To start this tour, we will head to Dom Pedro IV Square, where our guides will be waiting for us at the north fountain in front of the National Theatre. In half an hour we will arrive at our first stop, the Quinta da Regaleira (ticket included only if the option is selected).
And what is Quinta da Regaleira? Well, it is a garden and a palace in the heart of Sintra Park. It was built in the 20th century with a clear aim in mind: that the palace should include all the artistic movements of the time.
To this end, Luigi Manini, the architect in charge of the work, travelled all over Europe and on his return brought back the Manueline, neo-Gothic and mythological ideas he had encountered. As we shall see, mysteries were also built here, one of the most unique being the so-called Initiatory Well of Sintra, a well that is said to have been used by the Freemasons!
We will go down to Sintra where we will have free time for lunch. We will share with our guide the best ideas for lunch in Sintra. Not only will he tell us the best proposals, adapted to all tastes, but he will also tell us which dishes of the Portuguese gastronomy and of the area are not to be missed!
The Quinta da Regaleira and the Pena Palace are only three kilometres away. After lunch in Sintra, we will take the bus and it will take us a quarter of an hour. This is also the best way to get to the Pena Palace, because it is located on a hill.
This castle was one of the favourite residences of the royal family throughout the 19th century. To contemplate it is like contemplating a fairytale castle, something magical that, not in vain, has made it the most famous monument in Sintra and the most visited place in Portugal.
Its construction also included various styles: Mudejar, Manueline, Gothic, Baroque... An eclectic architecture that, far from appearing disorderly or chaotic, gives us the sensation of contemplating something unique in the world.
Like any self-respecting castle, this one also has its history: originally this sumptuous palace was a convent of the Hieronymites, but when they left, Ferdinand II bought the ruins and built this castle as a gift for his wife, Maria II of Portugal.
The name of the Pena Palace is not for any sad reason (this environment calls for everything but sorrow) but for the name of the medieval chapel that stood here and was dedicated to Our Lady of Sorrow.
Our next stop will be Cascais, it has always been linked to Portugal's royalty, who have spent their summers here since the 19th century, and to the country's most important landmarks, largely due to its strategic position. Once we have arrived, we will walk through the places to see in Cascais by ourselves.
This typical fishing village boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal, 19th century mansions, museums and places where you can recreate the past of this town so closely linked to the sea.
To end this day, and before getting off the bus, we will enjoy a panoramic tour of Estoril.
Don't miss the opportunity to get to know Lisbon's surroundings, learn about its history, traditions and gastronomy, book now!
Inclusions:
- Quinta da Regaleira ticket, only if the option is selected
- Pena Palace entrance fee
- Transport
- Guide
Exclusions:
- Transfer to and from the castle
Important Info:
N/A
Redeem Info:
PRINTED - Printed Voucher. Print and bring the voucher to enjoy the activity.
Starting point: LANDMARK - Rossio Square, Lisboa, - (Longitude: -9.139412, Latitude: 38.713932)
Ending point: Same - Same as Starting Point
Inclusions:
- Quinta da Regaleira ticket, only if the option is selected
- Pena Palace entrance fee
- Transport
- Guide
Exclusions:
- Transfer to and from the castle
Important Info:
N/A