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15 Best Sintra Tours

Located in the Greater Lisbon area along the Portuguese River, Sintra is a city of about 400,000 residents that’s particularly well-known for its abundant castles and palaces.

For those staying in Lisbon looking for a convenient day trip option, Sintra is usually no more than an hour away, depending on traffic, which is often bumper to bumper during rush hour and other peak travel times.

Sintra is one of the country’s architectural wonders and is also known for its friendly people, vibrant food and art scenes, and stunning natural beauty.

Below are 15 of the best tours of Sintra that previous visitors have ranked highly.

1. Sintra Walking Tour with Palace, Castle, and Old Town Visit

After meeting their guide at a central location and getting an overview of the day’s events, guests of this Sintra walking tour will set out to visit many of the city’s most iconic attractions.

Especially for those who’ve never been, the city is an alluring mix of historical and contemporary sites. Depending on the interests of guests, tour stops can be personalized to ensure maximum value.

Of course, the tour’s centerpieces are palaces, castles, and the Old Town area, but there are also natural and cultural attractions.

Tours last four hours, start mid-morning and have a relatively casual pace.

2. 3 ½-Hour Rock Climbing Experience

For those who’ve never tried it, rock climbing is among the most exhilarating full-body workouts you’re ever likely to have.

Eager climbers will meet their guide either in the morning or the afternoon, after which they’ll get an intro to rock climbing, all the gear they’ll need, and a safety briefing before heading into nature to put their newfound mountaineering skills to the test.

Within sight of the Moorish Castle, Palacio da Pena, and the majestic Sintra Mountains, participants will experience a unique blend of exercise, nature, and history that their tour bus bound counterparts can only dream of.

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3. Sintra Heritage Hike

Sintra-Cascais Natural Park is just a short drive from the city center. It is crisscrossed with a network of hiking trails that are appropriate for a wide range of ages and levels of physical activity.

On this full-day tour, nature-loving hikers will leave the city’s hustle and bustle in the rearview mirror and delve into an idyllic setting characterized by towering cliffs, rocky coastlines, otherworldly sand dunes, and quiet forests dotted with lakes and streams.

You’ll get up close and personal with the 8th century Moorish Castle and Pena Palace, which looks like it leaped from the pages of a fairytale.

4. Portuguese Beaches and Colares Private Jeep Tour

Sintra’s coastal location gives lovers of sun, sand, and surf easy access to many of the country’s most amazing beaches.

This seven-hour private beach and Jeep tour includes morning pick-up at your accommodation and a brief meet and greet with your guide before the adventure gets underway.

After boarding their trusty 4×4 Jeep, guests will set out to explore not only several beaches and stretches of undisturbed coastline but the region’s mountainous interior as well.

Make sure to charge your camera because the views will be nothing short of breathtaking; you’ll get up close to Monserrate Palace, Pena Palace, and the Moorish Castle.

5. A Taste of Pena Palace Food Tour

Whether you’re staying in Sintra, Lisbon, Ericeira, or Cascais, this tour has you covered. It includes either hotel pick-up or a convenient meeting point at an easy to reach central location.

Once in Sintra, guests will head to Pena Palace.

It’s the perfect place to start, as it’s considered one of the most impressive and historically significant attractions in the entire country.

Guests will learn about its history and take in its impressive architecture before heading off to experience other sites and sample some of the country’s most flavorful cuisine.

Plan on enjoying everything from Portuguese coffee and fresh pastries to port wine and queijadas.

6. Pena Palace, Cascais, and Natural Park Day Tour

Tours that offer multiple options are popular with travelers who prefer to focus their energies on the attractions that interest them the most.

On this six-hour morning tour, guests can opt to explore a number of the city’s most prominent symbols, like the Moorish Castle, the National Palace, or the Convent of the Capuchos before heading into the hinterlands.

The Sintra Natural Park offers a variety of scenic gems that include impressive boulder fields, sweeping ocean views from the continent’s westernmost location, and the rugged landscape of Cabo da Roca.

Tours begin and end in Sintra and include a relaxing lunch in a traditional restaurant.

7. The Inquisition’s Hand Private Walking Tour at Night

The Inquisition was a particularly dark time in the history of Spain, and according to historians, thousands of residents lost their lives in purges designed to uphold the country’s Catholic traditions.

Thankfully, those days are long gone, but there are a number of attractions in Sintra that are tied to events from the 15th century.

This private night walking tour begins in Sintra’s historic center and includes the services of a local guide-historian, who’ll take guests to relatively obscure corners of the city and regale them with fascinating tales of life back then.

Highlights include the Pena, Royal, and Seteais palaces.

8. All Monuments and Cabo da Roca Self-Drive Tour

Regardless of whether you’ve got just a few hours or a whole day to spare, this self-drive tour from Sintra would be a great way to see the Portuguese countryside at your own speed.

Before the tour begins, guests can plan their route and the things that they want to see, so when they get their electric car, they can set out without wasting valuable time.

From historic villages and impressive monuments to castles, palaces, and large tracts of undeveloped coastline along Cabo da Roca, there are options for participants of nearly all stripes.

Tours meet at a central location and include an overview of local driving laws and a tutorial on how to operate their e-car.

9. Sintra Half-Day Trekking Tour

There’s definitely no shortage of activity options in and around Sintra for those who value physical exertion as much as they do sightseeing and cultural immersion.

This half-day trekking tour begins at the National Palace, where guests will rendezvous with their guide and get an overview of the day’s events.

After a casual walk around the park, trekkers will pass several key attractions, like the Palacio da Pena, Sintra Castle, and the National Palace.

Along the way, you’ll benefit from your guide’s interesting insights and have ample time to take photos, ask questions, and relax at a café with a traditional pastry and cup of coffee.

10. Private Half Day-Tour of Key Highlights

The stretch of coastline between Sintra and Cascais is one of the most scenic areas on the coast and features an impressive array of historic attractions and amazing views of rivers, the ocean, and the cliffs just inland.

Guincho Beach is popular with wind, kite, and body surfers. It is just a hop, skip, and a jump from Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, where the bulk of the tour will take place.

Along with their guide, guests will visit palaces, castles, and a number of vista points, as well as sample traditional Portuguese food in a quaint village.

Tours can begin and end in either Sintra or Lisbon and include round-trip transportation.

11. Sintra Full-Day Road Bike Tour

The hills and winding roads leading out of Sintra along the coast are perfect for bikers intent on seeing things from a street-level perspective.

After meeting their guide at the train station in central Sintra, energetic bikers will head toward Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, where they’ll get up close and personal with Pena Palace, the Moorish Castle, and some of the most stunning scenery in the region.

Tours include a nice mix of hilly and flat terrain, picturesque villages, undeveloped natural areas, and a visit to Cape Roca—the westernmost tip of the European continent.

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12. Guided Sightseeing Tour by Tuk-Tuk

Sintra’s designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site means that lovers of history and culture can spend days exploring and never run out of new attractions to see.

Though walking, biking, and bus tours are plentiful, many guests agree that seeing the city by tuk-tuk is definitely the way to go.

Tours meet at a convenient central location and include stops at many of Sintra’s most impressive historic sites that include castles and palaces featuring Egyptian, Moorish, and Renaissance architectural influences.

Two-hour tuk-tuk tours include the services of a local guide and are available in multiple start times and four languages.

13. Legends and Medieval Stories Private Walking Tour

Not every tour of Sintra includes the services of a guide who’s also a historian; that’s exactly what makes this legends and medieval stories private walking excursion such great value.

Starting in the city’s historic center, participants will set out to explore Sintra’s history and culture while hearing interesting and obscure tales of intrigue, war, corruption, and long-standing family feuds from their chaperone.

Sintra Castle is one of the tour’s most impressive and historically significant highlights. Those who choose to trek to the top will have impressive panoramic views of the city and countryside far below.

14. 2-Hour Private Surf Lesson at Praia Grande

For those who’ve never climbed onto a board and hit the waves, learning to surf may seem a bit intimidating.

Though it’s not something that can be mastered in just a few hours, this private surf lesson experience offers participants of most ages and levels of physical ability the chance to get up to speed relatively quickly.

Everyone will get a board and wetsuit and be paired with an experienced and patient instructor, who’ll give them an overview of basic safety and surfing techniques before taking to the water.

Tours meet at a convenient location, take place at Praia Grande, and are laid back and stress-free.

15. Sintra Life and Death at the Capuchos Convent Guided Tour

For those who prefer to sleep in and spend the morning relaxing before taking in Sintra’s sites, this early afternoon guided tour of the Capuchos Convent would be a great fit.

Located in the Sintra Mountains, the convent is steeped in history, legend, and lore, and many guests are surprised to learn that it was far from an idyllic setting where dedicated monks prayed, mediated, and worked for the good of the common man.

The convent’s history stretches back centuries, and the tour features both in and outdoor portions.

Tours last about five hours in total, three of which will be spent on-site before guests are returned to the original starting point in town.

15 Best Sintra Tours:

• Sintra Walking Tour with Palace, Castle, and Old Town Visit
• 3 ½-Hour Rock Climbing Experience
• Sintra Heritage Hike
• Portuguese Beaches and Colares Private Jeep Tour
• A Taste of Pena Palace Food Tour
• Pena Palace, Cascais, and Natural Park Day Tour
• The Inquisition's Hand Private Walking Tour at Night
• All Monuments and Cabo da Roca Self-Drive Tour
• Sintra Half-Day Trekking Tour
• Private Half Day-Tour of Key Highlights
• Sintra Full-Day Road Bike Tour
• Guided Sightseeing Tour by Tuk-Tuk
• Legends and Medieval Stories Private Walking Tour
• 2-Hour Private Surf Lesson at Praia Grande
• Sintra Life and Death at the Capuchos Convent Guided Tour

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Explore the Enchanting Castles of Sintra: A One-Day Self-Guided Tour

Sintra is one of those destinations which seems too magical to believe it’s real. It’s a charming town full of fairytale castles, historic battlements and a rich tapestry of cutesy stores and gourmet cafes. There is much to do here, but many only have one day to spend. I remember when I was researching day trips to Sintra from Lisbon, I felt overwhelmed by the choices and options and didn’t know how much time I would need or how many things I could fit into my one day. After finally deciding on what we wanted to see and working out the kinks for myself on our trip out there, I’ve compiled what I think is the best itinerary for your day trip to Sintra.

Sintra Castles Itinerary

This itinerary features all the great sights, some time to relax, the best ways to avoid the crowds (as much as possible) and have fun exploring along the way! The itinerary takes us first to  Pena Palace , then through the lush palace gardens, which lead us up to the ruins of the medieval  Moorish castle . After touring these ancient stone walls, we head to the “millionaires manor,” the  Quinta da Regaleira . Once thoroughly mindblown by these fantastical castles, it’s time to wander through the old town of Sintra, where we’ll stop for dinner and dessert before heading back to Lisbon. The blog post is broken up into each section of the itinerary, so if you want to skip to a specific portion, there are links below.

How to Get to Sintra

Sintra is easily accessible from Lisbon by trains leaving from  Rossio station . The trip requires no transfers and takes around 40 minutes. The round-trip journey costs just 4.50€, making it one of the most cost-efficient day trips. While trains are out to Sintra almost every 40 minutes, I highly recommend getting the train before 8 am. The train schedule changes slightly throughout the year, so I didn’t want to give you an exact time but leaving before 8 am means you’ll arrive before 9 am giving yourself plenty of time to get to your first destination with some time to spare before it opens.

Sintra seems to explode with tourist buses as the morning wears on, so early really pays off. Any chance of being tired is worth it for the experience of arriving at Pena Palace without having to wait in huge lines and fight the enormous crowds to see what’s around you. Also, have a metro card loaded with funds to tap on and off the train or buy your train tickets in advance. Even super early in the morning, there was a lineup at the ticket counter. We were happy to have our pre-loaded metro cards, which meant we could just tap right on them, ensuring we made it onto the train in time. It was surprising how critical those few minutes were in the outcome of our day.

Purchasing your tickets in advance for  Pena Palace  and the  Moorish castle  is recommended. Adult tickets to  Pena Palace  are 14,00€ for exterior and interior tours or 7.50€ for the park and exterior of the palace only. The  Moorish Castle  costs 7.60€, but you’ll save 5% when you buy online. By taking care of this step in advance, you’ll save on time upon arrival and booking online also gets you 5% off!

Tickets are valid for the entire year, so even if you buy them and plan on visiting one day, which gets rained out, you can easily change things around without being beholden to ticket dates and times. You can also purchase them on your phone and show the e-ticket, no need to print out the physical document. The  Quinta da Regaleira  ticket line is significantly less busy, and you can buy those tickets at the gate. Since it’s the last destination of the day, it’s nice to leave it as an option in case you’re too tired or decide to spend more time elsewhere. Tickets into  Quinta da Regaleira  costs 8€.

Admission Options for Pena Palace

There are two options for  Pena Palace admission.  One is to tour the palace’s exterior and royal gardens. The other option will get you entry into the interior of the castle. If you are confident you’ll arrive early and are keen on seeing the rooms inside, go ahead and buy that ticket. But the lineup to get inside can get insanely long. They need to control the number of people who enter the buildings (something which isn’t monitored outside), so this often results in lengthy queues.

We were there as close to the opening as possible, and even we had to wait about 20 minutes to get inside. When we left, the line looked to be almost 2 hours long. While I thoroughly enjoyed touring the interior, there is no way it’s worth 2+ hours of waiting in line. If you think you can miss the interior, the gardens, and the exterior ticket is an excellent option since I think the best parts of the castle are the exterior anyway. It will save you a few euros and potentially a lot of time. If you did purchase a ticket for the interior tour but the lineup to get inside is gigantic, I would advise coming back right before closing when the crowds have cleared out.

When to Visit Sintra

Sintra is always busy. Yes, the winter will most likely be the least busy, but it’s also chilly and can be a bit grey. Since most of the things to see are outside, it’s not always the most comfortable time to explore. The height of the summer holidays is equally as miserable but instead because of the intense heat and crowds. Springtime is the happy medium of pleasant weather and medium crowds. Monday-Thursday is the best chance you’ll see a small group reduction.

Avoid holidays when possible, as these bring in Portuguese tourists. As mentioned before, the earlier in the morning you arrive, the better chance you’ll have at beating the bus tours, which are the most significant crowd control issue. Always the most comfortable time to explore.

Pena Palace

Pena Palace is open all year round except December 25th and January 1st. During the Summer ( March to October ), the palace is open from  9:45 am until 7:00 pm  (last entry 6:15), and the park is open from  9:30 am until 8:00 pm  (last entry 7:00 pm). In the Winter ( October to March ), the palace & park are open from  10:00 am until 6:00 pm.

Moorish Castle

The Moorish Castle is open all year round except December 25th and January 1st. Last entry 1 hour before closing time. In the Summer ( March to October ), the hours are  9:30 am until 8:00 pm , and in the Winter ( October to March ), the hours are  10:00 am until 6:00pm.

Quinta da Regaleira

Quinta da Regaleira is open all year round except for December 24th and 25th, and January 1st. On December 31st, the opening hours are limited. During the Summer ( April to September ), the hours are  9:30 am to 7:00 pm , and in the Winter ( October to March ), they are  9:30 am to 6:00 pm.

Arrival in Sintra

There are two (well, three) options for getting around in Sintra. The first is to take the public buses, primarily  bus #434 , which services most of the tourist attractions you’ll be visiting in Sintra. This bus tends to have big lines up at the train stop since everyone getting on needs to purchase their day ticket, which slows things down. But once you have your pass, it’s super easy to jump on and off throughout the day. Tickets for this bus cost 5€ for a 24-hour pass.

Ubering to the Palace

The second option is jumping in an  Uber . Ubers are a great way to get around Sintra but be warned that because some of the streets are one-way, up a long and winding hill, some drivers might take a while to get to you or might cancel frequently. The Uber ride from the train station to Pena Palace is around 6€ depending on the time of day and the weather. If you’re travelling with 3 or 4 people, Ubers can save you money compared to the bus pass. You don’t need to use transportation more than twice in this itinerary. If you haven’t used Uber before,  download the app  and use my referral code,  rds9f , to get $5 off your first ride!

Walking Option

The third option is to walk. Walking from the train station to Pena Palace is a long journey, but if you’re keen on hiking, this is a great opportunity. Just leave yourself some extra time to hike up to the castle and still arrive at the gates at 9:30 am. Walking to and from the other points in our tour is a great way to save time and see some beautiful things along the way. While some of this tour will be on foot, it’s been tested with people of all fitness levels and ages, so there is no need to worry. If you feel like you need to take a break, remember that taking a seat, literally anywhere in Sintra, will always result in one of the most spectacular views you can get anywhere in the world.

Pena Palace  opens at 9:30 am. Even before this, the crowds lined up outside the gates to get inside this magnificent dwelling. Looking at this sumptuous and over-the-top architectural masterpiece, it’s hard to imagine that this site was once where a very modest monastery once stood.

History of Pena Palace

The Hieronymite monastery was built in 1503 in honour of the Virgin Mary, who is said to have appeared at the top of the mountain in a vision. After falling to ruins over the years due to religious upheavals,  King Ferdinand II,  who had been in love with this spot since he was a child, decided to buy the buildings and the surrounding lands. Construction of the new royal estate began in 1838.

Ferdinand was obsessed with romanticism in art and architecture. He wanted his contemporary summer house to feel like something out of a storybook. Oddly enough, the palace’s construction was taken on by a mining engineer,  Wilhelm Ludwig von Eschwege . Perhaps this was because the Prince and his wife wanted their full say in the castle’s design. Yet they needed Eschwege’s planning prowess to help them achieve the look of a castle sprung forth from the rocks. There really is no one style to be found here. Instead, it’s a patchwork quilt of influences and themes. Ferdinand wanted to include Medieval and Islamic elements and Neo-Renaissance, Neo-Gothic, and Neo-Manueline. The Manueline architecture was the most iconic style in Portugal at the time. It was the millennial pink of its time.

Entrance to the Palace

While the entry gates are just off the roadside, the palace is a fair bit uphill from the main entrance. There is a mini-bus which runs up to the top, but it costs 3€ and more than the money, the line you need to wait in to get onto the bus is a huge inconvenience. Although a little long, the walk-up is actually quite enjoyable. If you have mobility issues, just take it slow and spend the extra time resting between spurts admiring all the beautiful flora and fauna in the garden.

At the top of the hill, the golden yellow walls, blue tile and red-painted exterior of the palace begin to emerge from the trees. Seeing this palace in real life is nothing like seeing the pictures. I really don’t think they can do it justice. Walking up those cobblestone steps makes you feel like you’re walking into a fantasy.

Door of Alhambra

The entryway into the castle is called the  Door of Alhambra . It was inspired by the Alhambra Door of Justice in Granada, Spain. The doorway is covered in brightly painted tiles and decorated with various elegant leaves. Ferdinand wanted this gateway to be where his visitors left the real world behind and stepped into his dream world.

Open passing through the archway, we step into the ‘ Coach Yard .’ This was as far as horses and carriages could come, and guests would make their way to the palace on foot. Standing here, we can look up at the ‘ Monumental Gateway .’ The gateway’s design is a blend of architectural elements found all over Lisbon and which the Prince wanted to see incorporated into his palace.

The facade is covered in diamond-shaped stones, referencing the  Casa dos Bicos  in Alfama. On either side of the top of the gateway, we have arched domes, completed with rope-like decoration; the same was on the famed  Tower of Belem . The exterior is finished in a series of round balls reminiscent of the  Cunhal das Bolas  in Barrio Alto. In the centre of the arch, on the very top, is a pair of crossed swords atop a knight’s helmet, with a plume of lush feathers springing out of the top.

Upper Courtyard

Step through the archway and make your way around the swirling passageway to the upper courtyard. It’s here you’ll finally have the chance to study the tiles which make up the exterior hue of this building. Tiles, or  Azulejos  as they are called in Portuguese, have a strong history in Portugal, dating back to the 13th century. The Moors brought them here, who invaded much of Spain and Portugal in the 1200s. The word azulejo in Arabic means “ small polished stone .” In Islam, they believed in  aniconism , the avoidance of images of sentient beings in art. As such, geometric shapes became the most popular form of decor. As such, most of the tiles brought with them from Islam continue this tradition. The geometric and natural forms are striking, and their colours haven’t faded significantly over the years.

The Triton Portico

The Triton Portico  is one of the most impressive elements of Pena Palace. Triton is meant to serve as an allegorical of the world’s creation. The facade is divided into two factions, the aquatic world below and the terrestrial world above. They are separated by Triton, a monster half man and half fish but a part of both worlds. Bits of corals surround Triton’s feet; above him, you can see the carved grape vines and leaves blossoming wildly. The Portuguese were a seafaring nation, and aquatic symbolism was always an important aspect of their artistic culture.

Interior Tour of Pena Palace

After studying the first courtyard, you can visit the interior if you buy a ticket. This part of the tour often gets very crowded, and the line can get long, so best to do it right away when the line is shorter. The palace’s interiors are located inside the old Hieronymite convent. As such, the layout follows the design of the former convent exactly. As you enter, you’ll step right into the open cloisters. Look up and see how the open-air hallways continue on both palace floors. This place is covered in azulejos, and ghastly faces stare down at you, carved in the gargoyles above.

Dining Room

The dining room is one of the most impressive rooms on the first floor. The dining room has the most remarkable ceilings made of intricate ribbed vaults and lined with tiles. The table is set like they’re still awaiting their visitors. Each piece of furniture was made for this exact space, the images of Portuguese animals of the forest carved into the backs of the chairs.

Plaster and paint were used to create illusions throughout the interior. This technique is called ‘ Trompe-l’ œil ,’ French for “to deceive the eye.” Objects in three dimensions are here created in a two-dimensional forced perspective. In King Carlos’ studio, we find a painting of Nymphs and Satyrs playing in the Park of Pena, which is believed to have been painted by the King himself.

Interior Ornamentation

Stucco was used to decorate the ceilings of the interior, some designed in the shapes of pine cones, leaves and branches. In other rooms, we find the ceilings patterned with Islamic designs in the stucco. Walking from room to room, you feel like you’re entering another world.

One of my favourite parts of touring the interior was all the personal touches, decorations, knickknacks and treasures. The little things which make a house, a home. They were those fascinating treasures that made the castle feel like someone really lived there.

Upstairs, the  Noble Hall  is one of the most impressive spaces. Compared to the relatively small sizes of the bedrooms, this reception hall was where the King took advantage of space. It was here where large parties were thrown, and the who’s who of Lisbon’s high society would come during the summer. The Noble Hall was inspired by the Ottoman Court. Iron replicas of Turkish kings are on either end of the room; they hold huge golden torches. Comfortable red leather sofas on either side of the hall were designed with mirrored canopied behind them to make the room appear much larger. It was also an excellent way for the elite to spy on those around them!

The last room you’ll see is the old kitchen, a real hit with chefs and foodies. Here are all the original kitchen utensils, pots and pans and other antique items found in the antiquated Portuguese kitchens. The kitchen felt enormous when the rooms were all rather small, but it must have taken an army to feed the tremendous parties which were no doubt held here.

Arches Yard

After exiting the interior, you have the chance to now tour the opposite side of the outside of the palace. Walk underneath Triton’s arch out to the  Arches Yard . This is where you’ll find the beautiful golden-yellow Moorish arches, which create a window onto the village of Sintra and across the countryside below.

There is nothing to compare this view to; it seems to go on and on forever on a clear day. From atop this peak, you can spy on all the rich estates below, one of which is actually owned by Madonna, the queen of pop herself! Sintra is still where the rich and famous come to escape the city and live in some of the most lavish properties in the world.

Convent of the Order of Christ

Take the chance to turn your eyes away from the incredible view and look toward one of the ornate windows on the main facade. This piece was inspired by the chapter house window in the  Convent of the Order of Christ  in Tomar. The window is surrounded by alchemical symbols, some of which seem to have a mystical aura. Much of Sintra’s more obscure lore lies in its prominence as a Masonic hub. The Convent of the Order of Christ was a 12th-century stronghold for the Knights Templar. Once its order was disbanded, it is said that the Masonic Temple was formed to continue its mission. It is rumoured that King Ferdinand was himself a grand master of the Masonic Order and, as such, influenced much of Sintra’s history as a Masonic centre of power.

Standing guard over the Arches Yard is the sizeable red clock tower atop the old monastery chapel. The chapel’s steeple is embellished with white and emerald green tiles, which beautifully contrast the red and yellow walls and the blue (or grey, in our case) sky.

The chapel remains unchanged from its 16th-century design. 22 monks would come to pray here during their time at the monastery. The walls are entirely covered in green and white polychrome tiles, which still shine inside the darkened chapel. In a small alcove are the ornate alabaster and black marble altar made by  Nicolau de Chanterene  in 1532. The expressions he managed to carve out of the solid marble defy earthly conventions making it feel all the more holy.

Opposite the altar is one of the few remaining original stained glass windows from the monastery. The coloured used within this design is so striking, and it’s hard to believe this piece is a few hundred years old. I loved how quiet it was inside the church; most people skipped it as they rushed in those group tours. But I was glad to have stopped inside as it was a wonderful moment to pause and reflect on the beauty around me.

The Wall Walk is just down the stairs from the chapel, a small passage leading you around the back of the palace. While the narrow walkway looks over a steep hillside, the brave will be rewarded with one of the most incredible views across Sintra. Standing on this side of the palace, you can see the Moorish Castle on the other side of the forest.

After touring the castle, the cafe on the terrace is a great spot to grab lunch. Although the restaurant here is rather expensive, the cafe is surprisingly cheap, with a selection of delicious Portuguese pastries, sandwiches and more. If you brought your lunch, this is also a good opportunity to break out the picnic. While there might be better places to eat in town, it would take ages to get there and back, so instead, enjoy the great atmosphere around you while enjoying a simple lunch.

Gardens of Pena Park

Follow the map at the bottom of this post to find the pathway through the  Gardens of Pena Park,  which will take us toward the Moorish Castle. The map they give you when you enter is really confusing, and honestly, as long you’re headed down, you’re probably on the right path. Just keep your eyes open for signs of Moorish Castle. The Gardens of Pena Park have dozens of hidden secrets you’ll stumble upon. Stone couches, glass-walled greenhouses, tiny Islamic gazebos, and dozens of flowers. Compared to the hundreds of people at the palace, these pathways around the gardens feel empty. We were often the only ones there, and despite the confusing map, we had a blast exploring and getting lost all along the way.

The gardens cover over 200 hectares of land around the castle. If you love hiking, you should definitely try to come out here and explore the entirety of the park. This could take you all day and is certainly not for those in a rush, but if you have the time to space, there are many amazing things to discover. We only saw a tiny part of the gardens, but even that was absolutely incredible.

Variety of Flora and Fauna

King Ferdinand wanted this garden to not only exemplify the beauty of Portugal but also plants and flowers from all over the world. You’ll spot everything from Magnolias, Japanese Cryptomeria, Chinese Ginko, American Sequoia, Cypress, Red Cedar, and tree ferns from New Zealand and Australia.

No matter what time of year you come, something is almost always blooming. Finding your way toward the exit can be challenging since the park was designed as a labyrinth. But as long as you’re headed toward the Pena Garden entrance, you’re on the right track!

Upon exiting the Gardens of Pena Park, walk about 10 minutes uphill toward the entrance to the  Moorish Castle . The Moorish Castle is a stark contrast to Pena Palace. There are no colours to be found here, only the natural grey of the rocks and bright greens of the forest around it. While the entrance to the castle is right off the side of the road, the journey towards the original entry is about a 15-minute walk from there. You’ll stroll along a rolling pathway leading you around the castle walls’ exterior. Look up as you examine the old stone walls above the steep hillside around you.

History of the Moorish Castle

The Moorish Castle is one of the oldest parts of Sintra. It was built in the 8th and 9th centuries by the Moors. The term “Moors” was a general term used to name the Muslim inhabitants of Portugal. They brought with them their rich architectural histories, which generations would continue to be inspired by. In 1147, the Christian forces of the  Reconquista  fought the Moorish people and took the castle for themselves. It was used for military defence during the 14th century. But eventually, it feels like ruins when it is no longer needed for security. Over the next few hundred years, it became almost completely abandoned. With earthquakes, fires and neglect, many thought the castle would be lost to the ages.

But when King Ferdinand II bought Pena Palace, he also took some interest in the Castle of the Moors. Ferdinand really did have a passion for history. He took it upon himself to start preserving the remains of the castle and rebuilding the portions beyond repair.

Moorish Chapel

Upon entering through the castle’s main gates, you’ll see one of Ferdinand’s new constructions, a small chapel. This chapel contains relics found on the site, some from the Neolithic area (5000 BC). Important artifacts from the 10th-12th century Islamic cultures have also been found and are now on display inside the chapel. Outside the chapel, you can see a glass cover atop the stones displaying replica bones from where bodies were discovered buried beneath the castle floor. The King pointedly collected the bones and placed them in a small tomb. A large stone marks the spot with an engraving which says, “ What man has joined only God will set apart. “

Upon entering through the  Curtain Wall , to the left of the archway is the site of the old stables. A newly built stylized wooden structure marks the spot where you can grab a hot drink on a cold day or a cold drink on a warm day. Either way, it’s a nice place to recharge to hike up the castle walls.

Phases of Construction

Take a closer look at the walls of the castle. See if you can make out the four distinct different layers of which they’re made up. Each one tells the story of the people who ruled over this structure. The first layer is made of granite blocks which rest on the bedrock over what was once an Islamic house and silos in the 12th century. The second phase was a reconstruction using ancient techniques made in the 12-13th century. The third phase was built in the 19th century when King Ferdinand took possession of the castle and helped with its restoration. The last stage was built in the 20th century when the building became a tourist destination run by the government. Steps were taken to ensure its safety and strength for future generations.

The large open courtyard is called the  Pracad de Armas , where the military garrison would gather in the 13th century. When it was remodelled by King Ferdinand later in the 19th century, it was made into a garden oasis space for contemplation. It is still a beautiful area for people to sit and enjoy the view if they cannot manage the hike up the walls.

Exploring the Ruins

We visited on an especially windy day. Despite this, we walked the entire way to the top of the walls for a spectacular panorama of Sintra and Pena Palace. Walking up these walls, you feel like an explorer discovering ancient ruins. When you finally make it to the top, the scene is stupendous. Pena Palace seems so far away; it was hard to imagine that you were standing on that yellow terrace only hours ago.

The walk down from the tower is much more leisurely. Although the landscape is the same going down as it was going up, somehow, it seems different, almost like getting another angle on the entire vista. It’s incredible to observe the lush bushes, trees and flowers that sprout from within the rocks themselves.

Next, it’s time to head over to the  Quinta da Regaleira . To get to this palace, you can summon an Uber from the Moorish Castle (be warned, this can take some time since the castle is located at the top of a one-way street, we had multiple Ubers cancel but eventually got one. It just takes some patience). The Ubers are extremely well priced at approximately 6-9 euros.

You can also take the bus 434 towards the  Palácio Nacional de Sintra  and then walk the rest of the way (approx. 13 mins). You can also take the tuk-tuks, which wait outside the Moorish Castle. This is probably the fastest option, they are always waiting there but their speed and availability come at a price (about 5 euros per person). If you’re in a rush, it’s a great option to get around if money isn’t a problem.

History of the Quinta da Regaleira

The Quinta da Regaleira was the summer palace of  António Augusto Carvalho Monteiro , or ‘ Monteiro the Millionaire’  as he was better known at the time. King Ferdinand made it popular to come and build spectacular palaces in Sintra, and Monteiro wanted in on the trend. So many rich aristocrats were building summer houses in Sintra, but Monteiro wanted his to be jaw-droppingly ornate. He wanted it to be even more fantastical than the King’s palace. Spread across the hillsides of Sintra, Monteiro created a veritable garden of Eden for himself and his family.

Luigi Manini

The palace was designed by the Italian architect  Luigi Manini .  Upon  his visit to the palace, Lord Byron called it “ a glorious Eden. ” poet  L.V. de Camões  wrote that it was “ an oasis where one could imagine that every pool and stream has nymphs in its waters .” Monteiro believed in primitivism, and as such, the layout of his gardens may have been carefully designed. But the plants were left to grow as they pleased, and in this wildness is where we find some of the most beautiful parts of the palace. The tree spread across the grounds seemed to almost camouflage the buildings below, swallowing them up whole beneath their lush green leaves. Only parts of the structures can be seen peeking out from beneath, giving visitors only clues about where to find those secrets.

Regaleira Chapel

Upon walking in, before visiting the main interior of the palace, first explore the grounds. Standing close to the entrance is the Regaleira Chapel. Its architecture is so similar to the palace’s that it almost looks like a minature version. Inside is a richly decorated interior, with stucco carved into elaborate shapes and decorations dripping off the ceiling. Delicate leaves seem to grow out of the walls, and it feels like if you could reach out and touch them, they would perhaps wilt under pressure. Frescoes depicting Teresa of Ávila and Saint Anthony are painted onto the walls and ceilings. At the same time, the windows are made of brilliant blue stained glass.

Free Masons

On the floor, the richly hued tiles form the shape of the armillary sphere of the Portuguese discoverers. This symbol you’ll more than likely have seen all across Lisbon. The armillary sphere is a model of constellations in the sky which was used to help the Portuguese navigate the globe. These scientific discoveries helped the Portuguese become wealthy explorers. As such, science was almost believed to be just as powerful as religion. And the Free Masons thought science was the guiding light in the world’s darkness. Around the sphere, you’ll see various pentagrams. The pentagram is a five-pointed star often associated with mysticism and the occult. Rumours abound of Monteiro’s association with the Knight Templar. He designed this entire palace as Masonic Temple, and symbolism from their order can be found all over if you know where to look.

God’s Promenade

Continue walking along the path towards the  Gods Promenade  and grotto. This little area features dozens of statues of classical gods hidden amongst the sweeping greenery. Among the flora, see if you can spot the many cedar and acacia trees which grow in the garden. These trees are of special importance as they were often associated with the Free Masons. Cedars are considered the symbol of eternity as these trees are some of the strongest and longest-living trees on earth. Cedar trees were thought the be what the Temple of Jerusalem and the Ark of the Covenant were made of. Acacia trees are evergreen and, as such, a symbol of the soul’s immortality.

You’ll find secret tunnels throughout the park, some of which have no artificial light, and you need to break out your iPhone flashlight to find your way. I kept wondering if, at one point, we would be turned away or be met with an “off-limits” sign, but that never happened. We were totally left to explore the park-like our own playground. These secret tunnels help lead you to the grounds of the palace. Walk down to the grotto and find your way through the tunnels up the hill, and you might find yourself standing at the bottom of the famed Initiation Well.

Initiation Wells

There are two  Initiation Wells  located on the property. Even though they are called ‘wells,’ they have never used a water source; their purpose is entirely ritualistic. It is thought that these wells were once more linked to the Knights Templar and mysticism and perhaps used in initiation ceremonial rites. Both of the wells contain a set of winding stairs. In many cultures, these winding stairs are thought to represent both life and rebirth.

The largest well contains nine platforms. These nine levels were thought to symbolize the nine sections of Purgatory and the nine circles of Hell from  Dante’s   Divine Comedy . At the bottom of the well, as both seen from above and below, is a large compass inlaid over a Knights Templar cross. With symbols like these, it’s hard to ignore all the rumours about the Masonic symbolism in the palace. The smaller well, named the ‘Unfinished Well’ is its walls are rougher and more naturalist, and it feels much more ominous to explore as it was created out of mother earth herself.

Portal of the Guardians

You’ll find the Portal of the Guardians in the centre of the upper portion of the grounds. This building is made of two towers connected by a central pavilion. In the centre are two angry lizards clamouring over a giant conch shell. Above are a series of fillagree above the archway carved into the shape of fish heads. Behind the entrance, you’ll find one of the hidden passageways into the Initiation Well.

You’ll find more mystical influences inside many of the little caves and grottos. Inside this cave, we found the image of the blazing star hanging above the centre of the room, suspiciously anchored to the ceiling with a pulley so the star could be lowered or raised. The blazing star is special for the Knight Templar as it represents man’s knowledge and how intelligence is the secret to bringing light into the darkness. The sun is often seen in areas where a ritual was practised, and it was especially ominous here in the echoing cavern, the eyes of the siren sitting above the fountain the only ones looking back at us.

Interior of the Palace

The final part of the grounds to explore is the palace’s interior. Auspicious gargoyles stare down at any visitors stepping inside, and the greying walls make the otherwise ubiquitous sandstone look very grim. The castle is covered in ornate capital and gothic pinnacles. A fantastical octagonal tower is atop the palace, like the topping to a wedding cake.

The first room is one of the most impressive. The dining room’s main feature is the incredible hunting scene carved into the stucco on the fireplace mantle. Atop the mantle is a statue of a woodsman. Across the room, beautiful hand-painted wallpapers depict more scenes of country life in Portugal. It’s both regal and quaint, all at once. The rest of the rooms are just as ornate, although the use of wood throughout keeps it feeling more like a lodge than a castle.

Village of Sintra

After touring all these famous castles and palaces, it’s finally time to head back into the town of Sintra and explore the tiny streets and hidden alleyways before heading home. You can easily walk from the Quinta da Regaleira into the main part of the village, and the walk is part of the fun! I was amazed at how, as the day wore on and the tourist began to journey back, the city started to open up and once more feel like just another quiet, little village.

There are so many charming cafes and shops in the main parts of town; each one is worth poking your head inside if something catches your eye. Their post office was one of my favourite random places. I stopped in awe at the beautiful tile work that continued throughout the little building.

Outside the  Palácio Nacional de Sintra  is a great place to take a seat and enjoy the view of the colourful houses stacked on top of each other and look up, way up, to see the walls and towers of the Moorish Castle high above you.

Dinner & Dessert

If you aren’t rushing to get home, it’s worth stopping for dinner in town at Tascantiga. This little cafe covered in red and white gingham table clothes serves traditional Portuguese tapas in a friendly environment where you feel like family the minute you walk in the door.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Eva D. (@ohh.eva) on Feb 23, 2017 at 6:07am PST

For dessert, you must head to the famous Casa Piriquita for the traditional Sintra pastry, Travesseiro de Sintra (or Sintra’s Pillows). These flaky rectangular desserts are stuffed with whipped egg custard and almonds and look like tiny, fluffy pillows. They are the perfect thing to grab and enjoy on your train ride back to the city.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Cléa Mendes (@cleam esquita) on May 18, 2019 at 4:41am PDT

Leaving Sintra

Sintra is incredible; many tourists flock here, but there’s a reason they do. If you come early, you’ll get ahead of the big groups. Whenever you feel like there’s too much of a crowd in one area, it’s usually pretty easy to just wander somewhere else and wait for those clusters to leave. I wish we had chosen to spend a night in town since I would have loved to walk the streets at night when almost all the day-trippers headed home, and you would have the city practically all to yourself. If that works for your schedule, I would definitely recommend doing that. But a whole day in Sintra still was plenty of time for us to see everything on our list at a gentle enough pace to soak it all in.

Have you been to Sintra, or are you planning a trip there? Let me know your favourite spots or any questions you have in the comments!

Happy Travel Adventurers!

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Great Article – thank you for sharing. Is there any chance we can walk from the Moorish Castle to Quinta da Regaleira? If so how long is it and is it hard or easy?

Ideally I would like to take a bus or Uber up to Peña Castle hike to Moorish Castle hike to Quinta Da Regaleira and hike back to town.

The Creative Adventurer

Hi Sonja, while the walk from Pena to the Moorish Castle is relatively short, the walk from Moorish to Quinta da Regaleira is a bit challenging, although not impossible. It’s called the Percurso de Seteais Trail. They rate the hiking trail as challenging, and it takes a minimum of 1 hour and 20-30 minutes (at a decent pace) to complete.

You can see a map of the walk here: https://bit.ly/3EKAMkj and another map here: https://www.parquesdesintra.pt/media/pspaaztf/brochura_percursos_pedestres.pdf

I’d instead recommend taking the bus up to Pena, hike to Moorish, and then hop on the #434 bus to go down to Sintra Vila (National Palace). From the National Palace, it’s only a 15 minutes walk to Quinta da Regaleira. And it’s a lovely walk through the little town. Hope this helps!

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