQIA+ friendly
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Ideal for avoiding unnecessary queues and waiting
  • Perfect for large private groups (Get in touch with us!)
  • Pick-up and drop-off included from all hotels, Airbnbs, the cruise terminal, and the airport — in Lisbon, Cascais, or Sintra
  • To facilitate communication, use WhatsApp through the contact provided to arrange the tour and set the meeting point.

Know Before You Go

  • Animals or pets allowed
  • Public transportation nearby
  • Infant seats available

Cancellation Policy

Fully refundable until 1 day before start

Non-refundable after 1 day before start