Lisbon, Queluz Palace & Sintra
-
port
Lisbon, Portugal
-
activityLevel
Moderate Activity
-
excursionType
All
-
wheelchairAccessible
No
-
startingAtPrice
$220
-
minimumAge
Information Not Currently Available
-
duration
Approximately 7½ Hours
-
mealsIncluded
Meals included
"Standing at the entrance to Lisbon harbor, the Monastery of the Hieronymites -- construction of which began in 1502 -- exemplifies Portuguese art at its best. The nearby Tower of Belém, built to commemorate Vasco da Gama's expedition, is a reminder of the great maritime discoveries that laid the foundations of the modern world.
"In the 19th century Sintra became the first center of European Romantic architecture. Ferdinand II turned a ruined monastery into a castle where this new sensitivity was displayed in the use of Gothic, Egyptian, Moorish and Renaissance elements and in the creation of a park blending local and exotic species of trees. Other fine dwellings, built along the same lines in the surrounding serra, created a unique combination of parks and gardens which influenced the development of landscape architecture throughout Europe."
Depart Lisbon and drive to Queluz, location of the Royal residence and known for its 17th- and 18th-century architecture. The town's gardens and façades show a French influence and offer an insight into court life.
The pretty town of Sintra a tasty lunch is served at a local restaurant where you can enjoy the views of Sintra's historical center.
You'll also stop at Cascais. This fashionable seaside resort hosted many exiled royal families during World War II.
Return to Lisbon to visit Jeronimos Monastery -- a masterpiece in the Portuguese Manueline architectural style seen nowhere else in the world. The monastery was founded in 1501 by King Manuel I and is a great monument to the Age of Discovery.
Please note: Modest attire is required; knees, shoulders and midriffs must be covered to visit Jeronimos Monastery. Inside visits are not possible if religious ceremonies are being held. Jeronimos Monastery is closed on Mondays; you will visit the outside only. This option is available to guests who are returning to the ship. Use of an audio headset (included) will enhance your tour experience.