Sintra to Cascais Walking Tour

Portugal
Walking
Self-Guided
Sintra to Cascais Walking Tour

Sintra to Cascais Walking Tour

Prices

From $595USD

Difficulty

Self-guided

Hotels

Start Your Booking

Highlights

Discover the palaces and beaches of the Portuguese Riviera on this 8-day walking tour

Discover impressive UNESCO sites as you explore the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park on foot.

Be swept up in the charm of Sintra as you admire its towering mountains, beautiful forests, and noble palaces.

Navigate scenic coastal trails and Mediterranean woodlands, stopping off at monasteries and castles along the way.

Enjoy gorgeous seaside accommodations in Colares and Cascais, ending your days with a cool dip in the Atlantic Ocean.

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!

Sintra to Cascais Walking Tour

Day 1 Arrive

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.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Sintra
Distance
None
Meals
None

Day 2 Explore the Sintra Palaces

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.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Sintra
Distance
4.5 hours, 9km, 150m of ascent, 400m of descent
Meals
Breakfast

Day 3 Convento dos Capuchos and Azoia

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.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Sintra
Distance
5 hours, 11.5km, 425m of ascent, 500m of descent
Meals
Breakfast

Day 4 Explore the Sintra Manor Houses

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.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Sintra
Distance
3 hours, 4.5km
Meals
Breakfast

Day 5 Walk Northbound to Arribas via Azenha do Mar

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.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Colares
Distance
5 hours, 15km, 225m of ascent, 485m of descent
Meals
Breakfast

Day 6 Praia Grande Loop

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.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Colares
Distance
4 hours, 11km, 50m of ascent, 650m of descent
Meals
Breakfast

Day 7 Bound for Cascais

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!

Overnight Location
Hotel in Cascais
Distance
5 hours, 17.5km, 275m of ascent, 475m of descent
Meals
Breakfast

Day 8 Depart

This morning, your walking tour comes to an end. Check out of the hotel and head to the airport to depart.

Overnight Location
None
Distance
None
Meals
Breakfast

Sintra to Cascais Walking Tour Prices and Dates

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:

  • Price per solo traveller: $1,095USD
  • Price per person in a single room (group of 2+): $1,025USD
  • Price per person sharing a double room: $595USD
  • Price per person sharing a triple room: $675USD

Departures from March 25th to May 25th:

  • Price per solo traveller: $1,295USD
  • Price per person in a single room (group of 2+): $1,225USD
  • Price per person sharing a double room: $725USD
  • Price per person sharing a triple room: $795USD

Departures from May 26th to June 25th:

  • Price per solo traveller: $1,350USD
  • Price per person in a single room (group of 2+): $1,250USD
  • Price per person sharing a double room: $750USD
  • Price per person sharing a triple room: $825USD

Departures from June 26th to September 30th:

  • Price per solo traveller: $1,575USD
  • Price per person in a single room (group of 2+): $1,475USD
  • Price per person sharing a double room: $875USD
  • Price per person sharing a triple room: $950USD

Departures from October 1st to 31st:

  • Price per solo traveller: $1,295USD
  • Price per person in a single room (group of 2+): $1,225USD
  • Price per person sharing a double room: $725USD
  • Price per person sharing a triple room: $795USD

Departures from November 1st to 30th:

  • Price per solo traveller: $1,095USD
  • Price per person in a single room (group of 2+): $1,025USD
  • Price per person sharing a double room: $595USD
  • Price per person sharing a triple room: $675USD

Departures from December 1st to 20th:

  • Price per solo traveller: $1,195USD
  • Price per person in a single room (group of 2+): $1,095USD
  • Price per person sharing a double room: $650USD
  • Price per person sharing a triple room: $750USD

Departures from December 21st to 31st:

  • Price per solo traveller: $1,295USD
  • Price per person in a single room (group of 2+): $1,225USD
  • Price per person sharing a double room: $725USD
  • Price per person sharing a triple room: $795USD
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Accommodation on the Sintra to Cascais Walking Tour

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.

Nova Sintra Hotel in Sintra

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.

Arribas Sintra Hotel in Colares

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.

Hotel Baía in Cascais

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.

Hotels on Standard Tour

What’s included in the Sintra to Cascais Walking Tour?

Meals

7 breakfasts are included on this tour.

Accommodations

Accommodations for 7 nights are included on this tour.

Transportation during the 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.

Also Included

  • Detailed route maps
  • GPS tracks and waypoints
  • 24-hour phone assistance

Not included

  • Flights
  • Extra transfers
  • Visas if required
  • Meals or drinks and snacks not previously mentioned
  • Tourist taxes if applicable
  • Travel insurance

Optional Extras

  • Activities and excursions unless otherwise mentioned as included
  • Single room supplements
  • Airport transfers

Frequenty Asked Questions about Sintra to Cascais Walking Tour

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.

Reviews

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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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Prices

From $595USD

Difficulty

Self-guided

Hotels

Start Your Booking

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Rated 4.9 on Google Reviews

Tour Difficulty

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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