Sintra, Portugal: 15 Best Things to Do and See

If you’re heading to Lisbon, it would be a shame to miss the magical town of Sintra, which, with its impressive palaces and beautiful nature, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. What’s worth seeing? In this article, titled “Sintra, Portugal: 15 Best Things to Do and See”, I’ll give you 15 tips on what definitely not to miss in Sintra.

When to Visit Sintra

Sintra is beautiful all year round, but each season offers a slightly different experience. The ideal time to visit depends on your preferences, whether it’s for the weather or fewer crowds. However, I would recommend visiting in the spring or autumn months.

Here are a few more tips for visiting Sintra:

• Avoid weekends and public holidays if you want to avoid massive crowds.
• Plan your visit for weekdays, ideally outside the main season, to enjoy a quieter experience without the rush of tourists.
• The best times for sightseeing are early morning or late afternoon, especially for the most visited places.

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How Long should You Spend in Sintra?

Few realize it, but Sintra is quite extensive, and if you want to see everything, you’ll need more than one day. We recommend ideally 2-3 days, or even more.

Sintra: where to Stay

If you want to see as much as possible in Sintra, I recommend staying for at least two to three days. Accommodation options include:

• Villa Bela Vista,
• Sintra Bliss Hotel,
• Rosegarden House.

How to get to Sintra

If you’re traveling from Lisbon, like me, the best option is the train from Rossio station. The journey takes about 40 minutes, and a round-trip ticket costs 4.80 euros. Of course, you can also go by car, but parking can be an issue during peak season.

Or go on a trip as part of an organized tour with GetYourGuide, including a guide.

How to get to the Palaces

Immediately after you get off the train, turn right from the train station, and from there, take bus number 434, which will take you to Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle. A one-way ticket costs 4.55 euros, and a round-trip ticket costs 8.40 euros. Bus line 434 runs from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM several times an hour.

Bus number 435 runs to the center of Sintra, to Quinta da Regaleira Palace and Monserrate Palace. The ticket costs 6 euros, and you can get off and on at the sights as you wish. The bus runs from 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM every half hour.

You can, of course, also walk to the palaces, but be prepared for a proper hike that will take at least an hour. If you’re short on time, you can take a taxi, tuk-tuk, or Uber up. All these means of transport should cost around 5-7 euros per trip.

Sintra, Portugal: 15 Best Things to Do and See

If you’re planning a trip to Sintra, then I’ve put together 15 tips for you on what to see and visit.

Palácio Nacional De Pena (Pena Palace)

Palácio Nacional de Pena is one of the most iconic places not only in Sintra but throughout Portugal. This fairy-tale palace is located on a hilltop and is visible from afar. Its colorful facades in shades of red, yellow, and gray combine various architectural styles, including Neo-Gothic, Mannerism, and Moorish influence.

Inside, you’ll find richly decorated interiors and rooms that served as the summer residence of the Portuguese royal family. The gardens surrounding the palace are extensive and full of exotic plants, ponds, and hidden nooks.

I recommend purchasing tickets online (for example, via GetYourGuide, where you can also cancel your reservation) in advance, as long queues can form during peak season. However, if you visit Pena Palace off-season, tickets can easily be purchased at the machines in front of the palace entrance without significant queues. A basic ticket with a tour of the interior, terraces, and gardens costs 20 euros.

However, keep in mind that entry to the palace is tied to a specific time slot. If you arrive earlier or later, you won’t be allowed in. At the purchased time, you must be directly in front of the palace entrance, not just the complex – you still need to walk through the garden, which takes about 10-15 minutes uphill. You can also use the local mini-bus, which will take you to the palace. It costs about 3 euros, and if you have healthy legs, I think it’s completely unnecessary.😄

Castelo Dos Mouros (Moorish Castle)

Castelo dos Mouros is a medieval fortress built in the 8th century during Arab rule. It is strategically located high above Sintra, just below Pena Palace, and offers some of the best views of the city, the surrounding landscape, and the Atlantic. The castle walls and towers will take you back in time. The entrance fee is 12 euros; again, you can purchase tickets online or at the machine on site.

Palácio Nacional De Sintra (Sintra National Palace)

This palace in the very heart of the city is easily recognizable by its two white conical chimneys. Palácio Nacional de Sintra was a favorite residence of Portuguese kings for over 800 years. Inside, you can explore magnificent halls, such as the “Swan Room” or the “Magpie Room”, which are decorated with painted ceilings and azulejos tiles.

💡TIP: If you want to skip the queue, buy your ticket via GetYourGuide.

Quinta Da Regaleira

The mysterious Quinta da Regaleira complex will transport you to a world of symbolism, mysticism, and architectural wonders. The biggest attraction is the Initiation Well, a deep shaft-like space reminiscent of medieval ritual ceremonies. Besides the well, you’ll also find underground passages, ponds, sculptures, and gardens full of exotic plants.

Monserrate Palace

Monserrate Palace is a masterpiece of exotic architecture with elements of Gothic, Moorish, and Indian influences. It is surrounded by magnificent gardens containing plants from all over the world. The palace interiors are full of detailed ornaments and beautifully decorated rooms.

Convent of the Capuchos

The Capuchin Convent, also known as Convento dos Capuchos, is an example of a simple and ascetic way of life. This small monastery is built from local materials such as cork, stone, and wood. A walk through this convent will immerse you in the lives of the monks who once lived here.

Countess of Edla’s Chalet

The Countess of Edla’s Chalet is a lesser-known monument, but definitely worth a visit. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, the Countess of Edla’s Chalet will immerse you in the life of 19th-century aristocracy. century. The interiors are furnished in period style, and the gardens are full of plants.

Puppet Museum

In Sintra, you can visit the Museum of Theatre and Puppets. You’ll find an extensive collection of marionettes from around the world, including traditional Portuguese puppets. The museum also offers interactive exhibits and programs for children.

Museum of Modern Art

This museum is home to one of the most significant collections of modern art in Portugal. You’ll find works by both Portuguese and international artists . Exhibitions include paintings, sculptures, photographs, and multimedia installations.

Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum in Sintra focuses on geology, botany, and the zoology of the region. Exhibits include fossils, minerals, and interactive displays of local flora and fauna . It’s a great place for families with children who want to learn something in a fun way.

News Museum

At the News Museum, you’ll find an exhibition on the origin and development of media and Portuguese journalists. You’ll learn about the media coverage of significant events in recent history and about journalists who made their mark on history with their work. This museum might be of interest to current journalists, future journalists, or journalism students.

Aircraft Museum

The Aircraft Museum near Sintra contains a wide collection of historical aircraft, showcasing the development of aviation. Exhibits include both military and civilian aircraft. It’s a perfect stop for all fans of technology and history.

Excursions in the Surroundings

From Sintra, you can take trips to the surrounding area, which are also worthwhile. If you don’t want to go on your own, take advantage of GetYourGuide‘s offers.

Lisbon

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a city full of history, culture, and an unforgettable atmosphere. A walk through its narrow streets will lead you to colorful azulejos, traditional tiles, and iconic landmarks such as Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, or St. George’s Castle. From the viewpoints (miradouros), you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Tagus River. Don’t forget to taste the famous pastel de nata and take a ride on historic tram number 28.

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Cabo Da Roca

Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe, is a place where “the land ends and the sea begins.” This majestic cliff with a lighthouse offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s an ideal destination for nature lovers and photographers. On-site, you can pick up a certificate confirming your visit to this unique point on the map.

Cascais

Cascais, originally a fishing village, is now an elegant seaside resort that attracts tourists with its combination of history, beaches, and cosmopolitan atmosphere. Stroll through the city center with its traditional paving patterns, visit the Cidadela fortress, or relax on one of the sandy beaches. Cascais is also an excellent starting point for excursions to the surrounding area, such as Boca do Inferno.

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