Lisbon in 1 Day for Couples - Meet at Rossio (central Lisbon)
In Collaboration with Odyssey Tours. Updated on February 6, 2026.
A romantic, easy-paced day trip from Lisbon covering Sintra village, the fairytale Pena Palace & gardens, dramatic Cabo da Roca cliffs, the wild sands of Guincho and a relaxed lunch plus stroll in elegant Cascais. Designed for couples: scenic photo stops, quiet viewpoints and one special cliff-top moment at Cabo da Roca.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Odyssey Tours, inspired by the tour Group Tour to Sintra, Pena, Regaleira, Cabo da Roca & Cascais. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Meet at Rossio (central Lisbon)
- Explore Sintra Village & Pena Palace Gardens
- Cliff-top 'edge of Europe' moment at Cabo da Roca
- Wind-swept Guincho beach walk
- Seafood lunch and sunset-friendly stroll in Cascais
Itinerary
Day 1
Full-day guided loop from Lisbon to Sintra and the Cascais coastline. Start at Rossio, head into Sintra for village sights and Pena Palace, then coastal stops at Cabo da Roca and Guincho, finishing with a relaxed lunch and stroll in Cascais before returning to Lisbon.
Meet — Rossio (in front of Rossio Train Station, next to Starbucks)
Gather with your guide and group in front of Rossio Train Station (Estação do Rossio). Please arrive 5–10 minutes early so the group can depart on time.
Tips from local experts:
- Meeting spot is next to the Starbucks at Rossio — a central landmark that’s easy to find; arrive 5–10 minutes early for a relaxed start.
- Carry a light layer (Lisbon mornings in May can be cool) and hold any valuables zipped — short walk to the vehicle is through cobbled streets.
- If you want a quick coffee before departure, the Starbucks and nearby cafés open early; otherwise save your appetite for Cascais seafood later.
Transfer: Lisbon → Sintra (scenic drive)
Comfortable, air-conditioned minivan transfer from central Lisbon to Sintra. Enjoy guided commentary and views along the way.
Tips from local experts:
- Sit on the right-hand side of the vehicle for the best early views of the Serra de Sintra as you approach.
- Use the transfer time to charge your camera/phone — there are many photo opportunities once we arrive.
- If you’re prone to motion sensitivity on winding roads, sit toward the front and look at the horizon; refreshment stops will follow in Sintra.
Explore Sintra Village (Largo Rainha Dona Amélia)
A romantic morning stroll in Sintra’s historic centre: pastel-coloured façades, quaint shops, and a quick look at local pastry shops (travesseiros!).
Tips from local experts:
- Head to a side street for quieter photo backdrops — Praça da República can be busy but the lanes to Igreja de São Martinho feel intimate.
- Try a pastel de nata or travesseiro at a local pastry shop — share one as a sweet couples' moment.
- Cobblestones can be uneven; wear comfortable shoes and be cautious if using heels. There are benches near Largo Rainha Dona Amélia for a short rest.
Transfer: Sintra village → Pena Palace (drive up)
Short scenic drive uphill through forested parkland toward the colourful hilltop Pena Palace and its panoramic terraces.
Tips from local experts:
- Windows will frame the increasing views — sit on the left as you climb for the best palace glimpses.
- If you have tickets included, keep them handy; otherwise prepare to buy exterior-only tickets at the entrance if interiors are sold out.
- Bring a light jacket — the hilltop is windier and cooler than Sintra village even in May.
Visit Pena Palace & Pena Gardens (Palácio Nacional da Pena)
Explore the fairytale palace with its vivid colours, terraces and romantic gardens. Time for photos on the terraces and a stroll through the romantic park.
Tips from local experts:
- Buy interior tickets in advance for the best chance to see palace rooms; otherwise explore the spectacular exteriors and terraces which are very photogenic.
- For intimate photos, head to the terrace near the clock tower — early in the visit it’s less crowded and the light is softer.
- Paths in the gardens can be sloped and partially uneven; comfortable shoes are recommended. Benches in the park make for quiet moments together.
Transfer: Pena → Cabo da Roca (coastal drive)
Drive from the Sintra hills toward the Atlantic coast. The route opens out to dramatic sea views as you descend.
Tips from local experts:
- Sit on the side facing the ocean for cliff glimpses as you near Cabo da Roca.
- Relax on this short transfer and plan your cliff-top moment — bring sunglasses and a windproof layer.
- Keep a small snack handy for energy; there’s limited food at the top of the cliff and lunch is scheduled later in Cascais.
Cabo da Roca — 'Edge of Europe' cliff viewpoint (special moment)
Cliff-top viewpoint facing the Atlantic. A signature romantic stop: share the view and a quiet moment at Europe’s westernmost mainland point.
Tips from local experts:
- This is the day’s 'special moment' — bring a small blanket or light scarf for photos and to sit on the wind-sheltered side.
- The wind can be strong even in May — hold hats/loose scarves and stand a safe distance from the cliff edge.
- For an intimate photo, walk 2–3 minutes left from the main viewpoint to find quieter rock formations with ocean backdrops.
Transfer: Cabo da Roca → Guincho Beach
Short coastal transfer to Guincho, where the Atlantic sets a dramatic, windswept scene ideal for contemplative walks.
Tips from local experts:
- Prepare for sand and wind — a light windproof jacket is essential and shoes you don’t mind getting sandy are useful.
- If you love dramatic photos, step onto the dunes for a wide-angle shot of the surf and cliffs.
- If you prefer to stay dry, the promenade edges offer great sea views while keeping you out of the wind and sand.
Guincho Beach — quick coast walk
A short shoreline walk to feel the Atlantic breeze and watch surfers or just enjoy the rugged beach together.
Tips from local experts:
- Stroll along the promenade for photo-friendly spots with fewer people; Guincho is popular with windsurfers — a dynamic backdrop.
- Avoid walking too far on the dunes if winds strengthen; stick to the marked paths and stay together on slippery sand.
- If you brought a small picnic, this is a good pause — otherwise wait for Cascais for a proper sit-down meal.
Transfer: Guincho → Cascais (coastline drive)
Coastal drive into Cascais with seaside views. Short transfer before lunch in Cascais old town.
Tips from local experts:
- Sit on the sea-facing side of the vehicle if you want uninterrupted ocean views into Cascais.
- Use this short drive to pick where in Cascais to be dropped — some couples prefer the marina or the old town for lunch.
- Keep sunscreen handy — even on cooler days the coastal sun reflects strongly from the water.
Lunch — Mar do Inferno (fresh seafood, seaside views)
Shared seafood lunch at a well-loved local restaurant just outside Cascais centre. Relaxed pace, great for couples who enjoy fresh fish and ocean views.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for a window or terrace table for sea views; request a quieter corner if you'd like a more intimate lunch.
- Try a local fish dish to share (ask the server for today’s catch) and pair with a crisp Vinho Verde.
- Reserve in advance if your group chose the option with included tickets — the restaurant fills up at midday in high season.
Stroll — Cascais Historic Centre (passeio pelo centro histórico)
Post-lunch stroll through Cascais old town: cobbled streets, boutiques, the marina and a gentle seaside atmosphere perfect for couples.
Tips from local experts:
- Walk toward the marina for postcard views and quieter lanes behind the main square for boutique browsing.
- Pop in for a shared gelato or a late espresso at a small café — these make lovely little couples' treats.
- If you’d like a photo shoot, the small streets near Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Assunção have charming, colorful façades and fewer crowds.
Pass Estoril — brief seaside drive-by (Casino Estoril)
A short scenic pass-by of Estoril — famed for its palm-lined esplanades and the historic casino; a quick photo stop if you wish.
Tips from local experts:
- If you enjoy architecture, glance out for the casino’s art-deco façade — a classic background for a vintage-style photo.
- This is a quick stop; if you’d like more time at Estoril’s promenade, let the guide know in advance.
- There’s little shade at some viewpoints in May — wear a hat and sunglasses for a comfortable few minutes outside.
Return transfer: Cascais → Lisbon (Rossio drop-off)
Comfortable return to central Lisbon, arriving back at Rossio where the tour began. A good time to exchange photos and final tips from your guide.
Tips from local experts:
- If you enjoyed the guide, ask for recommendations for an evening rooftop cocktail or a quiet riverside dinner in Lisbon.
- Use the transfer time to review photos and ask your guide for secret photo-edit tips or the best vantage points to return to later.
- Expect to arrive at Rossio with daylight left in May; it’s a lovely opportunity for a short Lisbon riverside walk if you want to extend the evening.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 6 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 8 |
| Total Places | 8 |
| Activities Types | Neighborhood, Transfer, Attraction, Outdoor, Restaurant |
