tourist attractions in sintra portugal

8 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Sintra

Written by Paul Bernhardt Updated Dec 24, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Lying just 30 kilometers northwest of Lisbon, but a world away from the clamor of city life, Sintra nestles at the foot of the wooded Serra de Sintra, dramatic mountains that define the landscape of this enchanting destination.

The verdant surroundings and cooler air made Sintra a favorite summer sojourn for the Kings of Portugal. It also attracted writers and poets, among them novelist William Beckford and Lord Byron whose epic narrative, Childe Harold's Pilgrimage was partly inspired by his visit to "Cintra." Its romantic allure and stunning collection of parks and palaces led UNESCO to recognize Sintra as a major influence on the development of landscape architecture throughout Europe and honored the region with World Heritage status in 1995.

Sintra's scenic old town, Sintra Vila, is centered on the Palácio Nacional de Sintra . The cobbled square in front of the palace is lined with shops, cafés, and colorful townhouses and is a good place to begin exploring. Those with stout legs will enjoy the climb to the castle ; alternatively, sightseers can take a bus, which also stops at Palácio da Pena . A vehicle is the best way to take in other tourist attractions.

For more ideas on the best places to visit, see our list of the top attractions in Sintra.

See also: Where to Stay in Sintra

1. Palácio Nacional de Sintra

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A pair of odd-looking conical chimneys distinguishes the exterior of Sintra's National Palace . Tapering off into the air, their strange form draws the eye towards the center of the old town where this illustrious former royal residence holds court.

Built for King João I in the 14th century, this is the oldest surviving palace in Portugal. Known also as the Paço Real, it is a sumptuous property, and to appreciate it fully deserves a good hour of your time. The building unveils itself over several floors, and the walk-through begins in the majestic Sala dos Cisnes (Hall of Swans), so named for the painted swans decorating the ceiling. Similarly, farther on, the Sala das Pegas (Hall of Magpies) honors this cheeky member of the crow family. See if you can count them all.

The highlight of the upper levels is undoubtedly the astonishing Sala dos Brasões . This glittering hall is banded by superb azulejo tile work, while the domed ceiling is embellished with the coats of arms ( brasões ) of 72 noble Portuguese families. And what about those chimneys? They can be admired as part of a tapered roof in the palace kitchens, along with a display of polished copper utensils once used to prepare royal banquets.

• Visiting the Palácio Nacional de Sintra: Top Attractions

Standing high above the old town across a craggy escarpment, the 8th-century Moorish Castle adds dramatic character to the barren landscape. Its weather-worn ramparts follow the precipitous contours of the Serra and serve as a reminder of how strategically important the stronghold was - it was eventually taken from the Moors in 1147 by King Afonso Henriques.

A way-signed footpath from the church of Santa Maria in town leads walkers up through the steep and wooded lower slopes to the castle's curtain walls. Here, a number of Moorish grain silos stand near the ruins of a medieval Christian church and cemetery. To enter the castle proper, a ticket needs to be purchased from the interpretation center near the road entrance, where buses pull up to disgorge those less inclined to don hiking boots. Within the walls lie an ancient Moorish cistern and the foundations of Muslim dwellings.

The castle's three squat towers, set between chunky battlements, can be climbed and afford breathtaking views of the town below and the Atlantic coast. One of them, "Fernando's Tower" is named after the Portuguese monarch who restored the walls in the 19th century - a genuine King of the Castle.

Address: Estrada da Pena, Sintra

From a distance, the palace of Pena resembles a huge marzipan birthday cake with its pink and lemon facades, crenellated towers, bulbous domes, and spinning top turrets.

This gloriously exaggerated and fanciful creation was built in the 19th-century to satisfy the whim of Ferdinand Saxe-Coburg-Gotha, husband of Queen Maria II. It crowns the highest peak of the Serra de Sintra and its zany profile can be seen from as far away as Lisbon .

Exploring this extraordinary building is like being an extra in a period drama, except the film set is real. The interior is lavishly decorated with curios from around the globe. Highlights include the serene Arab Room , covered wall-to-ceiling with amazing trompe-l'oeil frescoes. The recently refurbished Ballroom positively shimmers, its stained-glass windows casting a rainbow wash across a priceless collection of Chinese porcelain.

Another star draw is the 16th-century chapel and its ornate altarpiece , the only surviving part of the monastery that once occupied the site before the palace was built. Outside, youngsters can indulge in games of hide and seek along the sinewy walls, while adults can marvel at the views across the Sintra hills and the distant Atlantic coastline.

Hollywood ace Johnny Depp filmed part of the supernatural thriller The Ninth Gate within this fantastically landscaped estate. The turreted Palácio dos Milhões appeared spooky enough for several exterior nighttime scenes to be shot around the late 19th-century property, and it's the palace's association with the mystical that attracts sightseers to this offbeat Sintra scene-stealer.

It's no coincidence that the estate was designed by a theatrical set designer, Luigi Manini, who was commissioned by eccentric millionaire António August Carvalho Monteiro to create a retreat woven with religious references and symbols of the occult.

While the palace itself is more about style than substance, the gardens bristle with intrigue. Hidden among the lakes and fountains are secret passages and hidden grottoes, and it's great fun following the false leads and dead ends. But when you do eventually stumble upon it, the Initiation Well is as eerie as it gets. The floor is reached by tiptoeing down a dank, spiral staircase; a long, echoing tunnel leading back up to the surface is the alternative way to exit the subterranean chamber.

Address: Rua Barbosa du Bocage, Sintra

Official site: www.regaleira.pt

Located in the same building that used to house the Toy Museum, this new permanent exhibition spotlights the role news , media , and communication plays in the modern world, and is fast becoming a highly valued tourist attraction.

Presented in a physical, hands-on manner, as well as conveyed virtually, it allows visitors to interact with radio and television presentations broadcasting media coverage of episodes in recent history. Revisiting the scene affords a re-evaluation of what took place and asks whether the story was told impartially and without bias.

The "fake" news phenomenon is examined in detail. Other themes investigated include the alleged use of propaganda techniques throughout the Public Relations industry. Fascinating and disturbing in equal measure, the exhibition also looks at the role of the combat photographer and includes an eye-opening display of iconic photojournalism featuring images such as the portrait of Che Guevara taken by Alberto Korda - the most reproduced image in the history of photography - and astronaut Buzz Aldrin on the moon, taken by Neil Armstrong .

Incongruous in Sintra's romantic and classical setting perhaps, this very modern and contemporary facility nonetheless raises some interesting questions about exactly what role the media is playing, or is supposed to play, in the 21st century.

Address: Rua Visconde de Monserrate 26, Sintra

Official site: http://www.newsmuseum.pt

Tucked into the Serra de Sintra hills well away from the historic town center are the romantic gardens of Monserrate. Strolling around here is one of the popular things to do on a sunny day.

This verdant semi-landscaped estate is embroidered with an abundance of sub-tropical foliage and flowering shrubs planted around a valley of emerald green tree fern. Clumps of conifer, swaying palms, and other exotic trees such as the giant Metrosideros (Australian Christmas tree) and the Chinese weeping cypress provide a lush, bountiful canopy that casts dappled sunlight over a small lake and a cascading waterfall. A swathe of flora has been allowed to grow wild and has long since reclaimed the ruins of a chapel half hidden in the undergrowth.

The garden's English-style dimensions are deliberate. Wealthy dandy William Beckford, who penned the Gothic novel Vathek , rented the estate from 1793 to 1799 and added the water features you see today. Later, another Englishman, Sir Francis Cook, imported the strange-sounding trees, added a sweeping lawn, and built the whimsical Moorish-style palace that peers over the green baize grass.

Admission to the palace is included in the estate's entrance fee, and while scant in furnishings, the interior does feature fine examples of filigree plasterwork.

Location: Estrada da Monserrate, 3.5 kilometers northwest from Sintra old town center

Arguably the most evocative of Sintra's historic attractions, the convent of Capuchos is certainly the most isolated. This remote Franciscan monastery is sunk into a ridge deep in the heart of the Serra de Sintra hills and is unique in Portugal for having most of its doors and rooms clad entirely in cork.

Founded in 1560, the retreat is little more than a collection of tiny rock-hewn cells where the resident monks lived. The cork, stripped from the surrounding woods, was used extensively throughout the hermitage and provided natural insulation against the sometimes harsh outdoor elements. The monastery was occupied for 300 years before being abandoned in 1834.

Along with cells, visitors are able to explore a small chapel, the washrooms, a kitchen, and refectory. Nature has reclaimed most of the complex - encroaching vines smother roofs, and moss blankets most of the stonework.

One can't help but be moved by this austere, rocky hideaway and the simple lifestyle adopted by the monks, a feeling made all the more acute by the absolute silence that shrouds the hermitage.

Location: 10 kilometers southwest of Sintra on the EN247-3

If there's one place in Sintra that captures the romance and serenity of the location, it's Seteais Palace. Built in the late 18th century for a Dutch diplomat, this elegant and stately manor is now an upscale boutique hotel, but the ground floor is accessible to non-residents.

Sitting in expansive, well-manicured grounds just a few minutes' walk from Quinta da Regaleira , the property is distinguished by an impressive monumental arch under which visitors can walk to reach the promenade where uninterrupted views of the Atlantic coastline can be admired.

Inside, ask the concierge to show you the beautiful Sala Gildemeester . Replete with original furnishings and illuminated by chandeliers, the walls and ceilings are decorated with rare frescoes attributed to French painter, Jean-Baptiste Pillement, and feature exotic flora and fauna. Non-residents can mingle with guests on the garden terrace, and pausing for tea or coffee is a particularly enchanting way to pass the afternoon.

Location: Rua Barbosa du Bocage 8, Sintra

We recommend these highly rated hotels in Sintra with easy access to top sites like the National Palace:

• Tivoli Palacio de Seteais : old-world luxury, 18th-century palace, gorgeous grounds, lovely outdoor pool, tennis courts.
• Sintra Boutique Hotel : mid-range pricing, steps from the National Palace, modern room decor, excellent breakfast.
• Hotel Nova Sintra : affordable boutique hotel, family-run, wonderful hosts, stylish decor, lovely terrace.
• Ibis Lisboa Sintra : budget rates, short drive from the old town, sleek decor, family rooms.

Sintra is a popular day trip destination from Lisbon, and taking an organized tour is an easy and relaxing way to see the top sights. These popular day trip tours include expert guides and transportation:

• Sintra and Cascais Tour: Explore two towns in one day on the Sintra and Cascais Small-Group Day Trip from Lisbon . As well as visiting these two fascinating destinations, the tour includes natural attractions, like Sintra Natural Park; Cascais Beach; and the cliffs of Roca Cape, Europe's westernmost point.
• Lisbon, Estoril Coast, and Sintra Tour: On the full-day Private Tour of Lisbon, Estoril Coast and Sintra - UNESCO World Heritage Site , you can soak up some of Lisbon's rich history, see Sintra's fairy-tale castles, and admire the sun-soaked beaches along the Estoril Coast. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, and you can tailor the tour to suit your special interests.
• Royal Palaces Tour : To learn more about Portugal's aristocratic lineage and royal heritage, consider joining the Sintra Royal Palaces Day Trip from Lisbon: Queluz Palace, Pena Palace and Pena Park . This engaging jaunt visits the opulent homes of the great and the grand.

The quickest and most convenient way to reach Sintra from Lisbon is by train. CP trains operates a regular service out of the city's Rossio station, about every half hour or so. The journey takes roughly 40 minutes.

Driving to Sintra is another option, but not recommended. The town is 25 kilometers northwest of Lisbon on the A16 highway, a nominal 30-minute drive. However, traffic is often heavy, and parking in Sintra is notoriously difficult, especially in the busy summer months.

There is no direct bus service from Sintra to Lisbon. But there is regular public transport between Sintra and Cascais on Urban Scotturb buses, which depart on an hourly basis. The journey takes around 45 minutes.

An alternative way to reach Sintra is to travel as part of a guided sightseeing tour. There are various excursion options available, including a small-group guided tour of Sintra and Cascais from Lisbon .

Praia Grande : Translating as "Big Beach," this is the closest and certainly the most easily accessed beach from Sintra, and the best on the Sintra-Cascais coast in terms of facilities: there are plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafés spread along the generous swathe of sand.

While a summer draw for locals and tourists alike, Praia Grande is a year-round surfing destination, and has hosted several world championship surf tournaments. Interestingly, the cliffs at the southern end of Praia Grande are imprinted with a set of dinosaur footprints, estimated to be over 100 million years old.

Praia das Maçãs : Praia das Maçãs is a lively little resort and very popular in summer, frequented as it is by families and those who have holiday homes in the area.

According to local lore, this beach is named after the apples (maçãs) that would wash up on its sands after being carried down to the coast by the Ribeira de Colares stream.

Praia da Adraga : Scenic Praia da Adraga is not much more than a sandy cove. Reached via a deep, narrow valley and hemmed in by cliffs sculpted out by the sea, the beach here is quieter and mostly the preserve of locals, at least during the off-season period. It does get busier in summer, but not to the detriment of Adraga's wilder and more secluded nature.

Praia do Magoito : This is a beach to explore rather than lounge around on all day. The golden carpet of sand is studded with numerous rocks, many of which collect pools of crystalline water at low tide - great fun to discover with the kids on a lazy afternoon!

Praia da Ursa : Located just north of Cabo da Roca, this is arguably the most picturesque of Sintra's beaches.

A hidden gem of a destination, and sited well off the beaten track, Praia da Ursa is named for the "Rocha da Ursa" (bear rock) - one of two imposing sea stacks distinguishing the northern end of the beach.

Visitors need to follow a steep and winding trail to access Praia da Ursa, which doesn't make it a practical option for the less nimble beachgoer.

From Sintra, Lisbon is only a 30- to 40-minute drive away, with its astonishing Museu Nacional do Azulejo-Convento da Madre de Deus , the National Tile Museum. And don't forget to saunter through Lisbon's Old Quarter with its collection of churches, monuments, and museums.

The cosmopolitan resort town of Cascais serves as a convenient gateway to Sintra but warrants a few hours of anyone's itinerary for its captivating charm and seaside vibe.

The region's stunning palaces number among some of the most appealing in Portugal, and the Mosteiro Palácio Nacional de Mafra , located north of Sintra at Mafra, is the finest example of 18 th -century Baroque architecture in the country.

Farther north on the coast is the fishing village of Ericeira. The unspoiled old town, with its maze of whitewashed cottages and narrow, cobbled lanes, is worth exploring at leisure. These days, however, the destination is better known for its big-name surfing competitions.

More on Portugal

With its rippling mountains, dewy forests thick with ferns and lichen, exotic gardens and glittering palaces, Sintra is like a page torn from a fairy tale. Its Unesco World Heritage–listed centre, Sintra-Vila, is dotted with pastel-hued manors folded into luxuriant hills that roll down to the blue Atlantic.

Best Things to Do

Attractions, must-see attractions.

Palácio Nacional de Sintra

The star of Sintra-Vila is this palace, with its iconic twin conical chimneys and lavish, whimsical interior, which is a mix of Moorish and Manueline…

Quinta da Regaleira

This magical villa and gardens is a neo-Manueline extravaganza, dreamed up by Italian opera-set designer, Luigi Manini, under the orders of Brazilian…

Castelo dos Mouros

Soaring 412m above sea level, this mist-enshrouded ruined castle looms high above the surrounding forest. When the clouds peel away, the vistas over…

Palácio Nacional da Pena

Rising from a thickly wooded peak and often enshrouded in swirling mist, Palácio Nacional da Pena is a wacky confection of onion domes, Moorish keyhole…

Convento dos Capuchos

Hidden in the woods is this bewitchingly hobbit-hole-like convent, which was originally built in 1560 to house friars, who lived in incredibly cramped…

Parque da Pena

Nearly topped by King Ferdinand II's whimsical Palácio Nacional da Pena (only Cruz Alta, at 529m, is higher), these romantic gardens are filled with…

Palácio & Parque de Monserrate

At the centre of a lush, 30-hectare park, a manicured lawn sweeps up to this whimsical, Moorish-Gothic-Indian palácio, the 19th-century romantic folly of…

Museu das Artes de Sintra

This museum features a small and manageable collection of contemporary and modern art, around 80% of which is dedicated to local works. The permanent…

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14 Best Things to Do in Sintra, Portugal in 2024

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: May 5, 2024

There are so many things to do in Sintra, Portugal . The history of the area dates back to the 1400s when a single monastery was placed on a hilltop in Sintra during medieval times. When the Lisbon Earthquake of 1755 destroyed most of the city, the area sat untouched and empty for many years. It wasn’t until the mid-1800s when one of the King’s sons was so fascinated by the forested area, that his father decided to acquire all the surrounding land, and bring it back to life.

Table of Contents

Top Things To Do In Sintra, Portugal

Sintra is located just 45 minutes north of the capital city of Portugal,  Lisbon . The town has a rich history and cultural significance, which is reflected in its many ancient castles and palaces, such as the Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle. These buildings are known for their ornate decoration, history, and beautiful locations, which offer panoramic views of the surrounding area.

In addition to its castles and palaces, Sintra is also known for its charming streets and neighborhoods, which are filled with colorful houses, quaint shops, and cool restaurants. This picturesque town has a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere, and it is a popular destination for people who are looking to experience a more authentic and traditional side of Portugal .

1. Visit Pena Palace

One of the most popular attractions in Sintra, the Pena Palace is a stunning 19th-century Romantic palace that sits atop a hill overlooking the town. The lavish palace was commissioned by King Ferdinand II and stands proudly over the landscape. We loved the vibrant colors and mix of architectural styles, including Gothic, Manueline, and Moorish.

Visitors to the Pena Palace can explore the palace’s beautifully decorated rooms, including the throne room, dining room, and bedrooms. Its setting high on a hill will remind you of Ludwig II’s Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria. But Pena Castle was actually built first!

Tips for Visiting Pena Palace

Pena Palace is extremely busy and you need to book timed entries ahead of time. You can book tickets through Get Your Guide for your allotted time. Remember to arrive at least an hour before your timed entry. You will need to go through the guard gates at the entrance and then walk another 15 minutes uphill.

Traffic can be very heavy heading to Pena Palace so we suggest leaving at least 1 hour before your entry, 2 hours would be better. Ubers cost about 7 Euro from the center of town, but they usually don’t like to go up to Pena Palace because traffic is heavy. So you may need to take a tuk tuk which can range from €10 – €20 per person. Taxis and tuk tuks will take you to the gate which you can enter at anytime the day of your ticket. You will then walk up to the palace (approximately 15 minutes) where you will line up for your timed entry.

Pena Palace is surrounded by Pena Park, a beautifully landscaped garden filled with exotic plants and flowers. The Park is a great place to take a leisurely walk and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Tickets for Pena Palace cost €7.50 for adults. For visitors aged 65 and over and children between the ages of 6 and 17, the cost is €6.50. A family ticket is also available for €26. Sintra offers a bus to take you from the entrance through the gardens and will drop you off in front of the Pena Palace. Or you can book skip-the-line tickets here.

Or you can choose to do what we did, which was walk through the gardens (uphill) to get to Pena Palace. If you choose to walk, be sure to wear comfortable shoes and give yourself an hour to reach the top.

2. Explore the Moorish Castle

The Moorish Castle is a well-preserved medieval castle located on a hill above Sintra, Portugal. This castle dates back to the 9th century and was used by the Portuguese royal family as a summer palace. The Moorish Castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Sintra, known for its well-preserved walls and stunning views.

The castle is a mix of architectural styles, including Gothic and Mudéjar, and features a series of defensive walls and towers. Visitors to the castle can explore the castle’s interior, including the royal apartments, chapel, and cistern. The castle also has a small museum, where visitors can learn more about its history and the role it played in the region.

In addition to touring the castle, visitors can also enjoy a variety of outdoor activities in the surrounding area, including hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching. The Moorish Castle is a must-see for anyone interested in medieval history and architecture.

The cost to enter is for Adults: (18 – 64 years) 8 €, (6 – 17 years) 6,5 €, (over 65 years) 6,5 €, Family ticket (2 adults + 2 youths) 26 €. Or you can get the Audio Tour and Skip the Line by booking here.

3. Visit Cabo da Roca

Located just a short drive from Sintra, Cabo da Roca is the westernmost point of mainland Europe and is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Cabo da Roca is a rocky promontory that juts out into the sea, offering breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and the open ocean. Visitors to the cape can take in the views from the observation deck and enjoy the fresh sea air.

Cabo da Roca is also home to a lighthouse, which was built in the 17th century to guide ships safely into Lisbon. The lighthouse is open to visitors and offers panoramic views of the surrounding coastline.

You may need to wait in line to take a picture in front of the plaque, but it will be worth it to show people you made it!

4. Tour the Sintra National Palace (Palacio nacional de sintra)

Have you heard of the Sintra National Palace? It’s a beautiful 15th-century palace located in the heart of the old city. The palace was once the residence of the Portuguese royal family and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Sintra National Palace is known for its mix of architectural styles. The palace is a blend of Manueline, Gothic, and Mudéjar, and its beautiful facade is a sight to behold.

As you step inside the palace, you’re transported back in time, to an age of opulence and elegance. The grand halls and spacious rooms are filled with ornate furnishings, a testament to the wealth and power of the royal family.

Visitors can explore the palace’s beautifully decorated rooms, including the throne room, dining room, and bedrooms, and learn about its rich history. The palace also features a chapel, which is still used for religious ceremonies today, and a beautiful garden filled with exotic plants and flowers. As you leave the palace, you’ll be struck by the sense of history and culture that surrounds you.

The Palacio Nacional de Sintra is open every day from 9:30 until 19:00 and the last entrance at 18:30. The entrance fee is €10.00/€8.50/€8.50/€33.00 (adult/child/senior/family). We recommend you grab a Fast Track Ticket to avoid the long lineups.

5. Visit Quinta da Regaleira

By far the most picturesque spot in Sintra is Quinta da Regaleira. It is the perfect spot to put down the map and see where the winding paths take you.

The Quinta da Regaleira in Sintra, Portugal is a place of mystery and magic. Nestled in the heart of the town, the 19th-century estate is surrounded by lush gardens filled with exotic plants and flowers.

It was built in the early 20th century by a wealthy Brazilian businessman named António Augusto Carvalho Monteiro. Monteiro was a collector of art and rare objects, and he used the Quinta da Regaleira as a showcase for his collection.

At the center of the Quinta da Regaleira stands the stunning palace, a masterpiece of architecture and design. Book your skip the line entry tickets here.

But the real attraction of the Quinta da Regaleira is its underground tunnels and caves. These mysterious passages were once used for initiation rites by secret societies, and their secrets still remain hidden to this day. Visitors can explore the tunnels and caves, discovering hidden chambers and hidden passageways as they go.

As the sun sets over the estate, the shadows lengthen and the magic of the Quinta da Regaleira comes alive. It’s a place where the past and present blend together, where the beauty of nature and the grandeur of man-made wonders meet.

If you drive, there is parking down the street from the main entrance and the fee to enter is €10.00/€5.00/€4.00/€25.00 (adult/child/senior/family), and this includes entrance to the house and the grounds. OR is you want to skip to the front of the line this is the ticket you want. It also includes a free audio tour.

6. Monserrate Palace

The Monserrate Palace in Sintra, Portugal is a place of wonder and enchantment. Tucked away in the rolling hills, the 19th-century palace is a hidden gem, a treasure waiting to be discovered.

As you approach the palace, the grandeur of the building becomes apparent. The palace is a blend of architectural styles, including Gothic, Moorish, and Indian, and its grand facade is a sight to behold. It was also once the home of Sir Francis Cook, a wealthy British businessman who was the first Visconde de Monserrat and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

As you step inside the palace, you’re transported back in time, to an age of opulence and elegance. The grand halls and spacious rooms are filled with intricate details and ornate furnishings, a testament to the wealth and power of the palace’s former owner, Francis Cook, a wealthy English merchant.

But the real attraction of the Monserrate Palace is its gardens. These sprawling, verdant grounds are a wonderland of exotic plants and flowers, a paradise on earth. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the gardens, admiring the beauty of nature and the grandeur of the palace.

The entrance fee is €8.00/€6.50/€6.50 (adult/child/senior). The opening hours are 9.30-18.30, and the last ticket is sold 1 hour before the closing time. We recommend avoiding the crowds with this ticket.

7. Praia da Ursa

The Praia da Ursa is a beautiful beach located just a short drive from Sintra. The beach is surrounded by rugged cliffs and lush greenery, and the views of the Atlantic Ocean are breathtaking.

The Praia da Ursa is a great spot for swimming and sunbathing, and its secluded location makes it a perfect place to escape the crowds and relax. The beach is also a popular spot for exploring the hidden coves and caves along the shore.

After marveling at one of the most spectacular beaches in Portugal, visitors can also take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape from the cliffs above the beach. It’s a great place to spend a few hours soaking up the sun and enjoying the beauty of nature.

8. Explore the Serra de Sintra

The Serra de Sintra is a beautiful mountain range located just outside of Sintra, Portugal. The mountain range is known for its hiking trails and its rich history with castles dotting the landscape.

The Serra de Sintra is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers, with a variety of trails that wind through the mountains and offer breathtaking views.

The Serra de Sintra is also home to a number of historical sites, including castles and palaces, which are popular tourist attractions.

9. Learn about the Knights Templar

The Knights Templar was a military order of knights founded in the 12th century to protect Christian pilgrims traveling to the Holy Land. Visitors can learn more about their role in the region by visiting the Convent of the Order of Christ, which was once their headquarters in Portugal.

10. Visit the Praia das Maçãs

Praia das Maçãs is a beautiful spot located on the western coast of the country, and it offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors. Praia das Maçãs

One of the main reasons to visit the Praia das Maçãs is for its natural beauty. The beach is surrounded by rugged cliffs and lush greenery on one side with a picturesque town on the other. The beach is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, and its crystal-clear waters and the long stretch of sandy beach make it a great place to relax and unwind.

In addition to enjoying the beach and the water, visitors can also take in the stunning views of the from the cliffs above the beach. The Praia das Maçãs is also a great place for exploring the hidden coves and caves along the shore.

A serene and tranquil spot, Praia das Maçãs is a perfect place to escape the crowds and enjoy the beauty of nature. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting Sintra or the western coast of Portugal.

11. Take a hike in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park

The park includes a number of sandy beaches and dunes, including the Praia da Adraga, a beautiful beach with a long stretch of sand and dunes that is popular for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is located near the town of Almoçageme, which is about a 20-minute drive from Sintra.

One of the main reasons to hike in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park is for its natural beauty. The park is home to a variety of plant and animal species, and the scenery is breathtaking. In addition to its natural beauty, the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park is also home to a number of historical and cultural sites, including castles, palaces, and other landmarks.

Hiking in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park is also a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the fresh air. The park offers a variety of trails for hikers of all skill levels, ranging from easy, well-marked paths to more challenging routes for experienced hikers.

12. Take a boat tour of the Sintra Coast

A boat tour of the Sintra Coast is something you have to do if you visit the city for more than a day trip. It usually includes stops at a number of landmarks, such as the Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe, and the Praia da Ursa, a secluded beach that can only be accessed by boat.

You can book a boat tour when you are in the city. The tours usually last a few hours and may include commentary from a guide or local historian. We find this is a great way to experience the beauty of the Sintra Coast and learn about the region’s history and culture.

13. Try some local cuisine

Sintra is home to a number of excellent restaurants that serve traditional Portuguese dishes. Visitors can try some local favorites such as pastel de nata (custard tarts), bacalhau (salted cod), or cozido à portuguesa (a traditional stew).

The Portuguese love their sardines. You can find them in most stores, and even at the bike and car rental shops in Sintra. In Lisbon, it feels like they are on every corner!

They may not be for everyone, but it’s a good salty snack to take with you as you traverse the grounds and travel to each attraction. There are sometimes a lot of flavor options so take your time reading each label. Read more: Portuguese Food: 26 Traditional Dishes to try in Portugal or at home

14. Visit the Sintra Museum of Modern Art

The Sintra Museum of Modern Art (Museu de Arte Moderna de Sintra) is housed in the former Palace of the Counts of Edla, a 19th-century building that was once the summer retreat of the Portuguese royal family. (That Portuguese Royal Family got around!)

The museum’s collection includes works by Portuguese and international artists from the 19th and 20th centuries, with a focus on modern and contemporary art. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, photographs, and other works of art, and it is known for its strong representation of Portuguese modernism.

In addition to its permanent collection, the Sintra Museum of Modern Art also hosts temporary exhibitions and events, such as lectures, workshops, and concerts. If you love art you are not going to want to miss visiting one of the most important cultural institutions in Portugal.

The museum visit is indeed free for people under 17 or over 60 years old and for student card holders. Everyone else pays 1 (one) euro.

Sintra is a beautiful and historic town with a variety of cultural and recreational activities to offer visitors. Whether you’re interested in exploring the town’s history, visiting Pena Palace, enjoying the great outdoors, or relaxing on one of the region’s beautiful beaches, there’s something for everyone when you visit Sintra.

This post was originally written by Gina of Jet Set and Forget and has been updated by The Planet D for the most up-to-date information.

Plan your next trip to Portugal with these Resources

• 19 Best Things to Do In Lagos, Portugal
• Portuguese Food: 26 Traditional Dishes to try in Portugal or at home
• 20 Best Cities in Portugal to Visit in 2022
• Guide to the Douro Valley from Porto – Portugal’s Most Famous Wine Region
• 7 Reasons You Should Visit Obidos, Portugal
• Where To Stay in Porto: A Complete Guide For Your First Visit
• 17 Best Things To Do in Guimarães, Portugal in 2024

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Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

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Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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30 thoughts on “14 Best Things to Do in Sintra, Portugal in 2024”

Good Post Admin really very nice you have entered some interesting informations

Great post such a nice information thanks for sharing.

It is a brilliant post, inspires many travellers to uncover the great beauty of nature and colourful royal residences of Sintra, thanks for sharing your wonderful experience and helpful tips.

So beautiful places! Cabo da Roca – great

This is a really neat article, I love how you did a virtual tour and gave the history on the town. I always love learning new things and I certainly learned a lot.

Hey Dave and Deb!

Such a breathtaking place! Good thing it did not turn into a ghost town or it would have been such a waste. Castles are by far my most favorite subject to photograph.

Portugal looks amazing place to visit and it help me a lot to create my bucket list. You captured great pictures in your travel trip.

Those pictures are just beautiful. I want to travel now! I am so jealous!

Great tips. Sintra is insane. I totally underestimated the size of it and how much walking was involved – it takes some planning if you want to see more than just Pena. You can also stay in the area if you want to spread it out over a few days.

Hi, very nice article,i just like it and i love to visit your blog and thanks for sharing your experience

fantastic and amazing portugal i would love to visit the place

I have visited Portugal many times.Those places are too much beautiful.Please Try to share more HQ pictures in you post. 🙂

I’m very happy to read an article that shows the real Sintra experience. Congratulations and continuation of great trips!

stunning your all pictures an article really nice thanks for sharing. Portugal looks amazing place to visit and it help me alot to create my bucket list.

You have captured some beautiful photos! And I love the detailed guide you’ve drawn up. Portugal has always been on my list but after reading your post.

Great guide you shared about beautiful Sintra. its things are so amazing to get fun and stunning photos you shared of that beautiful place. Gardens are best for me.

wow! it look fantastic place and pictures. Portugal has always been my favorite. Your blog really good and it help me a lot. Thank you.

Over Christmas my parents and I were talking about where they could go on holiday in Europe and we never considered Portugal but after reading this I’m going to talk to them about it tonight when they get home from work. Thanks for the inspiration guys. Keep doing what you’re doing.

You guys are really lucky and the places looks amazing would love to visit Portugal and explore it and Praia das Azenhas do Mar looks amazing. Thanks for sharing.

Sounds like an fantastic place! The photographs look high-quality. Portugal seems so much a laugh. Loved it. Thank you a lot for sharing it.

I love to visit your blog. I really find amazing posts here, you have written very nicely this post. Thanks for sharing this post.

Sintra sounds like an amazing place!

Wow, that garden looks beautiful. I wish you’d taken even more pictures! I guess I’ll just have to go and see it for myself some day 🙂

Thanks for the feature! Love love love Portugal!

Wow! I was clueless about so many amazing things to do and places to look around in Portugal.

Wow! the pictures look amazing. Portugal has always been my favorite, you’ve listed down some really amazing activities to do in this beautiful place.

Wow! some really cool activities listed down to do in Portugal. Loved it throughout. The electrical car looks too amazing. Cheers!

Those houses and the colorful castle makes me want to jump on a plane right now! Portugal looks so much fun. Loved it. Thank you so much for sharing it.

Is that not the most adorable little blue car rental you’ve ever seen? Sintra looks like an absolute dream!

Hi there! Izy Berry, Sintra Portugal is an incredible place to visit. The stunning architecture, lush gardens, and ancient castles make it a magical place to explore. I highly recommend visiting the famous Palácio Nacional de Sintra and exploring the nearby forests for an unforgettable experience. And don’t forget to try the local pastries and cuisine – they are delicious! Thank you for reading!

1. Visit Palacio Nacional de Sintra

2. Hike to the Pena Palace

3. Explore the Quinta da Regaleira

4. Tour the Moorish Castle

5. Enjoy the Gardens at Monserrate Palace

6. Tour the Palacio da Seteais

7. Take a Trip to Cabo da Roca

8. Visit the Sintra National Palace Museum

9. Explore Estefania Palace

10. Go Shopping in the Town Square

The 15 Best Things to do in Sintra, Portugal

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Known for its ancient fairytale palaces, rugged towering mountains, thick verdant forests, and perfectly manicured gardens, Sintra, Portugal, is the place dreams are made of. Here you can get lost in the city’s wild, natural outskirts or hit the streets and seek out the hidden wonders of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city center. 

Whatever type of vacation you’re looking for, you’ll never be stuck for what to do in Sintra. Whether you want to spend your time exploring colorful castles, discovering ancient ruins, feeling like a VIP in ostentatious palaces, or working on your tan on some of the most beautiful beaches you’ve ever seen, Sintra will leave you spoiled for choice!

Add into the mix fresh-as-can-be seafood, fascinating festivals that date back centuries, and stunning hikes that reward you with magnificent panoramas, and Sintra is a wonderful place to escape to and forget about your hectic life back home. 

With so many exciting things to see and do, you may not know where to begin. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of the absolute best things to do in Sintra. Put these fun activities and attractions onto your Sintra bucket list, and you’re sure to have a fantastic time exploring one of the most beautiful parts of Portugal !

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

15 Fun and Unique Things to do in Sintra

1. make the trek to praia da ursa.

If you’re feeling energetic, one of the coolest things to do in Sintra is to hike to Praia da Ursa. This golden, sandy bay is one of the most stunning beaches you’ll ever lay your eyes on. The aquamarine water rushes onto the sand, creating white, bubbling waves, while the remains of rocky cliffs stand proud just off the coastline. 

One of the things that make this beach so special is that hardly anyone goes there. That’s because it’s pretty challenging to get to. But if you’ve got a head for heights and you’re steady on your feet, you won’t have a problem working your way down the dirt track that leads to the sandy bay.

The jagged rocks that line the beach not only make the place look dramatic, but they provide a practical purpose, too. They break up the waves, creating the perfect conditions for swimmers of all ages and levels. 

2. Feel bewildered at Quinta da Regaleira

For some of the best sights in Sintra, spend the day at Quinta da Regaleira. This overwhelming palace was created by António Augusto Carvalho Monteiro, the son of wealthy Portuguese parents. He was fascinated by the Divination, Knights Templar, and the Masons and built a dramatic castle to reflect that. 

Quinta da Regaleira feels more like something a child drew than an architect designed. There are loads of hidden places, including seemingly never-ending tunnels and secret grottoes, all of which are created to delight and confuse visitors. 

On the ground level, you’ll discover intricate gazebos, benches topped with sculptures, and (the most fascinating of all) initiation wells. These unique features are incredibly deep shafts that are lined with mind-bending spiral stairways that plunge down to sanctums for tarot ceremonies. 

Because it’s so magical and unique, the palace has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The fact that so many parts of the garden are completely overgrown and moss blankets almost every inch of the stonework makes this place even more alluring. 

Book a Quinta da Regaleira Tour

3. Explore the city by tram

When you need to take a break but there’s still more to see, one of the best things to do in Sintra is to hop on the city’s tram and go sightseeing. This is also a great option if you’re traveling with kids who can’t walk very far. 

The tram (known in Sintra as the Electrico de Sintra) begins in the middle of the city and whisks you 8 miles away to the charming beach resort of Praia das Maçãs to the west. The trams that follow this route date back to the 1930s, and when you hop on board, you’ll feel like you’re starring in an old black-and-white movie!

Despite being so popular, the tram service is incredibly limited. It only runs a handful of times each day during summer and only once each day during winter. So you don’t miss out, arrive at the stop as early as you can so you’re first in line.

4. Be blown away by the views at Pena Palace

You’ll find some of the best Sintra sightseeing opportunities at Pena Palace. Declared one of Portugal’s Seven Wonders, this spectacular palace was commissioned in 1838 by King Ferdinand II. 

The Disney-like castle is painted in all colors of the rainbow and looks over Sintra from an incredibly lofty position. Its ostentatious design and prestigious location will remind you of Ludwig II’s Neuschwanstein Castle. But Pena Palace is actually several decades older. 

The design of the palace includes a number of historical styles, from Renaissance to Moorish. This was the fashion at the time of the palace’s construction and makes the fortress a fascinating place to admire and explore today. 

Not only is the castle absolutely stunning, but the views from the castle’s windows and grounds are also magnificent. The palace is so high up that you can see for miles across the countryside and all the way down to the city of Sintra far below. 

Book a Pena Palace and Park Ticket

5. Test your taste buds with bacalhau

When you need a break from all the exciting Sintra activities, find a seafood restaurant and order some bacalhau . Bacalhau is a classic Portuguese dish that’s been enjoyed by locals for hundreds of years. 

Bacalhau is a type of salted cod. This special preservation method not only adds loads of flavor to the otherwise subtle dish, but it also means the fish can be stored without having to keep it cold. Although fridges and freezers are easily accessible today, bacalhau is still remarkably popular. 

Bacalhau na Vila is an incredible place to try bacalhau in Sintra. This wonderful restaurant dishes up all different kinds of bacalhau , including salted cod soup, salted cod croquettes, salted cod towers, and salted cod salad. The salted cod towers look superb, and if you’re traveling with someone who doesn’t like or eat fish, the restaurant even dishes up a vegan version of this gastronomic delight!

6. Hike up to Cruz Alta

You’ll find some of the top things to see in Sintra by hiking up to Cruz Alta. This sky-high spot translates into English as “High Cross,” and that’s exactly what it is – an ornate twisted cross perched high above the city. The cross is located so high that it even looks down upon the towering Pena Palace! 

To reach Cruz Alta, you’ll need to follow the hiking trail that weaves through Pena Park. It’s a magical route protected by tall trees that provide year-round shade. Despite the mystical, forest-like surroundings, the ground is paved, making it easy to follow, whatever type of footwear you have.

If you’ve got the stamina to hike the 1,732-foot-high trek, you’ll be rewarded with some of the best views you’ve ever laid eyes on. Not only can you see all over Sintra, but on a clear day, you can even spot Lisbon and the Tagus Estuary in the distance. 

7. Embrace the local culture with Feira das Mercês

Joining in with Feira das Mercês is one of the most fun things to do in Sintra in October. This culturally-rich event has been going on for more than 250 years, making it one of the oldest fairs in all of Portugal.

The fair takes place over the course of a long weekend (look out for posters advertising exact times and dates) and offers something for everyone to get involved with. You’ll see plenty of locals dressed up in typical Portuguese dress, handing out classic dishes, and performing traditional dances. 

Small markets are set up with stalls laden with handicrafts, national dishes, and beautiful artwork inspired by the local area. There’s also a stage set up where popular folk groups perform, as well as lots of family-friendly entertainment for the little ones. 

If you want to really immerse yourself, you’ll find plenty of stalls selling traditional clothing, as well as local shops selling typical costumes. Grab yourself an outfit and blend in with the locals!

8. Lose yourself in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park

When you want to get back to nature, one of the top things to do in Sintra is to head to the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. One of the 13 remarkable national parks in Portugal, this amazing attraction is bursting with natural and human-made attractions. There’s so much to see and do here that you could spend your entire vacation inside the park!

If you’re really into history, you’ll have a fantastic time exploring Pena Palace and the Castle of the Moors. Or, if you’d rather take it easy and relax, you can work on your tan at Praia da Adraga or Praia do Magotio.

As you’d expect from a national park, the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park is also teeming with superb hiking and cycling trails. These eclectic routes are suitable for people of all ages and abilities and take you past some of the most dazzling viewpoints in Sintra. 

Book a Sintra and Cascais Natural Park Tour

9. See Sintra plunge into the ocean at Cabo da Roca

It’s not every day you get to walk right to the edge of a city and see where it plunges into the ocean, but that’s exactly what you can do at Cabo da Roca! One of the most unique things to do in Sintra, checking out the view from this point is something you’ll be telling people about for years to come.

Standing at Cabo da Roca really does feel like you’re standing at the end of the world. The westernmost point of continental Europe, this is where tall, jagged cliffs plunge dramatically into the deep blue ocean far below. The cape stands at an impressive 460 feet above the sea and is topped with a cute lighthouse.

If you’ve got the time to explore, you’ll also come across a stone monolith on the granite cliff. It’s decorated with a cross to mark the headland and was once a famous seamark from Roman times to the Age of Discovery.

Book a Lisbon Tour with Cabo da Roca

10. Celebrate summer with sardinhas assadas

If you’re a seafood lover, trying sardinhas assadas is one of the must-do things in Sintra. Portugal is well known for having some of the finest fish and seafood dishes in the world, and sardinhas assadas is definitely one of the best.

This traditional Portuguese dish translates into English as “roasted sardines,” but it’s so much more than that. The sardines aren’t roasted in an oven. They’re skewered onto wooden sticks and roasted over open flames on outdoor grills throughout summer. 

When the sardines are freshly caught, they need barely any seasoning at all to make them taste great. In Sintra, you’ll mostly find them simply marinated in a little olive oil and salt. 

Restaurante da Adraga is a wonderful place to try sardinhas assadas in Sintra. Here the sardines are huge, and they’re served with buttery pan-fried potatoes and fluffy white rice. The rest of the menu is filled with equally tempting local fish and seafood. 

11. Relive history at the Castle of the Moors

The Castle of the Moors, also known as the Moorish Castle or Castelo dos Mouros, is one of the top Sintra attractions you’ve absolutely got to check out. Perched all alone on the top of one of the city’s tallest peaks, the castle is mostly just ruins today. But the remainders that you can see make it easy to imagine how impressive the fortress was in its heyday.

Originally built by the moors and made bigger following the Reconquista, the Castle of the Moors is made up of undulating walls (almost like the Great Wall of China) separated by four square towers. The castle hugs the contours of the mountaintop and looks incredible from every angle. 

Stand at one of the highest points of the castle, and you’ll be able to see the dramatic Sinatra countryside, as well as the Atlantic ocean crashing on the rugged coast. 

Book a Castle of the Moors Ticket

12. Discover one of Portugal’s most photographed villages at Azenhas do Mar

If you love snapping pictures to show to your followers, you’ll find one of the top things to do in Sinatra in the peaceful village of Azenhas do Mar. Located on the outskirts of the city, this mesmerizing village is one of the most photographed spots in Sintra.

Precariously sitting atop a blonde cliff that plunges into the ocean, the picture-perfect Mediterranean village looks like something out of a fairytale. Clusters of tiny whitewashed houses spill down the cliff before coming to an end at a golden sandy bay and natural rocky pool. 

There’s no real highlight of the village – the village itself is the highlight! But there are plenty of things to do here. Wander around and soak up the blissful, laid-back Portuguese atmosphere. If you’re a fan of fish and seafood, you’ll be spoiled for choice with all the tempting restaurants, most of which offer stunning sea views. 

Book an Azenhas do Mar Day Trip

13. Discover your musical side at the Sintra Music Festival

The Sintra Music Festival is, without a doubt, one of the best things to do in Sintra in the fall. Held between September and October each year, this lively festival dates all the way back to 1957, when it was known as Sintra Musical Days. It’s been going strong ever since, attracting all kinds of talented artists from all over the world to its stages.

The popular festival is dedicated to classical music, and although most of the concerts are performed by Portuguese orchestras, a number of them are performed by international artists, providing something for everyone.

Some of the biggest ballet dancers, opera singers, and composers have attended the festival over the 5+ decades the festival has been running. Cultural events take place in various prestigious locations throughout Sintra over the course of several weeks. So check the website to find out exactly what’s going on and when.

14. Explore the Historic Center of Sintra

Sinatra’s Historic City Center is incredibly charismatic and enchanting, making it a must-visit during your vacation. Try and get there as early as you can. The gorgeous town is at its best first thing in the morning, when the sun is just rising and there are hardly any people around. Later in the day, the streets fill up and the alluring town loses its charm. 

The Historic City Center is incredibly compact, so you can reach every part of it on foot. The only thing that you really need to be aware of is that its twisting cobblestone streets snake up a precipitous valley, so you need to be pretty energetic to get around. But the challenge is certainly worth it for the chance to explore a place that looks like it came straight out of a Bavarian fairytale.

Here you’ll come across a number of intriguing museums, drool-worthy bakeries, dazzling parks, and artisan boutiques to explore. Make sure your phone memory is empty because you’ll be snapping pictures non-stop!

15. Spice up your life with frango assado

Frango assado , known more commonly in English as piri piri chicken, is hugely popular throughout all of Portugal because it tastes amazing. If you’ve never had it before, frango assado is made by butterflying whole chickens and marinating them in a spicy sauce made from olive oil, lemon juice, and fiery piri piri oil.

When the chicken has absorbed all the delicious flavor, it’s cooked over an open fire on a grill until it’s tender and juicy on the inside while being crisp and slightly blackened on the outside. For extra flavor, leftover marinate is used to baste the chicken as it cooks. 

Restaurante Bonjardim serves up the very best frando assado in Sintra. This traditional Portuguese eatery dishes up huge portions of piri piri chicken alongside crispy fries and fresh salad. Make sure you ask for extra piri piri sauce so you can smother your fries with it!

There you have it! The 15 best things to do in Sintra. What’s your favorite thing to do in Sintra? 

Planning a trip to Portugal? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

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Nicola is a freelance writer with an insatiable hunger for travel. She swapped her home in the UK for the sunny Canary Islands when she was just 11 and she has been based there ever since. From crawling on her hands and knees inside pyramids in Egypt to swimming with baby sharks in Bali and searching (fruitlessly!) for the Northern Lights in Iceland, Nicola takes every chance she gets to explore new places. The incredible experiences she has around the world fuels her writing and inspires her to plan even more adventures for the future.

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12 Best Things to do in Sintra Portugal: A Traveler’s Guide

Published: May 12, 2021

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Rina Bernardo

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Sintra is one of Portugal’s best and most beautiful cities. Unlike the bustling capital of Lisbon , Sintra has enchanting mansions, castles, and country estates within its lands. Walking around its gardens and palaces makes you feel like you’re in a fairy-tale. After all, Sintra was once the playground of royals looking to escape the heat of Lisbon — which you can now enjoy! Get creative and bring your cameras as Sintra Portugal has plenty of photo opportunities and Instagram-worthy spots.

Located less than 35 kilometers from Lisbon, Sintra makes for an ideal day trip, or you can stay in the city for a few days to make the most of your trip. Whether you’re visiting for a day or more, here’s a helpful guide on the must-do activities and must-see places as well as extra information to help you on your visit to Sintra.

What to Do In Sintra Portugal

1. explore pena palace.

Photo by Mark Lawson on Unsplash

The World Heritage Site of Pena Palace is without a doubt Sintra Portugal’s most famous landmark. The brightly-colored palace features a harmony of different styles: from Moorish, Romanesque Revival, to Renaissance, designed by King Fernando II. Like the Neuschwanstein Castle, one of the popular German castles , it towers above the city skyline, with Pena Palace seen from Lisbon.

Join a walking tour of Pena Palace and see its gorgeous interiors, ballrooms, and gardens. The Aram Room is also a must-see, with its wall-to-ceiling trompe-l’oeil frescoes and art. On the other hand, if you plan on skipping a guided tour, make sure to visit during the weekday mornings before the crowds arrive.

2. Marvel at the Views of Cabo da Roca

Photo by pcdazero on Pixabay

Cabo da Roca mark’s the westernmost point of continental Europe. It is also where the sky meets the sea, set in a granite cliff 140 meters above the sea. The area around Cabo da Roca is simple and underdeveloped, with only the lighthouse, a coffee shop, and a gift shop around, preserving the beauty of nature. Near the lighthouse is a stone monolith that marks the place as the westernmost part of Europe, a popular photo spot among visitors. Around Cabo da Roca, you can also find quaint beaches.

Take a bus or a taxi to Cabo da Roca and be in awe of its views. Don’t forget to bring your cameras and take panoramic shots along the coast. Stop by the gift shop and take home a souvenir, a handwritten certificate proving your visit to this corner of Europe.

3. Take a Break at Parque da Pena

Photo by Red Mirror on Unsplash

From exploring the buildings and palaces of Sintra Portugal, relax and enjoy a leisurely walk at Parque da Pena. Like Pena Palace, the park was constructed by King Ferdinand II who filled the 200-hectare land with tall trees and plant species from around the world. Most trees and plants have matures, giving the park a somewhat mysterious yet charming atmosphere. On a warm, sunny day, visiting Parque da Pena is one of the best things to do in Sintra.

Walk long its greenery-laden walkways boasting different plants and flowers. Enjoy the views of the garden and its well-maintained hedges as you follow different paths. For the complete experience, hike through the forest and up to its highest point of the Sintra Mountains, Cruz Alta. 

4. Try the Local Delicacies of Sintra

Photo by raquel on Adobe Stock

A trip to any city is incomplete without trying some of its local food and snacks! While Lisbon is famous for its egg tarts, Sintra also has its fair share of must-try bites and delicacies. At Old Town, don’t miss the Casa Piriquita pastry shop and try their famous sweet treats. Try the travesseiro, a flaky rectangular puff pastry filled with egg cream and almonds. Another local snack is the queijada, a rounded cake made with cheese, sugar, cinnamon, and eggs.

If you’re a certified foodie, join food tours of Sintra and let an expert guide take you through stalls and shops selling the best local eats. Get a chance to learn about Sintra Portugal’s culinary history, sample its dishes and snacks, and admire the beauty of the city in one trip.

5. Enjoy the Beaches of Sintra

Photo by robiweber on Pixabay

In summer (or any day for that matter), head to the beaches in Sintra and take a dip in its waters. Beaches in Sintra Portugal are relatively smaller than those in Lisbon, but the coast is beautiful and is a must-visit. In addition, the beaches at Sintra are also popular for surfing, paragliding, and other water activities. Whether you’re an avid surfer or you just want to relax and soak up the sun, make sure to visit Sintra’s beaches.

Near Cabo da Roca is Praia da Ursa, one of the city’s best beaches. Reachable by car, it’s remote and fairly rugged, but it still has pristine white sand framed by tall cliffs and boulders. Meanwhile, Praia Grande is easily accessible and has plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops nearby. Other noteworthy beaches in Sintra are Praia das Maçãs and Praia da Adraga.

6. Go on a Walking Tour of the Old Centre of Sintra

Photo by Rui on Adobe Stock

Joining guided walking tours of Sintra Portugal is definitely one of the best ways to acquaint yourself with the city. You can see the Historic Centre’s main highlights in one trip and learn about them from your guide. There are plenty of tours available with varying schedules, itineraries, number of participants, and languages. Additionally, some tour packages also include tickets to Pena Palace or the Palace of Sintra.

Start your way with a morning walking tour of Sintra’s Old Centre and see the charming town come to life as the shops open one by one. Then, pass by quaint shops through cobbled streets to see charming mansions, townhouses, and even museums which you can photograph from the outside.

7. Visit the Sintra National Palace

Photo by Jonny_Joka on Pixabay

Near the Sintra Natural History Museum is another must-visit site in the city: the Sintra National Palace . Visitors can immediately recognize the palace due to its white conical towers. Once home to the Royal Family of Portugal, the National Palace is one of the best-preserved palaces in all of Portugal. Like most castles in Europe that had different families occupying them, each occupant would add their personal touch to the castle. 

Explore this majestic palace and learn about the history of Sintra. Visit the Hall of Swans, named after the painted swans on the ceiling, and marvel at the tilework of the Arab Room. As you visit one room and another, you’ll notice the different interior and architectural styles creating a unique yet pleasing aesthetic.

8. Admire the Beauty of the Monserrate Palace

Photo by kkmarais on Flickr

Tucked into the hills of Sintra Portugal away from the streets of Old Town is the Monserrate Palace . The palace was once a chapel, but it suffered major damages during the 1755 Lisbon earthquake. From 1789 to 1809, the chapel was rebuilt into a palace, and in 1863, the British merchant Francis Cook bought the property and turned it into a summer residence for his family. Today, Monserrate Palace is one of the off-the-radar yet must-visit sites in Sintra.

Explore the ornate gardens of Monserrate Palace, bursting with plants from different corners of the world. Its overall architecture is a combination of, English, Arabic, Gothic, and Indian styles, with brightly colored walls and elegant arches. With its lush gardens, beautiful waterfalls, and quaint lakes, it is the perfect escape for a relaxing afternoon.

9. Hike the Castle of the Moors

Photo by NunofSousa on Pixabay

For uninterrupted views of Sintra Portugal, hike to the Castle of the Moors . It was once a strategic location during the Reconquista but was taken by the Christians after the fall of Lisbon. As part of the Cultural Landscape of Sintra, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And like other major attractions in the city, the Castle of the Moors is nestled on top of a mountain, giving you unparalleled views.

Challenge yourself and hike to the top of the castle, admiring the views along the way. Much of the original castle has been destroyed, but you can still admire the ruins of the old chapel, cistern, and its walls. For travelers who want to visit yet skip the tedious hike, you can reach the castle by catching a local bus.

10. Discover Quinta da Regaleira

Photo by Raja Sen on Unsplash

The Gothic Quinta da Regaleira is another must-visit palace in Sintra. Its owner, the Regaleira family, was a group of wealthy merchants from Porto. In 1892, they sold it to António Augusto Carvalho Monteiro who commissioned the Italiana architect Luis Manini to recreate the estate to reflect Carvalho Monteiro’s ideologies. His ideas and interests would then reflect on the various symbols related to the Knights Templar, alchemy, and Masonry scattered around the estate.

Visit and be in awe of the Gothic and Renaissance structures of Quinta da Regaleira. Keep an eye open for the different Manueline symbols along with the gorgeous frescoes at the chapel. On your visit, don’t miss the Initiation Wells, two eerie wells that resemble an underground tower that served as a location for Tarot rites.

11. Ride the Sintra Tram

Photo by Cahroi on Flickr

Riding the trams in Sintra Portugal is one of the best ways to explore the city. You can relax in your seat while enjoying the view of the city and its monuments. This is also a great way to see the city if you don’t have a car. Opened in 1904, the tram connects the towns of Sintra and Praia das Maçãs and passes through Colares. 

For just 3 EUR or 3.60 USD, you can ride the Sintra Tram and travel around the city or to the beaches of Praia das Maçãs. Services for the Sintra Tram are seasonal and in winter, there’s only one service per day. If you want to avoid waiting in line or being turned away, take the tram first thing in the morning before resuming your normal sightseeing schedule.

12. See the Palácio Nacional e Jardins de Queluz

Photo by dudlajzov on Adobe Stock

Just a few minutes away from Sintra is the gorgeous Palace of Queluz, also known as the Palácio Nacional e Jardins de Queluz. The 8th-century palace boasts stunning Rococo architecture with well-manicured gardens and intricate frescoes. In addition, it is also one of the last Rococo buildings designed in Europe and functioned as a summer residence for Pedro III and his wife Maria I.

Once a grand summer retreat, the Palace of Queluz is now a popular tourist attraction near Sintra Portugal. Despite its seemingly modern exterior, its interiors are splendid and reminiscent of the many castles in France . The Hall of Ambassadors features gilded ceilings with black and white marble tiles that resemble a checkerboard. After exploring inside, head out to the garden and find an array of statues of different mythological creatures.

Best Time to Visit Sintra

Photo by Paulo Soeiro on Unsplash

The best time to visit Sintra Portugal is from March to May and mid-September to early December. There is also little to no rainfall, so visitors can enjoy outdoor activities and sightseeing. The days are warm and sunny without the heat and crowds brought by summer. Autumn is another great choice of season to visit due to affordable plane tickets and lodging, however, this is also the monsoon season so prepare and pack accordingly to the weather. Additionally, most of the summer crowd has gone by September, so there are fewer crowds at popular sites such as Pena Palace or the Quinta da Regaleira.

The city can get crowded during the peak months of July and August in summer. In winter, hotels and tours are cheaper, which can delight budget travelers. However, there is plenty of rainfall and high humidity can affect your overall trip. Hiking is also not advised in winter as the trails aren’t in good condition.

Getting Around Sintra Portugal

Photo by Anajim on Pixabay

By Car: Using a car to get around Sintra is best if you want to visit far-flung areas that aren’t normally accessible by public transport. However, not all streets in the city are passable for cars, especially in Old Town Sintra. Parking is also limited so make sure to confirm with your hotel or accommodation if they have parking slots and you’ll need to reserve one in advance. Free parking spaces are also available near the Town Hall. Check the Sintra Municipality website for additional information on parking.

By Taxi: Taxis are also a great way of getting around Sintra Portugal without the hassle of public transportation. There are taxis available near the post office that offer a minimum charge of 3 EUR or 3.60 USD. Taxis are metered, with a higher minimum charge during the weekend. 

By Tuk-Tuk: A tuk-tuk is a small, three-wheeled rickshaw that is also common in Asian cities like Bangkok . In Sintra, a tuk-tuk is another way of getting around the city, especially if you’re planning on sightseeing. A tuk-tuk can accommodate up to 6 people, and you can book tuk-tuk tours of Sintra through different tour operators.

By Bus: Taking a bus around is a convenient and cost-effective way of getting around Sintra. There are different bus routes that go around popular sites and have one-way or hop-on hop-off options. For the latter, tourists can board on one stop, enjoy the ride, and alight at another stop. Then, they can board another bus on the same route and resume their sightseeing. Most buses start at the train station.

Is Sintra Safe for Travelers?

Photo by Julia Solonina on Unsplash

As Sintra is a city away from the capital, it’s normal that first-time visitors will ask about its safety. But like Lisbon, Sintra is a relatively safe city to visit. However, tourists should always take note of the following in Sintra:

• Be careful of pickpockets especially in touristy areas and districts. Make sure to keep an eye on your belongings and never leave them unattended.
• Avoid walking on narrow streets alone at night.
• Take note that the weather in Sintra can become unpredictable the higher you go. Places like Pena Palace are prone to morning fog, which can hinder visibility.
• Streets in Sintra are steep and narrow. If you’ll be exploring the city throughout the day, make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes. When going in crowded areas, keep an eye on your bags and be aware of your surroundings.
• When visiting the beaches of Sintra Portugal, pay attention to the posted warning regarding currents or water conditions. There may be sudden surges or warnings of high tide.

See the Beauty of Sintra Portugal

While Lisbon has its fair share of the country’s tourism thanks to its sites, restaurants, and its status as the capital, Sintra is also a city worth visiting. Its status as one of the best places to live in Portugal and a favorite among foreign expats is proof that Sintra should be on every traveler’s bucket list. Surrounded by gorgeous palaces, eclectic mansions, and summer residences, Sintra is an underrated picture-perfect destination. The breathtaking Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and Monserrate Palace are some of the most beautiful palaces in Portugal and in Europe as well. In addition, Sintra Old Town is a charming quarter that offers local dining and shopping experiences. If you’re looking to veer from the busy city life, head to the beaches and enjoy the view of the Atlantic Ocean.

Nevertheless, if you’re staying in Lisbon, Cascais, or in any city in Portugal, visit and discover the beauty of Sintra! 

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Visiting Sintra, Portugal: What to See & Itinerary for 1, 2, or 3 Days

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: December 13, 2023

Fairytale-like Sintra is a popular day trip from Lisbon, but there is so much to see and do in and near Sintra that you can easily spend a week in the area.

In this post, we share  our best suggestions for what to see in Sintra and Sintra itinerary for one, two, or three days . We also include practical tips to help you plan your trip to one of the most visited places in Portugal.

We spent two days in Sintra during our  10 day road trip in Portugal , and could have easily spent one more. On the other hand, two days was enough time to see the main landmarks of Sintra.

If you want to visit the very best places in Sintra, one day is really short. I advise you to come for two or three days and spend one or two nights in Sintra. But don’t despair if you have just one day in Sintra. You can still see a lot. Find out!

Sintra itinerary – OVERVIEW

• 1 day in Sintra
• 2 days in Sintra
• 3 days in Sintra
• Practical information for visiting Sintra

How to See the Best of Sintra in One Day

Visiting Sintra is one of the must-do things in Lisbon ! So most people only come here for a day.

If you only have one day to visit Sintra , the best way to do it is by taking a day trip from Lisbon. There are many organized day trips . Alternatively, you can take a train and visit the main Sintra landmarks individually.

You can find more practical information for visiting Sintra below. But first – what to see and do in Sintra in one, two, or three days.

What to do in Sintra in 1 day

If you have one day in Sintra, visit the Pena Palace and the Pena Park, the Moorish Castle, and either the Palace of Sintra (Palacio Nacional de Sintra) or Quinta da Regaleira . Leave some time to explore the old town of Sintra and have a nice dinner at a local restaurant (avoid touristy places!).

I think that Pena Palace and Park, Moorish Castle, and Quinta da Regaleira and its gardens are the three absolute musts in Sintra ! However, depending on how many hours you have and how long the castles stay open, you may only have the time to visit two of them in one day.

The most popular Sintra itinerary for one day includes the visit to Pena Palace with Pena Park and the Moorish Castle. Sometimes also Palacio Nacional de Sintra (in the old town, not to be confused with Palacio da Pena on top of the hill).

In my opinion, however, Sintra National Palace is not as impressive as Quinta da Regaleira. If you have to choose between the Palace of Sintra and Quinta da Regaleira, go for the latter. On the other hand, you need more time to see Quinta, so it really depends on your schedule.

Good to know: Pena Palace now works with a timed entry system, so be sure to get your tickets in advance !

Sintra in one day – suggested itinerary

I advise starting your day in Sintra with a taxi ride to Pena Palace . This colorful castle is located on top of the hill, so it’s best to start here and walk your way downwards towards the town center. You should know that the walk from the entrance to the palace is quite steep, so wear good shoes. Alternatively, you can also opt for a shuttle (but I’d only recommend this for people with mobility issues since the walk is really not that strenuous or long).

After visiting the romantic Pena Palace, you can walk through the beautiful Pena gardens to the lower entrance of the park. Pena Park is huge and you could easily spend half a day here, but even if you don’t have much time, try to at least do this short walk.

TIP: Once again, for Pena Palace, be sure to get timed tickets in advance.

From the lower entrance of Pena Park, it’s just a couple of minutes walking back up the hill to the entrance of the Moorish Castle . However, the actual castle is located pretty far from the main road, so it’s another 10-15 minutes walk before you get there. Also for the Moorish Castle, you can get your tickets online in advance and skip the lines.

When you exit the Moorish Castle after your visit, you will see signs for Sintra historical town center. The walk is well sign-posted, easy to do, and it’s a nice relaxing way to end your day in Sintra. Alternatively, walk back to the main road where you came from, and take a taxi, a bus, or a tuk-tuk.

The above was our Sintra itinerary for the first day. Keep in mind that we arrived rather late since we were driving from Porto that day, and also got stuck in the traffic in Sintra for more than an hour. After checking in at our hotel, we only started sightseeing at around 1.30 PM.

We visited the Pena Palace and Pena Park (however only shortly). After that, we headed to the Moorish Castle, and took the stairs down to the center of Sintra.

We asked our hotel for dinner recommendations and had a really good meal at Restaurante Tulhas, just a bit outside of the main tourist routes.

If we would have had 2-3 hours more, we could have easily added one more castle to our itinerary or spent more time in the gardens of Pena.

TIP: Pack a picnic and spend the whole day on the mountain. Count at least 3 hours for Pena Palace and Pena Park and another 2 hours for the Moorish Castle. It will take you at least half an hour to walk back down to the old town of Sintra. You might still have the time to visit Palacio Nacional in the late afternoon. If you decide to visit Quinta da Regaleira on the same day, make sure that you have at least 2-3 hours for it.

If you want to see more than two major castles of Sintra in one day, make sure to arrive very early and plan to stay till the closing time in the evening. 

TIP: The best way to visit Sintra in just a day is by taking an organized tour from Lisbon.  Half-day tours focus on just the main highlights of Sintra – usually two castles. The most popular day tours include not just Sintra, but also Cabo da Roca and Cascais . You can also opt for a private tour from Lisbon .

READ ALSO: How to see the best of Lisbon in one day & The best day trips and excursions from Lisbon

Sintra Two Day Itinerary

If you have two days in Sintra, in addition to Pena Palace, Pena Park, and the Moorish Castle, you should visit Quinta da Regaleira, Monserrate Palace, and the National Palace of Sintra .

Don’t rush and take your time to discover the beautiful gardens of Pena, Quinta da Regaleira, and Palacio de Monserrate (our personal favorite!).

You don’t need a car to visit any of these places. Only Palacio de Monserrate is a bit further from Sintra, but you can get there by bus or taxi as well.

Three Days in Sintra

If you have three days in Sintra and you have a car, you can visit several more places nearby.

Some suggestions include Convento dos Capuchos , Palacio de Seteais (it’s also a wonderful hotel , so budget permitting, why not stay in this beautiful castle), Vila Sassetti , Santuario da Peninha , and the beautiful coast with Cabo da Roca , Praia da Adraga , etc.

Via the link below, you can find more information about all these places.

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Sintra

Practical Information for Visiting Sintra

1. organized half-day and day trips to sintra from lisbon.

Organized Sintra day trips have several advantages: you can see more in less time, you don’t have to queue for the tickets (you can avoid this by buying your tickets online in advance too), and you don’t have to worry about getting from one place to another in Sintra itself.

Entrance tickets to the castles are included in your day trip rate. It’s the best option for those who are short on time or just want to take it easy.

On top of that, many of the organized tours also visit the beautiful coast and Cabo da Roca, and some even Cascais, e.g. this highly-rated popular tour .

2. Sintra day trip from Lisbon by train

If you rather visit Sintra individually, it’s not advisable to come by car. Traffic in and around Sintra is the worst we saw during our 10-day trip in Portugal. You will lose hours in the traffic!

Instead, take a train from Rossio station in Lisbon and you will be in Sintra in less than an hour. Make sure you leave early in the morning so that you have enough time to see at least two main castles of Sintra. Trains run every 10 minutes (in summer) and cost less than 5 EUR return.

Note that the Sintra train station is located far from all the castles and from the old town. You can either take a bus, a tuk-tuk, or a taxi. In my opinion, a taxi is by far the best option. It’s cheap, it has airco, and it’s quick.

Tuk-tuk is fun to do if you are visiting Portugal with kids , but with a family, it’s quite an expensive option since they charge per person. On top of that tuk-tuk is really slow going up the mountain and is extremely noisy. We took a tuk-tuk for a short ride from Sintra old town to the upper entrance of Quinta da Regaleira. The kids loved it, so it was worth it for the experience, not so much for being the most practical solution…

3. Avoid summer weekends

Sintra is popular with Portuguese as well, so try to avoid visiting on weekends and public holidays.

The best time to visit Sintra is on a workday in the shoulder season, such as March-April or October-November. We visited Portugal in April and while it was quite lively at the Pena Palace and Quinta, it wasn’t busy at the other places in Sintra.

4. Getting around in Sintra

Although Sintra can easily be reached by train from Lisbon, the main attractions of Sintra are located pretty far from each other. So you will need to use public transport to get around.

The  Palace of Sintra is the only castle that is located in town itself, and even then it’s about 20min walk from the station. Pena Palace is located high on the hill (it’s a steep climb –  I wouldn’t advise doing it on foot), and the Moorish Castle is half-way on the same road as Pena Palace.

Quinta de Regaleira is not that far from the old town, and you can walk there (10-15 min), as is Villa Sasetti . Palacio de Monserrate , Convento dos Capuchos , Santuario de Peninha , are all located further away, and are best reached by car or public transport.

Pena Palace can be reached by car, and there is some limited parking nearby, on the side of the road. We were in Sintra by car as part of our Portuguese road trip, but after all the traffic chaos in town, we gladly left the car at our hotel.

We took a taxi to Pena Palace, and for the 5 of us, the cost was just over 5 EUR. It’s really not worth all the hassle to try and drive up the hill in your own car. On top of that, if you don’t have a car, you can better explore the area without having to return to the spot where you parked it (which is high on the hill, if you start at Pena Palace).

TIP: Since recently, there is also a new way to discover Sintra – a tiny 2-person e-car that’s easy to get around on the narrow roads in Sintra and should be easy enough to park. Please note that this is just a car rental, so you still have to get tickets to the castles.

5. Entrance tickets for the castles of Sintra

Sintra is probably the busiest and most expensive place you will visit in Portugal. Having said that, the entrance tickets for each castle individually are not that expensive, but it quickly adds up if you visit three or four castles with a big family.

So plan well and if your time or budget are limited, don’t try to see it all. It’s better to spend more time in one place, explore the gardens, and mak the best use of your ticket rather than rushing from one place to the other the whole time…

TIP:   As already said before, if you want to avoid long queues, buy your tickets online in advance. Families with 2 children are better off buying family tickets (only available here ). Family tickets will save you about 5-6 euros per palace.

For more practical information on opening times and ticket prices check these websites: Parques de Sintra  and Quinta da Regaleira .

6. What to pack for Sintra

No matter the season, sensible shoes are a must in Sintra. Cobbled streets, steep walkways, and the gardens of the palaces require sturdy footwear. I would suggest carrying a day backpack with a picnic lunch and a reusable water bottle. If you are visiting Sintra in summer, don’t forget sun protection.

7. Where to stay in Sintra

Sintra is an extremely popular destination and has limited accommodation options, so it is advisable to book well in advance. There isn’t really a good or a bad area to stay. If you have lots of luggage, you may want to stay close to the railway station. We stayed in the old town and found this location excellent for sightseeing.

There are no really big hotels in Sintra, but rather smaller hotels, B&B’s, and guest houses. There are also several nicer hotels a bit outside of town though. You can find accommodation in all price ranges , just make sure to book in advance. Sintra is one of the most popular places in Portugal, no matter the season.

If you are coming by car, parking might be tricky, so it’s best to check if your accommodation has private parking (and it’s probably better to stay a bit outside of town. Our accommodation didn’t have parking and we were lucky to find one free spot nearby, but we saw many people driving around looking for a parking place. Sintra is really not the best place to visit by car.

Here are some of the best-rated accommodations in Sintra:

• €€€€€ Tivoli Palacio de Seteais (worth visiting even if not staying here!).
• €€€€ Sintra Boutique Hotel (one of the nicest hotels in the center).
• €€€ Chalet Saudade (top pick in the mid-budget range).
• €€ Casa da Pendoa (we stayed here once. It’s one of the few places that also has family rooms and bigger apartments).

If you are coming by car (or don’t mind taking a taxi) and want to stay outside the busy tourist areas check out these beautiful resorts nearby:

• €€€€€ Penha Longa Resort (a big palazzo-style vacation resort).
• €€€€ Sintra Marmoris Palace (a wonderful 19th-century manor house, within walking distance of town).
• €€€ Pestana Sintra Golf Resort & SPA (a popular mid-budget holiday resort).

Visiting Sintra FAQ

Sintra is one of the most beautiful and most unique places in Portugal and is absolutely worth a visit. With fairytale-like castles and the most enchanting gardens, a visit to Sintra is worth your time even if you are coming from the other side of the world!

Sintra is just 28km from Lisbon city center. In theory, it takes about 30 minutes to drive to Sintra, but usually, traffic is so busy that you can lose more than an hour just in order to get into Sintra town. Coming by train, it takes a bit less than an hour and costs about 5 EUR per person.

While you can see the main highlights of Sintra in one day, we recommend at least two days in Sintra. This will allow you to see the most popular castles such as Pena Palace, the Moorish Castle, or Quinta de Regaleira, but also explore the area deeper and visit some lesser-known gems such as Monserrate Palace.

One day is enough to see the most famous castles in Sintra. If you plan well and go fast, you can see Pena Palace, the Moorish Castle, and either Palacio Nacional de Sintra or Quinta da Regaleira on the same day. We recommend the latter.

If you only have half a day in Sintra, you can visit one or maximum two castles. Pena Palace is a must. In addition, we recommend to also visit Quinta da Regaleira, and especially its beautiful gardens.

Sintra is a hilly town and since some palaces and castles are located a bit far away from each other, it’s not always possible to walk everywhere. For bigger distances, you can use local buses, tuk-tuks, and taxis. It’s not advisable to drive around Sintra town in your own car because traffic is very bad and parking is hard to find.

READ ALSO: Best Towns in Portugal

Some travel inspiration for Portugal:

• Best Things to Do in Lisbon
• Best Day Trips from Lisbon
• Portugal with Kids
• Portugal 10-day Itinerary
• Algarve 5-day Itinerary
• Top Places to See in Algarve
• Best Beaches in Algarve
• Best Things to Do in Madeira
• Best Things to Do in Sao Miguel, Azores
• for many more destinations, check out our Portugal travel guide .

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Wednesday 20th of March 2024

Hi, We will be in Lisbon for four days, and I heard from a friend that there is a "green" card pass from Lisbon to Sintra that includes two of the castles and a few museums in Sintra. Do you know anything about this? Thank you in advance!

Thursday 21st of March 2024

@Jurga, Thank you so much!

Hi Denelsa, no, I am personally not familiar with a green pass (which doesn't mean it doesn't exist). I know that the Lisbon Card includes all public transport (+ train to Sintra, Cascais, etc.) and tons of museums, plus discounts on many other attractions, but it doesn't include the palaces in Sintra. Still, it's a very good value if you are staying in the city for a longer time as it includes most of the top places and public transportation. I found this Lisbon Card + Pena Palace combo - maybe something to consider. Otherwise, you can also get this combo deal for three of the most popular palaces in Sintra (doesn't include transportation), potentially in combination with the Lisbon Card. Hope this helps.

Tuesday 25th of April 2023

Hi! We're going to Portugal and will be in Sintra for a whole day (we will get there in the evening and stay the night, and explore the whole next day before going to Lisbon). I was thinking about getting early (9.30am, first available) ticket for the Park of Pena and Palace and visit that. After that I'm still unsure. A lot of people recommend the Moorish Castle, but my GF had a fall in Indonesia recently and I'm not sure she'd be able to do all the stairs involved. I know there's the National Palace in town, and Montserrat Castle. I think Montserrat is worth the visit more than the national palace? We'd also love to see Quinta da Regaleira, where I think the Well of Initiation is?

What would you suggest? Should we maybe to Park and Palace of Pena, Montserrat Castle and Quinta da Regaleira? There's no time limit from our side, apart from the last entry of the places.

Thursday 27th of April 2023

Hi Kevin, if you start with Pena Palace and leave the gardens via the lower exit, it's just a very short walk to the Moorish Castle. That's why it's a very logical way to do it, and the views from there are amazing. However, if you have just a day in Sintra, you won't be able to see everything you mentioned anyway. So if you can't do stairs, indeed, it's probably better to skip it. You could head to Quinta and to Monserrate after that. Monserrate Palace is much quieter and Quinta da Regaleira is extremely popular, so I think it would be better to visit Monserrate after you leave Pena Palace. You can then get back to Quinta in the afternoon, when many day tourists start to leave. Just be sure to check the opening times and foresee enough time everywhere. Also, it's best to use a taxi/Uber to quickly get from one place to the other. Traffic is bad and parking is very difficult in Sintra. Monserrate is easier since it's a bit outside of town. Have a great time!

James Dieringer

Sunday 18th of September 2022

Jurga, we just returned from a trip to Portugal. Your observations are well taken, however, I would emphasize that the Pena Palace is on the top of a very high and very steep hill. A tour will take you to a parking lot which, depending upon where guards direct you to park, can involve a brief, but steep, walk to the entrance. From the entrance a shuttle bus is available for most of the steep driveway up to the shuttle turnaround area below the castle. To reach the castle another very steep walk is needed. If you do not have a skip-the-line pass there is a very long line. Those who lack good health and complete mobility may be blindsided by the physical requirements of this venue. Other than that, a wonderful place to visit.

Monday 19th of September 2022

Thanks for sharing your observations, James. It can definitely be useful for others. We never really experienced the walk to Pena Palace as challenging in any way, but indeed, if you have mobility issues, it could be a different story. In that case, people should also know that visiting the Palace itself will also require doing stairs, etc. But that's the case for pretty much any other hilltop castle or palace anywhere in Europe. I always thought that people planning to visit European castles realize that it's not quite the same as visiting Disneyland :), but I guess it doesn't harm to repeat that. Happy travels!

Ron Schinfler

Sunday 2nd of June 2019

Great info.. I plan on staying in Sintra for 1 day and I'd like to see the Pena palace,the Moorish Castle and the Quinta da Regaleira. Is there a tour in town tjhat goes to all three so I save save the time walking or taking the 434 bus from one sight to another and skip the wait to get into each sight? I'm not interested in cabe da roca or Cacais

Thanks for any help you can provide.

Hi Ron, there are so many tours to and around Sintra that it's really hard for me to research them all. There are quite a few that go from Lisbon or you can start in Sintra as well, but it's usually only private tours that give you complete flexibility. If you are already in Sintra anyway, it's much cheaper to just visit all these three castles on your own and maybe take a taxi or a tuk-tuk to get up the mountain if you don't feel like walking. Hope this helps.

Sunday 28th of April 2019

Hi Jurga Love your articles. I plan on a trip to Portugal with a 2 day stay in Sintra with a travel companion. I was informed it would be a good idea to have a guide to set up a tour to see as many of the castles as possible. Would you recommend this and if so would you have any information on guides in Sintra. Our stay in Sintra would be the September 8 and 9th 2019. Look forward to any recommendations.

Tuesday 30th of April 2019

Hi Irka, I think it's really your own personal preference how you visit the castles. Obviously, having a local guide is always nice and you learn a lot more than when you visit on your own. I found a private tour that runs from Sintra and I think it's as good as any. Most others start from Lisbon or Cascais and are more expensive, so if you are already in Sintra anyway, then this is a good option. Hope this helps.

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Sintra (+ One Day Sample Itinerary)

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 10th February 2024

Categories Portugal

Last Updated on 10th February 2024 by Sophie Nadeau

Sunny Sintra is a delightful town that’s a must-see for anyone who loves art, architecture, and history. Best visited over the course of a day, Sintra is particularly well-known for its incredible castles, breathtaking natural scenery, and palaces. Here’s how to visit Sintra , as well as everything you need to know before you go!

Where and what is Sintra?

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Sintra is located 30 km to the west of Lisbon, the capital of Portugal in the foothills of the the Serra de Sintra. While Lisbon and Sintra are both situated within the middle of Portugal, Sintra itself lies pretty close to the Atlantic Ocean (around 10 KM away) and the sparkling water itself can be spied from some of the town’s highest vantage points.

Though Sintra is technically a Portuguese town, it is often described by many as something akin to a theme park that has come to life thanks to its many historical points of interest and fairytale-like façades.

Sintra is not only a UNESCO World Heritage site, but also one of the most popular places to visit in Portugal thanks to its abundance of romantic architecture. Most places in town date back to the 19th-century, when the town was the retreat of choice for the Portuguese monarchy and associated nobility.

The busiest times of the year are in July and August (European high season) and so, if you’re able to, I recommend visiting in late May/ June or September/ early October in order to make the most of longer days without the crowds.

The long and short answer is no, you can’t do Sintra in just half a day! Some sites may have you believe that it’s do-able, but, to be honest, even a full day will have you rushing around a bit in order to see all the sites and you won’t have any time to enjoy anything as you’ll be spending all of your time trying to fit all the attractions in. If you only have a few hours, then you’ll have to focus on a single site, such as Palácio Nacional de Sintra.

If you’re short on time, then the best way to get to know Sintra is as a day trip from Lisbon . With this being said, if you want to get to know the city on more of a local’s level without the crowds, then consider an overnight stay so that you can experience Sintra without the day trippers. Here’s how to visit Sintra:

By train: If you’re looking to see Sintra as a day trip, then the cheapest way to reach the area is by taking the train from Rossio train station in downtown Lisbon. The journey takes around 45 minutes and trains leave several times an hour during the day.

By guided tour: For a no fuss day trip where all of the finer details are taken care of, a guided tour from Lisbon is a no-brainer. Booking a guided tour like this one will take you to all of the highlights of Sintra, and give you a greater insight into the history behind each attraction. Find more information here.

Best things to do in Sintra

This Gothic mansion is in a beautiful setting with surrounding gardens. The site is part of the UNESCO  “Cultural Landscape of Sintra” and comprises of a Romantic Palace and chapel (which date back to the latter half of the 19th-century) and a surrounding parkland.

Most of the house was designed by the Italian architect Luigi Manini. Particular highlights include Gothic gargoyles and pinnacles. The gardens of the park are pretty impressive and boast features like grottoes, fountains, and benches.

if you’ve spent any time on social media checking out photos of Sintra, then no doubt you’ll have spied the moss-covered central staircase of the Initiatic Well, which is also located within the estate.

Of all the places to visit in Sintra, this is one of the less touristic spots. Buy your Quinta da Regaleira Skip-the-Line Entry & Audio Tour ticket here.

Perched atop the highest spot in town, Pena Palace is undoubtedly the crown jewel when it comes to attractions in Sintra, not to mention it’s the most popular place to visit. The golden hued façade of the Palace is instantly recognisable.

A Romanticist castle in São Pedro de Penaferrim, in the municipality of Sintra, Pena Palace was completed in 1854. Thanks to its elevation at the highest point in Sintra, on a clear day, it’s possible to see the castle from as far away as Lisbon! Buy your Pena Palace and Park Entrance Ticket here in advance.

The Moorish Castle is actually one of the oldest historical sites in Sintra and sits atop of its own rocky perch, overlooking the town. There has been a castle onsite since the 8th-century, when it was built to protect the surrounding population, who largely worked in agriculture.

Today, the vast fortified stone walls offer a glimpse into what this part of Portugal would have been like during the Middle Ages. You can easily while away several hours climbing up and down the walls of the castle, though note that it can be pretty windy, even in the summer! Buy your Castle of the Moors Fast Track Ticket here in advance.

The Sintra National Palace shouldn’t be confused with the Palace of Pena, which is higher up the hill. The Sintra National Palace is also called the Town Palace and was built in the 15th-century, making it one of the best-preserved medieval royal residences in Portugal. Today, the structure functions as a historic house museum.

One of the lesser-known spots in the Sintra area that is well worth checking out if you have time is the Convent of the Capuchos. This historical convent takes only around 30 minutes to wander around. Highlights include the chance to see a beautiful blend of architecture mixed with religion and nature.

Yet another Sintra Palace that is a little out of the way and so not really easy to get to when visitors are just on a day trip to Sintra is the Monserrate Palace. This villa once functioned as the summer resort of the Portuguese court and lies nestled in the verdant Sintra mountain.

Before heading out to explore Sintra, I highly recommend planning your route in advance. Since there is so much to see and do, you’ll want to bullet point what you most want to explore.

If visiting Sintra as a day trip from Lisbon, aim to leave from the Rossio train station by 9 AM, if not a little bit earlier. This Sintra itinerary is quite ambitious and so my one piece of advice would be to not walk everywhere. For example, take the tourist bus up hills in order to save time to explore the sites themselves!

Pena Palace and Park:  After arrival at the train station, take the 434 bus and begin your day by heading to the highest point in town, the Pena Palace. This historic structure and its associated estate take several hours to visit. Pena Palace officially opens at 9:30 AM though aim to arrive a little before that time as this is the most popular attraction in

Castelo dos Mouros:  Following a visit to Pena Palace, it’s a fairly short and simple walk to reach the Castle of the Moors. The walk is downhill and takes around 15 minutes. It takes around an hour or so to visit this Sintra attraction.

Lunch in Sintra Town:  You can then walk down into Saõ Martinho (the walk takes 15 to 25 minutes) or hop on the 434 bus. Once in town, you can get lunch at one of the many eateries. There’s a surprising number of vegan and vegetarian restaurants and some of the top picks include A Praça and Mela Canela.

Sintra National Palace:  After a hearty lunch, the Sintra National Palace is just a short walk away, not far from the centre of Saõ Martinho. This 11th-century Moorish Palace takes one to two hours to visit.

Quinta da Regaleira:  Finally, end your day by visiting Quinta da Regaleira. This regal building takes two to three hours to fully enjoy. At the end of the day, it’s a fairly easy and short walk to get back to Sintra train station which will take you back to Lisbon.

If you want to make the most of your day and maximise exploration time (while all of the sites are actually open), then it’s best to set off to explore Sintra as early as possible. The castles open their doors between 9 AM and 10 AM (depending on the castle in question) and so aim to arrive just before that time.

Once in the Portuguese town, there are a number of ways to get around which vary in cost and depend on your personal preference. As well as on your own two feet (so be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes) , other ways to get around town between the points of interest include tuk-tuk, bus, and taxi.

Do not rent a car. As a result of mass tourism, traffic jams are frequent and so driving around can get pretty frustrating pretty quickly! If you’re able to, then one of the most efficient ways to explore Sintra is on foot. For more inspiration, be sure to check out our top Portugal travel tips .

An alternative way of getting around town that’s efficient and quite inexpensive is by taking the tourist bus. This will shave a fair bit of travel time off your route (depending on the traffic). The 434 bus does loops of the town and a single fare can be purchased at a cost of a few euros.

As I mentioned previously, if you’re not in a rush, then staying in Sintra overnight gives you the chance to see the town without the crowds, mad rush, and day trippers which descend on the city each day.

Despite being a popular destination with day trippers, there is a surprisingly good choice of places to stay in town. Here are some of the best places to stay in Sintra based on web-reviews and location:

Budget: Those who are looking for low-cost accommodation during their time in Sintra can check out this budget hostel. As well as female only and mixed dorm rooms, private rooms are also available. Check prices and availability here.

Mid-range: This cosy accommodation in Sintra offers highlights such as an airport shuttle bus and close proximity to Sintra train station. Check prices and availability here.

Luxury: If you’re in search of an uber luxurious stay during your time in Portugal, then you’ve come to the right place. This five-star hotel boasts amenities such as a hotel and spa. Check prices and availability here.

As I mentioned, while the most affordable way to get to Sintra is via train directly from Lisbon, if you want a fuss-free way to reach the heritage site (and the chance to see other sites in Portugal as well), then consider booking a guided tour. Here are some of the best:

From Lisbon Sintra, Cabo da Roca and Cascais Full-Day Tour: This popular and well-reviewed day tour includes seeing beautiful Sintra, the views at Roca Cape, and the pools at Azenhas do Mar. Transportation to and from Lisbon is by minibus. Check prices and availability here.

From Lisbon- Fátima and Sintra Private Tour: If you’re interested in seeing both Sintra and the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima (including Valinhos village) as part of a small group, then this is the tour for you. Check prices and availability here.

Sintra – Cascais: 6-Hour Electric Bike Tour from Lisbon: This tour will allow you to see Sintra and Cascais from a rather unique perspective; i.e. on an electric bike. Check prices and availability here.

From Lisbon: Sintra, Cascais, Cabo da Roca Private Car Tour: If you would prefer to enjoy the sites of Sintra together with a local guide, then you need to look no further than this tour. Check prices and availability here.

In the summer, you can’t go wrong by pairing a cute midi dress with classic white tennis shoes for a laid-back smart casual look that’s just as chic for walking around a city’s cobbled lanes as it is for wandering coastal paths. I love this dress and have it in several colour ways. In terms of tennis shoes, this is my go-to shoe.

When it comes to winter in Europe, most places (with the exception of a few islands) can get pretty cold and so warm layers is a must. I find that cute ankle boots like these ones are the perfect mix of practical meets cute.

Shoulder seasons (spring and summer) in Europe tend to come with a mix of rainy and sunny days and so, again, layers are a must. Trench coats and sneakers are the best uniform to explore the continent in.

Finally, a cross-body bag like these ones is a must. I personally use a crossbody bag  by this brand  and love its shape, size, and versatility. As well as being convenient and compact, it’s one of the safest ways to transport your valuables, all the while looking chic. I also recommend bringing along a travel adapter  like this one  so you can charge all of your electronics during your stay!

Enjoyed reading this ultimate guide to the best things to do in Sintra, Portugal? Pin this article now, read it again later:

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

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12 Best Things to Do in Sintra, Portugal

By Jamie Gambetta · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Amidst the undulating hills of Portugal lies the alluring town of Sintra, a mosaic of history, culture, and natural beauty. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, elaborate palaces, and rich legacy. It calls travelers to immerse themselves in its timeless charm.

Stroll down cobblestone streets lined with colorful homes. Discover ancient castles, and wander through verdant forests. Here, one can’t help but be enchanted by Sintra’s fairytale atmosphere. One that transcends time.

From the majestic Pena Palace perched atop the hills, to the enigmatic Castle of the Moors with its hidden mysteries at every turn, Sintra offers a journey into a world where the past and present seamlessly blend. Explore all the magical things to do in Sintra and its unique ambiance, where each cobblestone and castle wall holds stories of bygone eras.

12. Explore the Historic Center

Wandering through the cobblestone streets and immersing yourself in the timeless charm of Sintra’s Historic Center. Start with a visit to the Sintra National Palace, marveling at its unique architecture and rich history.

As the morning unfolds, ascend towards the captivating Pena Palace, sitting atop the hills. Explore the colorful facades, intricate interiors, and lush gardens while taking in the views of the surrounding landscape.

When you’ve worked up an appetite, savor a delicious Portuguese lunch at one of the local eateries, treating yourself to traditional dishes like travesseiros or queijadas.

In the afternoon, wander through the narrow streets of the Old Town, discovering quaint shops that offer local souvenirs and handcrafted items. Take a moment to recharge with a bica (espresso) at a cozy café, allowing yourself to absorb the tranquil and unhurried vibe of the town, offering a welcome break.

11. Chalet of the Countess of Edla

Mimicking what feels like a fairytale set in Pena Park of Sintra, Chalet of the Countess Edla is a testament to the romanticism of the 19th century. It was originally built by King Ferdinand II for his second wife, Elise Hensler, who was later known as the Countess Edla.

The chalet’s exterior flaunts elaborate wooden carvings and intricate balconies, evoking an enchanting atmosphere. Upon entering, the interior showcases a whimsical mix of furnishings, lively tiles, and meticulous artistry, providing a glimpse into the extravagant lifestyle of the 19th-century upper class.

The chalet’s surrounding gardens, with their terraced layout and winding pathways, offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, a serene place to sit back with a coffee and unwind.

10. NewsMuseum

Housed in a beautiful 16th-century building, NewsMuseum offers a captivating journey through the history, evolution, and impact of news and communication. The museum is divided into different sections, each one showcasing a different aspect of the news industry.

As you first enter the “Newsroom” section, you get to experience what it’s like to be a journalist reporting on breaking news. Sit at a news desk and read from a prompter, as well as create your own news broadcast.

Next, venture into the “History of News” section, which takes visitors on a journey through the evolution of news media, from handwritten newsletters to modern-day digital platforms. It’s fascinating to witness how news has changed and its consequential influence on society.

9. Pena Park

Meander through the winding trails at Pena Park. Here you’ll encounter an array of botanical treasures, from exotic tree species to carefully manicured gardens.

We suggest embarking on the hike to Cruz Alta, the highest point in the park. The trail is clearly marked and shaded, ensuring an enjoyable journey. Upon reaching the summit, you’ll encounter the 16th-century Cruz Alta, a cross commissioned by King Joao III.

While the view of Pena Palace might be somewhat obstructed, the breathtaking southward vistas of Cascais more than compensate for it, making the ascent truly rewarding.

Whether you opt for a cycling adventure through the park or prefer a leisurely stroll, the sights of iconic landmarks such as Pena Palace, the Chalet of Countess Edla, and the serene Valley of the Lakes undoubtedly make it a day well spent in Sintra.

8. Praia Grande

Experience a charming getaway to the Atlantic coast, where you can indulge in the harmonious combination of breathtaking scenery and coastal charm. Praia Grande, a vast beach with its golden sands stretching along the rugged shore, perfectly lives up to its name.

Praia Grande is a well-known spot for both residents and tourists, drawing in surfers, sun-seekers, and nature lovers. Its churning waves make it a prime location for surfing and bodyboarding, with the option of lessons available for those interested in riding the powerful Atlantic swells.

This beach is not just for water sports enthusiasts, however. It also offers a peaceful retreat for those looking to spend a tranquil day by the ocean. The expansive sandy beach invites visitors to soak up the sun, stroll along the shoreline, or simply bask in the soothing sound of the waves crashing onto the shore.

7. Cabo da Roca

Journey to the westernmost point of continental Europe, Cabo De Roca is where the rugged cliffs meet the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. Upon arrival, a large stone monument welcomes you, bearing the renowned words of Portuguese poet Luís de Camões: “Here, where the land ends and the sea begins”.

Standing at this symbolic location is truly humbling, offering an opportunity to absorb the awe-inspiring vistas that unfold before you. Next, check out the lighthouse, a maritime beacon in service since 1772 and still active today.

Positioned roughly 70 feet above ground level, the lighthouse, sitting atop towering cliffs, reaches an elevation exceeding 500 feet above sea level. This allows the beacon to cast its light up to 30 miles away. While the lighthouse remains closed to the public due to its ongoing operation, it provides magnificent views from a distance.

6. Convent of the Capuchos

This small convent and its residences were originally created in the sixteenth century to house 12 monks, who lived in incredibly cramped conditions, their tiny cells having low, narrow doors.

It was acquired by the state in the twentieth century and opened to the public. The site includes a farmhouse, courtyard, hall of retreat and hall of penitence, among other buildings. The convent was designed to fit perfectly into the natural environment of large granite boulders along the edge of the Sintra Mountains.

Hidden in the woods, it is located outside of the city even today, due to the fact that it was designed as a reclusive retreat for solitude and prayer for reclusive clergy.

5. Monserrate Park & Palace

A mesmerizing 19th-century estate, Monserrate Park & Palace is where the harmonious blend of a splendid park and palace captivates visitors. Upon arriving at Monserrate Park, visitors are immediately struck by the lush green surroundings and the idyllic landscape.

The park is expansive and is home to a variety of plant species from around the world. The main attraction of the park is its stunning gardens, which are a perfect mix of English and Mediterranean styles.

The palace is an exemplary showcase of Romantic architecture, often referred to as a genuine masterpiece. Constructed in the 19th century for the English businessman Francis Cook, it represents a harmonious fusion of Gothic, Indian, and Moorish influences. The palace highlights a wealth of ornate details, intricate carvings, and vibrant tiles, creating a spectacular sight.

4. Castle of the Moors

Perched proudly above Sintra, the remnants of the Castle of the Moors stand as an emblem of the Moorish era (8th-12th century), a once-mighty fortress safeguarding the entire region.

Built on a prominent rocky formation, the castle’s elevated position granted the Moors a strategic advantage, allowing them to survey the coastline and surrounding lands. However, in 1147, the Christian Crusaders successfully attacked and captured the castle, leading to its eventual downfall and abandonment.

It was not until King Ferdinand II (1816-1885) was captivated by the natural and tranquil atmosphere of the castle that efforts were made to partially restore it and transform it into a grand feature of his magnificent Palácio da Pena.

3. Sintra National Palace

With its iconic twin conical chimneys and lavish interior Sintra National Palace is one of the most beautiful palaces in Portugal. The interior is a mix of Moorish and Manueline styles, with arabesque courtyards, barley-twist columns and geometric tiles.

The palace is of Moorish origins, though much of what can be seen today can be traced back to 1385, when king John I ordered the complete reconstruction of the palace. The palace was in use by the royal family until 1880. Highlights include the octagonal Sala dos Cisnes (Swan Room), adorned with 27 gold-collared swans and the Sala das Pegas (Magpie Room), its ceiling decorated with magpies.

2. Quinta da Regaleira

This romantic-styled estate and chapel was most recently a private home of a local millionaire, instead of a regional home for royals. The building has been home to many different barons and merchants.

The large grounds contain many ornate and cryptic buildings, statues and frescoes that depict alchemy, the knights templar, masonry and other mysterious legends. This includes two spiral-staired ceremonial wells whose bottoms served as altars for tarot and other divination ceremonies.

Underground tunnels connect many of the outbuildings, making this the perfect setting for a mystery or crime novel. It has been owned by the city of Sintra as a public building for the past two decades, and is one of the most popular public tours.

1. Pena National Palace

The crown of Sintra Hills, the Pena National Palace, is a dazzling piece of historic architecture. It blends the past with Gothic, Manueline and Moorish influences. While the crenellated towers reach for the heavens, overshadowing the colorful domes.

  This fairytale palace, enveloped in warm colors, purple-blue azuelejos, and striking architectural accents, first came to life in the 8th century. Evolving eras and rulers transformed the original monastery into a royal palace of incredible magnificence. Earthquakes damaged the palace, and it was then rebuilt in the 19th century to the grandeur we see today.   Equally exotic is the encompassing gardens. Its grandiosity is immediately clear with several terraces that make for amazing photography spots. So it’s worth getting the full Palace and Park tickets to see the Arches Yard and Queens Terrace.

Best Time to Visit Sintra

Located just a short drive or train journey northwest of Lisbon, Sintra sees huge numbers of day trippers pour in each summer. While the weather is best then, averaging 22°C (71°F) in July and August, long queues do form at its three popular palaces. In the evenings, a quiet calm falls over the town as most people head back to the capital.

April to June and both late-September and October are much quieter, cheaper times to visit. Cooler temperatures of 16 to 21°C (61 to 70°F) are ideal for strolling about its pretty gardens, hills and Castle of the Moors. Countless concerts are also held for the Sintra Festival in June.

Outside of these months, the prices and crowds drop considerably as the weather worsens. Much rainier from October onwards, Sintra also gets very foggy which means you can’t take in its phenomenal views. Its palaces do look very atmospheric though shrouded in the mist.

During the low season, some head up to its hills to watch all the spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks displays below. Mardi Gras in February also sees lots of celebrations take place.

Whenever you visit, you can easily hop on a train to Lisbon or hit up the beaches along the coast during summer.

Where to Stay in Sintra

Staying in the charming town of Sintra offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to fully immerse oneself in its timeless charm and cultural significance. Accommodations in this enchanting town range from quaint guesthouses to historic hotels, many of which are situated in renovated palaces or manor houses. Opting to stay in this area allows visitors to easily access Sintra’s famous landmarks.

Among the refurbished establishments stands the Sintra Bliss Hotel , positioned at the heart of Sintra. This boutique hotel boasts a distinctive design and contemporary décor, embodying unique character. Conveniently located just 140 meters from Sintra Train Station, it offers easy access, while the famed Pena Palace sits a mere 4 kilometers away.

Guests are treated to a delightful scheduled breakfast menu showcasing local specialties tailored to individual tastes. The option to enjoy breakfast outdoors in the inviting and serenely designed garden adds to the charm, especially during the warmer months.

At the Sintra Boutique Hotel , a diverse range of rooms and suites offers captivating vistas of the old town and the serene expanse of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. Guests can relax amidst the meticulously landscaped garden and enjoy beverages at the courtyard bar.

Each of the modern and generously spaced rooms is uniquely decorated, accompanied by flatscreen TVs. The hotel’s concierge service facilitates personalized tours led by knowledgeable guides.

See also: Best Places to Stay in Sintra

How to get there

To reach Sintra, the starting point is typically Lisbon, which can be accessed via various transportation like air, train, or bus. Arriving by plane, travelers land at Lisbon Portela Airport.

From Lisbon, there are multiple ways to reach Sintra. Opting for the train is a popular choice, departing from either Lisbon’s Rossio Station or Oriente Station. The train ride takes approximately 40 minutes, boasting frequent services throughout the day.

Alternatively, buses ply the route between Lisbon and Sintra, departing from Sete Rios Bus Station or Campo Grande Bus Station, both conveniently reachable via the Lisbon Metro system.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Sintra

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7 Fabulous Things To Do In Beautiful Sintra, Portugal

• Destinations

Set in the hills of a pine forest bordering the Atlantic Ocean, Sintra is located just 45 minutes from Lisbon, but it’s a whole other world. Known as the Portuguese Riviera, Sintra is one of the wealthiest enclaves in Portugal, dotted with summer mansions and palaces, and also has a large expat community. 

It became popularized in the 19th century when the royalty, aristocracy, and powerful elite fled the intense summer heat of Lisbon to cool off, thus building their mansions and palaces in Sintra because of the cooler temperatures and close proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. 

A great day or overnight trip from Lisbon, there is much to see and do in Sintra. 

1. Pena Palace

The top attraction in Sintra is the Pena Palace , the former summer palace of Prince Ferdinand and the royal family in the mid-1800s, which was a medieval monastery before. The eclectic architecture comprises Neo-Gothic, Neo-Manueline, Neo-Islamic, and Neo-Renaissance styles, with whimsical architectural details and a color palette of marigold and tomato red. Inside is a stunning collection of period furniture, tapestries, and mosaic tiles. The 500-acre Pena Park, alongside the palace, is a forest filled with winding paths and labyrinths and has a collection of exotic, imported trees, including cypress, sequoia, and ginkgo, and ferns from New Zealand. In 1995, Pena Palace was designated a UNESCO heritage site. 

2. Regaleira Palace

Also known as The Palace of Monteiro the Millionaire, Regaleira Palace was the home of António Augusto Carvalho Monteiro, an heir to a wealthy Brazilian Portuguese family, who was a businessman, bibliophile, and collector. Monteiro commissioned the Italian set designer and architect Luigi Manini to design the stone mansion and the gardens. The massive home is five stories, which you can tour, and there’s a separate Roman Catholic chapel, decorated with ornate stained-glass windows, frescoes, and elaborate stuccoes. 

The lush, green gardens cover over 4 acres, and the multi-level park with narrow pathways has lots of twists and turns leading to grottos, wells, waterfalls, fountains, and secret tunnels. Initiation wells, which are inverted towers, have winding staircases and were initially used for Tarot initiation rites.

The palace has a gift shop, restaurant/cafeteria, and guided tours. In the summer, they sponsor dance, theater, and music events. 

3. Cascais 

The delightful seaside town of Cascais is a must. At one time a fishing village and agricultural center for wine, olive oil, grains, and fruit, Cascais was discovered by Portuguese and European royals in the 1870s with King Luis of Portugal, King Edward VIII of England, King Juan Carlos of Spain, and King Umberto II of Italy, establishing residences. The town of Estoril, part of the Cascais, hosts major international events with Cascais, such as America’s Cup, Horasis Global Meeting, Millennium Estoril Open tennis tournament, Ocean Race Europe, and Estoril Classics, a vintage car and motorcycle race. 

Take a stroll through the old town center and end at the marina, lined with hundreds of impressive yachts and sailboats. 

Beaches in Cascais are sandy and the azure blue water is calm. Praia da Duquesa is situated between two palaces; Praia do Guincho is great for water sports; Praia is a surfing beach; and Praia da Conceição, a popular beach with restaurants, a boardwalk, and paddleboat rentals, is within walking distance from the train station. 

4. Cabo Da Roca

The most western point of Europe, Cabo Da Roca, is located atop a 460-foot granite cliff with enormous boulders and swirling waters, dramatically crashing against them in a hypnotic way when you stare at them. There’s also a lighthouse measuring 541 feet high, dating back from 1772, and a historic stone monolith from the Roman era. 

5. Castelo Dos Mouros

A departure from the decadent 19th-century palaces of Sintra, Castelo dos Mouros is an ancient, Moorish castle from the 8th century, which was once an important military stronghold. The path up to the castle is hilly and wooded but well worth the climb when you view the spectacular structures up close. You will see Moorish-style grain silos, the remains of a medieval Christian church, and a cemetery. Climb up one of the three towers and get a thrilling view of the Atlantic. 

6. Air Museum

The Air Museum displays over 100 aircraft and 9,500 plane artifacts in a gargantuan 30,000-square-foot hangar at Air Base #1. There’s a side building that tells the history of TAP airlines, the national carrier of Portugal, since its inception in 1945 and displays its first flight recorder. Other exhibits at the museum include the original model for the Lisbon airport from 1942, halls that include the history of civil aviation and air force pilots training, and the Pioneer’s room, with maps, navigation instruments, and personal artifacts from the early Portuguese pilots and flyers.

7. Monserrate Palace 

In 1789, British businessman Gerard de Visme built a neo-gothic Monserrate Palace on the ruins of an 11th-century chapel. The result is an eclectic architectural design of the Mudejar Moorish revival influenced by Romanticism. There isn’t much in the way of furnishings in the house, but the surrounding park and gardens are the real attraction here. The Park Monserrate is a UNESCO World Heritage Cultural Landscape and winner of the European Garden Award in 2013. The fantasy, English-style garden has a lake, springs, grottos, and fountains. There are plant, flower, and tree species from around the world, including yuccas and agaves from Mexico; bamboo, azalea, camellia, and rhododendron from Japan; and from Australia and New Zealand, holly and strawberry bushes, plus palm trees and ferns. 

There’s a self-sustaining farmyard with livestock and donkeys, horses, sheep, and a picnic area and amphitheater. 

Another highlight is a 25-foot totem pole, which is carved from a 50-year-old eucalyptus tree. Created by Welsh artist Nansi Hemming, the sculptures represent various animals. 

Where To Eat 

Romaria De Baco is off the beaten path enough to not be touristy but is still close to the center. The menu offers updated, classic Portuguese cuisine and tapas and is a favorite with locals, so you know it has to be good.

A tea salon during the day and a restaurant at night, A Raposa doesn’t look like much from the exterior, but once inside, it has a beautifully decorated, contemporary dining room. The creative chef prepares dishes such as codfish with black olives paste, sweet onion slices and potatoes, Iberian pork roast with risotto and sweet mustard, and coffee-flavored crème caramel. 

Azenhas Do Mar 

Overlooking the beach with wide pane windows and an outdoor terrace, Azenhas do Mar serves up specialties of the sea including clams, squid, lobster, stuffed crab, and tiger shrimp. They have a beach bar with a lively sunset cocktail hour on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. 

Where To Stay

Sintra has a varied selection of accommodations at all price points from palaces and luxury hotels to a B&B in an old house and beachfront properties. 

Casa A Miradouro 

Painted with cheerful pink and yellow stripes on the façade, Casa A Miradouro is an eight-room B&B in a converted 19th-century house with amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean. The rooms are individually designed suites, and there’s a lovely garden and garden terrace to relax on. 

Tivoli Palacio De Seteais

Revel in the lap of luxury in an 18th-century, neoclassical palace at Tivoli Palacio De Seteais Hotel . The rooms and suites are sumptuously decorated with antiques, and the former ballrooms have lavish tapestries and frescoes. Relax in their spa Anantara spa with a crystal healing massage, or an organic, green coffee body scrub, or an organic wine body wrap, and then take a dip in the outdoor swimming pool. The Seteais Restaurant is set in one of the former ballrooms with views of the hotel gardens and has a mixed menu of Portuguese specialties and international cuisine. 

Hotel Fortaleza Do Guincho Relais And Chateaux

Part of the prestigious Relais & Châteaux network, Hotel Fortaleza do Guincho is perched above the Atlantic Ocean with a sandy beach below. The superior-class 16 rooms have sea views with private balconies equipped with chaise lounges, and there are three junior suites. There are two restaurants, the Michelin star Fortaleza do Guincho, with award-winning French chef Antoine Westermann at the helm, specializing in local seafood. The more casual The Spot serves more casual fare of sandwiches, salads, and snacks. 

We recommend doing a small, organized tour by car or van from Lisbon, as Sintra is quite spread out and the attractions are not within walking distance to each other. Lisbon Native Tours leads excellent tours of Sintra from Lisbon, and a full-day tour is a very reasonable 60 euros per person. Alternatively, you can stay in Sintra and use their local touring services. 

Sintra is very hilly and rocky, so wear sneakers or thick, rubber-bottom shoes with good support. 

Related Reading: 

• Portugal: The Best Things To See And Do After 50
• Why Madeira Is Portugal’s Best-Kept Secret
• Eating Local In Portugal: The Best Food And Drinks To Try
• 9 Reasons To Fall In Love With Southern Portugal
• 11 Best Places To Explore In Beautiful Northern Portugal

Richard Nahem is an ex-New Yorker living in Paris since 2005. A travel writer and photographer, he’s been publishing his blog Eye Prefer Paris since 2006 and also writes for publications such as Travel Agent Central, Passport Magazine, The Guardian, Bonjour Paris, and Luxury Travel Advisor. He focuses mainly on luxury travel in Europe. Richard also leads private personalized tours of Paris for clients looking to explore the off the beaten path Paris they never usually see on their own.

Sintra Tourism Guide

The essential sintra travel planner.

S intra is a fairytale town outside Lisbon, Portugal, that looks like a fantasy kingdom or an ethereal and enchanted forest . It has bewitched visitors and poets throughout history, with Lord Byron calling it a “glorious Eden” and Robert Southey describing it as "the most blessed spot on the whole inhabitable globe."

This is where the Celts worshiped the moon, the Moors built their "great wall," and royalty erected their dream palaces . The most spectacular of those is Pena Palace, looking like a Disney extravagance but an actual royal residence from the 1800s. Other almost surreal constructions include Quinta da Regaleira, the Capuchos Convent and Monserrate Palace, plus fountains and waterfalls further adding to the mystical atmosphere whose spell no one is able to resist.

All together, those constructions resulted in Europe's first center of Romantic architecture , and it is now a World Heritage Site (it was the first "cultural landscape" in Europe to be listed by UNESCO).

Just outside the center of town is Cabo da Roca (the westernmost point of the European continent) and some stunning beaches . Their golden sand is nestled between cliffs and their powerful waves attract surfers and bodyboarders.

Sintra Highlights - 3 Reasons to Go

- UNESCO World Heritage Site with an enchanting atmosphere

- European capital of Romanticism, with fairytale palaces and castles

- Beautiful wild beaches on Europe's westernmost coast

What You Need to Know Before You Go to Sintra

- You need to be patient - In a World Heritage Site with so many marvelous monuments, you can obviously expect crowds. You’ll be standing in line to board the bus that goes up the mountain to Pena Palace, you’ll wait for quite some time by the entrance of the top attractions, and even at the train station in Lisbon to get your train tickets. To know how to avoid the crowds and skip lines, see the Sintra sightseeing guide .

- Its attractions are more expensive than Lisbon's - High tourist demand means higher prices. Tickets to Sintra’s monuments are more expensive than even those to Lisbon’s top attractions, and the Lisboa Card does not offer free admission (it does, however, offer discounts at the main palaces and free rides on the Lisbon-Sintra train).

- Spring and late summer are the best times to go - The best times to visit Sintra are in the months of May, June and September. That’s when the days are longer and sunnier, but without the bigger summer crowds. Although it’s never freezing, it can be cold and wet in winter.

- Temperatures are lower than in Lisbon - Due to its high elevation and microclimate, Sintra is always 2-to-5 degrees cooler than Lisbon. It can also be quite foggy in the mornings and evenings, while it’s clear and sunny elsewhere in Portugal.

- You need two days to see everything - While Sintra is usually visited on a day trip from Lisbon or Cascais, you need at least two days to see all of its wonderful attractions. On a day trip you’ll only have time to see two or three of the palaces. You should consider staying overnight, especially in the summer, when you can explore the beautiful beaches on the coast and the cape of Roca, the westernmost point in Europe.

- It's home to some of Portugal's sweetest pastries - While Lisbon’s custard tarts are now famous and enjoyed around the world, few know about Sintra’s sweet specialities. That is, until they arrive in town and see people lining up to try its queijadas and travesseiros . The queijadas are cheese tarts, and the place to get them is at Piriquita, a shop found on a pedestrian street close to the National Palace. There you’ll also see the travesseiros, which are crumbly almond pastries.

Official Sintra Tourism Office

Everything you need to know about Sintra and to plan your visit is on this website. It’s a complete guide, with entirely independent information from locals and travel experts, not associated with or sponsored by any local organization or institution. However, if you still have any questions when you’re in town, pass by the official tourism office. It faces Praça da República, just a few feet from the National Palace, and by the road that leads to Quinta da Regaleira. In addition to providing tourist information, it offers a shop with Sintra-related products. There is also a tourist information office inside the train station.

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Sintra, Portugal; a tourism guide for 2024

Sintra is a charming Portuguese town situated within the cooling hills of the Serra de Sintra. Once a summer retreat for Portuguese nobility and royalty, this UNESCO World Heritage Site captivates visitors with its wealth of opulent palaces, extravagant villas, and historic sites, all set amidst lush forests and jagged hills.

These world-class tourist sights include the whimsical Palácio da Pena, the ruins of the Moorish castle, the mystical gardens of the Quinta da Regaleira, and the Arabian-inspired Palácio de Monserrate. Venturing beyond the well-trodden tourist routes, reveals an alternative side of Sintra, one with dense forests, rugged coastlines, secluded religious sites, and wondrous viewpoints—all awaiting exploration by intrepid travellers.

This variety of fascinating sights, abundance of Portuguese charm and stunning natural scenery, makes Sintra an outstanding tourist destination, which is regarded as the best day trip of the Lisbon region. A visit to this wonderful town is often a highlight of a trip to Portugal, and it will make a fantastic addition to your holiday plans. This article will show you why you must visit Sintra and how to get the most from your trip here.

What are the highlights of Sintra?

There is so much to see in Sintra, and sights which can't be missed are: The Palácio Nacional da Pena – One of Europe's finest palaces, with a vividly painted exterior, and an interior restored to how it appeared in 1910 when the Portuguese nobility fled the country ( guide here )

The Pena Palace as seen from the Cruz Alto viewpoint

The Quinta da Regaleira – A neo-gothic mansion but the real attraction are the gardens, which conceal secret passages, mystical symbolism and even a Knights of Templar initiation well ( guide here )

The Poço Iniciático well in the grounds of the Quinta da Regaleira

The Palácio Nacional de Sintra – The original medieval palace of Sintra, which was a favourite with the early Portuguese rulers.

The Castelo dos Mouros – The ancient ruins of a Moorish castle that stands atop a craggy peak and once guarded the entire region ( guide here )

Monserrate Palace – An Arabian inspired villa with intricate latticework stone carving and tranquil gardens. This is where to escape the tourist crowds of Sintra

If you are fortunate to have a car, there is also a lot to see within the hills of the Serra de Sintra. There is the stunning driving along the N247 between Almoçageme and Almuinhas Velhas, there is the forest-covered monastery of Convento dos Capuchos , the amazing viewpoint from the Sanctuary of Peninha and the Cabo da Roca cliffs - the most westerly point of mainland Europe.

The Sintra coastline also boasts many magnificent beaches, and these include the wild surfing beach of Guincho , the charming beach town of Praia das Maçãs , or the untamed natural beauty of Praia da Ursa . Most visitors only consider Sintra for a day trip, but there is an amazing amount to see and do in within the region!

The interactive map below displays the highlights of Sintra and the Sintra region. The green markers and line display what is usually seen in the first day of sightseeing in Sintra, the blue markers and line on a second day of sightseeing and the yellow pins display the best sights of the Sintra region , but a car (or guide) is needed to see them. Note: Zoom out to see the regional yellow markers

Key: 1) Palácio Nacional de Sintra 2) Castelo dos Mouros 3) Palácio Nacional da Pena 4) Quinta da Regaleira 5) Palácio de Seteais 6) Vila Sassetti 7) Palácio de Monserrate 8) Convento dos Capuchos 9) Sanctuary of Peninha 10) N247 scenic drive 11) Cabo da Roca 12) Praia das Maçãs 13) Praia do Guincho (beach) 14) Praia da Ursa (beach) 15) Praia da Adraga (beach) Related articles: Sights & attractions in Sintra

Insight: During the peak season there can be very long queues for tickets. Tickets for the main tourist attractions can be purchased prior to your day trip from Getyourguide: • Palácio Nacional da Pena (€20)

The battlements of the Moorish castle provide spectacular views over the Sintra region

• A day trip to Sintra

The majority of tourists visit Sintra as a day trip, either from Lisbon or the resort towns of Cascais and Estoril. Sintra is an enjoyable day trip, as it has a lot to offer visitors, while being suitable for all ages.

Travel to Sintra is hassle-free, as there is a regular train service between Lisbon and Sintra, or a direct bus service from Cascais and Estoril (travel details are found later in this article).

The most common route to combine the main sights in a single day of sightseeing is: • Train or bus to Sintra • Palácio Nacional da Pena (highlight of the day) • Palácio da Pena gardens • Castelo dos Mouros (optional) • Lunch in the historic centre • Explore the historic centre of Sintra • Quinta da Regaleira (or Palácio Nacional)

Most day-trippers to Sintra follow the same order, as this is the route of the 434-tourist bus. The 434 bus route connects Sintra train station to the Castelo dos Mouros and the Palácio da Pena, before returning to the train station via the historic centre of Sintra. Related articles: A day trip to Sintra – Lisbon to Sintra – 434 tourist bus Advice: Generally, we recommend Sintra as the first-day trip if you are based in Lisbon, or as the second-day trip if your holiday is to Cascais or Estoril (the first-day trip would be to Lisbon).

The decorative entrance to the Pena Palace

Two or three days in Sintra

Sintra is often visited as a day trip from Lisbon, but there are sufficient attractions to easily fill two or three days of sightseeing. Suggested itineraries for two or three days in Sintra, which follow on from the 1-day trip include: A second day in Sintra • Quinta da Regaleira and gardens (or the Palácio Nacional de Sintra) • Palácio de Seteais • Palácio de Monserrate • Vila Sassetti and gardens (optional) • Hike up the Caminho de Vila Sassetti (optional) Third day in Sintra • Convento dos Capuchos • Peninha Sanctuary and viewpoint (highlight) • Cabo da Roca • Praia da Ursa or Praia da Adraga • Chalet da Condessa D'Edla (Pena Park) • Hike to Cruz Alta (Pena Park) Note: this day trip requires a car Related articles: A second day in Sintra – Sintra’s secret sights

Why spend a night in Sintra?

If you plan to spend two or three days visiting Sintra, it is recommended to stay within the town, instead of travelling in from Lisbon each day. The main advantage of being based in Sintra is that the town can be enjoyed once the day-trippers and coach tours have left.

The key national monuments of Sintra have extending opening hours, allowing you to visit before or after the daytime rush. The town offers a fantastic range of hotels to choose from, with many of these in keeping with the style and charm of the region.

The map below shows the location of hotels and rental rooms in Sintra, and by altering the date to your holiday, the map will display current prices:

Why are there so many palaces and grand mansions in Sintra?

Historically, the reason was due to the slightly cooler climate that the hills of the Serra de Sintra provide. This enticed the nobility of Portugal to construct their summer residences here. During the 19th century, Sintra was a popular destination for Europe's wealthy artisans and elite, who built elaborate mansions following the Romanticism style of architecture.

The Quinta da Regaleira

Travel to Sintra

There are two regular and inexpensive train services that connect Lisbon to Sintra. The first service departs from Rossio station in central Lisbon, while the second departs from the Estação do Oriente. The train journey takes 40min (from Rossio) or 47min (from Oriente), and both cost €4.80 for a return. The services start early in the morning and continue late into the night, with up to three departures per hour.

Advice: Never drive to Sintra. The narrow hill roads were never designed for today's heavy traffic, and there is almost no car parking. In the summer, there is a constant traffic jam as frustrated drivers search for car parking spaces.

There are direct bus services to Sintra from the resort towns of Cascais and Estoril. The 417 service departs from Cascais bus station, takes 30 minutes and costs €4.25 for a single. From Estoril, the bus service is the number 418 route, which departs from the train station and takes 30 minutes. Related articles: Lisbon to Sintra – Cascais to Sintra – Estoril to Sintra

Sintra as part of an organised tour

There are many benefits of visiting Sintra as a part of a small group tour. Sintra is a destination where the main tourist sights are spread across a wide region of steep hills, and a tour eliminates the hassle of public transport. Portuguese tour guides are enthusiastic and knowledgeable, and the tours also cater for more worldly visitors.

An organised tour is the only way to visit both Sintra and Cascais in a single day, as taking this route by public transport does not provide enough time for sightseeing. We have worked with GetYourGuide.com for the past six years, with some of their best Sintra tours including: • Sintra Highlights Full-Day Tour (€65) • Sintra, Cabo da Roca and Cascais Full-Day Tour from Lisbon (€63) • Pena Palace and Regaleira Guided Tour from Lisbon (€65) • Sintra, Cascais and Cabo da Roca Coast Day Tour (€85)

Does Sintra Portugal get crowded with day-trippers?

Unfortunately, Sintra often gets very crowded in the summer. This can mean long queues for admission tickets, tourist buses running out of space, and even long queues in Rossio station.

Our key advice would be to start a day trip to Sintra early in the day, or try to avoid the peak visiting hours of 11am to 3pm. Admission tickets can be purchased in advance to avoid some of the queues. Another tip to avoid the crowds is to visit the Palácio Nacional da Pena in the morning, as most visitors arrive in the afternoon when following the route of the 434-tourist bus.

There are quieter monuments and attractions in Sintra, and the best is the Palácio de Monserrate. Other quieter and less touristy places to visit, include: • Convento dos Capuchos • Peninha Sanctuary • Vila Sassetti Mansion • Chalet da Condessa D'Edla • The southern side of the Parque da Pena

The Santuário da Peninha is at the highest point of the Parque Natural de Sintra and is where to go to escape the tourist crowds

The 434 and 435 tourist buses

The walk from the historic centre of Sintra to the Palácio Nacional da Pena and the Castelo dos Mouros is up a very steep hill and can be very challenging walk. The 434-tourist bus removes the need for this walk, as it connects the train station to the historic centre, then climbs the hill to the Palácio Nacional da Pena (via the Castle of the Moors ) before returning to the train station.

The 24-hour unlimited use of all Sintra buses costs €13.50, while a single fare costs €4.55. The bus departs from Sintra train station every 15 minutes during the summer season. Note: The 434-bus is the cheapest and best method to explore Sintra as a day trip.

The 435-tourist bus connects the train station to the Palácio de Monserrate, and passes the historic centre, the Quinta da Regaleira and the Seteais Palace. This bus is ideal for the second day in Sintra. Related articles: The 434-tourist bus

The 435 and 434 buses waiting at the train station

Our favourite attractions in Sintra

Our favourite attractions in Sintra are: 1) Palácio Nacional da Pena 2) Quinta da Regaleira 3) Palácio Nacional de Sintra 4) Palácio de Monserrate 5) Castelo dos Mouros 6) Palácio de Seteais 7) Vila Sassetti

The Castelo dos Mouros is postioned high above the old town of Sintra

The Romanticism style of architecture

The town of Sintra is regarded as Europe's finest example of the whimsical and colourful Romanticism style of architecture. This elaborate, 19th-century design style was inspired by a love of art and the mysticism of ancient cultures, creating decorative and flamboyant buildings of which the Palácio da Pena is the greatest example.

Our most popular guides to Sintra

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A complete list of all of our Sintra and Lisbon guides

Sintra guides

• Sintra Introduction

Sights of Sintra

• How many days in Sintra?
• The hidden gems of Sintra
• Free and inexpensive Sintra
• Walk up to the castle
• Sintra in 2 days
• Airport to Sintra
• The 434 tourist bus
• When to Visit Sintra
• Sintra to Cascais
• Sintra or Cascais?
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• Palácio da Pena
• Palácio Nacional de Sintra
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• Quinta da Regaleira
• Palácio de Monserrate
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• Convento dos Capuchos
• Parque da Pena
• Sintra Town Hall
• Sintra Tram
• Santuário da Peninha
• Cascais introduction
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• Cascais beach guide
• Cascais sights
• Cabo da Roca
• Lisbon to Cascais
• Evora guide
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• Bone Chapel
• Lisbon to Evora
• The Alentejo region
• Sesimbra introduction
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• Lisbon to Sesimbra
• Cabo Espichel
• Obidos Introduction
• Things to see in Obidos
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• Ericeira beaches
• Setubal introduction
• Serra da Arrabida
• Peninsula de Troia

Central Portugal

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• Lisbon introduction
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North Portugal

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South Portugal

• Algarve introduction
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Sintra Day Trip

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What can be seen in a second day in Sintra?

This bus connects all the main sights of Sintra

There are so many enjoyable day trips from Lisbon

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Home » Travel Guides » Portugal » 15 Best Sintra Tours

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

Exploring Portugal: A Week-Long Adventure

• Last updated Jun 18, 2024
• Difficulty Intemediate

• Category Travel

How long you should spend travelling Portugal depends on your interests, budget, and method of transportation. If you're using public transportation and are short on time, Lisbon and Sintra can be explored in 3 days. If you have 6 days, you can add the Algarve (Salema, Lagos, Cape Sagres) to your itinerary. With 8 days, you can add Coimbra and slow down, and with 10 days, you can add Nazaré and nearby sights (Óbidos, Alcobaça, Batalha, Fátima). If you have 2 weeks, you can add Évora and the Douro Valley to your trip.

If you have a car, you can follow a similar itinerary but modify it to fit your preferences. For example, you could fly into Porto and out of Lisbon, or vice versa, to avoid backtracking.

When planning your trip, keep in mind that July and August are the hottest, busiest, and most expensive months to visit Portugal. May, June, and September usually have hot weather but are less crowded and more affordable. Even in the cooler months, it's possible to have sunny days.

To make the most of your time in Portugal, consider the travel times and distances between places. It's often better to explore one area properly than to spend your holiday travelling between destinations. If you're short on time, flying between Faro and Porto can save you a few hours compared to taking the train or driving.

Additionally, research how you'll get from the airport to your accommodation, and consider pre-booking an airport transfer if needed. Having a local SIM card can also be helpful for staying connected and ordering rides.

Finally, Portugal offers a variety of accommodation options, including hostels, mid-range hotels, luxury hotels, and Airbnb. The cost of food and attractions is generally affordable, with meals costing around $30 per day and attraction prices ranging from free to a few Euros.

What You'll Learn

Lisbon and porto.

In Lisbon, there are many historic neighbourhoods to explore, culinary delights to sample, and a vibrant nightlife to enjoy. The ideal length of time to spend in Lisbon is three days, which gives you ample time to see the main attractions. However, if you are short on time, you can condense this to two days.

• Day 1: Explore the Alfama and Baixa districts, including the Lisbon Castle, the Praça do Comércio, and a ride on the 28 tram.
• Day 2: Spend the day in the Belém district, visiting landmarks such as the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, and then explore the LX Factory and the Estrela district.
• Day 3: In the morning, discover the Príncipe Real district and the Avenida da Liberdade. In the afternoon, visit the Parque das Nações, with its impressive architecture and waterfront views.

If you have more time, you could also take day trips to nearby towns and beaches, such as Sintra, Cascais, or the Praia de Carcavelos beach.

Porto is a fascinating, traditional Portuguese city with a wide variety of activities, tourist attractions, and lively nightlife. It takes about two days to discover Porto, but if you want to explore at a more leisurely pace and visit museums, three days is ideal.

• Day 1: Explore the historic centre of Porto, including the Se, Baixa, and Ribeira districts. Visit the Igreja do Carmo, the Se Cathedral, the Livraria Lello bookshop, and the Torre dos Clérigos. You could also take a 90-minute boat ride along the Douro River.
• Day 2: Visit Vila Nova de Gaia, the city on the southern side of the Douro River, where you'll find the Port cellars. Take a Port tasting tour, ride the cable car, and enjoy the friendly atmosphere. In the afternoon, head to the Foz district, which offers pretty riverside walks and small beaches.

If you have more time, there are several interesting day trips you can take from Porto, such as Guimarães, Braga, the Douro Valley, and Aveiro.

So, for a trip to both Lisbon and Porto, allowing for a couple of days in each place and some time for day trips, a week in Portugal would be a good length of time.

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Getting There

There are a few ways to get to Sintra from Lisbon. You can take the train from Rossio station or Estação do Oriente, which takes about 40-47 minutes and costs €4.80 for a return ticket. Alternatively, there is a direct bus service from the resort towns of Cascais and Estoril. The bus from Cascais takes 30 minutes and costs €4.25 for a single ticket, while the bus from Estoril takes the same amount of time and departs from the train station.

What to See and Do

• Palácio Nacional da Pena: Known as one of Europe's finest palaces, with a vividly painted exterior and an interior that has been restored to its 1910 glory.
• Quinta da Regaleira: A neo-Gothic mansion with mystical gardens that conceal secret passages, symbolic features, and even a Knights of Templar initiation well.
• Palácio Nacional de Sintra: The original medieval palace of Sintra, which was a favourite among early Portuguese rulers.
• Castelo dos Mouros: The ancient ruins of a Moorish castle that once guarded the entire region from its craggy peak.
• Palácio de Monserrate: An Arabian-inspired villa with intricate latticework stone carving and tranquil gardens, offering a respite from the tourist crowds.

Beyond the typical tourist routes, Sintra reveals a different side with dense forests, rugged coastlines, secluded religious sites, and breathtaking viewpoints. If you have a car, there are also some stunning drives to be had in the hills of Serra de Sintra, such as the N247 between Almoçageme and Almuinhas Velhas.

How Many Days to Spend in Sintra

Most tourists visit Sintra as a day trip, but there are enough attractions to easily fill two or even three days. If you plan to spend multiple days in Sintra, it is recommended to stay within the town to avoid the hassle of travelling back and forth from Lisbon each day. This also gives you the opportunity to explore the town once the day-trippers have left and to take advantage of the extended opening hours of the key monuments.

When to Visit

Peak season in Sintra can get very crowded, resulting in long queues for admission tickets and tourist buses running out of space. To avoid the crowds, it is best to start your day early or visit during off-peak hours (11 am to 3 pm). You can also purchase admission tickets in advance to skip some of the queues.

Where to Stay

Where to Eat

Some popular restaurants in Sintra include Incomum by Luis Santos, Cantinho do Picadeiro, and Restaurante da Adraga.

If you're looking for a more organised way to explore Sintra, there are several small group tours available. These tours can be a great way to eliminate the hassle of public transport and provide valuable insights from knowledgeable local guides.

With its wealth of historic sites, natural beauty, and cultural attractions, Sintra is a must-visit destination on any trip to Portugal. Whether you're spending a day or multiple days, Sintra is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

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The Algarve is a sun-drenched region in Portugal, boasting over 300 days of sunshine a year. It is famed for its pristine beaches, dramatic cliffs, and extensive Atlantic coastline. The region offers a diverse range of attractions, from natural wonders to cultural delights. Here is a guide to help you make the most of your time in the Algarve.

Natural Wonders

The Algarve's coastline boasts soaring cliffs, sea caves, golden beaches, and scalloped bays. The west coast, in particular, is a surfer's paradise, with its undeveloped landscape. The region is also home to the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa, a vast system of lagoons and islands stretching 60km along the coastline. For a unique perspective, head to Foia, the summit of the Monchique mountain range, offering panoramic views of the rolling hills and lush forests below.

Cultural Delights

The Algarve has a rich history and cultural heritage. The town of Silves, with its Moorish castle and city walls, offers a glimpse into the region's past. The whitewashed fishing villages, with their decorative chimneys and terracotta roofs, are a testament to the region's Moorish influence. The Algarve is also known for its delicious cuisine, including fresh seafood, cataplana (seafood stew), and Frango Piri Piri (spicy roasted chicken).

Outdoor Activities

The Algarve offers a wide range of outdoor activities to suit all interests. From surfing at Praia da Arrifana to hiking the Seven Hanging Valleys Walk, there is something for everyone. Golf enthusiasts will enjoy the 35 top-notch courses in the region. For a more relaxed experience, explore the rural bike routes through the region's smaller villages.

The Algarve is a year-round destination, with something to offer in every season. Peak season is in July and August, but spring and autumn offer milder temperatures, wildflowers, and fewer crowds. Even in winter, you can still enjoy alfresco lunches, with temperatures sometimes warm enough.

When deciding where to stay in the Algarve, consider your preferences for a quiet holiday, ease of transportation, or a walking-themed trip. Ferragudo is ideal for couples seeking a tranquil escape, while Lagos offers a convenient base for those without a car. Carvoeiro is perfect for a walking-themed holiday, and São Brás de Alportel provides an off-the-beaten-path experience.

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A Stylish and Sophisticated Seaside Town

A Historical Seaside Town

Historically, Cascais was the summer retreat of the Portuguese nobility, including King Dom Luís I. The town elegantly combines its regal and fishing heritage with modern tourist facilities. The grand 19th-century villas, imposing fort, fascinating museums, lively bars, and outstanding restaurants create a buzzing atmosphere.

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Cultural Attractions and Day Trips

For day trips, Cascais is conveniently connected to Lisbon by a direct train service. The fashionable town of Estoril, the Boca do Inferno cliffs, and the Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe, are also easily accessible by scenic coastal walks or public transport.

Late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September) are ideal times to visit Cascais, offering glorious weather without the extreme crowds of summer. The beach season extends from mid-May to the end of September, but the sea temperature remains cold year-round. Winter months (November-February) tend to be wet and mild, making Lisbon a more suitable base.

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During the Moorish rule from 715 to 1165, the town slowly prospered again and became an agricultural centre with a fortress and a mosque. In 1165, Évora was taken from the Moors by Gerald the Fearless, and it came under the rule of the Portuguese king Afonso I in 1166. The town flourished as one of the most dynamic cities in the Kingdom of Portugal during the Middle Ages, with palaces, monuments, and religious buildings constructed.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

Due to its well-preserved old town centre, medieval walls, and monuments from various historical periods, Évora was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986. The Roman Temple of Évora, also known as the Temple of Diana, is one of the town's most famous landmarks. Other notable sites include the Cathedral of Évora, considered one of the most important Gothic monuments in Portugal, and the Chapel of Bones, located within the 15th-century church of São Francisco.

Food and Wine

The cuisine of the Alentejo region is renowned in Portugal, known for its hearty dishes and wine production. Popular dishes to try in Évora include local cheeses paired with Alentejo bread, açorda (a bread soup with garlic and poached egg), and migas com carne de porco (a breadcrumb dish made with local pork). For dessert, queijadas de requeijão (small cakes made from egg yolks) and bolo de mel (honey cake) are local favourites.

Wine enthusiasts will enjoy visiting nearby wineries to learn about the winemaking process and taste local varieties. Quinta Amoreira da Torre, the first organic vineyard in the Alentejo region, offers unique whites and reserva reds.

Activities and Attractions

In addition to exploring the historic sites, there are several other activities and attractions in and around Évora:

• Stroll through the cobbled streets within the city walls and admire the whitewashed houses and pretty tiles.
• Visit the Cadaval Palace, a 14th-century palace with impressive tile work.
• Shop for local ceramics, cork souvenirs, and wooden trinkets in the shops along Rua 5 de Outubro.
• Relax in the Jardim Público, a public garden designed in the 1800s by Italian architect José Cinatti.
• Take a hot air balloon ride over the vast plains of the Alentejo for a unique perspective of the region.
• Tour local wineries and taste the region's renowned wines.

Accommodations and Restaurants

Octant Évora, located about 20 minutes from the city centre, is a highly recommended hotel that showcases the best of Alentejo. The property features contemplation pools, including a heated pool, and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

For dining, Cavalariça, housed in the courtyard of the Palace of the Dukes of Cadaval, is a must-visit restaurant. With a colourful and vibrant atmosphere, both indoors and outdoors, the restaurant serves inventive dishes inspired by local cuisine with an international twist.

Travel Tips

When planning your trip to Évora, keep the following in mind:

• Évora is best explored on foot, but consider joining a guided walking tour to gain a deeper understanding of the town's history and cultural nuances.
• Set aside at least two or three days to fully enjoy what Évora has to offer without feeling rushed.
• If travelling by public transportation, note that some services may finish early or not run on weekends.
• October can be a great time to visit, but the weather may be unpredictable, with a mix of sunny days and cooler temperatures.

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Frequently asked questions.

This depends on your travel style and the places you want to visit. If you want to visit Lisbon and Porto, spending 3 days in each city is a good starting point. If you also want to visit the beach, allow for 3-4 days in Cascais or Lagos. So, for these places, a 10-day trip is a good option.

For Lisbon, 3 days is a good amount of time to see the main sights.

For Porto, 2 days is enough to see the main sights, with 1 additional day for a cruise on the Douro River.

This depends on your preferences. If you want to visit multiple beaches, allow for at least 3-4 days. Lagos is a popular beach destination, offering a mix of beaches and cultural sites.

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