Lisbon: Enjoy 2 days on a private tour of Lisbon and Sintra

If you’re considering a guided experience that combines the vibrant streets of Lisbon with the fairy-tale charm of Sintra, this 2-day private tour from TMA Tours might just be what you need. It promises a blend of cultural highlights, picturesque landscapes, and seamless logistics—all tailored to your preferences.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the personalized approach means you won’t be stuck with a big group, and the driver acts as a local guide, providing insights along the way. Second, the luxury vehicles with Wi-Fi and air conditioning add a touch of comfort that makes covering a lot of ground more enjoyable. On the flip side, a potential drawback is that, for those wanting a more in-depth museum experience or specific inside visits, this tour’s focus on sightseeing might feel a bit broad.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive yet relaxed overview of Lisbon and Sintra, without the hassle of organizing transportation or navigating crowds. It’s also a good fit if you’re short on time but want to see the highlights—and perhaps indulge in some traditional sweets along the way.

Key Points

• Private, tailored experience ensures a personalized visit.
• Luxury vehicles with Wi-Fi and air conditioning enhance comfort.
• Includes local treats: one Pastel de Nata per passenger.
• Flexible pick-up locations in Lisbon make planning easier.
• Comprehensive itinerary covers Lisbon’s historic districts and Sintra’s palaces and coast.
• Optional visits and stops allow for some flexibility based on your interests.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the 2-Day Private Tour

From the moment you start planning, the appeal of a personalized tour comes through. For roughly $370 per person, you get a full two days of exploring some of Portugal’s most iconic sights. The price may seem steep at first glance, but considering the private transport, driver services, and curated itinerary, many find it offers good value—especially if you’re traveling with a small group or want to avoid the stress of navigating public transport or crowded tours.

Day 1: Lisbon’s Historic Charms

Your day begins at 10:00 a.m., with the driver picking you up from your preferred location in Lisbon. This flexibility helps start your day on your own terms. Once underway, the tour hits the historic districts of Lisbon, starting with Alfama, the city’s oldest neighborhood. Narrow winding streets, colorful buildings, and viewpoints offering sweeping city vistas make Alfama a must-see. The driver will show you around, but you’re free to wander and soak in the atmosphere.

Next, you’ll explore Downtown Lisbon, centered around Praça do Comércio and Rossio Square. These areas showcase neoclassical architecture rebuilt after the devastating 1755 earthquake. Expect lively streets with Portuguese cobblestones, boutiques, cafes, and a vibrant city vibe. The driver will point out notable spots like Chiado, Bairro Alto, Príncipe Real, and São Bento—each with its own unique character.

A highlight of the day is visiting Belém, packed with monuments and sweet temptations. Here, you can admire the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower, two of Portugal’s most recognizable landmarks, along with the Monument to the Discoveries that celebrates Portugal’s maritime history. The Belém Pastry Shop is a must-stop for those famous Pastel de Nata, included in your tour.

Crossing the Tagus River via the 25 de Abril Bridge offers spectacular views, leading you to the Cristo Rei statue. This spot provides arguably the best panoramic outlook of Lisbon. You’ll also stop briefly at Parque Eduardo VII, which offers a sweeping view of the city and a glimpse into Lisbon’s modern side.

The day wraps up along Avenida da Liberdade, Lisbon’s answer to luxury shopping streets, with elegant boutiques, hotels, and cafes. It’s a relaxed way to end your first day, feeling like you’ve glimpsed the city’s diverse personality.

Day 2: Sintra and Cascais

After a flexible morning pickup around 9:00 or 10:00, you’ll head out of Lisbon toward Sintra, a place often described as stepping into a fairy tale. The first optional stop is the Palace of Queluz, an 18th-century royal residence with architecture reminiscent of Versailles. While optional, many find visiting this palace adds an extra layer of royal splendor to the trip.

In Sintra itself, the atmosphere shifts to one of enchantment. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its whimsical palaces, mystery, and lush landscapes. Depending on your interests, you can visit one or two of Sintra’s stunning palaces—like the Palácio da Pena, with its vibrant colors and playful architecture, or the Palácio de Sintra, known for its Moorish origins and intricate design. The tour doesn’t specify which palaces, giving some flexibility, but you’ll likely get a taste of the town’s signature sights.

A major highlight is Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe, where the Atlantic Ocean crashes against the rugged cliffs. The wind, the views, the sense of standing at the edge of the continent—this spot manages to be both dramatic and humbling.

Later, the tour continues to Cascais, a charming seaside town. With its sandy beaches and lively marina, it’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy the coastal scenery before heading back along Portugal’s scenic coast to Lisbon. The entire trip, including driving, sightseeing, and short stops, lasts about 8 hours—a full but manageable day to appreciate the region’s highlights.

What Does the Tour Include and Exclude?

This tour covers a lot for the price. The inclusions are thoughtfully curated: pick-up at your designated Lisbon location, an English/Spanish/Portuguese-speaking driver/guide, Wi-Fi and water on board, and a sweet treat (Pastel de Nata) for each passenger. These small touches make a difference—comfort, local flavor, and information, all in one.

On the flip side, museum tickets are not included, which means if you want inside access to specific attractions, you’ll need to purchase tickets separately. The tour also doesn’t specify meals or additional activities, so you’ll want to plan for those separately.

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How the Experience Shapes Up

Traveling with a private guide and vehicle means flexibility and comfort. No worries about crowded buses or confusing public transport routes. Instead, you get to enjoy smooth rides, tailored stops, and the ability to ask questions as you go. The driver’s knowledge appears to be a key selling point—many reviews highlight how helpful and personable their guides are.

The scenic stops, especially at viewpoints like Cristo Rei and Cabo da Roca, are memorable. The views are frequently praised in reviews, with many saying they’re worth the trip alone. The local sweets add a delightful touch, making your experience sweeter—literally and figuratively.

Some travelers note that the itinerary is quite full—which is expected for a two-day tour. You get a lot packed into each day, so be prepared for some early mornings and quite a bit of driving. However, the luxury vehicles and the ability to customize stops (within the scope of the tour) help keep the whole experience relaxed.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors who want an overview of Lisbon and Sintra without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s great for those who prefer private, guided experiences over group tours, especially if comfort and personalized attention matter.

Travelers with a limited timeframe will appreciate how much ground they can cover in two days, seeing major sights comfortably. The inclusion of scenic viewpoints and local treats offers a good mix of cultural insight and leisurely moments.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for an in-depth, museum-focused trip or want to explore lesser-known corners, this might feel a bit superficial. Also, those traveling on a tight budget might find it on the pricier side, considering museum tickets and meals are extra.

Final Thoughts

In all, this private two-day Lisbon and Sintra tour provides a well-rounded, comfortable way to see some of Portugal’s most captivating sights. With its personalized approach, luxury transport, and thoughtful highlights, it offers a lot of value for the price—especially if you’d rather have a local guide tailor the experience to your interests.

It’s best suited for travelers who prefer a relaxed, curated experience over a hectic, packed schedule. If you’re in Lisbon for a short stay and want a taste of both city life and coastal scenery, this tour could be just what you need to make the most of your trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, but since it involves some walking and visits to hilly areas like Alfama or Sintra palaces, it’s good to check specific accessibility options with the provider beforehand.

Can I customize the stops or itinerary?
While the tour follows a set plan, the private nature means you might be able to discuss some flexibility with your driver—especially regarding stops like palaces or viewpoints.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included in the tour price. You’ll want to plan for lunch or snacks separately, although some stops, like Cascais, offer plenty of dining options.

What’s the duration of each day’s activities?
The first day is roughly a full day exploring Lisbon’s neighborhoods and landmarks, while the second day lasts about 6 to 8 hours, covering Sintra, Cabo da Roca, and Cascais.

Is the tour suitable for families?
It’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, but if your family enjoys sightseeing and scenic drives, it can work well—just be prepared for some walking and outdoor exposure.

Do I need to book tickets in advance for attractions?
No, tickets are not included, so you should purchase them separately if you want inside access to specific sites like palaces or museums.

If you’re after a flexible, comfortable way to see Lisbon and Sintra with personalized attention, this tour offers a convenient and enjoyable option. Just be ready for a busy but scenic two days that pack in plenty of Portugal’s highlights—perfect for curious travelers eager to cover a lot of ground without sacrificing comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here: