Private Tour Sintra With Wine Tastings

A private day exploring Sintra’s fairy-tale castles, palaces, and a wine tasting in Colares

If you’re looking for an authentic, hassle-free way to explore Sintra’s most captivating sights, this private tour might just be your perfect fit. For around $191 per person, about 8 to 9 hours of your day are dedicated to uncovering this UNESCO World Heritage site, with the added bonus of a local guide, private transportation, and an included wine tasting. The tour kicks off with a convenient hotel pickup around 9:00 am, ensuring you avoid the chaos of crowded shuttles and guided only by your own interests.

We particularly love the seamless transit — private, air-conditioned transfers with onboard Wi-Fi mean no delays or interruptions while you enjoy the scenery. The tour hits some of Sintra’s most iconic sites: the Moorish Castle, the colorful Pena Palace, the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira, and a visit to a local winery in Colares.

One potential consideration is that tickets for the palaces and other attractions are not included, so you should budget extra for entrance fees. Also, this tour caters to those comfortable with walking and a full day of sightseeing, so comfortable shoes are a must. It’s best suited for travelers who want an in-depth overview without the stress of planning every detail themselves, especially if they appreciate a flexible, personalized approach.

Key Points

• Customizable private transport ensures comfort and flexibility.
• Expert guide offers insightful context and personalized attention.
• Stunning sights include Pena Palace, Moorish Castle, and Quinta da Regaleira.
• Wine tasting in Colares provides an authentic local experience.
• Flexible itinerary with optional extra tickets at your expense.
• Wi-Fi onboard keeps you connected during transit.

Exploring Sintra on a Private Tour

This tour is an excellent way to see Sintra’s highlights without the hassle of navigating public transportation or large group tours. Instead of waiting in lines or rushing through sites, you’ll enjoy the freedom of a private guide and customized pacing. It’s ideal for travelers who value comfort, personalized attention, and a mix of cultural sights with a relaxed experience.

The tour begins with hotel pickup and private transportation. This means you can start your day refreshed, not tired from navigating Lisbon’s busy streets or worrying about schedules. Plus, with onboard Wi-Fi, you can check maps, share photos, or simply relax without draining your data plan.

Visiting Sintra’s Enchanting Sights

Moorish Castle, perched on the hills, is a highlight for history buffs and lovers of panoramic views. Built in the 8th century, its walls and towers evoke battles and ancient times. When we visited, the castle’s walls offered sweeping views of the surrounding landscape—something you’d want to take your time exploring, especially since it’s about 3.5 km from Sintra’s historic center.

Next up, the Pena Palace offers a true fairy-tale experience. Built in the 19th century, this brightly colored palace is a masterwork of Romantic architecture. You can imagine royalty living here, surrounded by lush gardens and sweeping vistas. Although the entrance isn’t included, the exterior alone is worth the visit, and the panoramic terrace offers stunning views over the mountains and coast.

The Historic Center of Sintra is a charming area packed with narrow cobbled streets, shops, and cafes. It’s free to stroll around and soak up the atmosphere, although many visitors budget for entrance fees to attractions like the palace interiors or Quinta da Regaleira.

Quinta da Regaleira is one of Sintra’s most mysterious sites. Built in the early 20th century, it features a romantic revivalist style, blending Gothic, Manueline, and Renaissance elements with allegorical and esoteric symbolism. The palace’s gardens are equally fascinating, full of winding tunnels, grottoes, and hidden chambers. It’s a place that invites exploration and imagination—perfect for those who love stories behind the architecture.

The Winemaking Experience in Colares

The highlight for many is the visit to a local winery in Colares. This is more than just a tasting; it’s an immersion into local Portuguese wine culture. The winery, run by private producers, offers insights into the unique varieties that thrive in this small, protected region. The wine tasting is included in the tour price, allowing you to taste some authentic Colares wines, which are rare and produced in small quantities.

One review noted, “the experience there is allways incomparable,” highlighting how special these small-scale wines are, and how they reflect the region’s terroir. The winery visit lasts about two hours, giving ample time to relax and ask questions.

The Logistics: Comfort and Convenience

The entire experience is designed for comfort and efficiency. The private vehicle ensures that you’re not rushed or crowded, and the onboard Wi-Fi is a considerate touch—no need to worry about roaming charges or missing out on sharing your experience.

The tour’s flexibility shines through in its ability to adapt to your pace and interests, as well as the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. You’re not just a passenger; you’re in control of your day.

Cost and Value

At $191.17, this tour offers a lot of value. It bundles transport, a guide, and a wine tasting—all the logistics taken care of—saving you hours of planning and potential stress. Entrance tickets are extra, but that’s typical for guided tours of this type. Considering the private transport and personalized attention, many travelers find it a worthwhile investment for a full day of discovery.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

The reviews reflect a generally positive experience, with a 4.6 out of 5 rating. A traveler named Wendy called it a “great day,” enjoying the “nonstop fun” and “long lunch,” which hints at a relaxed, engaging atmosphere. Another reviewer praised the guide Phillip for his recommendations and insights, even if the wine tasting was less extensive than expected.

One note of honesty: “Clarity on the description would’ve helped in setting expectations,” mentions a reviewer about the wine experience. It highlights that Colares wines are rare and produced on a small scale, which may differ from more conventional wine tours.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day exploring Sintra’s highlights with the comfort of private transport. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or families who appreciate personalized attention and are willing to pay a bit extra for a luxurious experience.

It’s especially suited for travelers with a curiosity about Portuguese culture, architecture, and wine, as well as those who value flexibility. If you’re looking for a guided experience that balances history, scenery, and gastronomy, this tour ticks all the boxes.

The Sum Up

This private Sintra tour offers an excellent combination of cultural sightseeing, scenic views, and a taste of local Lusitanian vineyards. The private guide ensures you get tailored insights, while the private transport makes the day flow smoothly, even if you’re not a morning person.

The inclusion of a wine tasting in Colares adds an authentic, flavorful note, making this more than just a sightseeing trip. Although entrance fees aren’t included, the overall value—especially considering the personalized service and comfort—is compelling.

If you prefer a relaxed yet comprehensive way to see Sintra, avoiding the crowds and rushing, this tour is a smart choice. It’s suited for those who want to learn, taste, and enjoy at their own pace, making it a memorable day in Portugal.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient to start and end your day comfortably.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, giving ample time to visit multiple sites and enjoy the wine tasting.

Are tickets to the attractions included?
No, tickets for the palaces and other museums are not included, so you should plan to purchase those separately.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers private transportation, a guide, bottled water, Wi-Fi onboard, and the wine tasting.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you have some flexibility. Your guide can tailor the experience based on your interests.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but be prepared for some walking and a full day of sightseeing.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, smart casual attire and good walking shoes are recommended for exploring the sites.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but a long lunch at a local restaurant is often enjoyed, and your guide can recommend options.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. Many sites offer fantastic photo opportunities, especially Pena Palace and the castle ruins. Remember your camera!