Sintra, Cabo da Roca, and Cascais Small Group Tour from Lisbon

We begin with a drive along Marginal Avenue, a winding waterfront road with sweeping views of the Tagus River and the Atlantic. We follow the railway line westward, with views of white sandy beaches, fishing vessels, ancient fortresses, and old mansions. We'll see the Casino Estoril, the largest in Europe, and believed to be the place where Ian Fleming (author of the James Bond series) developed the idea for Casino Royale. As we reach Cascais, take a advantage of the allotted free time to explore the narrow alleys and see the traditional Portuguese white houses. Or relax at the beach while gazing out at the sea.

Then we continue to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe. On our way we will see one of the most famous beaches in the region: Guincho, very popular among surfers and other water sport addicts thanks to its strong winds and perfect waves.

After some free time to contemplate the landscapes, we will continue towards Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Before exploring the historic center, we will go to Quinta da Regaleira, one of the most romantic places on earth. A palace, lush gardens, lakes, grottoes, and enigmatic constructions across four hectares (admission included).

After lunch (own expense), enjoy some free time exploring the village the National Palace, where the Portuguese royals of the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries spent the summer months. Then we will go to Pena Palace at the top of the Serra de Sintra (admission not included). Much more than a castle, UNESCO-listed Pena is a unique expression of the architectural Romanticism, something out of a fairy tale, situated approximately 500 meters above the sea, and blended from many styles: Gothic, neo-Manuelin, neo-Islamic and neo-Renaissance.