Journey through Sintra - the historical center and palaces

 Experience an enchanting stroll through Sintra's historical center and palaces. Be wowed by its National Palace with its century-old list of visiting kings and queens and Pena Palace with its lavish decor - ornate embellishments, towers, gardens...all combined into one!

The historical center and palaces are very interesting and beautiful, and in order to have time to see them all, we recommend renting a car here - bookingauto.com, and then choose one of the interesting excursions here - excurzilla.com

Participate in an enjoyable small-group tour led by an experienced guide.

National Palace

At the entrance to the Historical Center stands an imposing structure featuring Neoclassical and Baroque elements, enhanced through major restoration efforts conducted during the latter half of 20th century.

The National Palace boasts four floors with exotic vegetal motifs in its interior decoration that flow effortlessly into its gardens. Used during colonial rule as both offices and residence for Viceroy, as well as serving civic acts such as welcoming heads of state and foreign governments, delivering credential letters, hosting the ceremonial Cry of Dolores on September 15th and official reading of Declaration of Independence.

The belvedere at the top of the palace offers breathtaking views over a mountain range that includes Pena National Palace, Moorish Castle and St Gregory's castle - as well as Quinta da Regaleira, Seteais and Cabo da Roca (westernmost point in continental Europe).

Pena Palace

Palaces were historically used by kings as their place of residence to showcase their wealth and indulge in luxury. Some palaces even boasted up to 2300 rooms decorated in every way possible imaginable; additionally they featured beautiful gardens maintained daily by professional gardeners to keep them stunningly stunning.

Pena Palace, situated atop one of Sintra's hills and easily visible from Lisbon and most of its metropolitan area, has become one of the most Instagrammed spots due to its vibrant walls and fairy-like ambience.

The Palace combines elements of Romanticism and Mudejar Moorish Revival style with Neo-Gothic elements, particularly its Great Hall. This room once served as an area for leisure and socialization and features sofas, large mirrors, and an impressive collection of Central European stained glass.

Quinta da Regaleira

Quinta da Regaleira stands as an outstanding example of fairytale palaces and magical castles, located in Sintra's Historical Center and recognized by UNESCO as a Cultural Landscape. As one of the most impressive landmarks built since 1900, its owner Antonio Augusto Carvalho Monteiro achieved his goal of turning his property into an artistic masterpiece with help from Luigi Manini who served as Scenographer-Architect of its construction.

This led to a fantasy palace composed of underground tunnels, hidden grottoes, and impenetrable secrets - an example of Symbolism of its time. The palace features symbols drawn from heraldic tradition, initiatory ceremonies and alchemy - all familiar concepts for architect and commissioner Carvalho Monteiro as well as the scenographer-architect Manini.

After touring this remarkable Quinta, be prepared for an exquisite experience at its sprawling wings of unrestrained decor and gardens filled with mazes - you'll feel like royalty. Following your tour of this entrancing Quinta, stroll through National Palace and Pena Palace before visiting Cabo da Roca to take in amazing panoramic views from Europe's westernmost point.

Cabo da Roca

Your final stop along the coast will bring you to Cabo da Roca, Europe's Westernmost Point. Here, take in amazing ocean views while lounging on one of its incredible beaches or just relaxing. Additionally, stop at Guincho beach with its vibrant atmosphere, or Cascais, an old fishing village turned aristocratic retreat.

Cabo de Gata Natural Park provides this tour based on an ecotourism model which prioritizes sustainability, conservation and local community welfare. Perfect for anyone seeking nature-inspired adventure - an easy walk along asphalt in the Historic Center followed by single lane paths or gravel roads without traffic throughout most of its path - this walk provides plenty of outdoor fun!

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