OVERVIEW

The Portuguese Monarchy has an over 700 year history. Many palaces from this epoch are found throughout Portugal; most especially in and around Lisbon. Enjoy an overview of monuments and palaces which are emblematic of the Portuguese monarchy from the medieval palace at Sintra to the opulent 18th century Queluz Palace and the iconic Manueline monuments of Lisbon, the kingdom’s capital.

Your English-speaking driver, at disposal for the excursion’s duration, meets you at the Port of Lisbon arrivals terminal. You’ll travel comfortably in a private, air-conditioned vehicle to your day’s destinations.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The Rococo Queluz Palace, between Lisbon and Sintra, was originally a summer palace; becoming official residence in 1794 during the reconstruction of Lisbon’s Ajuda Palace which burned down. The somewhat subdued façade masks a lavish interior and a tragic history.

After the elaborate style of Queluz, you’ll visit the lovely town of Sintra whose beauty has been exalted by writers and poets alike. At old town’s heart lies the stunning yet simple medieval National Palace of Sintra. This sprawling whitewashed complex, with a more than 1000 year history, displays architectural elements reflecting its Moorish origins.

You’ll end the day tracing royal presence in Lisbon with stops to view significant remnants of the royal presence here which was all but wiped out in the 1755 earthquake.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

• Queluz Palace
• Historic district of Sintra
• Sintra National Palace at town center
• Lisbon photo stops at Jerónimos Monastery, Monument to the Discoveries,
• Praça do Comércio (Commerce Square) & Belém Tower
  

Included: Private tour with English speaking driver

Not included: Admissions