From Lisbon: Sintra & Pena Palace Day Trip with Wine Tasting

If you’re planning a day trip from Lisbon to explore nearby treasures, this tour of Sintra, Pena Palace, and a traditional Portuguese winery offers a compelling mix of history, natural beauty, and culinary delights. While I haven’t personally taken this exact journey, based on reviews and detailed descriptions, it promises a balanced blend of must-see sights and authentic wine experiences.

What really catches our eye are the stunning views of Pena Palace and its lush surroundings, the expert guidance that makes the history come alive, and the delicious wine tasting that complements Portugal’s renowned viticulture. The cost of $114 per person appears to offer strong value, especially considering the included transportation, guided tours, and the generous wine samplings.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is the importance of punctuality—since the tour runs on a tight schedule, any delay might affect your experience. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a well-organized trip with a mix of sightseeing and tasting, especially if you’re curious about Portuguese wines and want to see Sintra’s iconic sights without the hassle of planning.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive day trip from Lisbon with visits to Sintra, Pena Palace, and a local winery.
• Expert guides provide engaging stories and insights about the sites and wines.
• Authentic wine tasting experience with six wines paired with local bites and tapas.
• The stunning architecture of Pena Palace and its exotic garden landscape.
• The quality of the wine and the detailed cellar tour, including history from ancient presses to modern facilities.
• Small groups or private options ensure a more personalized experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What to Expect on the Tour

This 6.5-hour adventure kicks off in Lisbon’s city center, where you’ll hop into a comfortable air-conditioned minivan. Traveling in a small group or private setting, you’ll enjoy a relaxed pace that allows for plenty of storytelling and photo stops. The first highlight is Sintra’s landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its fairy-tale castles and lush scenery. Your guide will walk you through the history and significance of the area, pointing out the most photogenic spots.

Next, you’ll visit the exterior of Pena Palace—one of Portugal’s most recognizable landmarks—before heading inside for a guided tour. Expect to walk through its colorful, fairytale-like corridors, and explore the gardens filled with trees from all over the world. As one reviewer put it, “You’ll love the views and the exotic plants — it’s a place that truly feels magical.”

A highlight for many is the guided walk around Pena Palace’s surroundings, giving you a deeper appreciation of its architecture and the landscape. Expect enough time for photos and to soak in the sweeping vistas.

The Wine Tasting Experience in Mafra

After the culture, the tour heads to a highly regarded wine cellar near Mafra. This is where history and modern winemaking meet. You’ll meet a local guide and viticulturist who will explain how wines are crafted from the same grapes grown in the vineyards nearby. The cellar tour includes a look at the ancient wine press house — a picturesque step back into traditional Portuguese winemaking.

This part of the tour offers the chance to learn about Portuguese wine techniques, from age-old practices to the latest innovations. Reviewers repeatedly mention the knowledgeable guides like Flavio Oliveira and Luciano, who make the experience both fun and educational. One reviewer appreciated how the guide patiently took photos and shared engaging stories about Pena Palace, making the entire day more memorable.

The wine tasting itself involves six different wines, each paired with local bites and tapas. Expect a good variety that showcases Portugal’s wine diversity, from reds to whites, all made from grapes grown in the region. Many describe the tasting as “well worth it,” and the opportunity to toast with a glass of Portuguese wine is a definite highlight.

The Itinerary in Detail

• Pickup in Lisbon: The tour begins at a central meeting point, allowing for easy access whether you’re staying downtown or nearby.
• Travel time to Sintra: Around 45 minutes in a comfortable coach, with scenic views along the way.
• Sintra exploration: Guided tour of 1 hour 45 minutes, focusing on the most photogenic spots and key points of interest.
• Pena Palace visit: 1.5 hours inside the palace and gardens. Expect to learn about its history and architecture.
• Travel to Mafra: A short 30-minute drive to the winery, giving you time to relax and enjoy the scenery.
• Winery visit and tasting: 1.5 hours immersed in wine history, viewing the ancient wine press house, and sampling six wines.
• Return to Lisbon: The journey back takes about 30 minutes, with an option to be dropped off at the original meeting point or a hotel if you booked the private version.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you love history, beautiful scenery, and trying local wines without the hassle of organizing each component yourself, this tour ticks all those boxes. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge make the experience engaging, and the small group or private options mean you’ll get personalized attention.

Travelers who appreciate a relaxed pace and are willing to start early will find this an ideal way to explore Sintra’s highlights and indulge in Portugal’s rich wine culture in one seamless day. Keep in mind, punctuality is key—any delays could impact your schedule, so arriving on time is crucial.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Value of the Experience

At $114, this tour offers a good balance of sights, education, and tasting. The inclusion of transportation, expert guides, and multiple stops means you won’t need to worry about logistics or navigating on your own. Many reviewers mention the excellent value for money, especially considering the quality of the guides and the wine selection.

The guided tours of Pena Palace and the wine cellar add depth that you might miss exploring solo, and the tasting gives you a deeper appreciation of Portugal’s wine heritage. Plus, the scenic drive between sites allows you to relax and enjoy the landscape, making the most of a short trip.

Final Thoughts

This day trip from Lisbon is ideal for travelers seeking a balanced experience of Portuguese culture, architecture, and wine. The stunning views and architecture of Pena Palace paired with the authentic wine tasting in Mafra make for a memorable outing.

The attentive guidance from knowledgeable guides, combined with the small group setting, ensures your day will be both educational and fun. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting a comprehensive look at Portugal’s best, without the stress of planning every detail.

If you’re after a mix of history, scenic beauty, and excellent wine, this tour is a smart pick. Just be prepared to start on time and enjoy a well-paced, engaging day in Portugal’s enchanting surroundings.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 6.5 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and tasting.

What is included in the price?
Transportation, guided tours of Pena Palace and the wine cellar, six wine tastings with bites and tapas, and visits to the old wine press house are included.

Can I join the tour privately?
Yes, private and small group options are available for a more personalized experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for walking around Pena Palace and the gardens.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, if you select the private option, hotel pickup and drop-off can be arranged.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour may be canceled or rescheduled in case of bad weather, so always check the weather forecast and confirm your booking.

This tour offers a fantastic way to see some of Portugal’s most iconic sights and taste its delicious wines in one carefully curated day. Whether you’re a history buff, a wine lover, or just looking for an easy way to explore beyond Lisbon, it’s a well-rounded experience worth considering.

You can check if your dates are available here: