Discover the palaces and beaches of the Portuguese Riviera on this 8-day walking tour
The 8-day Sintra to Cascais Walking Tour is a spectacular adventure that will sweep you up in a fascinating whirlwind of Portuguese history while immersing you in the natural beauty of the Portuguese Riviera. This mesmerizing walking tour in central Portugal will guide you from regal Sintra to sun-kissed Cascais, inviting you to explore the region's coastal trails and breathtaking landscapes at your own pace.
For decades the families of Portuguese nobility flocked to Vila de Sintra (Sintra), spending their summers in opulent royal palaces and majestic medieval castles. Today, the area is still populated by some of Portugal's most wealthy, but the historic center of Sintra has now become an exceptional place to explore on foot.
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sintra is famous for its nineteenth-century Romanticist architecture on full display in its multitude of historic estates, villas, and gardens. You'll visit Sintra's three most prominent monuments on this tour, taking in the beauty and splendour of the Castelo de Mouro, the Palacio da Pena, and the Palacio Nacional.
Leaving the glitz and glamour of Sintra behind, you'll enjoy scenic routes through vineyards, pine forests, and charming fishing villages along the coast. Enjoy overnight stays in Sintra and at lovely seaside accommodations in Colares and Cascais.
If luxurious palaces, beautiful natural landscapes, and a cool sea breeze sound like your ideal setting for an epic walking adventure, then the Sintra to Cascais Walking Tour won't disappoint. Book your spot on this tour today!
Your tour begins in Sintra, where you’ll be welcomed at your pleasant family-run hotel, just outside the historic town center.
After you’ve settled in, enjoy views of Sintra and the surrounding rolling hills from the hotel’s peaceful terrace and perhaps set out on a little walk to acquaint yourself with the whimsical town.
Prepare to be awe-struck, as today’s walk will introduce the former summer getaways of Portugal’s royals and nobility.
Up first, a steep ascent leads you to the Castelo de Mouro (eighth to twelfth-century), an impressive Moorish castle that lords over Sintra, built strategically on a rocky outcrop. Next, you’ll explore the Palacio da Pena, followed by the Palacio Nacional.
You may find yourself in a daze of luxury following the palace visits, so enjoy some fresh air as you explore the vast palace grounds, home to remarkable gardens. A final descent via Vila Sasseti will guide you back into the center of town.
This morning, following a short transfer, you’ll kick off the day with a visit to the Convento dos Capuchos. In this sixteenth-century Franciscan monastery, you’ll appreciate the tranquillity of the serene setting.
Next, you’ll navigate magical Mediterranean woodlands leading you to a final descent to Azoia. From Azoia, catch the bus back to Sintra.
Like so many other countries in Europe, the nineteenth and twentieth centuries in Portugal were influenced by the sweeping winds of the Romantic era. Today, you’ll see this fact on full display as you explore the luxurious interiors of some of Sintra’s romantical style mansions, built by nobles and the wealthiest merchants. Some of the homes are still occupied by residents today, while others have been converted into super-luxe hotels.
Say farewell to the wealth and romance of Sintra this morning as you head north through sprawling fields, vineyards, and pine forests toward the dramatic coast.
Reaching the pretty fishing village of Azenha do Mar, you’ll join the GR-11, taking it south to your seaside hotel in Colares. Enjoy a dip in the hotel’s gigantic saltwater pool to top off an exciting day on foot.
Set out from your hotel this morning, joining the long-distance walking path GR-11, also known as Costa Atlantica. The gorgeous coastal path will guide you south as you trace ancient fishermen’s trails until you reach the village of Ulgueira.
The trail continues, granting you beautiful views of the Cabo de Roca and the beach-lined coast as you continue the loop back to Praia Grande, via the village of Almoçageme.
Your final day of walking begins with a transfer to Azoia, inviting you to pick up the GR-11 again and follow it along the coast. On the way, you’ll encounter the seventeenth-century fortress of Fortaleza de Guincho, which has since been converted into a luxury hotel.
You have the option to end today’s walk after 8 kilometres, taking a bus to Cascais instead of walking the full 17.5-kilometre route.
Once in Cascais, enjoy this lively beach town, where you’ll have no trouble finding a suitable spot for tonight’s farewell dinner and drinks!
This morning, your walking tour comes to an end. Check out of the hotel and head to the airport to depart.
This self-guided walking tour in Portugal is always run as a private tour for your group and the price per person depends on the number of people staying in one room, as well as the season.
Prices below are per person.
Departures from January 1st to March 24th:
Departures from March 25th to May 25th:
Departures from May 26th to June 25th:
Departures from June 26th to September 30th:
Departures from October 1st to 31st:
Departures from November 1st to 30th:
Departures from December 1st to 20th:
Departures from December 21st to 31st:
This tour is based in 2-star and 3-star hotels. All accommodations offer private rooms with ensuite bathrooms and basic amenities.
In some cases, the accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other comparable accommodations.
Single Rooms and Solo Travellers
Rooms are double occupancy. The price for a single room or solo traveller is as indicated above.
This bright and cozy hotel has been run by the same family for over 70 years and is a charming blend of traditional and modern. A beautiful sun terrace boasts lovely views overlooking the Sintra mountains.
Sun and sea are never far away when staying at Arribas. The seaside hotel located in a highly sought-after affluent neighbourhood welcomes its guests with open arms. The hotel also has an in-house restaurant and a refreshing pool.
Guests will enjoy a beautiful portrait of the sea and the Sintra mountains as their backdrop while staying at the Hotel Baía. The hotel is conveniently located near all of the action in downtown Cascais and has an excellent in-house restaurant.
7 breakfasts are included on this tour.
Accommodations for 7 nights are included on this tour.
All transfers according to the itinerary are included on this tour. Luggage transportation according to the itinerary is included on this tour on Days 5 and 7. Airport transfers are not included, but can be arranged in advance as a supplement.
How hard is the Sintra to Cascais Walking Tour?
We rate this tour a 2 / 5. The tour is comprised of moderate day walks 3 to 5 hours long, excluding breaks. Roads can sometimes be stony, and walkers will traverse hilly or mountainous routes, but they are always well maintained.
Do I need a visa to travel to Portugal?
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
Are meals included on the Sintra to Cascais Walking Tour?
7 breakfasts are included on this tour.
Do I need insurance?
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover any activities you plan to do, including walking and hiking. Get your Travel Insurance.
How do I get to Sintra to start this tour?
The nearest airport to Sintra is Lisbon Airport (LIS). From Lisbon Airport, you can reach Sintra by public transport, which takes approximately 1 hour. Alternatively, you can book a private transfer from the airport to Sintra in advance as a supplement during the booking process or arrange your own private transfer.
Where does the Sintra to Cascais Walking Tour end?
The tour ends in Cascais. From Cascais, you can reach the Lisbon Airport (LIS) by public transport, which takes approximately 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can arrange a private transfer to the airport in advance as a supplement during the booking process or arrange your own private transfer.
Do I need special vaccines to travel to Portugal?
Check with your family doctor.
Are there any travel restrictions for Portugal?
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
When is the best time to travel to Spain for this tour?
The best time to travel to Portugal for this walking tour is during the spring, summer, and fall when the weather is at its best. This tour is available year-round.
All tours on 10Adventures are operated by highly vetted local tour operators and guides.
Having local tour operators and guides means you get a more authentic experience, and your booking creates jobs in the local communities you visit.
Details of the local tour operator will be listed on your booking invoice. If you have questions about the local operator prior to booking, please click the “Ask a Question” button below.
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Google ReviewStephen L.
I’ve been using 10Adventures route guides for a while, but had never booked a tour. My wife and I booked a self-guided hike in Greece and were so impressed with how we were able navigate the route without a guide with the detailed and easy to follow itinerary. We enjoy travelling independently, and 10Adventures made that happen.
Melinda S.
I was going through a tough time and really needed a getaway so I decided to book a tour through 10Adventures. My trip to Peru changed my life in so many positive and eye-opening ways. I am so thankful for the kind, empathetic team at 10Adventures.
Lina K.
I’ve adventured around a lot of Canada and the US, but I’ve always wanted to explore other parts of the world. I felt a bit scared before booking my trip to Israel, but my conversations with the team at 10Adventures helped ease any worry. I can’t wait to explore more of the world!
Gabriela H.
Travel companies have had to go through a lot during the pandemic but 10Adventures were super flexible and accommodating nonetheless. I had to cancel my tour in France due to the pandemic. 10Adventures was great and let me reschedule for a later date!
Mikael V.
My wife Sarah and I had a great experience booking our 7-day cycling trip through Portugal via 10Adventures. The communication between us and Nadine leading up the trip was top-notch!
Alexandra D.
Communicating with 10Adventures feels like talking with a family-run business. I love to explore and travel, and exploring with the comfort of knowing I can talk to the team at 10Adventures with almost immediate feedback helps to ease any stress that comes with adventuring!
Eric S.
Whenever I’m looking for my next adventure 10Adventures never fails. Their routes all over England are my main go to for exploring and I have only had great experiences booking both guided and self-guided trips in Europe and South America with them. I am looking into Africa next.
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I tend to have a lot of questions before travelling and was so happy to find that the team at 10Adventures responded to every single one of my inquiries in a timely fashion. I was never left waiting and waiting for a response. This was much appreciated!
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I have horrible dietary issues making it super hard to book a pre-planned trip sometimes, but the communication through 10Adventures helped me navigate this situation! I am so grateful for all of their help. I cant wait to book with them again!
Erika S.
I just got back from backpacking in the Sierra Nevada, and WOW. What an unreal journey! The alpine meadows, waterfalls, and the lakeside camping spot were memorable highlights! I wonder what other tours 10Adventures has to offer. That one went so well that I am now convinced I need to book another!
Robert D.
I'm not a big fan of traveling because of my fear of flying, but my girlfriend convinced me to go on the Aurora Borealis Tour in the Yukon. I will never forget the mesmerizing northern lights. Such a romantic (and cold) getaway. I would highly recommend it.
Monica L.
Wow! I am so happy with the experience I had with booking through 10Adventures for my tour in Italy! I worked with Nadine and she was super easy-going and helpful when it came to tweaking the itinerary provided on the website. 10/10 would book through 10Adventures again.
We rate this tour a 2 / 5. The tour is comprised of moderate day walks 3 to 5 hours long, excluding breaks. Roads can sometimes be stony, and walkers will traverse hilly or mountainous routes, but they are always well maintained.
Read about our scale for Tour Difficulty Ratings.
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