Short Break Sintra - 5 days 4 nights

Atlantic Coast Hike from Cabo da Roca Back to the Hotel

After breakfast, a private transfer will take you to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe, a journey of approximately 15 minutes.

Marked as the edge of Europe, Cabo da Roca is wild and rugged. A solitary lighthouse stands guard over passing ships, while powerful Atlantic waves crash against the base of the dramatic, jagged cliffs. From Cabo da Roca, the trail winds along hilltop paths and coastal ridges, revealing spectacular rock formations shaped by nature.

Most of the route follows natural, easy-going trails. At times, the path passes through wooded areas, but it largely stays close to the coastline. Along the way, you’ll encounter seaside restaurants—perfect for a hearty meal, or, if they are busy, a light snack and a short rest before continuing the walk. Photography opportunities abound along this scenic coastline.

With the hotel as your final destination, spotting it in the distance brings a comforting sense of reassurance. Walking onto the sandy beach and dipping your feet into the sea is a wonderfully relaxing way to end the day.

Hiking distance: 9 km
Elevation gain: +200 m

Overnight: Arribas Sintra Hotel (4-star, Google rating 4.4) or a hotel of similar standard

Hike to the Magnificent Sintra – 19 km

Today offers two options:

• Option 1: Go Directly to Sintra

After breakfast, take a car with your luggage directly to Sintra, a town full of magnificent palaces! After dropping off your luggage at the hotel, start sightseeing.

Sintra is a treasure city that cannot be fully explored in one day. Visit the Sintra National Palace with its two conical chimneys, built for King Manuel I with Moorish craftsmanship. The white walls and red tiles are striking, and the kitchen looking up at the chimneys is very interesting.

Then walk around the town center, find a restaurant for lunch, and try the famous Portuguese custard tarts. You can also browse small shops for local treasures.

In the afternoon, take a 10-minute walk to Quinta da Regaleira, a UNESCO World Heritage site covering 4 hectares. The estate has a palace, chapel, lakes, fountains, grottoes, and the famous spiral Initiation Well—a deep underground staircase. Looking down from the well is thrilling.

• Option 2: Hike to Sintra

Hike from the hotel to the quiet village of Almocageme, then climb uphill into the forest. Along the way, pass the Capuchos Convent for a short rest.

Soon, arrive at Monserrate Palace, a stunning palace and garden built by British merchants, artists, and industrialists, mixing Gothic, Indian, and Moorish styles. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.

After visiting the palace, you can continue hiking toward Sintra. The two conical chimneys of the Sintra National Palace are a good landmark. Or take a taxi if needed. The distance is about 7 km, with expected arrival in the afternoon. If time permits, visit the Sintra National Palace.

Hiking distance: 19 km | Elevation gain: +700 m
Overnight: Sintra Boutique Hotel (4-star, Google rating 4.7) or similar standard

Light Hike to Sintra Landmarks – Pena Palace & Moorish Castle

Today is dedicated to exploring Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle on the hills. After breakfast, follow the GPS-marked path along the outer trail of Quinta da Regaleira, passing graffiti-decorated walls and lush tree-lined trails. You will often encounter local walkers along the way—don’t forget to greet them! After about an hour, you’ll reach the signposts for Pena Palace.

Pena Palace tickets are included in the itinerary. Due to the large number of visitors, it is recommended to reserve your visit time on the palace website in advance for a smooth experience.

Pena Palace and its surrounding park are located on the Sintra hills and are the creative masterpiece of King Ferdinand II. It is one of the greatest expressions of 19th-century Portuguese Romanticism, clearly influenced by Manueline and Moorish architectural styles. The palace is designed to be visible from almost anywhere in the park, which is filled with forest and gardens containing over 500 tree species from all over the world. The palace’s iconic yellow walls make for perfect photos from any angle.

After visiting Pena Palace, follow the signs to the Moorish Castle. Although only ruins remain, the views are breathtaking. From here, you can see Pena Palace nearby and enjoy panoramic views of Sintra. Follow the marked trails back to the main square.

In the evening, it is recommended to reserve a restaurant to enjoy a charming dinner in Sintra.

Hiking distance: 10 km | Elevation gain: +400 m
Overnight: Sintra Boutique Hotel (4-star, Google rating 4.7) or similar standard

Today, you will depart from Sintra and head to Lisbon. After breakfast, a transfer will take you to Lisbon Airport. If you wish to continue to other destinations, please contact your travel advisor to customize your itinerary.