Sintra: Hike & History Private Tour Incl. Pena & Regaleira

Discover the enchanting UNESCO-protected town of Sintra on this captivating private tour. Explore the whimsical Pena Palace, with its Romanticist architecture and stunning hilltop views. Then, uncover the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira, a 19th-century estate filled with hidden tunnels, lakes, and initiatic symbolism. Along the way, savor local pastries and learn about the rich history and culture of this captivating region. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour promises to unveil the hidden gems and unexpected delights that make Sintra a true Portuguese gem.

Key Points

• This private 6-hour tour in German explores the UNESCO-protected sites of Sintra, including guided visits to Sintra Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and Pena Palace.
• The tour starts at Sintra train station and includes a 45-minute hike to Pena Palace, offering stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
• Guests can discover the hidden symbolism and esoteric references within the Quinta da Regaleira estate, including underground tunnels, caves, and the Initiation Well.
• The tour includes the tasting of two traditional local pastries, enhancing the cultural experience.
• Reservations can be made without upfront payment, and a full refund is available for cancellations made 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This private tour, called ‘Sintra: Hike & History Private Tour incl. Pena & Regaleira,’ is priced from $600.75 for up to 4 participants and lasts 6 hours, with German as the tour language.

Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can reserve their spot without upfront payment.

The tour starts at Av. Dr. Miguel Bombarda 27C in Sintra and includes guided visits to Sintra Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and Pena Palace.

Participants will also hike through Sintra’s picturesque hills and explore underground tunnels at Quinta da Regaleira.

Along the way, they will sample local pastries and admire the stunning park of Pena Palace.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins at the starting location of Av. Dr. Miguel Bombarda 27C in Sintra, where participants explore the narrow streets and pastel-colored houses of the town.

Guided tours are provided for the Sintra Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and Pena Palace, allowing visitors to enjoy the history and architecture of these iconic landmarks.

Throughout the tour, guests will hike through the picturesque green hills of Sintra and venture into the underground tunnels at Quinta da Regaleira, providing a unique perspective on the region’s natural and man-made wonders.

Plus, you will have the opportunity to admire the expansive park surrounding Pena Palace and indulge in local pastries, offering a well-rounded cultural experience.

Travel and Meeting Information

To access the tour location, visitors can take a 40-minute train ride from Lisbon, with trains departing every 20 minutes from stations like Rossio and Oriente.

Trains leave Lisbon-Rossio at 9:40 and Lisbon-Oriente at 9:38, providing convenient options for reaching the meeting point.

Once in Sintra, the tour group gathers opposite the Sintra train station, in front of the ‘Tranquilidade’ insurance shop.

Tour guides can be identified by their mint-colored t-shirts or tops that say ‘WALK N ROLL.’

This centralized location ensures an easy and efficient start to the Sintra: Hike & History Private Tour, which includes visits to Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and other iconic Sintra landmarks.

Experience Description

Visitors embark on a captivating journey through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sintra, renowned for its romantic landscapes of castles and palaces. The tour begins at the Sintra train station, where guests explore the charming narrow streets lined with pastel-colored houses. Along the way, they savor two traditional local pastries, providing a delightful taste of the region’s culinary heritage. The highlight of the tour is a 45-minute hike to the Palácio Nacional da Pena via a lesser-known trail, allowing for a more intimate exploration of the Pena park’s 85 hectares. Throughout the experience, guests uncover the rich history and natural beauty that make Sintra a truly enchanting destination.

Highlights	Description
Sintra Palace	Explore the iconic Sintra Palace
Quinta da Regaleira	Discover the underground tunnels and lush gardens
Pena Palace	Admire the stunning Pena Palace and its surrounding park
Hiking	Enjoy a 45-minute hike through the green hills of Sintra
Local Pastries	Savor two traditional local pastries during the tour

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Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour includes entry to the Quinta da Regaleira and the Pena park, as well as two local pastries for participants to enjoy.

However, it excludes the train fare, which is approximately €2.40 each way plus an additional €0.50 for a rechargeable ticket.

The tour guides will ensure visitors can access these historic sites and explore the beautiful natural landscapes of Sintra.

While the entry fees are covered, travelers are responsible for their own transportation to and from the meeting point at the Sintra train station.

This provides flexibility for guests to arrange their own travel plans to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Discovering Sintra’s UNESCO Splendor

Nestled amidst lush, verdant hills, the historic town of Sintra beckons visitors with its captivating UNESCO World Heritage allure, where fairytale-like palaces, enchanting gardens, and centuries-old ruins seamlessly blend with the area’s breathtaking natural landscapes.

Exploring Sintra’s UNESCO-protected splendor is the centerpiece of this private tour, as travelers enjoy the region’s rich history and architectural wonders.

From the whimsical Pena Palace, perched atop a rocky outcrop, to the mysterious underground tunnels of the enchanting Quinta da Regaleira estate, each destination offers a unique glimpse into Sintra’s captivating past.

Throughout the tour, guests will savor the flavors of traditional Portuguese pastries, further enhancing their discovery of this enchanting UNESCO-listed wonder.

Exploring Pena Palace’s Scenic Grounds

After exploring the enchanting Quinta da Regaleira estate, the tour guides lead guests on a 45-minute hike to the iconic Pena Palace, perched atop a rocky outcrop and surrounded by the lush, verdant parklands of the Pena Park.

The grand Romanticist palace, with its mix of architectural styles, is an awe-inspiring sight, standing as a testament to the whimsical vision of King Ferdinand II. Guests wander the palace’s ornate rooms and corridors, admiring the intricate tilework, frescoes, and decorative elements.

Outside, they’re treated to stunning vistas of the surrounding hills and valleys from the palace’s many terraces and balconies.

The tour then continues through the expansive Pena Park, where guests can soak in the tranquil beauty of this enchanting corner of Sintra.

Uncovering the Mysteries of Quinta Da Regaleira

How does one uncover the enchanting mysteries that lie within the captivating Quinta da Regaleira estate?

This lavish 19th-century palace and its surrounding gardens, designed by Italian architect Luigi Manini, are rife with hidden symbolism and esoteric references, waiting to be discovered by curious visitors.

Explore the estate’s mystical network of underground tunnels, caves, and enigmatic wells, each imbued with alchemical and Masonic symbolism.

Climb the Initiation Well, a spiral staircase descending 27 meters, to discover its esoteric significance.

Wander the lush, verdant grounds, spotting hidden grottos, lakes, and enigmatic statues that hint at the property’s occult influences.

Unravel the secrets of Quinta da Regaleira, where every hidden nook and cranny holds a captivating story waiting to be told.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Tour Be Customized to Suit Individual Preferences?

The tour can be customized to suit individual preferences. Clients can work with the tour operator to adjust the itinerary, activity level, and duration to meet their specific interests and needs. Flexibility is offered to personalize the experience.

What Is the Policy on Children and Families for This Tour?

The tour is suitable for families and children. Kids under 12 can join for free, and the itinerary can be tailored to accommodate their needs, such as shorter hikes and child-friendly activities. Strollers are allowed on the tour.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available for This Tour?

There are no discounts or special offers specifically mentioned for this tour. However, the tour is priced per group, so larger groups may find the cost per person to be lower. The tour does offer free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Can the Tour Guide Provide Recommendations for Restaurants or Other Activities in Sintra?

The tour guide can provide recommendations for restaurants and other activities in Sintra. They’re knowledgeable about the local area and can suggest top dining spots and attractions that complement the tour’s itinerary, enhancing the overall Sintra experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration or Add Additional Activities?

Yes, the tour can be customized and extended. Guests can add more sites, adjust the duration, or request additional activities like a wine tasting. The tour operator is flexible to accommodate these requests for a personalized experience.

Recap

The Sintra: Hike & History Private Tour offers a captivating exploration of Sintra’s UNESCO gems.

Visitors can enjoy the whimsical splendor of Pena Palace, uncover the mysteries of Quinta da Regaleira, and savor local pastries – all while enjoying a guided hike through the region’s enchanting landscapes.

This comprehensive tour provides an unforgettable opportunity to discover Sintra’s rich history and natural beauty.

You can check if your dates are available here: