Visit Sintra near Lisbon, Portugal
Just 30 kilometres north-west of Lisbon, Sintra is a jewel of Portuguese heritage. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995, the town is enchanting with its colourful palaces, lush gardens and unique romantic atmosphere. Nestling in the Serra de Sintra, it offers an exceptional natural setting where history meets magic. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a history buff or simply a lover of grandiose landscapes, a visit to Lisbon wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Sintra.
See also the Lisbon guide:
- Weekend in Lisbon: visit Lisbon in 2, 3 or 4 days
- Lisbon’s 10 best markets to discover
- 12 must-see museums in Lisbon
- What to do in Lisbon Top 10 activities + Good tips
- The treasures of Lisbon’s Belém district: practical information
- Top 13 culinary specialities in Lisbon
How to get to Sintra from Lisbon
Getting to Sintra from the Portuguese capital is child’s play. The most practical and economical way is by train, which departs from Rossio station, right in the heart of Lisbon. You can also board at Oriente or Entrecampos stations. The journey takes around 40 minutes and trains run every 20 to 30 minutes. A single ticket costs around €2.40. Once you arrive at Sintra station, you’re just a few minutes’ walk from the historic centre. To explore the various palaces perched on the hills, the 434 tourist bus is very useful, although it can be crowded in high season. If you’re more sporty, you can also walk, but beware of the steep slopes! If you prefer to drive, be aware that parking can be tricky, especially in summer.
1. Pena National Palace
It’s impossible to visit Sintra without admiring the Pena National Palace, a veritable icon of Portuguese romanticism. Perched at the top of the Serra de Sintra, this brightly coloured palace looks like something out of a fairytale. Built in the 19th century on the ruins of a former monastery by Prince Ferdinand of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha, this building boldly blends Gothic, Manueline, Moorish and Renaissance architectural styles. Its yellow and red facades contrast magnificently with the intense green of the surrounding vegetation. Inside, the richly decorated rooms bear witness to the splendour of the Portuguese royal family. Don’t forget to explore the Pena Park that surrounds the palace, a veritable botanical garden with rare species and spectacular views.
Practical info: Open from 9.30 am to 6.30 pm (last admission at 6 pm). Price: around €14 for adults. Accessible by bus 434 from Sintra station. Tickets are very busy, so book online to avoid waiting times (Estrada da Pena, 2710-609 Sintra).
2. La Quinta da Regaleira
Discover one of Sintra’s most mysterious and fascinating sites with Quinta da Regaleira. This estate, built in the early 20th century for millionaire António Augusto Carvalho Monteiro, boasts extravagant neo-Gothic architecture mixed with esoteric symbols. The palace itself is impressive, but it is above all the estate that captivates visitors. Stroll through the themed gardens, explore the mysterious caves and descend into the famous initiatory well. This 27-metre-deep inverted tower, with its spiral staircase, was used for initiation rituals linked to Freemasonry and the Knights Templar. Alchemical and mystical references are dotted throughout the estate, creating a unique and spellbinding atmosphere. Let yourself be guided on your visit to Sintra by the Navaway itinerary, which will reveal all the secrets of this exceptional region.
Practical info: Open from 9.30am to 7pm (opening times vary according to the season). Admission: €15 for adults, €10 for young people and senior citizens. Allow at least 2 to 3 hours for a complete visit (Quinta da Regaleira, 9, 2710-567 Sintra).
3. The Château des Maures
Proudly dominating the region since the 8th century, the Castle of the Moors (Castelo dos Mouros) bears witness to the Muslim occupation of the Iberian Peninsula. This military fortress with its imposing stone walls winds its way along the rocky ridges, offering absolutely spectacular views of Sintra, the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding area. The climb up to the ramparts requires a little effort, but the reward is well worth the effort. As you walk along the preserved wall walk, you will follow in the footsteps of the Moorish soldiers who once guarded this strategic position. The remains of the towers, cisterns and mosque tell the fascinating story of this place steeped in memory. On a clear day, the view stretches as far as Lisbon.
Practical info: Open every day from 9.30 am to 6.30 pm. Fare: around €10 for adults. Accessible by bus 434 (same stop as the Palais de Pena). Good footwear recommended for walking on the ramparts (2710-405 Sintra).
4. Sintra National Palace
In the heart of Sintra’s historic centre, the National Palace stands out for its two imposing white conical chimneys, true symbols of the town. Also known as the Palácio da Vila, this palace was the summer residence of the Portuguese royal family for several centuries, from the 14th to the 19th century. Inside, you will discover a succession of rooms magnificently decorated with typical azulejos, Portuguese tiles with delicate motifs. The Swan Room, with its 27 swans painted on the ceiling, and the Magpie Room, with its 136 magpies holding a scroll in their beaks, are among the most remarkable. Each room tells a story, reflecting the evolution of tastes and styles through the ages.
Practical info: Open from 9.30 am to 6.30 pm (last entry at 6 pm). Price: around €13 for adults. Located right in the city centre, within easy walking distance of the station (Largo Rainha Dona Amélia, 2710-616 Sintra, rated 4.5/5 on Google out of 8,500 reviews).
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To complete your discovery of the Lisbon region, don’t miss the Navaway tour, which lets you explore the Portuguese capital in complete freedom. Thanks to this audio-guided tour, you can explore Lisbon’s most beautiful districts with 24 enriching commentaries that tell the story of the city’s history, anecdotes and secrets. Interactive navigation, fun content and total independence: visit at your own pace while enjoying fascinating explanations. The Navaway app turns your smartphone into a personal guide for an immersive, authentic experience.
5. The Palace of Monserrate
Located slightly away from the centre of Sintra, the Monserrate Palace is well worth a visit. This exotic, romantic 19th-century building is a fascinating blend of Gothic, Indian and Moorish architectural influences. Commissioned by Sir Francis Cook, a wealthy English industrialist, the palace captivates visitors with its delicate sculpted motifs and refined interior decor. But it is above all its botanical gardens that make the place so famous. Covering several hectares, these gardens are home to more than 3,000 plant species from the four corners of the world, organised by geographical zone. You’ll find a Mexican garden, giant ferns, romantic artificial ruins and magnificent fountains. An oasis of greenery and tranquillity that will delight lovers of nature and botany.
Practical info: Open from 9.30 am to 6.30 pm. Price: around €10 for adults. Less crowded than the other palaces, ideal for a peaceful visit. Allow 2 to 3 hours on site (R. Barbosa du Bocage, 2710-405 Sintra).
6. The Convento dos Capuchos
For a totally different experience, head for the Convento dos Capuchos, a 16th-century Franciscan hermitage nestling in the heart of the forest. This austere, uncluttered place stands in stark contrast to the wealth of Sintra’s palaces. Founded in 1560, this convent was home to Franciscan monks who lived in extreme simplicity. The tiny cells, carved out of the rock and covered with cork for insulation, bear witness to their Spartan living conditions. As you wander through the narrow corridors and small chapels, you’ll sense the atmosphere of contemplation and devotion that reigned here. The surrounding woodland adds to the serenity of the site, offering a true interlude of calm.
Practical info: Open from 9.30 am to 6 pm. Fare: around €7. Located around 8 km from the centre of Sintra, accessible by car or taxi (2710-405 Sintra).
Organising your visit to Sintra
How long will it take to visit Sintra?
Ideally, you should allow a full day to explore Sintra’s main sites. The palaces are scattered across the hills, so getting around takes time. If you want to visit several monuments in depth and soak up the atmosphere of the place, two days will not be too much. One day may be enough to see the essentials: the Palacio de Pena, the Quinta da Regaleira and the historic centre. But to include the Castle of the Moors, the Palace of Monserrate and the Convento dos Capuchos, a two-day stay is essential. Don’t forget that tourist numbers can make your waiting time considerably longer, especially in high season.
Best time to visit Sintra
The best time to visit Sintra is in spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October). During these months, temperatures are pleasant, the gardens are in bloom and tourist numbers remain reasonable. Summer, from June to August, attracts large crowds and temperatures can rise, making visits less comfortable. Winter, from November to February, offers the advantage of less crowded sites, but the weather can be rainy and cool. Mist sometimes covers the hills, creating a mysterious atmosphere that may appeal to romantics, but spoils the views. Whichever season you choose, remember to arrive early in the morning to avoid groups of tourists and make the most of the sites.
Getting around Sintra
Once you’re here, there are several options for getting around. The 434 tourist bus serves the main sites (Pena Palace, Château des Maures) from the station and the city centre. A day pass costs around €6.90 and allows unlimited boarding and alighting. Beware, however, that these buses can be very crowded in high season. Tuk-tuks are a pleasant but more expensive alternative. If you’re more sporty, you can still walk: allow around 45 minutes’ ascent from the centre to reach the Palacio de Pena, with its sometimes steep slopes. Taxis and VTC services are also available. If you hire a car, be aware that parking near the monuments is limited and subject to a charge. For a complete experience of the area, take the Navaway audio tour during your stay in Lisbon.
Where to eat in Sintra
After a morning strolling through the palaces and gardens of Sintra, a gourmet break is in order. The historic centre is full of charming restaurants and cafés. For a taste of traditional Portuguese cuisine, head for Tascantiga (R. Dr. Alfredo Costa, 4, 2710-524 Sintra, rated 4.4/5 on Google out of 1359 reviews), a popular address for locals offering excellent tapas and typical dishes in a friendly atmosphere. Nau Palatina (Calçada de São Pedro, 18, 2710-553 Sintra, rated 4.8/5 on Google out of 792 reviews) has an elegant setting and excellent food. For a quick but delicious lunch, Bacalhau na Vila (R. Consig. Pedroso, 2, 2710-550 Sintra, rated 4.7/5 on Google out of 1579 reviews) delights with its cod specialities. Don’t leave Sintra without trying the famous queijadas de Sintra, small fresh cheese tarts, and travesseiros, flaky pastries filled with almond and egg cream, available at the famous Casa Piriquita since 1862.
Where to sleep in Sintra
If you decide to spend a night or two in Sintra to take full advantage of the magical atmosphere, there are several accommodation options available. For a charming stay, opt for one of the charming quintas (country houses) transformed into charming hotels, which will immerse you in the romantic atmosphere of Sintra. The historic centre also offers family-run pensions and authentic guest houses. Those looking for comfort will appreciate the more modern hotels on the outskirts. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during the summer months and at weekends. Staying overnight offers the advantage of discovering Sintra early in the morning or in the evening, when the day-trippers have left, revealing the town’s truly peaceful character.
Discover Sintra’s surroundings
1. Cabo da Roca
Around 18 kilometres west of Sintra lies Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe. This spectacular cape offers breathtaking cliffs plunging into the Atlantic Ocean, creating landscapes of wild and dramatic beauty. On a clear day, the view embraces the immensity of the ocean as far as the eye can see. An emblematic lighthouse marks this symbolic spot where, as the Portuguese poet Luís de Camões wrote, “the land ends and the sea begins”. The area can be windy, so remember to bring a jacket. Accessible by car or bus from Sintra, this is an unmissable excursion for lovers of nature and wide open spaces.
2. Azenhas do Mar
This picturesque fishing village, clinging to the side of a cliff, seems to defy the laws of gravity. The white houses of Azenhas do Mar huddle together, creating an irresistible postcard landscape. Below, a small beach nestled between the rocks and a natural seawater pool attract bathers in summer. Several restaurants and terraced cafés offer breathtaking views of the ocean. The place is particularly photogenic at sunset, when the last rays illuminate the white facades. Located around 15 kilometres from Sintra, this village is well worth a visit for its authentic charm.
3. Cascais and Estoril
On the way back to Lisbon, take the opportunity to stop off at Cascais and Estoril, two elegant seaside resorts on the Atlantic coast. Cascais, a former fishing town that became a popular destination for the European aristocracy, retains an undeniable charm with its historic cobbled centre, lively marina and beautiful beaches. The seafront promenade links Cascais to Estoril, famous for its casino, the largest in Europe, and its manicured gardens. These towns offer a more relaxed atmosphere than Sintra, perfect for a relaxing end to the day with a stroll along the seafront or a dinner of fresh fish and seafood in one of the many restaurants.
Practical tips for visiting Sintra
A few recommendations to make the most of your visit: wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking, often on cobblestones and sloping paths. Pack water and snacks, especially if you’re visiting in summer. Queues at the monuments can be long: buy your tickets online in advance to save time. Start your day early, ideally arriving by the first train from Lisbon, so you can enjoy the sites before the tourist rush. If you are visiting several monuments, ask about combined passes, which can save you money. Don’t forget a jacket or jumper, even in summer, as the climate in Sintra can be cooler and wetter than in Lisbon due to the altitude and dense vegetation. Finally, take the time to wander around the historic centre, getting lost in the narrow streets and savouring the unique atmosphere of this timeless town.
In conclusion, a visit to Sintra is a must during your stay in Lisbon. This enchanting town, with its romantic palaces, lush gardens and exceptional heritage, offers a complete change of scenery just a few kilometres from the Portuguese capital. Whether you devote a day or a whole weekend to exploring it, Sintra will leave you with unforgettable memories. To complete your exploration of the region, don’t hesitate to follow the Navaway audio tour, which will accompany you as you discover Lisbon and its hidden treasures. Prepare to be amazed by this magical destination where history, art and nature come together in perfect harmony.
FAQ
Can Sintra be visited in a day from Lisbon?
Yes, you can visit Sintra in a day from Lisbon. The train journey takes around 40 minutes. For the best visit, leave early in the morning and concentrate on 2 or 3 major sites, such as the Pena Palace, the Quinta da Regaleira and the historic centre. However, if you want to explore more of the surrounding area and take full advantage of the atmosphere, two days are recommended.
How much does it cost to visit Sintra’s main monuments?
Prices vary according to the monument: around €14 for Pena Palace, €15 for Quinta da Regaleira, €10 for the Moorish Castle, €13 for Sintra National Palace and €10 for Monserrate Palace. Combined tickets are available on the official Parques de Sintra website, allowing you to save money if you visit several sites. Online bookings are strongly recommended to avoid queues.
What’s the best way to get around Sintra?
The 434 tourist bus is the most practical option for getting to the main sites from the station or the city centre. A day pass costs around €6.90. However, beware of queues in high season. Tuk-tuks offer a more flexible but more expensive alternative. Walking is possible but demanding because of the slopes. If possible, avoid the car, as parking is limited and charged for near the monuments.
What is Sintra’s culinary speciality?
Sintra is famous for its traditional sweets, including queijadas de Sintra, small tarts with fromage frais and cinnamon, and travesseiros, flaky pastries filled with almond and egg cream. These specialities are available in pastry shops in the historic centre, the most emblematic of which is Casa Piriquita, founded in 1862. Don’t leave without trying them!
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Yes, it is highly recommended that you book your tickets online in advance, especially for the Palais de Pena and the Quinta da Regaleira, which are the most visited sites. This will enable you to avoid long queues, particularly in high season (June to September) and at weekends. Time slots are sometimes limited, so booking in advance will guarantee you access at the time you want.
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