From Lisbon: Private Sintra Tour with Cellar Visit & Tasting

If you’re planning a day trip from Lisbon that blends history, stunning scenery, and a touch of local flavor, this private Sintra tour ticks all the boxes. For roughly eight hours, you’ll explore one of Portugal’s most enchanting towns, enjoy exclusive access to historic palaces, and finish with a wine tasting at a centuries-old cellar. With a private driver and personalized itinerary, it’s a flexible, well-rounded way to see Sintra beyond the crowds.

One thing we really appreciate about this experience is the combination of sightseeing with a wine tasting that feels authentic. Visiting a prestigious wine cellar with 200 years of history adds a unique flavor to the day, making it more than just another sightseeing excursion. That said, the tour involves a fair amount of walking, often uphill, so comfortable shoes are a must. This tour suits travelers who want a curated, intimate experience that balances cultural highlights with indulgent local tastes.

This tour offers excellent value for those who appreciate a mix of history, scenery, and wine, delivered in a flexible, private setting. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone who prefers a more personalized touch rather than crowded group tours.

Key Points

Personalized experience: Private tour with your own driver and guide ensures flexibility and tailored attention.
Cultural highlights: See Sintra’s UNESCO-listed streets, palaces, and historic landmarks.
Wine tasting: Visit a two-century-old wine cellar in Colares for exclusive tasting and cellar tour.
Stunning views: Panoramic vistas from the westernmost point in continental Europe and coastal cliffs.
Active day: Expect some uphill walking and time on your feet, so bring comfy shoes.
Versatile for travelers: Suitable for those who want an in-depth, authentic glimpse of Sintra and surrounding areas.

Exploring Sintra: A Fairytale Town with a Rich Past

Our journey begins with a pickup from your Lisbon hotel, where your private driver will ensure a smooth, comfortable ride. The beauty of this private setup is that you can start at a time that works best for you—just check the availability and confirm the starting hour. As we wind out of Lisbon, the scenery shifts from urban to lush rolling hills, setting the tone for what’s ahead.

Sintra itself is a dreamlike place, with its narrow cobblestone streets, pastel-colored buildings, and fairy-tale palaces. The town is UNESCO-listed, and it’s easy to see why. We loved the way the guide brought history to life, pointing out hidden corners, fountains, churches, and shrines that most visitors might overlook. The Sintra National Palace makes an impressive outside appearance, with its distinctive twin chimneys, and is worth a photo even if you’re short on time.

What Makes Sintra Special?

Sintra’s appeal lies in its blend of natural beauty and architectural wonder. The town’s vivid palaces and mansions reflect centuries of royal patronage, while the surrounding forests and hills provide a lush backdrop. The guide gives context to each site, helping us appreciate the significance of the architecture and gardens.

Palace of Queluz and Other Highlights

While the main focus is Sintra itself, the tour also includes a visit to the impressive Palace of Queluz—often called the “Portuguese Versailles.” Seen from the outside, the palace’s ornate façade hints at a story of royal grandeur. Though entry isn’t included, the exterior alone is worth a quick look for its baroque and rococo details.

Throughout the day, you’ll also have the opportunity to observe the town’s fountains and chapels, gaining insight into the region’s religious and cultural fabric. The guide’s commentary brings these sights to life, making history tangible.

Colares Wine Cellar & Tasting: A Unique Flavor

One of the most popular parts of this tour is the visit to Adega Regional de Colares, a winery with over 200 years of history. This isn’t a generic wine stop—you’re visiting a place with authenticity and prestige. The cellar tour reveals traditional winemaking methods, and you’ll learn about the region’s unique terroir, especially the autocthonous grape varieties.

Guests consistently praise the quality of the wines, noting that the tasting includes some truly distinctive options you may not find elsewhere. As one reviewer put it, “We loved the wines—they’re unlike anything we’ve tasted before,” underscoring the unique character of Colares wines.

The visit isn’t rushed. The winery’s history and the chance to see the cellar’s aging process adds depth that many wine tastings lack. Bottled water is provided, and the guide can help explain the nuances of each wine.

The Westernmost Point & Coastal Views

Next, the tour ventures to the most westerly point in mainland Europe. Here, the clifftop views are breathtaking. You’ll see sweeping panoramas of the beaches and Atlantic Ocean—perfect for photos or just soaking in the scenery. The guide points out the nearby towns of Estoril and Cascais, both charming coastal spots worth exploring further on your own if you have time.

This part of the tour is especially appreciated by travelers who love dramatic coastal scenery and fresh sea air. The rugged cliffs and dunes make for a memorable backdrop, especially if you’re a fan of coastal landscapes or outdoor photography.

Relaxing in Cascais & Beach Time

The final stops include a stroll through Cascais, once a humble fishing village turned upscale resort town. Its mix of elegant boutiques, beachfront cafes, and historic sites makes it a great place to unwind. Travelers who enjoy a blend of history and modern leisure will find Cascais particularly appealing. Plus, the beaches with their signature dunes offer the perfect end to the day if you want a quick dip or just some downtime by the sea.

What’s Included, What’s Not

This tour covers hotel pickup and drop-off, so you avoid the hassle of finding your way around. The transportation is by air-conditioned minivan, ensuring comfort even on warmer days. The private guide is fluent in English, providing informative commentary throughout.

The wine cellar visit and tasting are core highlights. Bottled water is included, but note that entry tickets to the monuments and guide inside the palaces are not included—you’ll admire the exteriors and grounds, but if you want to go inside, you’ll need to buy tickets separately.

The Experience & Practical Tips

Many reviewers, like Adrian, mention the uphill walking, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some physical activity. The guide emphasizes the scenic, sometimes steep routes, but the views and cultural insights make the effort worthwhile.

Savhanna shared that “We booked twice with Jose,” praising the guide’s knowledge and friendliness, which really elevates the experience. The small group size and private format allow for flexibility—if you want to linger at certain spots or skip others, your guide can accommodate.

The price of around $136 per person seems reasonable when you consider the private transport, the wine tasting, and the guided itinerary. Compared to large group tours, the personalized approach adds significant value.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want a balanced mix of cultural sightseeing and wine tasting. It’s ideal for those who prefer comfort and flexibility over rushing from place to place with a large group. History buffs, wine enthusiasts, and coastal scenery lovers will all find something to enjoy.

If you’re visiting Lisbon and want a comprehensive, intimate day trip with authentic experiences, this tour delivers. Just remember to wear good shoes, bring your camera, and prepare to taste some excellent Portuguese wines.

The Sum Up

This private Sintra tour from Lisbon provides a well-rounded experience, combining history, scenic views, and a genuine wine tasting at a historic cellar. The inclusion of personalized transport and a private guide ensures a comfortable, flexible day tailored to your interests. The opportunity to explore Sintra’s fairy-tale streets, admire the coast from the most westerly point in Europe, and sample regional wines makes it especially appealing for travelers seeking depth and authenticity.

While it involves some walking and a bit of a busy schedule, the overall value and quality of the experience make it a worthwhile investment. It’s best suited for those who appreciate cultural richness, scenic beauty, and a touch of wine indulgence—all in a relaxed, private setting.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, private driver, transportation by air-conditioned minivan, a visit to a wine cellar with a tasting, and bottled water.

Are entry tickets to palaces included?
No, entry tickets to monuments like the Sintra National Palace or Queluz Palace are not included, so you’ll see the exteriors and grounds from outside.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with specific starting times depending on your booking. Check availability for exact timings.

Is this tour suitable for children or minors?
Children must be accompanied by an adult. Unaccompanied minors are not allowed.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must, especially since there’s uphill walking involved. Dress for weather conditions, and bring sun protection if sunny.

Can I customize the itinerary?
As a private tour, there’s flexibility to some extent. Your guide can tailor certain stops if you have specific interests.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the activity states that it is wheelchair accessible.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What’s the price per person?
The cost is around $136 per person, offering good value considering the personalized service and inclusions.

Is there a guide inside the monuments?
No, guide services inside the palaces are not included. The tour focuses on external visits and scenic spots.

Who is this tour best for?
It’s ideal for travelers who want a private, curated day combining Sintra’s highlights with regional wine tasting—perfect for those seeking a more authentic, relaxed experience compared to larger group tours.