Does anyone know if we might be able to hire a knowledgeable English speaking guide for a half day to take us walking around Sintra?

MBW

I was there many years ago. The tour of the castle is by guide only. It is fully furnished and very interesting. I took a taxi from the train station so I don't know about the rest of the village.

I don't know if Sintra is big enough to require a guide. You might do it on your own and put your money to something else. When I went we were brought there, given some information about it and set free to be on our own, which was fine by me. But see what other people think. I did enjoy the little village

I managed fine with a guidebook. I think there may be an audio-guide for the Palacio da Pena, but I found the bi-lingual signs and the docents adequate.

"The tour of the castle is by guide only." - no longer the case.

MBW:

As they say in neighboring Espana...<i>no necesario.</i>

Lovely,small town, 3 major sights can be seen on your own. Center is a 10 minute walk from train station. Frequent busses can take you from the center up the hill to Pena Palace, and from there, The Moorish castle is nearby and can be easily reached on a walking trail. In town, the Natonal Palace is in sight from every angle. Save yer €'s.

stu t.

stu

Thanks to everyone for their suggestions.

MBW

I agree, it's small enough so that you can easily tour it on your own. It's a lovely little town, one of my favorites in Europe.