We will be in a two week tour to Lisbon and Spain with Gate 1 Tour. We will have 2 nights (Sept 16 & 17) and 1 day in Lisbon. For the morning of Sept 17 Gate 1 will provide Lisbon City Tour as described below:
Today's tour of Lisbon highlights the variety of heritage and styles that make it one of Europe's most beautiful cities. You begin with a view of the treasured 16th century Belem Tower and the Jeronimos Monastery, the city's most prominent monument, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Afterwards, visit the Cathedral of Lisbon and enjoy the elegant Liberdade Avenue. Take a walk along the winding cobblestone streets to Alfama, the old Fisherman's Quarter, nestled between the grand Castle and the River Tagus.
The afternoon is at leisure. We can either take the optional tour ($50/pp, 6 hours) to Sintra or do more sightsee in Lisbon on our own.
The optional tour to Sintra is described as following:
join the optional tour to quaint Sintra, the “Glorious Eden” of Lord Byron, and ancient summer retreat of the royal court, highlighted by lavish romantic castles and stunning monuments. Visit the Sintra Royal Palace, a 15th-century royal residence, containing one of the largest tile collections in Portugal. Then enjoy some free time in the Village Historical Center before returning to Lisbon.
I am debating whether to take the side trip to Sintra or do more sightseeing in Lisbon. Your input would be greatly appreciated.
If we chose for more sightseeing in Lisbon we are considering more city walk/stroll as listed in RS’s book. Do you have any other suggestions as how to best spend the afternoon in Lisbon?
Thanks very much for your help!