Things to Do in Sintra
With its exotic landscape and climate, Sintra became the place where the nobles and aristocrats from the XIX century started to build their summer palaces and since then, it's attracted visitors from all over the world, such as the British poet Lord Byron and the German compositor Richard Strauss.
Classified as World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1995, Sintra is considered by many the most beautiful city in Portugal and a place that shouldn't be missed.
From Jardim Correnteza, we'll make our way through the narrow streets of Sintra Village, to discover its history, traditions, and culture and have the chance to try the famous local pastries, Queijada and Travesseiro.
We'll have the chance to see the Sintra National Palace, one of the oldest palaces in Portugal, and learn a bit more about the Portuguese Royal family, the Moorish Castle built to protect the city from invaders, discover the secrets of the majestic Quinta da Regaleira, to wonder at the incredible Palácio da Pena, built on the top of the hill, next to a former monastery by King D. Fernando II in the XIX century and much more.
We are sure after this tour, you'll fall in love with this magical place and feel that one day is not enough.
This walk is destined for small groups (max. 8-10 people) !
Welcome to the always-green capital of ancient mysticism and incredible landscapes (that enchanted many withstanding people throughout centuries)!
The tour is perfect for travellers who want to get a view of local history, with emphasis on mystery and secret societies - how Sintra was born, starting with pre-Portugal times and following into discoveries, freemasonry (and what stories about Holy Grail have to do with it?!). We will also revisit some of local myths and legends.
Sintra is not a big place, we will start not far from the train station and end near Quinta da Regaleira.
List of topics will go through varies widely, from local pastry to 'how started the kingdom?' and 'Why the secrecy of the societies?' , 'Who were templars?' and what's the role of Sintra in portuguese overseas discoveries.
In this tour learning new while enjoying Sintra's atmosphere - is guaranteed, be welcomed curios traveller!
Embark on an enchanting journey through Sintra, a town where the veil between reality and fairy tale thins, with our captivating Essential Free Tour of Sintra. This experience, a tapestry woven from two rich narratives, invites you into a world where history, romance, and myth breathe life into every cobblestone, whispering the legacy of knights, mystics, and artisans.
A Fairytale Beginning: Our odyssey commences at the heart of Sintra, against the breathtaking backdrop of the Sintra Mountains. Here, amidst the verdant embrace of Liberdade Park, the saga of Sintra's enchantment unfolds, tracing its name to tales as old as time. Marvel at the town hall, a picturesque prelude to the mysteries that await.
Tales of Templars and Romance: Journey through the village, where the stories of Gualdim Pais and the enigmatic Templars echo against the ancient walls. Discover the Moorish Fountains, a testament to Sintra's Roman and Arabic heritage, and the Palace of Valenças, haunted by a tragic love story that whispers through its romantic halls.
Culinary Delights and Architectural Splendors: Indulge in Sintra’s famous Queijada and Travesseiro, sweet embodiments of the town's rich culinary heritage. Wander past the National Palace of Sintra, with its intriguing Magpie Room and iconic twin chimneys, and hear tales of secret tunnels and the mystical Mountain of the Moon.
The Quintessence of Romanticism: Explore São Martinho's Church, where the secrets of freemasonry intertwine with the fabric of Sintra. Delight in the esoteric beauty of Quinta da Regaleira, with its Initiation Well and symbols of ancient wisdom. Behold the Seteais Palace, a monument to love and revenge, offering unparalleled views of the Pena Palace and Sintra Mountains.
A Dreamlike Setting: Though the Pena Palace and Moorish Castle beckon from afar, their allure adds to the magic of our tour. Each step through Sintra reveals a page from a storybook, from the Biester Palace's mystic allure to the Pisões Waterfall's natural splendor.
An Invitation to Wonder: Led by our expert guide, passionate about unveiling Sintra's hidden gems, this tour is an immersive journey into the heart of Sintra’s romantic soul. Discover the Lawrence Hotel, a sanctuary for poets and dreamers, and learn of Sintra’s grand love stories that inspired its most iconic buildings.
Sintra is not just a destination; it's an experience, a dream woven from the threads of history, mystery, and enchantment. With tales of knights and mystics, tragic loves, and architectural marvels, our Essential Sintra Free Tour is an invitation to step into a living fairytale. Join us and let Sintra’s magic enchant you, leaving you with memories as vibrant and enduring as the town itself. Sintra awaits, ready to reveal its secrets and fill your heart with wonder.
Useful information:
Please note that the Castle of the Moors and the Pena Palace are too far away from the center of the villa to be visited. Many guests do visit these sites after the tour.
Discover Sintra’s rich history on a free walking tour that includes all the must-see landmarks—plus an exclusive guided visit inside Quinta da Regaleira and the mysterious Initiation Well. The best of both worlds in one unforgettable experience!
This isn’t your average Sintra free walking tour—it’s a complete cultural deep dive that combines the best of the town’s historic center with an in-depth guided visit to the iconic Quinta da Regaleira, including its magical gardens and the famous Initiation Well.
We begin by exploring the charming streets of Sintra’s Old Town, stopping at must-see sites like the National Palace, hidden alleys, scenic viewpoints, and local legends that bring this UNESCO town to life. But we go further: after the classic walking tour, we enter Quinta da Regaleira together for a guided journey through its symbolic architecture, secret tunnels, and lush landscapes.
Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning to discover more, this hybrid tour gives you more than any standard free tour—and it's still tip-based! No need to choose between tours. Join us and experience Sintra's full magic in one epic walk.
Discover the Enchanting Beauty of Sintra with Our Free Walking Tour
Step into the magical world of Sintra, where history, nature, and culture intertwine to create an unforgettable experience. Led by the passionate and knowledgeable architect Stephanie, this tour is not just a journey through Sintra’s streets but a deep dive into its soul. With an eye for detail and a heart full of stories, Stephanie will bring Sintra’s past to life, revealing the hidden symbolism and architectural wonders that make this town a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Our adventure begins at the welcoming Café Saudade, the perfect spot to meet your fellow explorers and soak in the anticipation of the journey ahead. From here, we weave through Sintra’s winding streets, visiting architectural gems like the Moorish-inspired Fonte Mourisca, the elegant Palácio de Valenças, and the iconic National Palace, with its unmistakable conical chimneys—a true testament to Sintra’s royal heritage.
- As we continue, the path leads us to the serene Parque da Liberdade, the historic Pelourinho, and the charming Igreja de São Martinho. Each stop is a moment to savor, a story waiting to be told, and an opportunity to capture the essence of Sintra through your own lens.
- A true highlight of the tour is the visit to the Quinta da Regaleira, an estate shrouded in mystery, where gardens, secret tunnels, and the famous Initiation Well whisper tales of esoteric traditions and hidden knowledge. Please note that entrance to the estate is not included in the tour price. A guided visit inside is possible if agreed upon by the entire group — or, alternatively, can be arranged privately at the end of the tour for interested guests. The experience is nothing short of magical, an invitation to explore the deeper meanings behind Sintra’s enchanting landscape.
- The tour concludes at the breathtaking Palácio de Seteais, where sweeping views of the Sintra hills and the vast Atlantic Ocean provide the perfect ending to an extraordinary journey. It’s a moment of reflection, a chance to take in the beauty that has inspired poets, artists, and dreamers for centuries.
Throughout the tour, we embrace flexibility — offering guidance in either English (in the morning) or Spanish (in the afternoon), depending on the scheduled time. Please note that the tour is not bilingual; if you require a bilingual or private experience, we recommend contacting us in advance to arrange a private tour. While some listen intently to Stephanie’s captivating storytelling, others may take the opportunity to snap stunning photos or indulge in the flavors of Sintra. Delight your taste buds with stops at renowned pastry shops like Piriquita and Queijadas da Sapa, where you can savor the famous Queijadas and Travesseiros, Sintra’s beloved sweet treats.
This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking to immerse themselves in Sintra’s romantic spirit. Designed for groups of up to 50 people, it offers an engaging, immersive, and accessible experience that promises unforgettable memories. For groups larger than 15 people, the tour is led by two guides to ensure a more dynamic, interactive, and fun experience.
Book your spot today and let Stephanie guide you through the heart of Sintra, where every step uncovers a new wonder. While the tour is free, tips are warmly welcomed as a token of appreciation for the stories, insights, and passion shared along the way.
Sintra is waiting for you—come and experience its timeless magic!
Useful information:
Please note that the Castle of the Moors and the Pena Palace are too far from the center of the village to be visited during the tour. However, many guests choose to visit these sites after the tour.
We are local operators, and we may be able to arrange transportation or provide other options, which the guide will explain to you.
Free tour in Sintra
What sets my tours apart is the genuine love I have for my hometown and the insider knowledge that only comes from a lifetime of discovery. I'll take you beyond the typical tourist spots to experience the authentic soul of Sintra, sharing local stories, historical insights, and secret viewpoints that most visitors never see.
This tour includes a scenic hike along Sintra’s beautiful trails, covering approximately 6 km with an elevation gain of 222 meters. Please note that the route includes some uneven terrain and moderate uphill sections, making it best suited for guests who are comfortable with regular physical activity. If you enjoy being active and spending time in nature, you’ll find this experience especially rewarding!
For your comfort and safety, I recommend wearing clothing and footwear suitable for hiking or trail walking. To help you stay refreshed along the way, I’ll provide a complimentary cold 50cl water bottle for every guest. A public bathroom will also be available towards the end of the tour, ensuring you can refresh before we finish.
Our adventure will conclude at a location conveniently close to the heart of Vila de Sintra, with easy access to both public and private transport options for your onward journey.
Join me, a local guide born and raised in Sintra, for an unforgettable walking tour that begins in the historic center, right in front of the National Palace. We'll pass by the famous Piriquita pastry shop, where you can taste a delicious travesseiro or sip a Ginjinha. I’ll even share local tips on where to enjoy a great lunch.
Then, the real adventure begins.
We'll hike up the Sintra mountain through the stunning and secret trails of Villa Sassetti — a hidden green path known only by locals. Along the way, you’ll discover breathtaking viewpoints, the Gardener’s House of the Royal Court, and pass by iconic monuments like the Pena Palace and Moorish Castle.
As we walk, I’ll share stories about Portugal’s history, legends of Sintra, and curiosities about famous sites like the Quinta da Regaleira and Monserrate Palace.
This tour ends at the very top of the Sintra mountain, where nature, mystery, and history come together in one epic view.
Book now and let’s explore Sintra through the eyes of someone who calls it home!
