Lisbon and Sintra private tour full day

The oldest quarter of Lisbon dates back to the time of the Moors’ presence in the city (8th to 12th centuries). The panorama views from the famous “miradouros” of Santa Luzia and Senhora do Monte are a must-stop on our tour, where you can contemplate the wonderful sights of the Tagus River and of the city. We will explore the narrow cobblestone alleys and streets where the facades of traditional houses are covered with beautiful tiles, an Arabian heritage in the Iberian Peninsula. Also, it is here that ” Fado “, the Portuguese national song was born. Two other places of interest are, the Lisbon Cathedral (built-in 1448) and the Church of St. Anthony, patron saint of lost causes and weddings, (built on the site where the saint was born). Visit the Castle of São Jorge (optional) conquered by Dom Afonso Henriques (the first king of Portugal) from the Moors in 1147.

In 1755, Lisbon was the site of the biggest earthquake ever recorded in Europe. The Marquis of Pombal, prime-minister at the time, took on the mission to rebuild the city center, completely ruined and devastated by the catastrophe. And as such, the first modern style European city in Europe was born: “Baixa Pombalina” with its urban and geometric architectural plan (grid), became the model used in the construction of other new cities, especially in the New World (for example Manhattan in New York, Chicago city center, etc.) Here we will visit the famous squares “Praca do Comercio” and “Rossio” (statue of the First Emperor of Brazil, D. Pedro I), Rua Augusta (the most important pedestrian street in Portugal, with its famous Arch of Triumph.

On our way to Park Eduard VII, we will drive through “Avenida da Liberdade”, Lisbon’s Champs d’Elysees, one of the most beautiful boulevards in the world. Besides the unique green vegetation, it is also famous for its national and international brand name shops, a paradise for glamorous shopping sprees. We will pass by the most imposing monument in Lisbon, a tribute to one of Portugal’s greatest national heroes, the Marquis de Pombal. As we arrive at the top of “Parque Eduardo VII”, we can admire the wonderful view of the city and the Tagus River.

Visiting the Queluz national palace known as the Versailles of Portugal, we can admire three styles of architecture: Renaissance, Baroque and Neoclassical. There are splendid French gardens decorated with fountains designed by English artists, Italian sculptures and a magnificent canal (lake/pool) decorated with 18th-century tiles. It was in the 2nd half of the 18th century the official residence of kings of Portugal.

Sintra is without a doubt one of the most extraordinary places in Portugal. Its microclimate transforms this small town situated on the slopes of the mountain range “Serra de Sintra” next to the Atlantic, into a major attraction for visitors who go there to admire its famous castles and palaces or simply taste the traditional food, pastries and sweets. And let’s not forget the souvenir shops selling typical local items. We will stop in the historic center where you can taste the famous “travesseiros” and “queijadas” at the Piriquita Pastry Shop and explore the narrow cobbled streets of the most romantic town in Portugal. Time to visit one of these palaces: Sintra national palace, Pena palace, Quinta da Regaleira, palace of Monserrate (optional visits)

If you wish to take lunch time, your guide can recommend restaurants in or around Sintra.

Cape Roca is the westernmost point in continental Europe. We will stop for photos at this unique site.

This old Roman fishermen’s town became a glamorous beach resort in the 20th century. Cascais is a favorite among Lisboners who come here to enjoy the sun and the sea, the bars and restaurants. The town is also known internationally for its big nautical and aeronautical events (America’s Cup, Red Bull Air Race World Championship). Cascais attracts many tourists from all over the world, whether to visit or live. It is one of the most cosmopolitan beach resorts in all of Europe. Free time to explore the town.

Belem is the district of Lisbon dedicated to the great Portuguese explorers of the 15th and 16th centuries. Portugal was the first globalizing nation in the world, with the arrival of its explorers to all continents. The Portuguese empire became one of the largest in the history of humanity. The majestic monuments that we find here are a reflection of the golden era in the history of Portugal: Jeronimos monastery, Tower of Belem, and the Monument of Discoveries with the statues of the great Portuguese sailors and explorers, Magellan, Vasco da Gama among others. Finally, there is a must-visit to the famous “Pasteis de Belem”, one of Portugal´s most typical pastries/sweets.