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Lisbon, Portugal April 2023 Tour
Queluz Palace, Sintra & Cascais —5 hours.
Here is the description of the tour I will take from Lisbon today:
Discover memorable highlights of Portugal including the Royal Palace at Queluz, Sintra the summer residence of kings and the resort town of Cascais. As you depart Lisbon, enjoy the panorama of the River Tagus with views of the Monument of Discoveries, Jeronimos Monastery and the Tower of Belem.
Queluz Palace
Drive to the Portuguese Royal Palace at Queluz. The simple exterior belies the lavishness within of the Throne Room and the Hall of Ambassadors. The sculpted gardens, with rows of hedges, artistically carved shrubs and huge magnolia trees are impressive. The extravagant, almost whimsical, architecture of Queluz symbolizes its role as a haven for those without responsibility, as well as the carefree and flamboyant lives led by its occupants, during its early days.
The palace is one of the last great Rococo buildings to be designed in Europe. The palace was conceived as a summer retreat for King José I's brother, Pedro of Braganza, later to become husband and king jure uxoris (as King Pedro III) to his own niece, Queen Maria I.
Despite being far smaller, the palace is often referred to as the "Portuguese Versailles." From 1826, the palace slowly fell from favour with the Portuguese sovereigns. In 1908, it became the property of the state.
Following a serious fire in 1934, which gutted one-third of the interior, the palace was extensively restored, and today is open to the public as a major tourist attraction.
Sintra
You'll visit Sintra, considered one of the most beautiful villages in Portugal. The Royal Palace is the dominant architectural feature, located right in the center of town. You'll enjoy some free time here to stroll the charming narrow streets lined with bakeries, craft shops and small boutiques.
Cascais
Continue to the resort town of Cascais, it was developed during the late 19th century around a charming town. Enjoy some free time in the historical center with its narrow cobble streets and interesting architecture.
Price: $89 minus my discount==$32 price for me.
