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1 Day Sintra Itinerary: A Super Efficient Guide

Nestled in the scenic central mountains of Portugal, Sintra is unlike any other town I’ve visited. Taking a day trip to Sintra is like visiting a theme park for architecture lovers. From the rainbow towers of Pena Palace to the Gothic mansion of Quinta da Regaleira, this 1 day Sintra itinerary covers the area’s highlights as efficiently as possible.

Sintra is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most popular attractions in Portugal. Every year, millions of visitors flock to the former residences of the rich and royal families.

Unfortunately, the area’s old and winding roads weren’t built to handle the mass tourism we see today. Between the one-way streets and constant traffic jams, driving in Sintra can get frustrating quickly.

When you only have a day in Sintra, you don’t want to waste precious time stuck inside an Uber!

I truly believe the best way to see Sintra is on foot. And that’s why I designed this itinerary as a Sintra walking tour.

You’ll start at the colorful Pena Palace, the highest point in town. From there, you’ll work your way down to the Castle of the Moors, a.k.a. the great wall of Portugal.

After another downhill hike to the town center, you’ll have lunch and check out the dual-coned National Palace. And finally, the day trip ends at the mysterious grounds of Quinta do Regaleira.

Now I’ll be honest: this is a pretty ambitious itinerary. But I’ll share a few tips and tricks along the way to make things easier on your legs (did I mention Sintra was on a mountain?). You could start by doing some squats while you read this Sintra guide!

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Sintra Day Trip Guide

• Pena Palace
• Castle of the Moors
• Lunch in Sintra Town Center
• Sintra National Palace
• Quinta da Regaleira

Map of Sintra Walking Tour

Tips for taking a sintra day trip, guided day trip tours of sintra, where to go after this 1 day sintra itinerary, 1 day sintra itinerary, 9:15am: arrive at pena palace.

Of all the places to visit in Sintra, Pena Palace is the most popular. And that’s why I recommend you arrive 15 minutes before the 9:30am opening time.

If you’re coming from the train station, you’ll definitely want to take an Uber up here . Otherwise it’s a 45 minute uphill walk, and that’s not the best way to start your day in Sintra!

Fortunately, Uber is quite affordable in Portugal, and the ride should only cost you about 7 euros.

Before you can even get into the queue for the palace grounds, you need an entry ticket. When we arrived on a weekday during the off-season, there were already dozens of people waiting in the ticket line.

To save yourself the time and hassle of waiting in this line, you should buy your tickets online in advance. It was so convenient to walk right into the entrance queue and show our tickets on my phone.

Buy your skip-the-line tickets for Pena Palace here!

There are two separate tickets for Pena. One grants you access to the gardens and terraces, while the other includes access to the state rooms.

I definitely recommend the full ticket. The state rooms were beautifully decorated and had some amazing views through the windows. You’ll also get access to the stunning multi-floor inner courtyards.

9:30-11:15am: Explore Pena Palace

Photos cannot do Pena Palace justice. The whole experience of exploring the grounds, turrets, and balconies was wondrous and a bit surreal.

Given its vibrant primary color palette, you’d be surprised to learn that it started out as a monastery from the Middle Ages.

In the 1800s, King Ferdinand greatly expanded the existing structure into a summer palace for the royal family. When the Portuguese monarchy was deposed in 1910, the site became a national monument and museum.

After passing through the entrance gate, you’ll start out in the gardens beneath the palace. You can enjoy the lovely trees and flowers here as you wind your way up to the terrace.

Once you’re inside the palace walls, it’s hard to know where to look. The colors, details, and archways all demand your attention at once.

But don’t get overwhelmed, because you need to make an important decision at this point: explore the exterior or head straight for the state rooms.

As you can probably tell from the lack of people in my photos, I chose to explore the towers and terraces first. I wanted to get as many photos of this extraordinary place as possible before the crowds swelled.

However, you could certainly go into the state rooms first and have them mostly to yourself.

My favorite spot in Pena Palace was the rear area, which had a clock tower and a massive wall of blue tiles.

This area also has stunning views over the town below. Photographing this area was a major highlight of my Sintra day trip.

The state rooms are elegant and full of surprises. Be sure to look out the sitting room windows for a view of the Castle of the Moors!

You might have noticed that Pena Palace is surrounded by a massive park, which has everything from a swan-filled pond to a charming chalet house.

Unfortunately. with a 1 day Sintra itinerary, time is very limited. Unless you speed through the palace, you won’t have much time (if any) to properly explore the gardens.

11:15am: Walk to Castle of the Moors

Luckily, the walk from Pena Palace to the Castle of the Moors is quick and easy. Just head back to the main entrance and follow the Estrada da Pena north. There will be signs pointing to the Moorish Castle along the way.

Eventually you’ll see the brown ticket building on your right. Just like Pena Palace, it’s much faster to buy your ticket online in advance.

Buy your skip-the-line tickets for the Castle of the Moors here!

From here, it’s a short but steep walk up to the castle.

11:30am-12:30pm: Explore the Castle of the Moors

Don’t let the name fool you. The Moorish Castle is more akin to the Great Wall of China than a typical European home for medieval royalty. But that doesn’t make it any less epic.

I think the Castle of the Moors is one of Sintra’s most impressive sites. Originally constructed in the 8th century, the site was rebuilt several times, which is why you can still walk the walls without them crumbling beneath your feet.

Once you pass through the ticket gate, you’ll see a lovely little garden with stone steps leading upwards. After a few minutes of steep climbing, you’ll reach the walls.

From up here, you can reach multiple overlook towers with views all the way to the ocean. The walls leading towards the castle ruins do get narrow at times, so take care when passing others.

Fortunately, the intense climb to the highest tower is wide enough that you don’t need to feel guilty when stopping to catch your breath!

If you’re visiting Sintra in the summer, you’ll want plenty of water and maybe a hat to keep the sun off your head. There’s absolutely no shade up on the walls, and I could feel my scalp starting to burn where my hair was parted.

Save me for later!

12:30-2pm: Travel to Sintra town center and eat lunch

I know I said this was a Sintra walking tour. But you do have four choices for going from the Moorish Castle to the town center: bus, Tuk Tuk, Uber, and walking. Each of these options takes roughly 30 minutes, though the vehicle routes will be faster in the off season.

• Bus 434 runs from the castle to Sintra train station. You can buy a single ticket from the driver for 4 euros.
• There will be Tuk Tuks waiting outside the castle exit that can take you to the town center for about 5 euros per person.
• An Uber from the castle to the town will cost about 7 euros. However, it could take a long time for one to arrive depending on traffic.
• There’s a nice, shaded walking path that runs from the castle exit path to the town centre. Look for signs that point to the Sintra Centro Historico.

After a long morning of hiking, we were famished. There are plenty of lunch restaurants in Sintra, but I can personally recommend Sopa d’Avó.

For 9 euros per person, we had a veritable feast of traditional Portuguese food. And the English-speaking staff meant I didn’t have to struggle with Portuguese after a tiring morning.

2:15-3:45pm: Visit the National Palace

My biggest regret about our day trip to Sintra was missing the National Palace. I was looking forward to seeing the famous azulejo tile salon, and the beautifully painted Swan Room.

Unfortunately, we couldn’t make it happen due to personal circumstances. So you’ll just need to enjoy it for the both of us!

Next to Pena Palace, the National Palace of Sintra is the most frequently visited site in town. Thus, you should absolutely get your tickets online in advance.

Buy your skip-the-line tickets for the Sintra National Palace here!

Although I didn’t explore the palace, my fellow travel blogging friends recommend spending an hour to 90 minutes here.

3:45-4pm: Walk to Quinta da Regaleira

Good news: the last stop on this Sintra day trip is only 15 minutes away from the National Palace! Simply exit the palace and head southwest on the main road (N375). Follow the road as it curves north, and you’ll eventually see the ticket entrance for Quinta da Regaleira.

The queue to enter depends heavily on the day of the week and time of year. Because it’s so late in the day, you probably won’t have any trouble buying a same-day ticket on a weekday in the off season. When we arrived around 3pm, we only waited in line for about 5 minutes.

Based on what other travelers have told me, however, the lines can be long even in the late afternoon. So I recommend buying a skip-the-line ticket in advance, especially if you’re visiting Friday-Sunday or any time May-September.

Buy your skip-the-line tickets for Quinta da Regaleira here!

4-5pm: Explore Quinta da Regaleira

If you’re a fan of Indiana Jones, Uncharted, or Tomb Raider, you’ll love Quinta da Regaleira. Exploring the grounds made me feel like a modern day adventurer.

There are overgrown gardens, Gothic buildings rising from the trees, damp caves, and even a spooky well that spirals deep into the ground. I half-expected to see Lara Croft or Nathan Drake sneaking around the place…

Although Quinta da Regaleira looks like a mystical old ruin, it was actually designed in the 1900s. When you combine this with Pena Palace and the Castle of the Moors, you can see why I compare Sintra to a theme park!

Your tickets come with a map, and you’ll find multiple signs pointing to the major highlights.

We worked our way to the Initiation Well first, explored the grounds, and wrapped up at the gorgeous Gothic mansion. Frankly, I can’t think of a better way to round out your 1 day Sintra itinerary!

Part of the magic of Quinta da Regaleira lies in discovering it as you explore. I don’t want to ruin the surprises here, so I’ll let these photos be the teasers.

Because of the site’s unique history, architecture, and hidden secrets, it’s definitely worth booking a live guided tour to get the full experience.

Click here to access the full interactive map!

• The best day to visit Sintra would be either Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday. This will help you avoid the Lisbon cruise ship tourists and the locals who visit as part of a long weekend.
• Bring good walking shoes, especially if you’re doing the hike from Castle of the Moors to Sintra town center.
• A water bottle is a must. There are several public fountains where you can refill.
• If you’re visiting Sintra in the fall or spring, you should layer up. Temperatures can change dramatically based on the time of day and your elevation.
• You might not have great cell reception in Sintra, so keep that in mind if you’re planning to take an Uber.

Taking a Sintra day trip from Lisbon

Getting to Sintra from Lisbon is very straightforward. You can catch a direct train from Lisbon to Sintra at Rossio Station. There are three trains departing every hour, and the journey takes about 40 minutes.

Note that you can’t book advance tickets on this line, so you’ll need to buy them at the station.

For this one day in Sintra itinerary, you’ll want to take an Uber or Tuk Tuk from Sintra train station to Pena Palace.

Taking a Sintra day trip from Cascais

Getting to Sintra from Cascais is quick and easy by car. Taking an Uber only cost us $15 and took 35 minutes. Although we use public transit 90% of the time, it just didn’t make sense in this case.

If navigating a mountain town in a foreign country isn’t your thing, no worries! You can book a guided tour with a local expert for a surprisingly affordable price.

• Cascais: This charming beach town is only 30 minutes away from Sintra. Discover what to do in Cascais with my detailed guide!
• Lisbon: A short train ride will take you to the capital city, where you can spend a few days in Lisbon enjoying incredible architecture and vibrant culture.
• Porto: Head north and spend 2 days in Porto exploring the colorful Ribeira and eating the best food in Portugal.

19 thoughts on “1 Day Sintra Itinerary: A Super Efficient Guide”

This was very valuable Thank you

Thanks Ian, glad you found it useful!

Really nice content… made my trip easy and saved time on research! Thanks.

Thank you for this post! We will be here in January and will follow your guide. It’s exactly what we need.

We’re hoping to go soon, this will be super helpful, thanks! 🙂

Thank you very much for this itinerary! Next week we are visiting Lisbon and planning to visit Sintra as well. Your guide will be very helpful!

Lucky me, I’m staying in Sintra for 2 days, so I was able to split your fabulous tour in half and take my time. I honestly don’t know how you would do all of this in 1 day…massive amounts of walking! I much prefer stopping here and there for a cold glass of wine. 🍷🥰

Going there this May. This is very helpful. Thanks a lot!

Loved this. Wish you’d mention where to park if you arrive with a car! Thanks.

Hi Caroline. If you plan on driving to Sintra, I recommend parking near the train station in one of the large lots, and then doing this itinerary in reverse (starting at Quinta da Regaleira). Once you finish at Pena Palace, you can then take an Uber or bus back down the mountain to retrive your car and head home. Just note that going this way will be a major workout, as you’ll be walking uphill the whole time!

This blog is so helpful. We are going next week! Thank you so much for all the tips, very valuable information.

This was a great summary. We’re going in October and I’m having a terrible time deciding what areas of Sintra to see, where to go inside vs. just stay outside. Originally I thought I’d just do the outside of the Pena Palace to give me time to see other spots. But your description makes me want to do the inside as well. If picking between Queluz or Monserrate Gardens, which would you add on? (as well as Quinta La Regaleira. Would you choose either of those more than the Moorish castle?

Hi Ruby, glad the itinerary was helpful. Queluz is a fair distance outside of Sintra proper, so you’d want to stop there before or after traveling around Sintra park. I’d suggest skipping the Sintra National Palace in lieu of Queluz or Monserrate. Queluz would probably be easier to add into this itinerary, as you could travel into Queluz-Belas Station by train directly from Sintra Station.

Hi Chelsea,

I followed your itinerary to a tee and it worked wonderfully! I was able to see everything, including the national palace and eat at the Sopa restaurant (got squid stew for 9 euro). Only things to consider; if doing an audio guide through the app cloud guide to download the tour info first as wifi is spotty, and to visit the initiation well last (after 5 pm) when the kids head home. I went there first at 4 pm on a Wednesday and still had to wait 30 mins. Glad I did Peña first, was out of there by 11:15 while those who arrived at 10:30 waited an hour plus to get in. Thanks so much for your itinerary! Abrigado

Thank you so much, Michael! I’m pleased you enjoyed your trip, and appreciate the extra tips.

Off there tomorrow (Thursday Sept 22nd 2022) and going to follow your advice pretty much to the letter. Sounds great and thanking you in advance… ❤️

I am on my way there right now, flying from Nantes in 4 hours. I will follow your guided tour for Sintra. Thank you

This trip sounds perfect for me. I am going late September 2023. Can you please tell me how difficult the hills are walking this tour. Very strenuous?

Hi Laura, I think the most strenuous part of this itinerary is the climb up to the top of the Castle of the Moors. It’s a lot of steps and fairly steep in areas. However, it all depends on how in shape you are (there were elderly women making the climb when I visited and they did fine, just moved slowly).

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How to Take the Perfect Lisbon to Sintra Day Trip (+ Tips for Visiting!)

On our very first trip to Portugal, taking a day trip to Sintra from Lisbon–and specifically, seeing the colorful Pena Palace–was the highest priority on our bucket list.

Ever since, we’ve remembered the glistening view of Pena Palace from the Cruz Alta viewpoint, perched improbably on its hill in the distance (scroll up for a peak at that) as one of the most memorable viewpoints in Portugal–and at this point, after living in Lisbon for more than a year, we have seen a lot of Portugal!

Many, many Sintra day trips after that first one, it’s safe to say we’ve seen virtually all sides of the town that is the most popular day trip from Lisbon.

If you’re planning a day trip to Sintra from Lisbon but are a bit confused about the logistics, from whether to book a tour to exactly how many castles and palaces it’s realistic to see in one day (hint: probably fewer than you think), this Sintra day trip guide has you covered.

This is the Sintra travel guide we wish we would have had years ago on our own first day trip to Sintra, and our hope is that it helps your one day in Sintra become as memorable as our first trip was.

Here’s everything you need to know about planning a Sintra day trip from Lisbon!

Table of Contents

Do you need a tour to visit Sintra from Lisbon?

How to travel from lisbon to sintra (and back), the best things to do in sintra in one day, 3 example one day sintra itineraries, getting around during a day trip to sintra, should you spend more than one day in sintra, tips for taking a sintra day trip from lisbon, faq for visiting sintra from lisbon, read more about visiting lisbon + portugal.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

As you sketch out your Sintra day trip, you’re likely asking yourself a very common question: is it better to book an organized day trip like this (easily one of the most popular, if not the most popular, day trips in the country) or to travel independently?

And the answer is: it depends!

There are very good reasons to book a day trip to Sintra, and plenty of compelling reasons to go it alone as, well.

The pros of taking a tour are simple: as the palaces in Sintra are far enough apart that you can’t walk between most of them, parking is very tricky, and waiting in line for the bus is a hassle, it saves you time and allows you to see more.

It also allows you to visit spots that are a bit further out, like Cabo da Roca, in the most efficient way possible.

The cons are simple too: with so many stops to make, you won’t have much time to linger.

If you’d rather travel independently, you can absolutely do that as well, though we recommend nabbing your  tickets for Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira , at a minimum, in advance.

If you do choose to book a tour…

… keep in mind that different tours cater to different focuses on Sintra!

This popular day trip (reviewed over 6,000 times and counting), for example, only includes one palace (Pena Palace), but also includes visits to Sintra’s town center, Cabo da Roca, and Cascais .

Meanwhile, this tour visits both Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira but skips Cabo da Roca in order to build in enough time to visit both palaces.

As you’ll see throughout this guide, whether you book a tour or visit independently, designing a one day Sintra itinerary is all about making hard choices: it’s simply impossible to see it all!

Book your Sintra day trip today!

Prefer a private tour?

Want to enjoy the best of both worlds, combining complete control over your schedule with incredibly simple transportation?

If so, a private tour of Sintra like this may be right for you!

While a bit pricier than a group trip, note that most private Sintra day tours charge per group or 2 or 3, rather than per person, making the cost more similar than you might think at first glance.

A private tour also gives you the opportunity to change your schedule on the fly, meaning that you’ll spend far less time watching the clock than on a group tour or independent day trip.

Book your private day trip to Sintra today!

When traveling from Lisbon to Sintra independently, by far the easiest method is to take the train.

Trains depart every 40 minutes or so (more frequently during weekday rush hour) from Rossio Station, which is located in the heart of Lisbon’s tourism district–virtually around the corner from Rossio Square in Baixa.

It takes about 40 minutes to arrive in Sintra, and when you do, you’ll be within an easy walk of stops for both of Sintra’s main bus routes that head to the palaces (more on that in the “getting around Sintra” section later).

Train tickets are inexpensive and easy to purchase at the counter in the train station, but if you happen to have a Lisbon Card , it covers your train tickets (though it needs to be activated before it can be used!).

Note that the Lisbon Card no longer covers entrance to any of the palaces.

When traveling from Sintra to Lisbon, the train is just as consistent–however, it necessitates getting back to the Sintra train station at the end of your day trip, which will undoubtedly be a bit of a haul from your last sightseeing stop.

Alternatively, Uber operates within Sintra, and it’s easy to call for a ride back to Lisbon.

In theory, it takes about 30-40 minutes to drive from Sintra to central Lisbon, but with traffic, it realistically tends to take closer to 45-55 minutes or so.

The one method of transportation you should not entertain when visiting Sintra for the day?

Driving yourself!

Parking is extremely limited in Sintra (even more than a few years ago), and on top of that, driving around the palaces and town center is a congested experience.

While there are many wonderful things to do in Sintra, we’ve focused this section on the best Sintra attractions to visit on a day trip.

Unfortunately, the reality is that even this abridged list is made up of too many things to see in Sintra in one day–aiming to enjoy 2-3 of them makes for a full, but still realistic, day trip.

We’ll cover a few more things to do in Sintra (which includes some of our offbeat favorites!) in the “should you spend more than one day in Sintra” section later on.

For now, here are the best places to visit in Sintra in one day!

Marvel at the vibrant Pena Palace.

If there is a crown jewel of Sintra, it’s undoubtedly Pena Palace.

Seeing a photo of the vibrant and whimsical Pena Palace was one of my first glimpses of Portugal, and probably one of yours, too!

Restored by the royal family in the 19th century on the site of a former monastery, Pena Palace is known for its views (don’t miss the Cruz Alta viewpoint or the palaces’ terraces), its expansive grounds, and its beautiful interior.

Pena Palace is actually technically called the Pena Palace and Park, thanks to just how expansive the grounds are, and how much there is to see on them (including the Chalet and Garden of the Countess of Edla).

Note that while you can opt for a cheaper ticket to only access the park, rather than the park and palace, that cheaper ticket does not include the palace terraces (the ticket structure used to be different, so there is some confusion online).

If you want to have access to the terraces (and you do), opt for the full park and palace ticket –and be sure not to miss your timed entrance to view the interior, if you plan to step inside!

Book tickets to visit Pena Palace and Park today!

Patrol the walls of the Castle of the Moors.

Dating to the 8th century, the Castle of the Moors (also called the Moorish Castle) is the oldest of the castles of Sintra.

And, despite the fact that all of the city’s palaces are sometimes referred to as Sintra’s castles, the Castle of the Moors is the only one that served a traditional fortification purpose, acting as a defense system for the surrounding area during Portugal’s Islamic period.

Today, the Castle of the Moors is best known for its series of battlements that offer some of the absolute best views in Sintra–which makes perfect sense, when you remember that being able to see as far as possible was a major purpose of the construction!

The Moorish Castle also has the distinction of being a reasonable walk downhill from Pena Palace, making combining the two one of the easiest ways to structure a day trip to Sintra.

Book tickets to visit the Castle of the Moors today!

Enjoy the whimsical grounds of Quinta da Regaleira.

If you’ve seen one photo of Quinta da Regaleira , it’s probably of the famous Initiation Well (of which there are actually two!).

And, if you’ve seen that photo, you’re no doubt intrigued by the idea of seeing it!

Quinta da Regaleira is (in today’s form) the brainchild of the wealthy Carvalho Monteiro and Italian architect Luigi Manini, who was responsible for transforming the property into Monteiro’s whimsical vision in the early 20th century.

Visiting the grounds of Quinta da Regaleira is a bit like falling down the proverbial rabbit hole, so to speak.

There are tree-lined paths, caves, grottos, waterfalls, flowers, towers to climb, and wells to descend into.

Plus, of course, a palace to tour (though to be perfectly honest, the interior paled in comparison to the grounds for us).

Book tickets to visit Quinta da Regaleira today!

Admire the azulejos of the Sintra National Palace.

Restored and expanded continually for hundreds of years, the Sintra National Palace is one of the (slightly) lesser-known palaces of Sintra.

The home of the Portuguese royal family at various points, the Sintra National Palace lacks the extreme views offered at Pena Palace or the Castle of the Moors, and the whimsy of Quinta da Regaleira.

In exchange, though, it offers one of the best interiors of any palace in Sintra, as well as one of the longest histories.

It’s also known for its traditional azulejos , so iconic in Portuguese culture.

The Sintra National Palace is also the closest palace to Sintra’s town center, making it one of the easier destinations to add on when trying to optimize your Sintra itinerary.

Book tickets to visit the Sintra National Palace today!

Pay a visit to Sintra’s historic center and taste traditional pastries.

Not all day trips to Sintra will leave you enough time to meander through the town center–but if yours does, it’s worth a quick look!

The entire town of Sintra is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it has all the markings of a resort-town-turned-tourist enclave: meandering streets, small shops selling Portuguese souvenirs , and many restaurants.

… Plus, this being Portugal, plenty of pastry shops!

Sintra, specifically, is known for two pastries: the travesseiro  and queijada de Sintra .

Like so many Portuguese desserts, including the iconic pastel de nata , egg yolks, sugar, and pastry dough feature prominently in a travesseiro , while the queijada de Sintra steps outside the box a bit and features sweet cheese.

To sample them from the most iconic bakeries, head to Casa Piriquita and Queijadas da Sapa (known for queijadas ).

Step off the beaten path at the Palace of Monserrate.

Built in the mid-19th century on the site of a former palace of the same name, Monserrate Palace is one of Sintra’s most off-the-beaten-path palaces… and one of my favorites.

Steeped in Romanticism from every angle, the architecture is unique, the interior worth a tour, and the grounds magnificent.

Don’t miss the Chapel Ruin when exploring the grounds!

Ethereal and otherworldly, it took me right back to visiting Angkor Wat halfway across the world and is one of my personal favorite spots in Sintra.

The upside of visiting Monserrate–other than its many charms–is that it tends to be much less crowded than the most popular palaces.

The downside is that there’s a reason for that: as the palace furthest away from Sintra’s town center of those covered in this section of our guide, it’s a bit more of a commitment to get to.

If you’d like to visit, it’s most easily paired with Quinta da Regaleira.

Book tickets to visit Monserrate Palace today!

Soak in stunning views at Cabo da Roca.

Long believed to be the westernmost point of mainland Europe, and now simply a stunning viewpoint, Cabo da Roca boasts some of the best views of the Portuguese coast that you can find close to Lisbon!

We love this viewpoint and have visited several times, but it’s located about 30 minutes by car from most of the palaces (on the western edge of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, as opposed to the eastern side where you’ll find Sintra’s town center).

For reasons of time, most travelers day-tripping to Sintra from Lisbon will only visit Cabo da Roca if they book a guided tour , though the bus system (Route 403) does technically head out there.

If your trip to Portugal doesn’t include time in the Algarve, we’d recommend placing Cabo da Roca a bit higher on your priority list than if, say, you’re headed to Lagos after Lisbon.

It doesn’t necessarily need to be from this spot, but admiring the sparkling sea from the perch of a cliff should definitely be on your Portugal bucket list!

There are two unavoidable realities when it comes to planning a one day Sintra itinerary: first, the bad news, which is you can’t see (even close to) everything.

But here’s the good news: each and every palace is unique and beautiful, and whichever you decide to visit–even if it’s only one of them–you’ll have a wonderful day and feel like you got a solid taste of what it’s like to visit Sintra.

That being said, here are a few recommended one day Sintra itineraries, structured based on organizing your day geographically.

Ultimately, any combination of 2 places to visit is reasonable, and for speedy sightseers who get an early start, 3 is doable.

When recommending an itinerary for one day in Sintra to friends and family, though, we would tend to suggest combining:

Pena Palace + Quinta da Regaleira + Cascais

One of the most classic Sintra itineraries, popular with guided tours like this who want to show travelers a little bit of everything.

Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira are the most popular palaces in Sintra, and they also simultaneously take the longest to see of the palaces and are situated more or less across town from each other.

For that reason, while you certainly can visit both in one day independently, an organized day trip is extremely helpful for managing your day with this itinerary ( especially if you’re visiting during high season when the buses get backed up).

Book your day trip to Sintra today!

Pena Palace + Castle of the Moors + Sintra Town Center

Perfect for travelers who want to soak up the views, Pena Palace and the Castle of the Moors are conveniently located within walking distance of each other (cutting down on bus time and waiting time).

Note that Pena Palace is often more crowded in the mornings (since everyone rushes there), so you can try to balance the crowds by starting with the Castle of the Moors.

That being said, you’ll then be walking uphill to Pena Palace, rather than downhill–so there are definite pros and cons to each strategy!

If your goal is to see as many palaces as possible, you might be able to squeeze in the Sintra National Palace here–but if you do, I’d skip touring the inside of Pena Palace to save time.

Monserrate Palace + Quinta da Regaleira

More interested in whimsical gardens and getting a little breathing room from the crowds than seeing the iconic Pena Palace?

If so, skipping the crowded 434 bus entirely and opting to visit Monserrate Palace and Quinta da Regaleira might be right for you!

Start at Monserrate Palace, enjoying the relatively small and peaceful interior, and the expansive gardens, before heading to Quinta da Regaleira.

Keep in mind that while the two palaces look close on the map, they’re about a 45-minute walk along a narrow road from each other, so skip the walk and hop on the bus!

Once you arrive in Sintra and choose which palaces to visit, you’re not done deciding how to get around!

Sadly, you can’t walk everywhere in Sintra, due to the distance between the palaces (the steep hills, crowds, and traffic don’t make it any more appealing to try, either).

Driving is not a good option in Sintra, either: traffic is heavy and parking is extremely limited.

During the summer high season, the road leading to Pena Palace is even closed to car traffic entirely!

Instead, opt for one (or more) of these options to navigate during your Sintra day trip.

Sintra has a handful of bus routes that are targeted specifically at tourists visiting the palaces, and are therefore easy to find (they stop near the train station) and use.

For independent travelers, this is generally the most popular way to get around Sintra.

The most popular is Route 434, which travels to Pena Palace, the Castle of the Moors, and Sintra Vila (the historic center).

You also access the Sintra National Palace from this route.

A smaller bus operates on Route 435, which heads to Quinta da Regaleira and Monserrate Palace.

You can see a map of these routes here , and purchase hop-on/hop-off tickets either at the ticket office across from the train station or from the driver.

These buses can get very crowded, so be prepared for long lines, traffic delays, and standing-room-only levels of crowds.

If you plan to visit Cabo da Roca via public transportation, Route 403 is the bus to look for.

Don’t want to navigate via bus routes?

Grabbing a taxi or Uber is another useful option–with one caveat.

Due to traffic restrictions, and traffic in general, they may not be able to drop you as close to the palaces as you would prefer (especially the most popular ones, like Pena Palace).

In recent years, tuk-tuks have become very popular with visitors hoping to get around Sintra more efficiently than via car (thanks to their small size) and more comfortably than via bus.

However, tuk-tuks are also undoubtedly the most expensive option for getting around Sintra as well.

If you opt to use one, be sure to negotiate the price very clearly before hopping in!

Overwhelmed looking at just how many things to do in Sintra there are, and wondering if you should spend more than one day in town?

You’re not alone!

The easy answer to the question is yes, of course–spending 2-3 days in Sintra is ideal, and will allow you to sample all the best things to do in Sintra in a day, and get off the beaten path, as well.

Attractions like the Capuchin Convent, Praia da Ursa (arguably one of the most picturesque beaches in Portugal), Villa Sassetti, and the Queluz National Palace (one of my favorites around town, and we had it almost to ourselves when we visited), are absolutely worth your time.

Plus, the chance to spend time in the town center and enjoy the most popular palaces at your leisure instead of constantly checking the clock is tempting, too!

Of course, the reality is that most travelers have very limited time to work with on their trip, which is why our recommended 10 day Portugal itinerary only includes one day in Sintra.

If you have 2 weeks or more in the country and Sintra is toward the top of your bucket list, I’d absolutely consider adding another day.

If you aren’t sure it appeals to you as much as some of the other incredible places to visit near Lisbon (just a few of my favorites include Cascais , Evora , Obidos , and the UNESCO monasteries of Batalha and Alcobaca), it’s safe to say that you can see enough of Sintra in one day to opt to stick with a day trip, too.

Get an early start (or stay late).

Sintra is beautiful, but it’s also ridiculously popular… and ridiculously crowded.

During the summer especially, crowds can reach theme-park levels, with what feels like lineups around every corner.

The more you can opt to avoid peak times in the middle of the day, the more relaxed your day trip to Sintra will be!

Don’t bite off more than you can chew.

Tempting as it can be to squeeze in just one more palace, the more time you have at each, the better!

Personally, we never visit more than 2 palaces in one day, and don’t think there’s anything wrong with a Sintra day trip that only features one, as long as you pick the one you’re most excited about!

For speedy and ambitious travelers, 3 is doable in one day, though you won’t have much time to linger in any one spot.

Not having time to see it all is frustrating, but then again, so is having to cut each visit short and miss cool features of the properties!

Be picky about which palaces you step inside.

With only one day in Sintra, you’ll need to be very picky about which palaces you visit–including when to go inside!

Sintra’s most popular palaces, Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira, are known for being interesting enough on the inside… but the exteriors are where they truly shine!

Despite paying for an entrance ticket (if you’re traveling independently) to one or both of these palaces, make it a separate decision whether or not to eat up precious time on your Sintra day trip going inside.

The answer is different for everyone, but having been inside both, I can confirm that as far as we’re concerned, the exteriors (and grounds) are the best parts.

For Pena Palace, note that you do need a combined Pena Palace and Park ticket to access the palaces’ terraces (which are incredible).

This is a new rule as of a couple of years ago (previously, a cheaper park-only ticket allowed you access to the terraces), so be sure to purchase the right one!

Wondering which of the Sintra palaces has the best interior?

Generally, the Sintra National Palace, with its many azulejos , is considered to hold the honor, and Pena Palace and Monserrate have their high points, too.

Be aware of the potential for motion sickness.

Sintra’s famous hills have a side effect: the roads are very windy, and thanks to the many trees (and stone walls) lining them, they don’t tend to have great sight lines, either.

Add in stop-and-go traffic, and, well… let’s just say the bus or car journey to the palaces isn’t the most fun part of the day.

If you have a tendency to get motion sick like I do, consider coming prepared with your usual remedies (I opt for Sea Bands , and non-drowsy Dramamine in a pinch).

Keep an eye on the bus schedule as you explore.

This goes for whether you’re keeping an eye out for your tour bus or for one of the public buses available to tourists in Sintra!

Whichever transportation option you choose, unless you’re on a private tour , a big part of taking a Sintra day trip is time management.

This is especially important because, given their expansive grounds, the drop-off points for various palaces and the places you’ll actually spend the bulk of your time are not necessarily right next door to each other.

As you walk into the grounds of a given palace, keep an eye on your watch to know how much time to allot on the walk back!

Be very careful when walking between palaces in Sintra!

While several of the Sintra palaces are technically within walking distance of each other, and you’ll probably want to walk between a couple of them, be sure to keep your eyes on the road!

The roads through Sintra have a tendency to be narrow, lined with stone walls, and to not leave a lot of room for pedestrians.

While people safely walk there every day, it’s not exactly a relaxing experience with tuk-tuks, buses, and cars going by, so be cautious!

Be prepared to be on your feet most of the day.

Between climbing hills and climbing staircases, you’ll get quite a workout on a standard day trip to Sintra!

This isn’t a time for casual sandals or anything with a heel: be sure to wear shoes you’re comfortable walking and standing in all day!

Sintra’s palaces are further apart than you think.

When you hear “small city in Portugal”, you’d be forgiven for assuming that many of its top attractions are within walking distance of each other–but in Sintra, that’s far from the case!

With a couple of exceptions, like walking downhill from Pena Palace to the Castle of the Moors, and walking from Quinta da Regaleira to Sintra National Palace, you’ll need to hop in a vehicle (bus, taxi, or tuk-tuk) between each palace.

The biggest limiting factor to this–other than the traffic–is that it eats into your limited time visiting Sintra.

Keep in mind that Sintra’s most famous attractions are newer than you might think.

It doesn’t make much of a difference in their whimsical nature or beauty, but it’s worth keeping in mind that several of Sintra’s most famous features are newer–and some are less royally connected–than you might think!

With the exception of the Castle of the Moors (built in the 8th and 9th centuries, indisputably the most historic of them all), none of Sintra’s castles are exactly, well, castles, either.

The bulk of the Sintra “castles” that we visit today are vacation homes of the wealthy built during the Romantic Era of the 1800s–which is, of course, exactly why they are so whimsical!

They did tend to be built on the grounds of older buildings (hence the Chapel Ruin, for example), but the iconic facades themselves aren’t particularly old.

Plan your Sintra day trip for a clear day if you can.

One of the best parts about visiting Sintra–particularly Pena Palace, Pena Park, and the Moorish Castle–is the views!

On a clear day, you can see all the way to the sea.

While spending one day in Sintra can be very rewarding on a cloudy day too (and the smaller crowds are a big perk!), it’s definitely worth prioritizing visiting on a day when the views are at their best.

Avoid weekends (and cruise ship days) when possible.

Whether we’re talking about international visitors on weekend getaways, locals, or travelers coming in on cruise ships, Sintra is a ridiculously popular place to visit.

While this is understandable, it does mean that it’s best to avoid weekend days if you can!

Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday tend to be the least crowded days to visit Sintra (though don’t confuse this with being uncrowded , unless you choose to head out on a rainy day in February).

In addition to picking the day of the week, you may want to check your schedule against Lisbon’s cruise ship arrivals –if you can opt to visit on a day when fewer (or smaller) ships are in port, your day trip to Sintra will be easier for it.

How much time is enough for Sintra?

To have a chance to enjoy all of the cool things to do in Sintra, from touring the many palaces to enjoying the area’s natural beauty, a 2-3 day visit is ideal.

However, for most people planning a trip to Portugal, taking a day trip to Sintra from Lisbon is more realistic, and it’s definitely enough time to make visiting Sintra worth the (relatively short) journey from the capital!

How long does it take to travel to Sintra from Lisbon?

It takes about 40 minutes each way to travel between Sintra and Lisbon (Rossio Station) by train.

By car, the route is theoretically about the same or a little faster, but in reality, driving often takes longer due to traffic.

Can you do Sintra in half a day?

While you won’t see a ton in half a day–in fact, for an independent traveler, we’d recommend only visiting one palace on a half-day trip to Sintra–it can definitely be worth the effort!

Many organized day trips, including this popular one , don’t actually spend all day in Sintra, instead combining it with a visit to Cascais and/or Cabo da Roca (technically part of Sintra, but far from its center).

While more time is virtually always better when it comes to appreciating a travel destination, if you only have a half-day to visit Sintra and are dreaming of seeing it, you won’t regret making the effort to go.

What are the best places to visit in Sintra?

The two most popular palaces to visit in Sintra are Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira, and they’re both worth your time.

For travelers seeking views, the Castle of the Moors is excellent.

For those wanting the best palace interior, head to the Sintra National Palace.

And to escape the crowds, Monserrate Palace or Queluz National Palace (far out of the way but very uncrowded) have a lot to offer.

What are the least crowded palaces in Sintra?

Of Sintra’s five most famous and centrally located palaces, the Sintra National Palace and Monserrate Palace tend to draw the smallest crowds.

Can you walk everywhere in Sintra?

No, you can’t realistically walk everywhere when visiting Sintra for a day.

Plan to use the bus, taxi/Uber, and/or tuk-tuk services in addition to walking.

Is Sintra worth visiting?

As one of the most famous and unique places to visit in Portugal, Sintra is worth visiting!

However, that does come with a caveat: Sintra’s popularity and proximity to Lisbon make it very crowded, and while it is a very worthwhile day trip from Lisbon, it’s not the only one.

If you have a low tolerance for crowds and little patience for lines/queues, you may prefer to peruse some of the other incredible day trips from Lisbon , which range from palaces with more elbow room to beach towns to ossuaries to monasteries and beyond!

In other words, a Sintra day trip from Lisbon is delightful, but if it’s not right for you, you certainly don’t have to visit Sintra in order to enjoy a very rewarding trip to Portugal.

Planning a trip to Portugal soon and want to keep reading?

You can browse our many Portugal blog posts here , or check out these guides:

• 21+ Hidden Gems in Lisbon: Secret Spots + Offbeat Treasures
• The Ultimate 3 Days in Lisbon Itinerary
• The Perfect 10 Days in Portugal Itinerary (+ Travel Tips!)
• 15 Exciting Things to Do in Evora, Portugal (+ Nearby!)
• The Perfect One Day in Porto Itinerary (+ Tips!)

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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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.

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

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

Sintra Castles Itinerary

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

How to Get to Sintra

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

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

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

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

Admission Options for Pena Palace

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

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

When to Visit Sintra

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

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

Pena Palace

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

Moorish Castle

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

Quinta da Regaleira

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

Arrival in Sintra

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

Ubering to the Palace

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

Walking Option

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

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

History of Pena Palace

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

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

Entrance to the Palace

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

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

Door of Alhambra

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

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

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

Upper Courtyard

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

The Triton Portico

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

Interior Tour of Pena Palace

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

Dining Room

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

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

Interior Ornamentation

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

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

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

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

Arches Yard

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

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

Convent of the Order of Christ

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gardens of Pena Park

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

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

Variety of Flora and Fauna

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

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

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

History of the Moorish Castle

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

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

Moorish Chapel

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

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

Phases of Construction

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

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

Exploring the Ruins

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

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

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

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

History of the Quinta da Regaleira

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

Luigi Manini

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

Regaleira Chapel

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

Free Masons

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

God’s Promenade

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

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

Initiation Wells

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

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

Portal of the Guardians

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

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

Interior of the Palace

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

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

Village of Sintra

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

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

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

Dinner & Dessert

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

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

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

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

Leaving Sintra

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

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

Happy Travel Adventurers!

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

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

The Creative Adventurer

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

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

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

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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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The Ultimate Sintra Day Trip Guide for 2024

Sintra, Portugal is a haven for palaces, castles, and ancient ruins. The town is overflowing with centuries of history and it’s well-known that taking a Sintra day trip is one of the best things to do while visiting Portugal!

Whether you’re coming from the capital of Lisbon or the nearby town of Cascais, you’ll find that it’s quite simple to get from one place to another due to Portugal’s impressive public transportation system.

In this post, you’ll find everything you need to know about taking a Sintra day trip including the best things to do, how much time you’ll need, a one day Sintra itinerary, how to get around, the best guided tours in the area, and more!

If you’re on the fence about including Sintra in your Portugal itinerary , I hope this post persuades you to visit for at least one day before moving on to your next destination.

Happy Travels!

The Ultimate Sintra Day Trip Itinerary

The itinerary below has been designed to provide you with the best things to do in Sintra in an order that will be both efficient and exciting.

Take a look at the map I have provided below the itinerary to get an idea of how much walking may be necessary.

✔️ Pena Palace and Parque de Pena

As you probably know by now, Pena Palace and its well acquainted Parque de Pena are icons of not only Sintra but also Portugal. Easily recognized around the world as a Portuguese wonder, there is no way to visit Sintra and not see the Pena Palace!

This impressive landmark opened in 1854 and still dominates the town of Sintra with its empowering hilltop location and striking towers and walls.

Built as a Romanticist Castle, Pena Palace can even be seen from as far as Lisbon on a good-weathered day and is easily the best thing to do in Sintra.

Keep in mind that though the palace looks grand in size from the outside, some of the interior corridors can actually get quite small. So, for the best experience, be sure to come early and avoid the crowds!

You’ll also need to know that you’ll want to take the 434 bus service from Sintra train station to the Pena Palace to avoid a grueling uphill trek from the city center.

✔️ Castle of the Moors

Next on our list is the famous Castle of the Moors or the Castelo dos Mouros. This Moorish castle dates back to the 8 th century during the time of the Moors’ expansion.

Built on craggy outcrops and surrounded by massive boulders, this stronghold once defended the surrounding region from invaders and was a powerful landmark for the entire region.

As centuries passed, the castle withstood countless battles and eventually was left to decay following the final push from the Christian Crusaders in the 12 th century.

Today, the ancient ruins stand as a popular tourist destination and are well worth exploring due to the limitless amount of history still left to be explored here.

✔️ Quinta da Regaleira

The Quinta da Regaleira rivals Pena Palace with its popularity owing to its unique design and endless secretive passageways throughout the property!

On top of being situated in the center of hectares of breathtaking flora and fauna, the Quinta da Regaleira is full of hidden staircases and secret doors making it one of the most fun things to do in Sintra!

If you’re like me and love being surrounded by ancient ruins and exploring hidden hallways, rooms, and learning about life for those that lived there, then the Quinta da Regaleira needs to be included on your personal best Sintra day trip itinerary.

✔️ Sintra National Palace

Also known as the Town Palace owing to its location in the Sintra town center, the construction of the medieval National Palace of Sintra began back in the Middle Ages and it has been extremely well-preserved since.

Once a royal palace for hundreds of years, the National Palace of Sintra has held the Portuguese royal family over the centuries and is now home to gothic artifacts and an interesting history.

Easily recognized for its two tall chimneys and white-washed exterior, the National Palace of Sintra should be included on your Sintra visit even if only for its convenient location.

✔️ Monserrate Palace

Similar to the Pena Palace, Monserrate Palace is also home to a stunning park full of an array of gorgeous flora and fauna.

While this palace may be smaller, it will likely take you upwards of 1-2 hours to explore to the fullest. The entirety of this building is covered in intricate details and luxurious, gold facades and the inside is beaming with beautiful rooms and sophisticated hallways.

Since Monserrate Palace is a little bit more west than the rest of the attractions, if you plan on including the Cabo da Roca on your Sintra day trip, then also include a trip to this palace since you’ll be going right by it.

The best way to access this palace is via the 435 tourist bus or a guided tour from either Cascais or Lisbon.

✔️ Cabo da Roca – *Bonus stop* if you have more than one day to visit Sintra!

As I mentioned before, the Cabo da Roca is one of the best day trips from Lisbon and should absolutely be included on your Sintra day trip!

At a mere 25 minutes away, there is no reason not to go get your picture on the westernmost point of the continent.

This piece of Portuguese coastline offers sweeping views over the Atlantic Ocean and striking, jagged cliffs that are spectacular to see.

There is also a rustic lighthouse with a museum on the property where you can learn about the history of the Cabo da Roca and the lighthouse’s purpose!

✔️ Historic Center of Sintra

After a day full of sightseeing in all of Sintra’s famous palaces, gardens, and castles, as well as standing on Europe’s westernmost point, it’s time to start strolling the historic center of town and find some food!

Portugal is well known for its unique use of local ingredients and flavorful dishes. If you enjoy seafood, you’re in for a treat!

Especially in towns close to the ocean, you’ll find endless options for seared octopus, squid ink pasta, delicately filleted salmon, steamed mussels, and even European lobster and crustaceans.

Once you have had your share of food, take to the streets of Sintra’s historic center and take a peek around for some interesting souvenirs or crafts .

Don’t forget that the best items are almost always found on the side streets surrounding a city center, never in the city center itself!

Map of Sintra Day Trip Itinerary

The map below includes all of the main sites and attractions in Sintra, but does not show the Cabo da Roca.

If you are looking to visit this bucket list destination, zoom out to view it on Portugal’s west coast!

How to Get from Lisbon to Sintra

Getting from Lisbon to Sintra is very simple. You have a few options of getting there including a guided tour like the ones I have mentioned below, the train, or driving yourself.

Since I highly recommend not renting a car due to Portugal’s highly-developed public transportation system and the fact that driving through the cities can be a hassle with pedestrians, bicycles, parking, etc., let’s assume that you’ll be taking the train.

Access the Rossio Train Station in Lisbon’s center where there are direct trains departing to Sintra every 15 minutes. You’ll need to purchase your ticket inside the station for €4.50. There is no discount for roundtrip tickets, so a one-way ticket is €2.25 ( subject to change ).

The Lisbon to Sintra train is the most time and cost-efficient method of taking a day trip with the total travel time only reaching about 40 minutes. If you were to join a guided tour with private transportation in a vehicle, then the drive would only take you about 25 minutes.

How to Get from Cascais to Sintra

The best method of getting from Cascais to Sintra is to take the bus. It only takes about 25 minutes and is the easiest method of getting between these towns. Taking a Sintra day trip from Cascais is easy, fun, and super informational!

The price ranges between €1 and €6 depending on the season and day of the week, but it’s very affordable and efficient either way.

This is why many people decide to visit both Sintra and Cascais in one day! They’re close to one another and are relatively small so you can really pack a lot into your Sintra day trip and Cascais .

Getting Around on a Sintra Day Trip

You’ll hear from almost anyone who has visited Sintra that it is a very walkable place to visit. However, just because something is technically reachable by foot, doesn’t mean it is going to be an easy journey.

If you plan on walking for most of your day in Sintra, it won’t be a surprise if you end up with some blisters and possibly calling for an expensive taxi at some point!

To avoid these disruptions on your day trip to Sintra, consider using the Sintra bus services to help get you between the further attractions.

As shown on the map above, it would take you nearly 80 minutes to walk from the Sintra train station to the Pena Palace up a grueling, windy hill. So, to avoid that unenjoyable journey in the summer heat and wasting your precious time, hop on the 434 Bus Sintra !

It starts at the Sintra train station, drives through Sintra’s historic center, and takes you up the windy road to the top of the hill where you’ll hop out and walk past the dozens of tourists looking for a place to park their rental car (they usually end up driving back down the hill, parking in the historic center, then jumping on the bus anyway)!

From here, you’ll only be a few minutes walk to the Pena Palace and just a few more to the Castle of the Moors.

If you want to visit the Monserrate Palace as we included on the above itinerary, you’ll need to get on the 435 Sintra Bus from the Sintra train station.

✔️ Pro Tip: Keep in mind that these buses operate on a one-way loop, so you will need to get on the early morning 434 bus if you plan on following the above itinerary!

To include both the Monserrate Palace and the Cabo da Roca, your best option will be to hire a day trip guide via one of the tours I have suggested below.

Where to Stay on a Sintra Day Trip

On any Sintra day trip, it’s a good idea to stay close to all the action. Since you’re going to be short on time, you won’t want to waste a lot of that time getting to the palaces and scenic lookouts.

Sintra is covered in UNESCO World Heritage Sites, so if you can swing spending a little extra time there, you should absolutely do it.

I suggest staying near the main town where you’ll have the option of staying in an affordable accommodation close to bars, restaurants, cafes, and shops. You’ll also be nearby the bus and train stations, so you’ll be able to access all of the popular sites quite easily!

Sintra Hotels in the Center of Town

Here are a few of my favorite Sintra hotels:

✔️Tivoli Sintra Hotel

The Tivoli Sintra Hotel is a four-star hotel located in the center of Sintra, close to public transportation. Rooms have air conditioning, which is a must in Portugal’s summer heat.

The onsite Miranda Restaurant offers international cuisine, and the Terrace Bar is the perfect spot to relax after a day of sightseeing. The hotel also arranges a variety of tours including wine tastings, hiking, and even sailing!

Just 1.2 miles from Pena Palace, the Tivoli Sintra Hotel is the perfect place to stay while exploring this historic town.

✔️Penha Longa Resort

The Penha Longa Resort is a luxurious five-star resort located in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. It features a championship 27-hole golf course, three Michelin-starred restaurants (of the 9 restaurants onsite), and excellent wellness facilities, including a spa and fitness center.

Every guest room has a private balcony with stunning mountain or garden views. There are also three swimming pools onsite, perfect for cooling off in the Portuguese summer heat.

If you’re looking for luxury, comfort, and world-class amenities, the Penha Longa Resort is the place for you.

Sintra is relatively small, so most of the hotels and B&Bs will be located on the narrow cobblestone streets all around the region.

You also have the option of staying just outside of the park entrances , so if you really want to be first in line, then I recommend booking one of these spots. However, they do book up well in advance and can come at a higher price.

You also won’t be as near the town, so once all of the sites close for the evening, there won’t be much to do. You’ll need to take a bus or train back to the town for dinner and to enjoy the evening before taking a return trip back to your accommodation.

This is why I typically recommend staying in the main town, but on one of the more quiet side streets. The neighborhoods in Sintra are pretty safe , so you won’t need to really worry about which area you pick.

I prefer to stay out of the main areas since it can be quite touristy, so if you agree, then a simple spot off the main streets is a good compromise. But, if you do decide to stay as close to the park entrances as possible, then these hotels can get you there!

Sintra Hotels Near the Major Attractions

✔️sintra boutique hotel.

The Sintra Boutique Hotel is a modern and spacious hotel located just 2 kilometers from the famous Pena Palace. The onsite restaurant serves up traditional Portuguese specialties, and the Sintra Natural Park is only 5 minutes away by car.

With Praia Grande Beach being only a 20-minute drive away and the Sintra Train Station being only a 10-minute walk away, you can easily access this hotel without a car. With everything so close by, it’s the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring Sintra!

The villas are beautiful and perfect for exploring this charming town, plus the beds are comfortable and the setting is cozy, making it the ultimate place to stay for your Sintra day trip.

✔️Storytellers Villas

Looking for a charming and intimate accommodation in Sintra? Look no further than Storytellers Villas! This small and cozy hotel is just 1.2 miles away from the famous Pena Palace, and offers guests free WiFi, terrace access, and barbecue facilities.

The accommodations are perfect for travelers looking for a relaxing retreat, and the excellent daily continental breakfast is the perfect way to start your day.

With its close proximity to Quinta da Regaleira, Sintra National Palace, Olga Cadaval Cultural Center, and Sintra Natural History Museum, Storytellers Villas is the perfect place to stay while exploring this historic town on your Sintra day trip.

FAQ: Sintra Day Trip

In this section, I’ll be diving into answering some important questions for your day trip to Sintra!

What is Sintra Known For?

Sintra is well known for its iconic Pena Palace and the surrounding gardens. This grand palace has been vibrantly colored with the colors of Portugal’s flag and is most commonly recognized as one of Portugal’s best attractions!

Sintra, while within close proximity to the ocean, is actually located more inland about 17 kilometers from the coastline. Here, you’ll find lush gardens and dense forestry covered in wildflowers and stunning views around every corner.

The area is also well known for its numerous castles and ancient ruins that have been paired with endless sweeping views everywhere you look! Sintra is one of the most beautiful places to take a day trip in Portugal, so try to squeeze it into your trip if you can.

Is Sintra Worth a Day Trip?

Yes, it is absolutely worth taking a Sintra day trip! It’s 100% worth the effort and I can almost guarantee that you won’t be disappointed.

There is something for everyone here from magical castles, historic old towns, and plenty of blooming gardens to stroll through. Not to mention, you’ll also only be 25 minutes from the Cabo da Roca and 20 minutes from Cascais and Estoril!

Since Sintra is only 40 minutes away from Lisbon via train, there is no reason not to spend at least the day here.

Even if you only have a few days in Lisbon, that is more than enough time to hop on a train and even just spend a few hours in this exciting Portuguese town!

Is One Day Enough for Sintra?

While I normally recommend at least two days in a new city, one day in Sintra is enough . Most of the major sites are within walking distance or a very short tram ride away from one another, so it won’t take you long to get around the town.

That’s what makes taking a Sintra day trip so easy! You’re never far from the next castle or garden, and owing to the town’s small size, you’ll be able to include restaurants and shopping with ease.

For the most part, you’ll likely want to spend time at the iconic Pena Palace, the Castle of the Moors, the Quinta da Regaleira, and spend some time exploring the historic center of town.

If you take your time, all of this will likely take between 6-8 hours , depending on how fast you like to explore. So, one day in Sintra in enough time to include both sightseeing and leisure activities into your day!

Tips for Taking a Sintra Day Trip

If you have not visited Sintra before, I have a few tips that may make your experience go a little bit smoother… especially if you’re coming from Lisbon!

✔️ If you’re taking a Sintra day trip, try to include some time at the westernmost point of Europe – the Cabo da Roca – while you’re there!

It’s only a 25 minute drive (50 minute train ride) away from Sintra and is a bucket list experience that shouldn’t be missed!

✔️ Especially if you’re traveling from Lisbon, you should purchase the Sintra Pass if you plan on entering a lot of attractions.

It includes access to Pena Palace and the Park, the Castle of the Moors, a Lisbon Card, an audio guide of Sintra, and an audio guide of Lisbon! It will also provide discounts on other attractions in Sintra.

✔️ Wear good walking shoes

This one is a must! Sintra is covered in cobblestones, bricks, dirt, and you possibly may even stumble upon some rubble in some parts of the castles.

✔️ If you are coming from a nearby town or city, be sure to get on an early train

The lines start early and the attractions fill up fast, especially in the peak summer months, so you’ll want to be one of the first ones there if you can.

✔️ Take in the history, not just the sights during your Sintra day trip.

This fairytale town is beaming with history, so either take part in a guided tour like the ones I have mentioned below, or read up on the history of the palaces and castles before visiting.

Even if you aren’t a history enthusiast, it will make the whole experience more enjoyable and you may even learn some things you find interesting!

Can You Visit Sintra and Cascais in One Day?

While this depends on how fast you typically like to sightsee, the answer for the most part is yes .

Since Sintra and Cascais are a mere 25-minute bus ride from each other, it’s very easy to combine the two into a day trip from Lisbon.

In Sintra, you’ll find palaces, castles, and gardens, and in Cascais, you’ll find a historic old town and endless beaches. If you are comfortable with spending about an hour at each attraction in Sintra before jumping on the bus to Cascais, then one day will be plenty of time for visiting both.

If you’re planning on including Cascais on your Sintra day trip, be sure to check out the 10 Best Beaches in Cascais !

Can You Do Sintra in Half a Day?

While it is possible to get to and from Sintra from Lisbon in half a day, it’s not recommended . Likewise goes even if you are staying in the town of Sintra, since many of the sights I mentioned above could easily take you half a day on their own, like Pena Palace, for example!

If you only have half a day in Sintra, I recommend getting up bright and early to see the town (even if nothing is open yet), and making your way up to the Pena Palace at least an hour before they open.

This way, you’ll be the first one in the door and depending on how much time you spend there, you may or may not have time leftover to go and see one of the other attractions I mentioned.

They are all worth seeing, but if you only have half a day in Sintra, then it’s best to see the famous Pena Palace and the surrounding town.

Can Sintra be a Day Trip from Lisbon?

Sintra can be a great option for a day trip from Lisbon. Just a short train ride away, Sintra’s fairytale palaces and stunning landscapes provide a delightful contrast to Lisbon’s urban charm.

I will say that many people prefer to spend a whole day exploring the historical wonders, saving the town for a second day, so you may want to keep in mind that Sintra’s enchanting allure might entice you to extend your visit.

Nevertheless, if your schedule is tight, rest assured, many of Sintra’s main attractions can be comfortably visited in a single day. Whether it’s the grand Pena Palace, the Gothic Quinta da Regaleira, or the Moorish Castle, each site holds a unique appeal that makes this day trip utterly worthwhile.

Can I Do Sintra Without a Tour?

Sintra is a town that’s perfectly suited for independent exploration and can definitely be visited without a tour. With public transportation options aplenty and rich heritage sites within walking proximity of each other, you can easily navigate through the town’s enchanting pathways on your own.

Plus, ditching the tour means you can spend as much or as little time as you’d like at each site, soaking in the history and beauty at your own pace.

But remember, if you’re a fan of insider knowledge and prefer a local expert narrating the centuries of history behind these sites, a tour might be a better choice.

How Do You Get Around Sintra Without a Car?

It is definitely possible to get around Sintra without a car. In fact, most tourists avoid renting cars since it can be quite a hassle trying to find parking and navigating small, pedestrian-covered roads.

Most tourists take advantage of the local public transportation options available that make getting around Sintra simple and convenient.

From the local buses to trains leading directly into the center of the town, and plenty of local taxis, there are a variety of ways to get around the city quickly and easily.

Is Sintra a Walkable City?

Yes, Sintra is a very walkable city. With its winding streets and picturesque architecture, it is the perfect place to explore on foot. Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll through the town or see all of the major attractions, you can easily get around Sintra by walking.

I will say that if you’re hoping to take the train on a day trip from Lisbon to Sintra and don’t plan on taking any other means of transportation while you’re in the city, then be sure to wear really good sneakers or walking shoes as most of the city is uphill.

Plus, the distance between the town and Pena Palace is nearly 4 miles (about 6 kilometers) up a windy hill, so this could take you upwards of 90 minutes to complete on its own (one way!)

If you only have one day in Sintra, then plan on taking advantage of some local transportation to get between the major sites, or plan on renting bikes at the very least.

How Much Does it Cost Per Day in Sintra?

The palace is quite affordable, especially if you decide to purchase the Sintra Pass and your Sintra tickets online in advance. When it comes to things like accommodations, meals, attractions, and travel needs, I have provided you with a breakdown below.

Of course, these are only averages and may change depending on the season, day of the week, and other factors.

Accommodations

Budget Hostel : €37-50 Mid-Range Hotel : €90-120 Luxury Hotel : €200-315+

Sit-Down Restaurant in Sintra : €35-45 for two people Fast Food : €6-8 per person Budget Lunch at a Restaurant : €8-10 per person

Attractions

Pena Palace and the Parque de Pena : €12.50-14 / €49 (child/senior/adult) / family pass (2 adults + 2 kids) Castle of the Moors : €6.50-8 / €26 (child/senior/adult) / family pass (2 adults + 2 kids) Monserrate Palace : €6.50-8 / €26 (child/senior/adult) / family pass (2 adults + 2 kids) National Palace of Sintra : €8.50-10 / €33 (child/senior/adult) / family pass (2 adults + 2 kids) Quinta da Regaleira : €8-15 (child/senior/adult)

Transportation

Lisbon to Sintra by Train : €2.25 single ticket Cascais to Sintra Bus : €1-6 343 Bus to Pena Palace : €3.90

What to Pack for a Sintra Day Trip

Even if you’re only planning on spending a day or two in Sintra, and regardless if you’re coming from nearby Lisbon or are actually staying in the town, there is a list of items I would highly suggest bringing with you while you’re out exploring.

First, a good day backpack is essential. Sintra is covered in ancient ruins, medieval palaces, and endless romantic gardens, so you’re probably going to be upset if you’re trying to carry all of the following items individually.

It’s also a great place to store your wallet and any other important travel documents if you don’t trust leaving them in your accommodation while you’re taking the Sintra day trip.

I personally use and love the Osprey Fairview 40l backpack since it has plenty of pockets, is made of super durable and lightweight material, and has a shoulder and waist strap to keep all the weight distributed evenly. They also have a version for men called the Osprey Farpoint 40l !

Second, a reusable water bottle with a filter will save you a lot of money. When you’re out in the hot sun roaming around numerous palaces and ruins, you’re going to get dehydrated. Save your money on the expensive tourist water bottles (and do your part to save the planet), and instead just bring along a reusable water bottle!

I personally use the LifeStraw Go Water Bottle since it has a 2-step filtering process. I’ve used it all over the world and have never gotten sick drinking from hotel taps, streams, etc.

Third, if you’re using your phone as your primary camera, I really recommend packing a spare portable battery pack .

I use this one from Amazon, and I’ve had it for 2+ years and it still has a long battery life and can charge my phone from nearly dead to full in about 75-90 minutes! I love it, and it always comes with me whenever I travel.

Fourth, snacks are always essential . If you’re in the middle of strolling the halls of Monserrate Palace, you’re not going to want to leave to go get lunch. Have some snacks in your bag to hold you over until an early dinner! I also suggest eating a hearty breakfast before you set out for the day.

Lastly, bring an extra warm layer with you . Even in the summers in Portugal, the temperature can drop a good bit once the sun goes down. I recommend a light sweater or rain jacket to have with you, just in case.

Which is Better Sintra or Cascais?

This will entirely depend on you and what you like to see and do when you travel. Sintra and Cascais, though very close to one another, are entirely different towns and boast completely different sites and attractions.

A day trip to Cascais from Lisbon typically includes hikes along the rugged Portuguese coastline, basking in the sun on one of the dozens of white sand beaches, then enjoying seafood tapas and wine at one of the many streetside cafes and restaurants in the historic old town.

On the contrary, a Sintra day trip is likely to include visits to numerous palaces and castles, learning about the history of the ancient ruins of the region, and enjoying scenic views over dense forestry and endless blooming gardens.

So, if you enjoy relaxing on beautiful beaches, swimming in the ocean, then treating yourself to a relaxed evening in Europe with a few glasses of wine, I think you will enjoy Cascais more.

But, if you enjoy medieval ruins, gothic architecture, and ancient palaces with history surrounding Portuguese royals and famous battles, then Sintra will likely be more your style.

Can I use a Viva Viagem Card to Sintra?

Yes, you can definitely use a Viva Viagem card to get to Sintra . The Viva Viagem card has a chip in it, making it easy and efficient to buy any single journey or roundtrip ticket on public transportation in Portugal.

Just remember that the card is only valid for one person and it lasts for one year from the date of purchase. The cost of the card is only $0.50, so it’s absolutely worth it to get one for your Lisbon to Sintra day trip!

Should I Get a Lisboa Card to Go to Sintra?

Yes, if you’ll be spending time in both Lisbon and Sintra, definitely get a Lisboa Card! It offers unlimited access to various public transportation options, including trains, buses, and trams across Portugal for up to 24, 48, or 72 hours, depending on the pass you choose.

The Lisboa Card also gives you free or discounted access to many popular attractions in both Lisbon and Sintra, including 20% off at Quinta da Regaleira and 15% off at the Castle of the Moors!

Buying the Lisboa Card can be a great way to save money while exploring these two amazing cities. Just be sure to plan out your itinerary carefully so that you can make the most of your Lisboa Card during your visit.

If you don’t plan on taking public transportation and don’t have much interest in seeing the popular museums or palaces, then it likely isn’t going to be a good fit for you.

What is the Best Day to Go to Sintra?

In our opinion, the best day to go to Sintra is mid-week . Even in the peak season months of June through August, you’ll still get a small break from the tourists if you opt to visit during the middle of the week versus on the weekends.

We also recommend visiting Sintra as early as possible… early mornings are best to avoid the massive crowds, especially at the popular Pena Palace. Arrive by 8:00AM, if possible, to enjoy beautiful views, find parking, and be the first in line.

The Palace and surrounding museums typically don’t open until around 10:00AM, but you can capture some incredible, tourist-free photos of the palace and surrounding gardens if you arrive early!

Best Sintra Day Tours from Lisbon

If you aren’t planning on driving yourself around Sintra and you aren’t interested in organizing bus and train tickets to meet your schedule needs, then perhaps consider booking one of these top Sintra Tours !

By clicking on a Sintra tour from Lisbon below, you’ll be informed of exactly what’s included and what you can expect the day’s itinerary to look like.

To make things super easy, two of the below tours include free pick up and drop off at your Lisbon accommodation, and the other includes pick up in the city center of Lisbon!

✔️ Pro Tip: This is by far the easiest , no-hassle way of taking a Sintra day trip if you’re short on time or want to relax on your vacation and not have to worry about much planning. Some of these may be small group tours, while others may be rather open to a big group. You also have the option of checking out

✔️Sintra and Cascais Small Group Tour from Lisbon

• about 9 hours in duration
• Multi-Language Driver & Guide
• Live on-board commentary
• Hotel pickup and drop-off in Lisbon
• Transport by air-conditioned minivan
• Visits to the Park and National Palace of Pena, the Sintra National Palace (Palácio Nacional de Sintra), Cabo da Roca, and the historic center of Cascais
• Pass by the town of Estoril and the Boca do Inferno

✔️Private Day tour with private Guide – Palaces of Sintra & Gardens

• 8 hours in duration
• Hotel pick up and drop off from Lisbon included
• Light refreshments
• Visits to Park and National Palace of Pena, Quinta da Regaleira, and Cabo da Roca

Sintra Half Day Tours

Perhaps you only have a few hours or a half day to spare on your visit to Sintra, don’t fret! These Sintra half-day tours pack a ton of information and sights into a short amount of time, so you won’t miss out on too much.

Of course, you’ll always get to see and learn more if you have more time, but this is a great way to see and do all the big stuff while you are in Sintra!

✔️Private Tour of Sintra, Palaces, and Cabo da Roca

• 2-3 hours in duration
• Visits the Sintra National Palace, Castelo dos Mouros, Park and National Palace of Pena, Quinta da Regaleira, and the Farol do Cabo da Roca (Cabo da Roca Lighthouse)
• Bottled water is provided

✔️Sintra All Palaces Sight-Seeing Private Tour

• 2 hours in duration
• Visits either the place or viewpoint of Park and National Palace of Pena, Castelo dos Mouros, Quinta da Regaleira, Sintra National Palace, Parque e Palacio de Monserrate
• Private transportation is included

Other Helpful Portugal Resources

One Day in Lisbon: The Perfect Guide to Exploring Lisbon for a Day One Day in Porto: The Perfect 24 Hours in Porto 21 Best Portugal Packing List Items for 2023: What to Wear in Portugal Is Lisbon Safe? 21+ Tips for Staying Safe in Lisbon Portugal 9 Top-Rated Wine Tours from Porto 11 BEST Porto Boat Tours in 2023 The Complete Guide to the Supermarkets in Lisbon The Beautiful National Symbols of Portugal: Bird, Animal, Tree, Flower, Fish, & More! Does it Snow in Portugal? The Complete Guide 19 Mindblowing Hotels in Lisbon with Rooftop Pools Lagos in December: Why Lagos, Portugal is the Best European Winter Destination 9 BEST Lagos Kayak Tours to Experience in 2023 11 Incredible Lisbon Boat Tours for Your Trip to Portugal Is Algarve Safe? Top Safety Tips for Algarve in 2024

I hope this guide has answered all of your questions surrounding Sintra and that I have convinced you to enjoy at least a few hours in this incredible Portuguese town!

Sintra, Portugal is home to some of the most highly sought after attractions in both Portugal and Europe. From the medieval steps leading into the Castle of the Moors and the hidden staircase found deep within a well at the Quinta da Regaleira to the elegant facades at the National Palace, Sintra is a world-renowned destination for all!

The iconic Pena Palace also dominates the region and can be seen from miles around making it one of the best things to include on your Sintra day trip .

3 Best Hidden Gems in Portugal!

Want to escape the city of Lisbon and get off the beaten path? Me too!

​ Check out this ultimate guide where I tell you all about the best hidden gems in Portugal – from the beaches in Cascais to the vineyards of the Douro Valley… and more!

If you’re planning your Portugal vacation and don’t know where to start, this guide will get you exploring this vibrant country like a local!

Hey there! I'm Emily Concannon, a seasoned globetrotter who has backpacked her way across over a dozen European countries, immersing myself in the diverse cultures, languages, and cuisines of the region.

My passion for travel transcends personal experiences; I've spent years learning how to transform my globetrotting knowledge into personalized itineraries for fellow travelers worldwide.

With a tally of 26 countries (and counting!) under my belt, my day job involves extensive research on different countries which often leads me to booking a new adventure every chance I get!

Sintra Itinerary: How to Best Explore Sintra in 1, 2, and 3 Days (Map + Flexible Itinerary)

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Are you confident about your Sintra itinerary? Sintra, Portugal, is one of the places where you are pampered with a lot of options. But it is also the kind of place where you never plan an extended stay. Sintra is also one of the most popular day trip destinations (I hope now you get why? Because the internet says it’s a day trip location). Well, it’s a bit true and a bit not.

Sintra is a small town, so you would only need a day if things went smoothly. But here’s the thing. It is also filled with palaces and castles, among other things, and you know what? They are super popular and will be flooded with tourists most of the year. And that is why your Sintra itinerary might fall apart because you haven’t considered the time involved in visiting each place. What might look like it is possible to be done in a day might not be achievable in the end. Hence, people are disappointed.

And that is why I have made a realistic Sintra itinerary considering the average amount of days people have for their trip. This could suit you if you have just a day in Sintra or up to 3 days. (The 3rd day is not very packed, giving you the time and flexibility to modify it to a 2-day itinerary). There is a complete section at the end giving you all the best possible ways to alter this Sintra itinerary and yet have a satisfying and enjoyable visit to this charming fairy-tale town in Portugal.

1-Day Sintra Itinerary

Reach Sintra From Lisbon

• Pena Palace
• Moorish Castle (Castelo dos Mouros)
• Monserrate Palace
• Return to Lisbon

3-Days Sintra Itinerary

End of Day 1 in Sintra

• Quinta da Regaleira
• Monserrate Palace (It is logical to take the bus from Quinta da Regaleira to Monserrate 435)
• National Palace of Sintra

End of Day 2 in Sintra

• Cabo da Roca
• Cascais (Optional)

Tip!   If you are spending just one night and want to make the best choice, my personal preference is spending 2 days in Sintra by combining Sintra 1-Day Itinerary and Day 3 in Sintra 3-Days Itinerary .

If you are here for just two days and want to see a change of scenery, you could skip day 2 and do day 3 (or more like half a day). It’s all your choice, well who is to ask? Well, I surely would love to know how your trip went, though. Feel free to modify the itinerary at your convenience and time availability.

How To Use The Map?

The orange suitcases are the locations from the itinerary. If required, zoom in and click on a suitcase to view brief details about the location. Click ‘View in Google Maps’ to view the location’s complete details in Google Maps.

Are you on a budget?  Don’t worry! We are also on a budget and are frugal wherever possible. We research the best ways to explore a place while spending as little as possible. Sometimes we learn the trick the hard way. But you don’t have to, as I have mentioned loads of tips based on our experience to save you a lot of money and time. (Also, time is money, folks! Sometimes you will have to spend more and sometimes less to fit the trip into your budget.)

Okay, let’s begin right away!

Day 1 of Sintra Itinerary

If you reached Sintra the previous night, it’s great. But I will start from Lisbon like we did on our actual trip.

There are trains from  Lisbon Oriente  and  Lisbon Rossio  station to Sintra quite frequently. 

Tip!  Usually, I recommend getting the day pass for whichever city you visit as they are more economical. But this time, I would have to suggest otherwise. Buy the tickets instead of using the Lisbon card or 24hr day pass of Lisbon, as these won’t work for the rest of your trip in Sintra. Day passes are coming up in Sintra, though! See, I never completely give up on them. They give the best value, trust me! I have done so many not-so-interesting excel sheet calculations. (Ugh! They are boring.)

What About Train Tickets?

The one-way train fare from Lisbon as of 2023 is €2.30 for an adult. You can use your Viva Viagem card and load tickets in it. (Check out this post for more information on the Viva Viagem card .)

You can find the train timetable from Lisbon to Sintra  here .

When to Start?

This is a complete game-changer, folks. I am not at all kidding. Take the earliest train possible from Lisbon to Sintra. The earlier, the better. You don’t want to spend half your day standing in queues which can affect your overall experience.

Okay, I have researched for you to find that the first trains from Lisbon to Sintra are at 6:01 am from Rossio and 6:08 from Oriente. The journey takes around an hour, and you should reach around 7:00 am. This gives you time to grab breakfast, explore the old town a bit, and take pictures without the crowd.

Psst!  Try to reach Sintra by 8:45 am as it gives you enough time to buy your tickets and board the first bus to Pena Palace.

Note for folks who want to visit Sintra by car ! You can drive to Sintra, but consider taking the bus and public transport for the rest of your journey. It is not advisable to drive in Sintra, and it is almost impossible to find a parking spot near any of the tourist attractions.

Big Note! You can no longer drive to the Pena Palace and Castle of the Moors. The only possible options are to take bus 434 or hike up to the palace.

Always check for the latest information in the official website .

First Stop is Pena Palace

Pena Palace is the crown jewel of Sintra and  the MOST CROWDED  place in Sintra. (I was quite reminded of one of the most crowded and popular religious destinations back home, which was used as a reference to indicate the crowd). So, I am already prepping you up for what to expect. I already had an idea before my visit. However, I still underestimated it as I was visiting in the fall, which is off-peak time. (I am not at all exaggerating!)

Is it worth it?  This is always up to one’s personal preference. Still, I would regret it if I hadn’t visited the Pena Palace, so the simple answer is yes, it is worth it. But you could enjoy the place a lot by following all my tips.

How to Reach Pena Palace Park’s Entrance?

I believe you have reached Sintra by train. As soon as you step out of the station’s main entrance, immediately to your left, you can find the stop from where the 434 bus, which covers the Pena Circuit, starts.

Buy your tickets from the driver directly. Make sure to get the 24-hour economical ticket, which costs around €11.50 . (If you have the time, get the paper map of the bus route from the ScottUrb office on the station lane, or a quicker option would be to click a picture of the map on the bus stop.)

Your stop!  Pena Palace’s stop comes after the stop for the Castle of the Moors. And I hate to say it, but I do not trust the stops suggested by Google maps. It made us get down at the wrong stop. Also, it is not easy to miss the stop. The entire crowd from the bus will get down at Pena Palace, and also they make an announcement on the bus.

Good to know!  As the Moorish Castle comes first in this route, do not get tempted to get down here and cover Pena Palace later if you are starting in the morning. The crowd will increase in the Pena Palace if you do so. I advise you to complete Pena Palace and walk downhill to Moorish Castle.

Tip!   Carry some cash with you. If you don’t, you could withdraw it from the ATMs in and around the station.

Public Washrooms!   The cafe opposite the Sintra station has a clean washroom that is free for customers and costs €1 otherwise. Also, there is one available in the Sintra station itself.

What About Tickets?

Buy the tickets online (and ensure you can reach the palace entrance well before the time slot). The tickets sell out and make sure to buy yours a day or two before, preferably.

As of 2023, adult ticket is €14 ( €13.30 online), youth/seniors ticket is €12.50 ( €11.88 online), and family ticket is €49 ( €46.55 online).

For our Sintra itinerary, I advise you to take the day’s first slot (9:30 am or 10 am). You could enjoy the palace easily 10 times better than a mid-day slot. (To all not-so-morning people like me – overall experience matters, it is not so much fun to wake up early, but we gotta do what we gotta do).

Bonus!   Plus you get a little discount for buying it online. And also, you could skip standing in the ticket line, which is separate from the entrance line. (Whoo! 2 lines already, and it’s not the last. Time as well as a money saver.)

What to Expect at Pena Palace Park’s Entrance?

Be sure to be there in the provided time slot, which is for entering the palace. The provided time slot is not for entering the park. It will take around 20 minutes to walk from the park entrance to the palace entrance, provided there is no queue to enter the park (the waiting time will be less around the opening time). Well, there are two ways to get to the palace entrance:

• One is by walking for around 15 to 20 minutes from the Pena Palace park entrance, where you have just validated your ticket. (Many sources would say it is a steep walk and should take around 30 minutes, but it is not; it should only take you half the time, and it is not difficult).
• The other way is to take a shuttle to the palace entrance, the ticket for which can also be bought along with your Pena palace entry ticket. But the shuttle is very small and can only carry a few people at a time (which means another QUEUE), so I suggest walking if you can so there is less crowd for people who need the shuttle.
• When you reach the palace entrance, check with the security staff at the gate to identify the queue for your time slot. If people have already queued up, then join the lines. For example, you could see the queue for 13:30 already in line before the people from the 13:00 slot are allowed inside. This means another 30 to 45 minutes of waiting based on the time of the day. Taking the first slot of the day saves you this time, and you will have the entire day to yourself to check out other places.

Facilities in Pena Palace

Public Washrooms

There are multiple public washrooms available, starting from one at the entrance. There is also a WC with disabled access provision.

Cafes 

There is a €1 coffee available from the machine, which is quite tricky to operate (but also has options to choose syrup), and a couple of vending machines at the main entrance.

There is also a small cafe on one of the terraces in the palace. You may grab a quick bite while enjoying the views.

Wheelchair friendly!   The park and the palace of Pena are wheelchair accessible. Also, some of the cafes are undergoing renovation to be wheelchair accessible.

How Long Does It Take to Tour Pena Palace?

It would easily take around 2 hours to just enjoy the palace and admire its beauty at a nice pace (including the time taken to click your dream pictures). When everything works in your favor, you will take at least an hour to get inside the palace, considering you bought your tickets online. So dedicate at least 4 hours for the entire visit.

Ideal time!   Dedicate half a day in your calendar for a visit. If you put in so much effort, it is also better to enjoy the views. 

If you have a lot of time, you could also explore the park of the palace, which is very beautiful indeed. Take a map of the place from the entrance of the park.

Walk Through the Moorish Castle (Castelo dos Mouros)

After exploring Pena Palace and its park, head to the Castle of the Moors. This millennium-old castle is constructed strategically with a vantage point overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the Sintra Hills, and the surrounding plains.

How to Reach Moorish Castle?

Since the buses operate in a loop (owing to the narrow winding roads), you can’t find a bus coming from Pena Palace to the Castle of the Moors. But it is a very short walk downhill from the Pena Palace Park entrance and should take around 10 minutes.

From the main entrance where the bus stops, you have to walk a little further to the actual entrance. There are signboards at every intersection, so you will stay aware of the walking trails.

Note!  There is considerable climbing involved, and the castle is at the top of a hill, so if you are afraid of heights or have vertigo, consider skipping it.

As of 2023, adult ticket is €8 ( €7.60 online), youth/seniors ticket is €6.5 ( €6.18 online), family ticket is €26 ( €24.70 online), and free for children under 6.

You can book your tickets online here .

Tip!  Buy your tickets online, as this is the next popular tourist attraction after Pena Palace. You wouldn’t want to be standing in another queue. And also, dear budget travelers gotta save every penny that we can. (The online ticket gets you a discount. Hurray!)

Facilities in Moorish Castle

There are a few washrooms inside the castle. Also, there is a free and clean washroom on the opposite side of the road at the Castle’s entrance.

The official map shows a few cafes inside the castle, but I couldn’t find any open when I visited. Make sure to carry some snacks or try to have something while in Pena Palace. It could be a while before you can get to any restaurants.

How Long Does It Take to Tour Moorish Castle?

You will easily spend 2 hours visiting the castle.

Return to Sintra Station and Grab Lunch

Get back to Sintra station, where we will get to the next destination.

Catch the Bus to Sintra Station

You take bus 434, which will go to Sintra station from the entrance of Castle of Moors. On the opposite side of the road, look for the sign for the bus stop. The bus will go to Sintra station via Pena Palace and the National Palace of Sintra (which we will visit later).

Tips for hiking enthusiasts!  There are trails from the Moorish Castle leading to the National Palace of Sintra, which is closer to the center of the town. You could take this trail on the way back after visiting the castle or hike up to the castle.

Could We Call It Lunch if It’s Not Lunchtime?

If you have only one day in Sintra, I would advise you to quickly grab something to eat from the cafes or burger joints near the Sintra Station before heading on to the next stop. It is probably a bit late for lunch, but today is the day we go on having multiple small bites rather than one nice meal.

Get Charmed by the Monserrate Palace

Monserrate Palace is not usually the first choice for many tourists. I really wonder why, though? Probably they may not be aware of it. I presume because it is really a hidden gem and is worth traveling a bit more to see it. It is smaller than Pena Palace, but it is very charming, and it’s a must-visit place in Sintra, which is why it made it to day one.

Tip!   You could visit Monserrate Palace after the National Palace of Sintra on Day 2 of our Sintra itinerary if you stay more than a day and visit everything more relaxedly. I added this to Day 1 of our Sintra itinerary, especially for people on a day trip to Sintra. Alternatively, you could explore the local town on the evening of Day 1.

How to Reach Monserrate Palace?

You could easily take a tuk-tuk or bus to the park’s entrance. It is not far away from the town of Sintra. Bus 435 goes to Monserrate Palace, and the bus stop is the first one on the right of the Sintra station. 

Psst!   I guess it may not be popular because this route is unfamiliar to tourists. Sometimes you can see that the bus is disguised as a small van. So don’t dismiss it as a private vehicle, and look out for the bus number stuck on the windshield.

You could get the tickets from the front desk, which is not very crowded. But hey! We gotta save a few bucks, so get that discount by buying it online.

Good to know!   Monserrate Palace has a very well-curated tropical garden which makes you feel that you are in a tropical forest, but you are actually not. As you walk towards the palace’s entrance from the gate, your path will separate into different routes, each indicating the distance to the palace. Take the longer route if you are not pressed for time, and you will thank me later.

Facilities in Monserrate Palace

There is a washroom within the palace compounds, as well as one inside the main palace as well.

There is also a cafe located inside the palace compound.

That’s it for today. If you are spending the night in Sintra, enjoy a nice dinner in a restaurant around the main town as you wouldn’t find many others outside the main center. Also, make sure to have dinner before returning to your stay, especially if you are walking. 

If you are on a day trip, you could take the train back to Rossio or Oriente Lisbon from Sintra station.

Where to Stay in Sintra?

Sintra has a lot of stay options , but you need to decide what suits you best when you plan a trip to Sintra. Let me answer a few questions regarding the stay options.

I Have Decided to Stay a Day Now, but Where?

During our trip to Sintra in early November, we spent a night in Casa do Valle , a lovely place for the price. It is around a 10 minutes walk from the Sintra station, so it will be perfect if you do not have a car and want to stay close to the center.

The place was very cozy and comfortable and had a common dining area with a kitchen; if you wanted to cook or heat up the takeaway. The hosts had an adorable dog (Cleo, if I remember correctly) who just bonded with us immediately. She belonged to the welcome committee, as we were told (just kidding).

Oops, I did it again. I could keep talking about how sweet the dogs are and won’t shut up. But let’s move past it for now.

Tip!  Not just this place, but for any stay options in Sintra, which does not have a restaurant option, this holds true. Have your dinner before returning to the stay, as you won’t find any place to eat nearby. However, this stay is pretty close to the center. The walk includes slightly steep roads, and it could become difficult to walk back when it is dark.

We had gotten takeaway from a burger joint in the center. The hosts were surprised that we had already researched about the place to know this. (Me putting up a proud face!)

The hosts were also happy to keep our luggage before and after our checkout so we could happily roam around without worrying about it.

Tip!   If there is no option to leave your luggage during your stay, do not worry! There is a souvenir shop opposite the Sintra station where you can keep the luggage for the entire day for a cost of €10 per bag. If you store your luggage in their shop, you also get a 10% discount on anything you shop there. That’s pretty sweet!

What if I Have a Car or Do Not Mind Staying Far From the Center?

Consider staying at Azenhas do Mar ( Azenhas do Mar West Coast Design and Surf Villas or Azenhas do Mar Valley House ).

Please, do check out this place. It looks SO DAMN GOOD. The location, the ambiance, and the views are top-notch and stunning. I can already imagine myself enjoying the sunrise and sunset from this place.

They have different options for different budgets. Rarely available, but if you are like me and plan your travel well ahead, you could get this place at an excellent price. This place literally looks like a mini Santorini.

Alternative Options

• Casa da Ferraria
• Casa da Pendoa
• Casas da Biquinha
• Águamel Sintra, Boutique Guest House
• Palácio de Sintra Boutique House
• Sintra Green Chalet Bed & Breakfast
• Casa Holstein Quinta de Sao Sebastiao Sintra
• Villa Bela Vista
• A Capela – A Essencia de Sintra (If you don’t mind splurging, check out this chapel that has been converted to a villa.)

Want to explore more options? Please search in Booking.com here . We use Booking.com to book all our stays and have always had a good experience.

Day 2 of Sintra Itinerary

Let’s continue to explore more of Sintra today. We’ll start by exploring Quinta da Regaleira.

Explore the Quinta da Regaleira

Quinta da Regaleira is such an intriguing 19th-century villa located in Sintra. What sets Quinta da Regaleira apart from the others is that this palace has a lot of secretive passages and spiral staircases down to a well. The entire place gives you a mystical vibe.

The palace has a lot to explore around the main palace as well. By visiting it at a slow pace, you get to enjoy everything it has to offer and obviously take stunning pictures.

How to Reach Quinta da Regaleira?

You could easily take a tuk-tuk or bus to the entrance. It is close to the town of Sintra. Bus 435, which goes to Monserrate Palace, stops at the Quinta da Regaleira first. This is the same bus (maybe a van) you take for Monserrate palace.

This is one of the popular tourist attractions, unlike Monserrate, so you could expect big queues. It is best to arrive here first thing in the morning and for tickets, make sure to buy them online. I hate to break it to you that you don’t get to save money purchasing tickets online for this one. But sure you will save time waiting in the queues.

As of 2023, adult ticket is €11 , youth/seniors ticket is €6 , and free for children under 5 and seniors above 80 years.

Visit the National Palace of Sintra

Located right in the middle of the town, you can instantly spot this palace once you are in Sintra. If you are puzzled looking at a big white building with two inverted funnel-shaped towers and wondering what it is, yes, that’s the one.

This building holds a lot of history of entire Portugal. Are you a history buff and want to know more? There are many guided tours that can give you more insight into the place during your visit.

As of 2023, adult ticket is €10 ( €9.50 online), youth/seniors ticket is €8.5 ( €8.08 online), family ticket is €33 ( €31.35 online), and free for children under 6.

How to Reach National Palace of Sintra?

The quickest way to get from Quinta da Regaleira to the National Palace of Sintra is to walk about 1 km. You can reach the destination in 15 minutes. You could also explore the neighborhood as you are walking. To get back to the Sintra station, you could take bus 434, which stops at the National Palace of Sintra before returning to the Sintra Station.

You have the rest of the day to explore Monserrate Palace if you haven’t already visited it on Day 1. Or you could do some souvenir shopping and dine at a nice local restaurant. (Skip the touristy ones!)

Day 3 of Sintra Itinerary

Let’s change the scenery, shall we? I think I have already hinted at what we are gonna do today.

Chill at Cabo da Roca

Cabo da Roca or the Cape Roca, located 18 km west of Sintra, marks the westernmost point of mainland Europe. It’s one of those places that is right out of a painting. You just feel like you are inside one.

Good to know!  Do not go beyond the fencing, even for a picture, as the winds are very strong and unpredictable. You could be literally blown away and injure yourself.

Tip!  Consider bringing a light jacket even in warmer months, as the winds could be chilly up here.

How to Reach Cabo da Roca?

Take the 403 bus that goes up to Cascais from Sintra station, and it takes a while but not that far. You could also drive up to this place.

There are no tickets and no entry timings as well for visiting Cabo da Roca. It’s a public place open to all. Yay, that is good for the pockets!

Facilities in Cabo da Roca

Nearby there is a little cafe. You could enjoy incredible views while sipping your coffee from here. Also, there is a souvenir shop selling personalized certificates that you visited Cabo da Roca.

There is a washroom near the bus stop, which charges around 50 cents if I remember correctly.

Wander Around Cascais (Optional)

You could also go to Cascais from Cabo da Roca and enjoy the remaining part of the day if you have the time and energy.

Cascais is where the action is. It is a busy, cute little old fishing town filled with white-washed houses and cobblestone streets along the beautiful coast. It gets more alive in the early noon. Still, it is mostly peaceful early in the mornings when you can enjoy walking around the picturesque old town. It is also filled with shops to take back cute little souvenirs. Cascais has beautiful beaches and also has a few popular surfing spots.

It is also possible to enjoy the entire place on foot, and there are many excellent options to enjoy biking. Being well connected with Sintra and Lisbon attracts many tourists and locals on the weekends.

End of Day 3 in Sintra

And that is all we have for our Sintra itinerary. It is time to get back to Lisbon!

How to Get Back to Lisbon?

Assuming that’s where you started this part of the journey, let’s get back.

From Sintra

From Sintra station, hop on a train to Lisbon Rossio or Oriente.

From Cascais

You could take the train from Cascais to Cais do Sodré, Lisbon, and take a metro to the main city.

From Cabo da Roca

You could either go to Cascais and proceed as above or take the same 403 bus heading in the opposite direction towards Sintra. From Sintra station, hop on a train to Lisbon Rossio or Oriente.

For more information on how to use public transport and tips, check our post about some  useful information to know before you visit Sintra . Also, do check out the best things to do when you are in Lisbon .

Hey, I am Kiki! A full-time software developer and hardcore travel enthusiast who is always up for a new adventure and the author of RooKiExplorers. I love to travel the world and enjoy talking about it, helping everyone around me plan their trips, and avoiding making the mistakes I made.

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21 helpful tips for visiting india the first time, 10 thoughts on “sintra itinerary: how to best explore sintra in 1, 2, and 3 days (map + flexible itinerary)”.

Kiki this is such an awesome post! The detail you give is amazing, I have traveled to Sintra and still learned a lot from this. I wish I had gone to Cabo da Roca…I will save your post for a future trip back to Portugal! Great pictures!

Thank you very much, Sierra! Hope you get to visit Cabo da Roca next time when you are in Portugal. It is a magical place! 🙂

I was not aware of Sintra before but you have impacted me to visit. I would really like to see Monserrate Palace; it looks like a very intriguing place to visit.

Yeah, it is a hidden gem in Sintra and hence it is not very crowded. It also lets you have a quiet time to yourself. 🙂

What a great itinerary, and your photos are absolutely stunning! I keep hearing about Sintra and have definitely been convinced to visit someday; now I know exactly what to do when I go 🙂. Xx Sara

Thanks, Sara! We’re glad we could convince you to add Sintra to your list. It is indeed as beautiful as it seems. 🙂

I had never heard of Sintra before. It looks beautiful and well worth spending a few days. I look forward to visiting one day.

Yeah, Sintra is very beautiful!

Hope you get to visit and enjoy Sintra one day. 🙂

I love Sintra and always stay the night! I’m lucky cos I live very close but I try to visit just one palace and enjoy nature. There is just so much to see in Sintra! Thanks for your comprehensive list! Great tips!

Yeah, Sintra has a lot to offer. You are lucky to live close by! 🙂

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Sintra in a Day: Complete Itinerary for Couples (+ Budget)

Save to Find It Later!

Do you want to visit Sintra in a day? This guide to Sintra will cover everything you need to know about going on a day trip from Lisbon to Sintra.

Sintra is a perfect romantic day trip idea if you are spending 3 or 4 days in Lisbon . We visited the town in February and had a blast. From the incredible and unique palaces and mansions to the views and history, the day trip Sintra offers is definitely a visit we recommend while in Lisbon.

In this post, you will find everything about Sintra from how to get to Sintra and how to get around Sintra to our complete itinerary suggestion and additional unique things to do in Sintra.

***Some of the links in this post are affiliate links meaning we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This does not change the fact that we only recommend products, stays, activities and attractions we are satisfied with and all opinions expressed here are our own.

About this Sintra Day Trip itinerary

This one day Sintra itinerary is designed for couples who are looking to have a fun and global visit of Sintra without breaking the bank.

Sintra day trips from Lisbon are popular but one day is quite short to see absolutely everything. This itinerary includes the main landmarks that anyone visiting Sintra should see and couldn’t see anywhere else. 

It is perfect for couples spending a few days in Lisbon and looking at exploring a bit more of the countryside.

The pace of this itinerary is medium so you won’t have to run from one thing to another and you will be able to really enjoy the town. There is a bit of walking involved but you won’t have to walk for hours. 

This itinerary is built for couples who have to work within a certain budget. For example, you don’t have to rent a car to follow this itinerary. 

Sintra Questions and Answers

How to do Sintra in a day? There are different ways you can visit Sintra. Below, we have listed our one day itinerary which covers the main landmarks of Sintra.

Is Sintra a day trip from Lisbon? Yes, Sintra is an easy (and popular) day trip you can do from Lisbon. Below, you will find all the information on how to get to Sintra, what to do in Sintra and what budget you need. 

How to spend a day in Sintra? There are lots to do in Sintra, from visiting the main landmarks such as the castles, Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira and the town. You can also pair Sintra with another town like Cascais for the day. 

What things make Lisbon worth it to visit? Lisbon is worth visiting for the history and its resemble with San Francisco. From the tramway to the hills and the red suspension bridge, Lisbon is lovely for couples who are looking for a sunny getaway. Lisbon is also close to a lot of interesting towns like Sintra. 

Why is Sintra a good destinations for couples?

Lisbon is a popular destinations among couples. The city is located in the south of Portugal and provides sun, and warmer temperatures all year round. It is perfect for couples who are looking for a sunny weekend break, want to go to romantic restaurants and stay at lovely hotels with romantic views.

Sintra is located only 25km from Lisbon and offers lots of things to do for couples. From historical sites and castles to romantic views on the sea and the country, the Lisbon Sintra day trip is a popular romantic getaway among tourists and locals. Driving from Lisbon to Sintra takes about one hour so we recommend bringing some romantic road trip games to pass time!

Sintra is a great place to play queen and king and experience new and unique adventures together. 

How long should you stay in Sintra? 

“How many days in Sintra” is a common question and for good reasons. Although hopping on a Sintra day tour from Lisbon is popular, it is worth asking yourself how long it takes to really visit Sintra. There are lots of things to do in the town and Sintra is home to some of the most famous landmarks in Portugal ! After we visited Sintra in one day, we would say that how long you should stay really depends on how much time you have and how well you want to know Sintra.  

Visiting Sintra in half a day

If you don’t have much time while in Lisbon, a Sintra half day might still be worth it if you leave early in the morning. You will need to choose what to visit though. If you only have a half day in Sintra, we would recommend either visiting the Pena Palace or Quinta da Regaleira. you might have time for both depending on how early you arrive. 

If you would prefer to hop on a guided tour, we recommend this half day in Sintra or this Sintra half day tour . 

Visiting Sintra in one day

This is what we did and we thought that was the perfect balance. If you have 3 or 4 days in Lisbon, spending one day in Sintra is a good option. In one day, you will have enough time to visit some of the main landmarks, see some of the others and walk around the town. You won’t have time to visit every single thing in Sintra, but you will get a good taste of this uniquely built town.

If you would prefer to hop on a tour, this day tour Sintra is well rated.

Visiting Sintra in two or more days

If you want to have time to visit everything in Sintra, you will most likely need to stay overnight. Two days seems reasonable although you could do with three days in Sintra if you really want to immerse yourself in the town and take your time during visits (e.g.: read everything, etc). We would not recommend staying more than two or three days as you would have seen everything then and it might become a bit boring. 

There are a few places that you could stay at in Sintra:

• Quinta Das Murtas : This 19th Century manor house will have you immersed in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park and the history of the town.
• Glamping in Sintra : Are you looking to stay at a unique accommodation while in Sintra? Then why not stay at these clamping pods? This is a unique experience that will complement your day trip to Sintra. 
• Casa do Valle : Located in the heart of Sintra next to Quinta da Regaleira, Casa do Valle is a romantic gem with beautiful views, comfortable large rooms and a large outdoor pool.
• Charm I n n Sintra : This is a lovely guest house located in the heart of Sintra with a pool and a great breakfast .

In this post, we share with you our Sintra 1 day itinerary as it is what we did and worked well for us. If you plan on staying longer in Sintra, you can easily build on our one day Sintra itinerary with additional visits and activities. 

Budget for a Sintra day trip

This Lisbon day trip to Sintra itinerary would not be complete without some information on the budget needed. In our experience, a day trip to Sintra from Lisbon will cost about €50 to €100 per person depending on your style of travel. 

Visits in Sintra usually cost between €10 and €20. Transportation to get to Sintra and to go around Sintra (including a Sintra day ticket for the bus) costs very little, and ours cost about €20 maximum for the whole day per person (that includes the guided tuktuk tour as explained below). Food was really cheap too. A full guided tour from Lisbon will also be in that range of price.

All together, if you are a budget traveller or trying to save money to travel more (aka stretch your budget), heading to Sintra is a great option! 

Sintra day trip from Lisbon: About Sintra town

Sintra day trips are popular and for good reasons! Sintra is a small and old town in Portugal, located about 25km in the West of Lisbon. Its name Sintra comes from the medieval word Suntria which means “sun” or “bright star”. It is a UNESCO world heritage site and is probably unlike any other town you’ve visited before.

In Sintra, you will find about a dozen castles and palaces (all very different and unique looking)  to visit along with a quaint town centre. The town is rich in history and a day trip from Lisbon to Sintra is usually a must for anyone coming to Lisbon. 

On top of the history, you will love discovering the food of Sintra and engaging with the friendly locals. 

How to get to Sintra

Visiting Sintra in one day from Lisbon is really easy. In this section, we set out the different ways to get to Sintra, and which ones we recommend. 

Sintra is located only 25 km from Lisbon and is accessible by car, train or by a Sintra day trip tour. 

A Sintra one day visit by car

Right away, we do not recommend visiting Sintra by car. Although you might have rented a car to visit more of portugal and might find it more comfortable, it’s actually not very convenient for Sintra. 

Sintra has very limited parking spaces and the town also has narrow streets. Some roads, including the one to Pena Palace, are also closed to non-residents during peak season. It’s not the easiest town to navigate by car and honestly, it’s not necessary either. 

We would only recommend visiting Sintra by car if you have difficulties walking. 

If you do decide to drive to Sintra, you will need to drive on the Avenida 24 de Julho, and then hop on Highway 37 (A37) to Sintra. There is limited parking at the Pena Palace, and Quinta de Regaleira. There is a car park by Sintra train station and one locate da couple of streets behind the National Palace of Sintra. 

Lisbon to Sintra day trip by train

The easiest way to reach Sintra from Lisbon is by train. This is what we did and it was super smooth and easy even though we don’t speak Portuguese. Trains to Sintra depart from both Rossio train station and Oriente train station. Depending on when you visit, there can be up to 3 trains per hour and the journey lasts about 45 minutes. 

The Rossio-Sintra route is usually the most popular as the Rossio station departs from Lisbon’s historical centre, just next to Rossio Square and the Santa Justa Elevator. The Oriente-Sintra route is most used by visitors who want to go to Sintra straight from the airport as the station is closer to the airport. The Oriente train station is much bigger than Rossio train station but is easy to navigate. 

The trains to Sintra are clean and modern. There is no food served on board though so make sure you bring snacks and water with you if you know you will be hungry.

Our experience: We went to Sintra through the Rossio-Sintra route as we were staying in the city centre. We grabbed tickets at the machine in 5 minutes and didn’t have to wait in line. We started our day at around 10am and visited in February. You can expect longer queues in the summer. Rossio station is relatively small and easy to navigate. There are big signs indicating the next trains with the destination and time. 

Insider Tip: Once we got on the train in Lisbon, we realised that everyone else had had the same idea as us! Sintra is very popular end therefore, you will most likely not be alone going on a day trip Sintra from Lisbon. In the off-season, it is manageable and although it will feel touristy it won’t feel overcrowded. However, in the summer, which is peak season, we recommend that you start your day early to avoid the crowds and enjoy your day to the fullest. To keep yourself occupied on the train, don’t forget to bring some couples questions with you or play one of our favorite couples road trip games .

Budget: Return tickets to Sintra from Lisbon cost about €5 per person. You can also use the Sintra one day pass to be well prepared. 

Sintra Day Tours

If you would prefer booking a Sintra full day tour, there are quite a few options that depart from Lisbon. Sintra tours are usually by tourist bus or minivan. One of the perks of booking a Sintra day pass with a tour is that you won’t need to handle any of the logistics and can just relax and enjoy your trip. 

We recommend the following tour of Sintra tickets:

• Sintra Highlights full day tour 
• Sintra, Quinta Da Regaleira and Pena Palace Guided Tour 

Where to stay for a Sintra Day trip 

If you plan to only visit Sintra in a day, then we would recommend staying in Lisbon so you can make the most of your time here. For easy access to Sintra, we recommend staying in the historical centre of Lisbon which is where you will find Rossio station. You can also stay near to Oriente station. Following are a few suggestions of great places to stay at in Lisbon:

• Beautiful and boutique Casa Balthazar : Located near Rossio station, this is where we stayed for our anniversary and we loved it. The hotel has an outdoor heated pool and our room had a large terrace with a hot tub and views on the city and the castle! 
• Heritage Avenida Liberdade : In the heart of Lisbon, this traditional building was renovated and welcomes you in a lovely interior. The hotel also has a nice indoor pool. 
• Hotel Hotel : Located near the St Georges’ castle, this hotel’s design is modern and offers a pool and modern rooms. 
• Hotel Pateo – Lisbon Lounge Suites : These suites and modern apartments are romantic and comfortable. The hotel is centrally located and the hotel has an outdoor pool. 
• Eurostars Universal Lisboa : Located near the Oriente station, this modern, comfortable and luxurious offers lovely rooms and a swimming pool on the rooftop! 

How to get around Sintra town

If you are anything like us decide to take a day trip Lisbon to Sintra without really thinking about it, you might get a bit overwhelmed when arriving at Sintra train station. 

One thing to know about Sintra is that the castles are quite spread out and can take up to 45 minutes of walking to get to. Visits are not concentrated in the town so it is best to be a bit organized. If you are staying one day in Sintra and don’t have a car, you will need to rely on other transportations. 

When you arrive at Sintra train station, you will have several options to get around which we have set out below. 

Sintra by Uber 

You will find Ubers right in front of Sintra train station. They can take you to the town and any of the castles or museums of Sintra. The journey costs about €10 to go to one of the landmarks.

Sintra by Tuk Tuk

Tuktuks are very common and popular in Lisbon and Sintra. Tuktuks are carriages with a small engine that are mainly open. Sometimes, if it’s too windy, tuktuks will have soft windows that can be zipped up. Beyond the fact that tuktuks take you from point A to B, they are also very fun and an experience in themselves. 

When we arrived at Sintra train station, we decided to hop on a tuktuk with our driver Mario. Our fist stop was Pena Palace but Mario turned the journey into a guided tour. He stopped us several times on our way to Pena Palace so we could see the different monuments and points of interests. Mario told us about the history of each landmark and he also offered to take photos of us.

As you can see, the tuktuk ride was more than just a ride: it was more of a guided tour which we loved! The tour lasted about 50 minutes.

Because we were visiting Sintra in a day, we knew that we wouldn’t have time to visit every landmark and castle in Sintra. The tuktuk tour showed us and taught us about places that we wouldn’t have seen otherwise (by taking a uber for example) so we are really happy we went with that option. 

Insider Tip: As tuktuks are mainly open, it can get a bit chilly especially with the wind and once you ge tup the mountain. We would recommend bringing a light jacket when visiting off season. 

Budget: €10 per person

Walking around Sintra

Sintra itself is a walkable town but honestly it might be a bit much to walk to every point of interest, especially when a lot of those paths are uphill. The castles in Sintra are quite spread out so it takes at least 30 minutes to go from one to another and 45 minutes to go from Pena Palace to the train station. There are lots of paths and few cars so it is safe to walk around. 

We decided against only walking as we only had one day in Sintra. 

One day in Sintra itinerary by bus

There are several buses that can take you around Sintra. 

The most popular bus is the 434 tourist bus. This one is also called the Pena Line. From Sintra train station, the 434 tourist bus takes you to the Castle of Mouros, the Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira. It takes about 15 minutes to arrive at the Castle of Mouros. One thing to know about this bus line is that it is a single loop. So you will need to stop at the different castles in order. If you miss the stop to Castle of Mouros, then you will need a new ticket to go on a new loop. 

Budget: €6,90 per ticket (single loop)

Bus 435 (4 palaces line)

Bus 435 is a hop on hop off loop that takes you to the National Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, Palacio de Seteais and Palacio de Monserrate. Just like bus 434, you can only hop on and hop off one way until you’ve completed the route. The bus also departs from the train station, every 20 minutes between 9:30am and 7:50pm (or 6:10 pm in the off season).

Budget: about €5 per ticket

Best time of the year for a day trip to Sintra, Portugal

As you may imagine, there are pros and cons to everything and it’s no different when it comes to the best time to visit Sintra in one day. We have listed them below.

Peak Season

Peak season in Portugal would be from June to August with the shoulder season being April-May and September-October. The biggest con for visiting Sintra is the summer is that it is a busy time and the most touristy time of the year. The town becomes quite crowded with lines forming for everything. 

The pros are that summer in Sintra means really good weather, lots of sunshine and hot temperatures. 

If you decide to spend 1 day in Sintra in the summer, we would recommend avoiding weekends. Weekends are when locals also head to Sintra in addition to tourists so everything is even busier. The best day to visit Sintra in the summer would be during the week.

In any case, we recommend starting your day early and before 9am if possible. 

Off Season 

We experienced Sintra off season and loved it. When we went in February, the weather was mild and we only needed a light jacket and small scarf. We got lots of sun and no rain. The off season in Portugal is ,for sure, a lot more mild than in Ireland, where we live as expats ! Of course, the weather is not as warm as in the summer but it’s still very much enjoyable for that time of the year.

A day trip to Sintra in the off season is very enjoyable as everything is open just like during the summer. You will be able to visit every landmark without waiting in lines (or by barely waiting in lines), and feeling cramped up like sardines.

Sintra Day Trip itinerary

We know that you might be wondering about what to do in Sintra for a day and what to see in Sintra in one day. In this day trip to Sintra itinerary, we share with you our own Sintra itinerary that ended working out well for us and allowed us to see most of the main landmarks of Sintra. 

As a warning, it is unlikely that you will be able to visit every single castle and museum in Sintra in just one day. A day trip to Sintra goes by fast so naturally we didn’t have time to visit everything. However, our itinerary allows you to visit the most unique palaces and mansions there is to see in Sintra while still seeing and learning about some of the other major landmarks there, giving you a great picture of the town. 

For information, we left our hotel at 9:30am and arrived at Sintra train station at 10:30am.

1. Take the train to Sintra

The first step in our itinerary is to hop on the train in Lisbon. We recommend departing from Rossio station as it is located in the historical centre, is small and easy to navigate. When entering the station, you will easily find machines to buy tickets or you can also buy tickets at the office. 

The train journey is about 45 minutes and takes you across areas of the Greater Lisbon. When approaching Sintra, there are two stations with the word “Sintra” in them. The first one “Portela de Sintra” is not the right station. The correct station that you should get off at is just called “Sintra” and is the last one on the line. 

A return ticket costs about €5 per person.

2. Tuktuk to Pena Palace

When arriving at Sintra train station, we recommend taking a tuktuk to Pena Palace. As we explained above, you can also take a Uber or a bus. However, these are just transporting you from point A to B. Tuktuk drivers provide a guided tour and historical facts about the different landmarks you will encounter on your way to Pena Palace, which we really loved.

As we knew we wouldn’t have time to visit everything in just one day in Sintra, we appreciated learning about other major historical landmarks in the town. Mario, our driver, told us and showed us more about the following:

• Sintra National Palace “Palacio Nacional”: our driver explained both the history and architecture of the palace
• Chalet Biester: this house was used Roman Polanski’s movie “The Ninth Gate” released in 1999 and starring amazingly talented Johnny Depp

• Unique views on Pena Palace: our driver stopped several times and showed us the palace and offered to take photos of us with the palace
• While driving, Mario told us more about the history of Portugal and how Sintra came together. 
• On top of that, the tuktuk tour is also an experience in itself and very fun!

This tuktuk ride cost €10 per person and was a lot of fun! 

3. Pena Palace

Your tuktuk ride ends once you arrive to Pena Palace. We have read comments on Pena Palace saying that the palace is not worth it and we are SO shocked! 

History of Pena Palace in Sintra

Pena Palace is one of the most unique and surprising palace we have ever seen and looks nothing like any medieval or French Loire castles you would have visited before. To be honest, Pena Palace is a little bit of a castle that seems to have been taken straight out of a Disney movie! 

The palace used to be a monastery during the Middle-Ages. In the 1800s, the King of Portugal decided he needed a bit more room (don’t we all though) and expanded the castle to turn it into his summer residence. So Pena Palace was essentially the King’s vacation home. In 1910, it became a national monument and a museum.

What to do at Pena Palace

There is a lot to do at Pena Palace. The palace is furnished and it is possible to visit the rooms. The most interesting part in our opinion is the terraces, and the outdoors of the castle which is where you really can see the unique styles of architecture, the bright colours, the towers, the blue tiles and sculptures. The palace is located on top of the mountain in the centre of a large park with gardens, ponds, forests and paths. 

From the walls of the palace, you get unbelievable views on the country but also on the Castle of the Moors (Castelo dos Mouros). 

Tickets to Pena Palace

There are two types of tickets you can purchase:

• Tickets for the park and the terraces: These are the tickets that we purchased. They give you access to the gardens and to the terraces of the castle. The only part that you don’t have access to is the rooms of the castle. But you do have access to the towers, the inside courtyard and everything outside the rooms. We really recommend those tickets if you are visiting Sintra for one day as they are cheaper and get you to see everything that is worth seeing. We have read that the rooms are really nice but if you have visited castles before, you won’t be missing out. 

Budget: €7,50 per person

• Tickets for the parks, terraces and the rooms. These tickets provide you with access to the grounds, the terraces and the rooms

Budget: €14 per person

We spent about 2 hours on site just exploring the terraces. 

Insider tip: We would recommend purchasing your tickets online before arriving in Sintra. You can skip the line by purchasing tickets here . There are both tickets machines and desks at the entrance of Pena Palace but there was a bit of a line when we visited in February so we can only imagine in the summer! There is also a QR code to book tickets online right from the palace but the internet wasn’t working there for us. 

4. Lunch at Pena Palace

Once at Pena Palace, there are limited options to get lunch. The summer might be different but in February, our only option up there was to go to Pena Palace café. There we found sandwiches, chips and water. There was also ice cream and coffee among other snacks. 

Alternatively, there are a couple of cafés halfway up to Pena Palace but that would imply to go back down the hill before your next visit. It is really up to you and the time that you have on the day. 

5. Tuktuk to Quinta Da Regaleira

Aside from Pena Palace, we really wanted to visit Quinta Da Regaleira. From Pena Palace, you can take a tuktuk or minivans to Quinta Da Regaleira. We chose to go with a minivan. Because of how the roads are set out, tuktuks and minivans will drop you off 15 minutes away (walking) from Quinta Da Regaleira so they can drive back to Pena Palace without having to go around the whole town again. 

During our ride, the driver was accompanied by a guide who explained everything to us about the history behind Quinta Da Regaleira and the Initiation Well. We learned about the secret society and that was very interesting. 

Budget: €5 total. 

6. Quinta Da Regaleira, a gothic mansion transporting you to the Jungle Book

Once we got dropped off, we walked about 15 minutes to Quinta Da Regaleira. The road was mostly flat so it was easy. 

About Quinta Da Regaleira

Quinta Da Regaleira is in our opinion an absolute must see on a Sintra Portugal day trip, compared to some of the other castles. For example, you can find medieval castles like Castelo dos Mouros in a lot of European cities. However, Quinta Da Regaleira is very unique and we have never seen anything like it in Europe. 

Designed in the 1900s, Quinta Da Regaleira is very different from Mouros Castle and Pena Palace. The site is really big and you could honestly spend a whole day here.

There are lots to do at Quinta Da Regaleira. The main landmarks are the gothic mansion which looks like it was taken straight out of the Jungle Book, and the Initiation Well . There are also a few gothic buildings, caves, ponds, and lush gardens making the whole site look like you have just been transported to Bali. 

Tickets to Quinta Da Regaleira

When you buy tickets, you are given a map which is very helpful. It is important to note that you cannot purchase tickets solely for the Initiation Well and separately from the Quinta Da Regaleira. They both come on one ticket. 

Budget: €18 per person 

7. Walk back to Sintra Town Centre

After visiting Quinta Da Regaleira, we would recommend walking back to the town centre where you can have a drink or a grab a bite. The walk back isn’t very long and is all downhill. 

8. Sintra Town Centre

In Sintra Town Centre, you can have grab a snack or a drink at a local café. There are also several small shops where you can buy souvenirs. the atmosphere there is really nice so it’s a nice place to kind of wander around and appreciate the place. You will also most likely come across some live music. 

9. Train back to Lisbon to end your Sintra Lisbon day trip

Head back to Sintra train station for the next train back to Lisbon. At the end of the day, the train might get busier. You can check the train schedule here . 

Unique things to do in Sintra

While in Sintra, what to do in a day that’s a bit unique? Well, there are quite a number of Sintra day tour that you can do in Sintra that are a bit different from the usual touristy historical visits. Have a look at the following and see if any of them tempt you:

Visit Sintra aboard a Tesla

You can spend a half day or a full day visiting Sintra aboard a Tesla from Lisbon. Teslas are quite fun to ride on so if this is something you’ve always wanted to try out, here’s your chance! 

7 hour Sintra Jeep Tour

This tour will take you around Sintra and its main highlights in a Portuguese Jeep. You’ll feel a sense of adventure while seeing the town like no-one else! 

Hop on a Jeep Safari

From seeing the main highlights of Sintra to visiting Cascais and Cabo da Roca and having tapas on the beach, this tour is a unique way to visit the Sintra area.  

Sintra Hidden gems

Discover Sintra’s hidden gems with th i s tour which includes Portuguese pastries.

Other things to do in Sintra: what to do in a day

A day trip from Lisbon to Sintra goes by really fast so naturally we didn’t have time to visit everything. in this section, we have included some of the other things to do in Sintra. Some of these are included in our itinerary as we have seen them but you can also visit them. 

National Palace

The National Palace is recognisable kilometres aways by its unique mix of architecture styles. Inside you will find the famous blue tile living room and the painted Swan room. Just like for the other visits, we recommend purchasing tickets to the National Palace online. You can spend  about 2 hours there.

Budget: €9,50 per adult

Castelo dos Mouros

Also called Moorish Castle, Mouros Castle of Castle of the Moors, this castle is essentially just walls dated back from the 8th Century and rebuilt many times. You can visit the walls and the towers. It is located a short walk from Pena Palace. You will need to go back to the main entrance of Pena Palace and head to Estrada Da Pena North and then up to the Moorish Castle.

Budget: €8 per adult

Grab a café or Tosta Mista in the town centre

Portuguese are known for their lovely cafés and Tosta Mista sandwiches. Sintra’s town centre is perfect to grab one of those and immerse yourself in the local life. 

Conveto dos Capuchos – the Convent of the Capuchos

The Convent of the Capuchos was first built in 1560 by the King of Portugal  and used to be a place of worship and pilgrimage. It is a UNESCO world heritage site. The convent is an interesting visit as it mixes the human construction with granite boulders and lots of vegetation. 

Budget: €7 per adult, €6,65 if you purchase tickets online.

Donkey Reserve

The Donkey Reserve is located right by the Capuchos Convent. Its purpose is to maintain and value donkeys while raising awareness about them. 

Budget: included in the Capuchos Convent ticket

Palacio de Monserrate 

If you are looking for a bit of Morocco in Sintra, you’ll find it in the Monserrate Palace. The construction follows the codes of Arabian design in an English garden. Often overlooked by visitors, it is quite a unique visit.

Sintra tour from Lisbon: Where to eat in Sintra

Although the answer to “what to do in Sintra in one day” usually includes visiting castles and monuments, we cannot forget about trying out some delicious food in this charming town! In this section of our Sintra one day itinerary, we have included three food options in Sintra:

• Pena Palace café: this is a very small café which also offers a terrace and is located on the Pena Palace terraces. Here you will find mainly snack foods like sandwiches and chips. This is where we had lunch during our one day in Sintra, mainly because it was convenient and we didn’t want to waste time looking for something else. This is also one of the only options for food at Pena Palace. 
• Casa Piriquita: Located in the town centre, Case Piriquita is known for serving delicious empanadas. This is a greta option if you want to spend some time chilling in the town.
• Sopa d’Avó: Located in the town centre, Sopa d’Avó serves traditional cuisine and vegetarian dishes. We have heard great things about this restaurant!

Day trips from Sintra Portugal

There are two main day trips you can take from Sintra if you are looking for some more adventures! 

Cascais is only 17km away from Sintra and is easily accessible by bus (direct route). It is possible to train to Cascais but the route goes through Lisbon which is impractical. Cascais is a coastal town with sandy beaches, a historic centre, restaurants and museums. 

Cabo da Roca

Cabo da Roca and its lighthouse are known as the most Western point in Europe. You can reach Cabo da Roca from Sintra by taking Bus 403 at Sintra train station. The journey costs around €3. 

Tours to Sintra, Cascais and Cabo da Roca

There are lots of tours that can take you to Sintra and Cascais, Sintra and Cabo da Roca, or all three: 

• This day tour takes you to Sintra, Cascais and Cabo da Roca with a small group (from Lisbon)
• This day tour takes you to Sintra, Cascais and Cabo da Roca (from Lisbon)
• This day tour as well with a slightly different itinerary
• This one includes a visit to Quinta da Regaleira
• This Countryside Gastronomic Tour in a Vintage Car offers a different perspective on visiting the Sintra area. 

Sintra Day Trip Essentials

• Good walking shoes: On a day trip to Sintra from Lisbon, it is likely that you will need to walk at least a little bit. We would recommend wearing shoes that you are comfortable in and in which you can walk at least a few kilometres. 
• A jacket and scarf for the winter: Although winter in Sintra is mild, temperatures can become a bit chilly when going to the top of the mountains or even when going to Cascais and the coast. Bringing a jacket and a scarf will come in handy for sure. 
• A reusable water bottle: We always recommend bringing a reusable water bottle to avoid plastic waste. On top of that, summer in Sintra is really hot and there isn’t always a lot of shade on the walks so you will be happy to have some water with you. 

Any questions on a Sintra day trip?  Drop them in the comments or  on insta and we will get back to you asap.

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Mary and Eric

We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.

We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.

With 70,000 monthly readers and 16,000 followers on social media, Be Right Back is your go-to resource for romantic trip ideas and couple activities at home and abroad.

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Decoding Sintra: Key Tips For Visiting the Romantic Portuguese Town

Doing some trip planning for a visit to Sintra Portugal? Here are my must know tips for visiting Sintra, which is an easy day trip from Lisbon .

These useful Sintra tips will help you have an efficient visit and avoid making mistakes.

Beautiful Sintra Portugal is the most popular day trip from Lisbon. As a result, in high season, the town is pure chaos. You need a clear strategy and plan of attack to make the most of your time in Sintra.

There’s a reason tourists are so besotted with Sintra. It’s rock star glamorous. Sintra has UNESCO-listed castles and palaces galore. It’s dazzling, colorful, and romantic. The towns top attractions are some of the most famous landmarks in Portugal .

Even the town itself is quaint. It’s filled with artisan shops and well worth exploring. Sintra packs a punch and delivers on its hype.

I recently returned from a geographical cure in Portugal and have some decided views on how to approach visiting the medieval town crammed with UNESCO sites. Views that are different than the standard advice that I read.

>>> Click here to book a private walking tour of Sintra

Key Tips for Visiting Sintra Portugal and Avoiding Mistakes

Here’s what you need to know to plan your visit to Sintra:

1. One Day Isn’t Enough

I know you don’t want to hear this first Sintra tip. Everyone wants to do Sintra as a day trip from Lisbon . You can, but you won’t see everything that way. Not even remotely.

And there’s a lot to see. There are ancient castles and sumptuous palaces. There are convents, parks, and nearby quaint villages and beaches.

I left feeling cheated with only 1 day.

Part of the problem is that Sintra is congested and wan’t made for heavy traffic and massive crowds. Its road are narrow and winding. Getting around is flat out difficult.

And there’s cars, tuk tuks, taxis, ubers, and pedestrians sharing the roads. Ancient roads, flanked with stone walls, that are completely unsuited for two way traffic.

You can’t avoid spending some time in transit. If you want more than a breezy drive by view, stay overnight.

2. How To Get To Sintra Portugal: Drive

I know you’re rolling your eyes at my driving recommendation. I know this is counter-intuitive advice, contrary to everything you’ve read. But trust me, if you have a rental car, drive to Sintra.

It’s quicker. We left from our Air Bnb and clocked in at 28 minutes. You’ll save time and have the most flexibility with your arrival and departure times.

Most people take a train from the Rossi Square Station in the Baixa neighborhood of Lisbon. It’s cheap at under 5 euros for a return trip. It’s not a bad option, to be sure.

The downsides are: (1) you have to spent time getting to the train station; (2) you can’t pre-purchase your tickets online; (3) there’s a long line to purchase a ticket at the station; (4) though trains leave hourly, some make pit stops along the way.

At best, it’s a 40 minute train ride. Then, when you arrive in Sintra, you’ve still got a 20 minute hike from the train station to the village of Sintra.

All this takes a huge chunk of time out of your day, time you can ill afford.

So drive. But drive smart. Park on the outskirts of Sintra and walk 5-10 minutes into the village center. I arrived around 9:30 am and found a spot without a problem.

Then, leave your car there until it’s time to return to Lisbon or drive to an outlying site (Monserrate Palace, Caba da Roca, or Azenhos do Mar).

Don’t drive into the center of Sintra. Don’t try driving to the palaces.

There are very few, if any, parking spots at the palaces. And driving in Sintra is treacherous. The roads are terrible — narrow, hilly, winding, and with an aggravating number of blind corners and hairpin turns.

Unless you’re a professional race car driver, don’t venture into Sintra.

I say this so insistently because, like an idiot, I inadvertently ventured into Sintra with my clutch car before later parking on the outskirts of town. And it was incredibly nerve wracking and heart attack inducing.

I got lost, as I always seem to, when there was no parking on the streets around Quinta de Regaleira. My GPS didn’t work well either. I was quite literally saved by a kind Portugese man who saw that I was befuddled and came to my rescue.

He had me follow his car and guided me back down to the outskirts of town on dirt roads until I was able to park safely. I owe him a debt.

And I’m heartened that the kindness of strangers is still a real thing in this crazy life. It semi-restored my faith in humanity, which has been at an all time low as of late.

3. Forget the Famous 434 Sintra Bus

I know, this Sintra tip is counter-intuitive advice too. All travel bloggers seem to advise you to take this wretched tourist bus.

If you want to spend all your time standing in line waiting for a bus and looking through dirty windows, do that. If you want to watch in frustration as overcrowded and full buses pass by your stop, do that.

The 434 bus is inefficient and severely overrated. It may be the cheapest option, but relying on it will waste valuable time. You’ll be hot, harried, and aggravated.

Plus, it only goes to three places: the National Palace, the Moorish Castle, and Pena Palace. You have to take a separate bus, 435, to get to Quinta da Regaleira or Monserrate.

> >> Click here to book a jeep tour of Sintra

4. Take Ubers or Tuk-Tuks

Use Uber or take a tuk tuk to get around. This is especially useful to get to and from the scattered castles and palaces. And Uber and Tuk-Tuks aren’t that expensive in Sintra.

Tuk tuks are the more pricey option, at 5 euros per person. Ubers are cheaper if you’re a bigger party. You’ll save valuable time taking these modes of transport.

This is not the time to be cheap. Put this in your budget and pony up a few extra euros to get around more quickly and improve your day. You’ll still get stuck in some traffic. But it won’t be quite as painful.

>>> Click here to book a tuk tuk tour of Sintra

I’ve also read that you can rent a small electric car to get around at Go Sintra. This may be a decent option, but then you have to do the hazardous driving.

Oh, and walking isn’t the best option either. You can’t walk to the highest palaces, Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle. Unless you have a spare hour or two and fancy a severe vertical grade.

However, you can easily walk to Quinta da Regaleira from the center of town (the 434 doesn’t stop there FYI). And there’s plenty of walking to be had within Sintra’s palaces’ grounds and gardens.

5. Guided Day Tour

There’s a lot to do in one day in Sintra and it’s a bit of a hassle to get to the sites. To relax and avoid some of these transportation hassles, you may want to consider visiting on a guided day tour from Lisbon.  

Check out this  6 hour guided day trip from Lisbon . You can also book a  guided day tour  that includes Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira or a  guided tour that includes Sintra and the Lisbon Riviera .

You can also opt for a  private tour from Lisbon .

6. The Moorish Castle Has the Best Views

If you like views, here’s another good tip for Sintra. The best view is from the rugged 9th century Moorish Castle.

It’s the least visited spot in Sintra. I’m not sure why. I loved the ancient atmospheric castle. You can have views without the crowds.

The Moorish Castle is an easy 10 minute walk from Pena Palace. Once you arrive, it’s a bit of a steep hike (maybe 15 minutes) to get to the top of the ramparts. But it’s so worth it and, unlike Pena Palace, there was no wait.

You’ll have stunning 360 panoramic views over Sintra and of the Pena Palace. Just a word of caution. The castle walls have almost no railings and the stone path is uneven. I got bumped by a careless tourist and thought I might fall over the edge.

>>> Click here to book a ticket to the Moorish Castle

7. Start Your day Early in Sintra

I’m a night owl. I don’t like to get up early. Really I don’t.

But for Sintra you have to. It’s crowded and you need to get there first. I arrived at 9:30 am, but 8:30 am would have been far better. I know, the last thing you want to do on your vacation is get up early, right?

Plus, the palaces close between 5-7 pm. You can’t stay late to avoid the tour buses. So if you’re day tripping, it’s best to get an early start.

Plan on visiting Pena Palace either very early or later in the afternoon, maybe around 3:00 pm. It’s packed at mid-day.

8. Pre-Pick Your Sintra Castles Itinerary

My next tp for Sintra is that you shouldn’t just winging it. Really it isn’t advisable.

Do some research and decide which palaces you want to see ahead of time. You can’t see them all. You have to choose.

I would say you could see 2-3 in a day. I saw 3 and I felt like I was rushing and missed some things. For example, I didn’t explore Pena Park or see Monserrate. That’s why 2 days is better than 1 day for this UNESCO town.

My itinerary and order of viewing was Quinta da Regaleira , Pena Palace , and then the Moorish Castle.

If I had a do over, I would change up the order and do Pena Palace either first or last and not at midday. The lines were much smaller when we left Pena at 3:00 pm then when we entered around noon.

I regret not seeing Monserrate Palace. The candy pink palace with ornate Moorish and Romantic architecture looks divine.

If you can’t stay overnight, I recommend skipping Monserrate Palace (too far afield) or substituting Monserrate Palace for the overcrowded, line-ridden Pena Palace.

You can skip the National Palace of Sintra in the center of town. You’ll get a good look at it’s exterior anyway, and it’s the least impressive. If you only like luxurious palaces, you can skip the 10th century Moorish Castle.

9. Quinta da Regaleira Is The Best Attraction

In my opinion, Quinta da Regaleira is the best palace in Sintra. I’m always a little suspicious of places that are so universally loved, like the much more famous Pena Palace .

I confess Pena is lovely and eye catching with its contrasting sparkly colors and schizophrenic architecture. It’s very Disneyesque. But the extravagant stony Quinta da Regaleira stole my heart.

Quinta was built by eccentric and superstitious millionaire Antonio Monteiro. It’s an eerie romantic place with stunning gardens featuring grottos, fountains, towers, and tunnels. It’s part of Sintra’s UNESCO designation.

And it’s a short 10 minute walk from the historic center of Sintra. Quinta is the easiest palace to access.

The palace and its architectural ensemble are magnificent, with Gothic, Egyptian, Moorish, and Renaissance features. There are carvings associated with Masonry, the Knights Templar, and the Rosicrucians.

In the brochure you can get, Quinta is described as an “imaginary universe of symbolism and metaphor.” It felt that way to me, very Pans Labyrinth-esque.

The gardens feature a startling “initiation well” that was used for secret initiation rites.

You walk 90 feet down the spiral (and somewhat slippery) staircase. Then, you enter underground tunnels that take you into the gardens.

The well contains nine platforms, which are said to be “reminiscent of the Divine Comedy by Dante and the nine circles of Hell, the nine sections of Purgatory and the nine skies which constitute Paradise.”

In high season, you should  pre-book a skip the line ticket  to avoid a wait in line. Your ticket comes with a map showing you what to see on the grounds. You can also book a guided tour of the castle.

10. The Pena Palace Double Line Trick

I feel like this was a trick.

I had purchased online skip the line entry tickets to Pena Palace is rather expensive as far as sites in Portugal go. You’ll definitely want to pre-book a skip the line ticket  and get there a bit early. Otherwise, you’ll be waiting in a long queue and waste precious time.

With a ticket, I avoided the long queue to enter the palace grounds and waltzed in.

But, unbeknownst to me, there was an even longer line to see the palace interior with no “skip the line” option. I waited.

On balance, however, I’d say it’s absolutely not worth the long wait. (I’m an impatient person.)

To be sure, the interior was opulent. The balconies, parapets, and views were surreal, especially from the Queen’s Terrace.

But the real beauty of Pena Palace is its gaudy operatic exterior with a riot of color and architectural styles and its gardens. So decide in advance whether you want to see the interior and budget time to wait in line, if you do.

11. There’s Not Much Food in Sintra

Apart from the center of town where there are some pastry shops and cafes, there’s not much to eat in Sintra.

Pena Palace has snacks available for purchase. And there are vending machines for water and soda.

But you can’t get real food at any of the main sites. I felt hungry during my visit. So consider bringing food for a picnic lunch at one of the parks.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my must know tips for visiting Sintra. You may enjoy these other Portugal travel guides and resources:

• 10 day itinerary for Portugal
• Historic landmarks in Portugal
• 2 days in Lisbon itinerary
• 4 day itinerary for Lisbon
• 2 days in Porto itinerary
• Guide to the Alfama neighborhood
• Guide to the Belem neighborhood
• Day trips from Lisbon
• Hidden gems in Lisbon
• Guide to Coimbra University
• Guide to medieval Obidos

If you need tips for visiting Sintra Portugal, pin it for later.

4 thoughts on “Decoding Sintra: Key Tips For Visiting the Romantic Portuguese Town”

I am feeling overwhelmed. We are going to have an AirBNB in Lisbon and a car….how do I get to Sintra and see all that you suggested? We are going in September 2023 Help…

I had an Air Bnb in Lisbon with a car as well and just drove to Sintra. You just have to be sure to park outside the historic center of the town and walk in. If you drive in, you will likely get lost in the maze of tiny streets. Start early, aim to arrive at Pena Palace when it opens at 9:00 am with a pre-booked ticket, so you don’t have to wait in line. You can get to Pena Palace from the town center via taxi, tuk-tuk, or the 434 bus. From Pena Palace, you can walk downhill to the Moorish Castle. From there, you’ll have to use some form of transport to get to Quinta de Regaleira. If you have time, you can walk to the National Palace of Sintra and explore that. It will be a long day, you’ll sit in traffic some, and it won’t be inexpensive. You can also book a guide day tour from Lisbon if you don’t want to worry about logistics.

Thanks so much for such practical advice. We’ll be staying in Sintra a week, hoping for R&R in the hotel overlooking the land, as well as the sightseeing. And I think your thoughts will be a great help. Maybe especially to use Tuk tuks!

You’re welcome. I personally think tuk tuks are super fun.

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Last Updated on June 24, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

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Day Trip to Sintra from Lisbon: My Portuguese Fairy Tale Dream Come to Life

last Updated: March 2, 2024 Lisbon Portugal sintra

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Headed to Portugal and looking to take a day trip to Sintra from Lisbon? First of all – good choice! Secondly – I’m jealous (I wanna go back already!). Keep on reading for everything you need to know to plan the perfect Sintra day trip! Recommended Sintra itinerary included!

If you’re looking to explore royal palaces and stunning natural scenery (plus the cutest little medieval town), add a day trip to Sintra to your Portugal itinerary. It’s crazy popular for a reason! Not only is it majestic and ethereal, but easily one of the most beautiful places in the entire country. 

I fell head over heels for this magical fairy tale land, and I have a feeling you will too! Just imagine walking beneath the rainbow towers of Pena Palace , exploring the Gothic mansion of Quinta da Regaleira, and wandering all the lush gardens. Plus all the interesting architecture — I was in awe! Yes, you NEED to go! 

Sintra is where all my Portuguese fairy tale dreams came true – I spent the whole day amongst whimsical castles and extravagant villas, plus all those enchanting gardens! Expect dramatic cliffs, evergreen fairy tale forests, and a whole lotta uphill walking. From the moment I walked through the gardens of Peña, I was hooked!

You really need an entire day here, but with some advanced planning, your Sintra day trip will be absolutely amazing. One day will suffice, but understand you won’t be able to see and do everything in this charming little area. Read on for everything you need to know to plan the best one day Sintra itinerary!

Psst — it’s oh so easy; you can get straight from Lisbon to Sintra by train! But more on that later!

Planning a Day Trip to Sintra

What is Sintra?

First of all, what is Sintra exactly?! I know you probably heard of it when planning your Portugal itinerary (and if not, well, here ya go)! It’s gotta be one of the best day trips from Lisbon for a reason, right?!

Sintra is a municipality/area in Portugal, famous for its whimsical palaces (like the crazy-popular and colorful Pena Palace ), royal castles, 19th-century Romanticist architecture, historic estates and villas, and stunning natural scenery. There’s also ruins of a 10th century Moorish Castle! 

The sites are pretty spread out, so that’s why you really need an entire day. Especially if you wanna see the main highlights.

And it’s such a Portuguese gem! I highly recommend adding at least a day trip to Sintra to your much-longer Portugal itinerary – it’s unlike anything I’ve ever seen before!

Where is Sintra

Sintra is located high up in the mountains of Serra de Sintra — so yes, expect some stunning views! It’s super close to central Lisbon (Portugal’s capital city), only 15 miles or so northwest! So there’s really no reason not to go…

Because of its close proximity to Lisbon, most people day trip to Sintra from Lisbon. You can get there in a quick 35-40 minute drive from central Lisbon, but since parking is crazy challenging, taking the train or signing up for a guided day tour are the better options. Much more info below!

Note that the area is significantly further from other popular Portuguese towns and cities (a 3 hour drive from both Porto in northern Portugal and Lagos on the southern coast). 

Psst: Sintra actually encompasses a few parishes/towns – Santa Maria e São Miguel, São Martinho, and São Pedro de Penaferrim. The palaces and castles are scattered throughout them. Everyone just calls this entire area Sintra!

How to Get to Sintra from Lisbon

While you can drive yourself to Sintra, most people opt for the train or go on a guided day tour. Both awesome options, but if you want the history behind all the glam, I found a guided tour to be super informative!

Psst – no matter what option you choose (train, tour, drive, Uber, etc), just know you’ll still need to get yourself to the castles themselves. More info on getting around Sintra below.

Option 1: Lisbon to Sintra by Train

Getting to Sintra via train is super easy, and super cheap! Trains leave from Rossio Station in Lisbon’s historic city center every 15-30 minutes or so (depending on time of year), and cost less than €5 round trip. It doesn’t get cheaper or more convenient than that! The trip from Lisbon to Sintra by train should take about 40 minutes or so.

• One-way train from Lisbon to Sintra: €2.25
• Roundtrip cost of train: €4.50 

You can also catch a train from Lisbon to Sintra via Lisbon’s Oriente Train Station. Note that Oriente Station is further from Lisbon’s city center and not as convenient if you’re staying in the main part of the city. 

Insider Tip: The ticket machines in Lisbon can get exceptionally busy at peak times, and you’ll most likely encounter a line. Bypass the long lines by getting a Via Viagen reloadable card ahead of time. You can simply tap and go (to validate your card) without even waiting on line to buy a ticket to Sintra!

These few minutes may mean accidentally missing the train (and getting to Sintra later than anticipated), so plan in advance especially if you’re visiting in the busy season!

On my way back to Lisbon from Sintra, the ticket machines were not working correctly. I could not buy a ticket without my Via Viagen card (which I stupidly left in my hotel room). Thankfully it all got sorted out, but if that happened in the morning on my way to Sintra, I would’ve wasted so much time.

IMPORTANT: Make sure you get off at the right stop – Sintra Station (Estação de Sintra)! Portela de Sintra (Estação Portela de Sintra) is immediately before this, and it’s easy to get confused! Just remember, the correct station for Sintra and all the palaces is Sintra Station (plus, it’s the last stop on the line so hard to miss).

Once you get to the train station in Sintra, you’ll be about a 15 minute walk to historical Sintra Town. However, I recommend you use the bus to go directly to your first palace of the day. Either Pena Palace , as it’s the most popular and therefore most crowded, or Quinta de Regaleira if you’re planning to visit Pena later on.

If you already bought your tickets to the castles and palaces, you’re ahead of the game (more info below). You’ll need to use the 434 and 435 buses to get to the castles themselves (Sintra is way bigger than you think).

Option 2: Sintra Day Trip Guided Tour

Does navigating the train and multiple buses sound super complicated or time-consuming? Would you rather have someone else (a Sintra expert!) drive you around (in AC!) while delving out interesting info about the palaces? Book yourself on a guided tour!

The first time I went to Sintra, I went myself via the train. I was with a bunch of friends and let’s just say we weren’t very time efficient. We saw one palace, and by the time we got to the second, we only had ½ hour until they were closing. Whoops! 

The second time I went, I chose a guided day tour and I saw SO much! We saw 4 palaces/castles (Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, Monserrate Palace and its exotic gardens, and Sintra National Palace), PLUS had some free time in Sintra Town for lunch. That’s practically unheard of! 

Here’s the EXACT tour I took . Know it was fast-paced and you won’t get to see each palace in detail, but it’s a great introduction to the area. The tour was such a good value (it was just $65; I’ve seen others going for around $90), and my guides were so helpful and knowledgeable! Highly recommend it! 

A disadvantage to any guided tour is that you’re on a strict timeline – you need to follow the group and can’t go off exploring every nook and cranny that looks interesting to you. But the guides know the best spots anyway! 

→ Book your Lisbon to Sintra Highlights Tour here ! We saw SO much!

If you’d rather combine a visit to Sintra with Cascais (such a cute beach town) and Cabo da Roca (the westernmost point of Europe), there’s plenty of tours that do just that! I highly suggest at least a full ½ day exploring all the best things to do Cascais itself, but if you don’t have time in your Portugal itinerary for that, an add-on to Sintra is the next best thing!

Choose this tour to Sintra and Cascais if you wanna explore other areas of Portugal as well in one day. Just know you won’t have as much time to explore the palaces in Sintra themselves, but perfect if all you wanna see is Pena Palace!

Important : I should add that almost ALL day tours to Sintra do not include admission to the palaces/castles themselves. Our guides helped us book skip-the-line tickets to all palaces we were visiting, which was so helpful since we got to essentially cut the line!

You’ll need to pay for these separately (either paying for a ticket in advance – highly recommended, or by waiting in line at the individual palace ticket booths). Just something to keep in mind so you’re not surprised when your tour guide asks you to buy tickets and shell out more cash. 

Option 3: Drive from Lisbon to Sintra

Renting a car in Lisbon? You can drive to Sintra in 30 minutes or so, making it the fastest way to get there. BUT there are a bunch of negatives – which is why I honestly don’t recommend it. The roads are steep, windy, and narrow, parking can be crazy difficult (basically nonexistent), and the train is just too easy not to take. 

Plus, with all the guided day trip options, there’s really no reason to drive yourself. You don’t wanna waste half your day trying to find a parking spot (and ripping your hair out in the process). Guides know exactly where to park and some of the lots are actually only for tours. Do yourself a favor: take the train or book yourself on a guided day tour.

How to Get Around on Your Sintra Day Trip

Once you make your way to Sintra, you’ll instantly realize that everything is up in the hills. Thankfully there’s lots of options besides the obvious — walking. 

Walking in Sintra

Sintra is HUGE! So no matter what, you’ll be doing a ton of walking during your day trip to Sintra. There’s no way around it. But you can make your life easier by taking the bus, a tuk-tuk, uber/taxi, or on a guided day tour.

Technically, you can walk to all the castles and palaces in Sintra. But just remember – most of the palaces sit on top of giant hills. Looking at a map, Pena Palace and Sintra Station don’t seem to be terribly far (and they’re not). BUT you’ll need to walk up a STEEP 45-minute hill.

Don’t waste your precious time, especially since you’ve only got one day in Sintra! Use your time wisely – just take the bus.

There are a few instances where walking isn’t the most terrible idea:

• From Sintra Town to the National Palace of Sintra (about a 5 minute walk)
• From Sintra Train Station to Sintra Town (about a 10 minute walk)
• From Pena Palace to Castle of the Moors (about a 15 minute walk)
• From Sintra Town to Quinta da Regaleira (about a 15 minute walk)

Public Transport: 434 and 435 Sintra Tourist Buses  

With all the steep hills, I highly recommend using the 434 and 435 tourist buses. There’s no way you’d wanna walk from the train station/Sintra Town to Pena Palace, Castle of the Moors, or elsewhere! 

Especially on a hot day – that just sounds brutal and a great way to ruin your day trip to Sintra right from the start. Plus, you’ll most likely tire yourself out after the first palace and lose motivation to see others.

Important info about the tourist buses:

There are TWO buses with two different routes . You’ll eventually need to head back to Sintra Town/the train station to take the other. Take a photo of the routes ahead of time to get more familiar with this.

• 434 Bus Route Circuito da Pena (circular route): Sintra Train Station → Moorish Castle → Pena Palace → Sintra National Palace/Sintra Town → Natural History Museum → Sintra Train Station ( timetable here )
• 435 Bus Villa Express Route (one-direction): Sintra Train Station → Sintra National Palace/Sintra Town → Quinta da Regaleira → Seteais Palace → Monserrate Palace → Sintra Station ( timetable here )

The buses only run in one direction. This means you’ll wanna carefully plan out your day so you’re not wasting time making extra circuits if you don’t need to. For example, you cannot visit the Moorish Castle after Pena Palace without making the entire loop around.

Buses come a few times an hour, kinda depending on how busy it is. You may get lucky and have a bus waiting for you at the bus stop, or you may need to wait 15 minutes or so. Buses come more frequently during the peak summer months.

Have cash for the tourist buses. Bus rides were kinda expensive (€4 for a single bus ticket), which I was definitely not expecting. The bus tickets add up, so just keep this in mind when planning. I’d recommend purchasing the Hop-on Hop-off ticket for €6.90, as you’ll be able to ride the entire loop once. You can buy tickets directly from the bus driver.

You’ll still need to do a fair bit of walking. Even when taking the bus, prepare for some uphill walking. From the bus stop at Pena Palace, you still gotta climb 10-15 minutes up a fairly steep hill, or you can take a separate bus straight to the entrance for 3euro (after you present your entry ticket).

Note that these tourist buses act just like regular city buses (they’re not tours in any way, shape, or form). Don’t expect commentary or any info about the palaces/castles. Stops are typically not announced, so keep an eye out for where you are and take note of how many stops you need to stay on for. Remember — if you miss your stop you’ll need to make the whole loop again!

Tuk tuk  

Wandering around Sintra you’ll undoubtedly see a few tuk-tuks here and there. They typically hang out near the train station (at the bus stop), Sintra Town, and at the bottom of the hill to Pena Palace.

While they might seem like a great option (especially when the bus line is long), the tuk-tuk drivers will most definitely try to rip you off. A ride from Sintra Town to Pena Palace should be 5euro per person, but many don’t accept less than €10 a person. The bus is 4euro… so….yeah. Psst – just like the bus, you’ll still need to walk 10 minutes up a steep walking path to get to Pena Palace anyways.

Honestly, I’d avoid the tuk-tuks altogether unless you realllllly wanna ride one, haha. They are quite fun (we’ve ridden them in both Thailand and Colombia ), but save yourself some money if you’re not in a major rush or the bus is coming!

Ride Shares and Taxis

You probably don’t wanna rely on typical taxis to get yourself around Sintra. There aren’t tons of them just waiting around at the different palaces and castles, and you’ll waste precious time looking for one! 

Instead, call an Uber/Bolt/FreeNow!

Uber is now available in Sintra, along with Bolt and Free Now (other rideshare apps similar to Uber). And they’re pretty inexpensive in all of Portugal!  They typically have much better pricing than regular cabs, and there’ll be no language barrier to worry about (since you input your destination and pay directly in the app). 

Rideshares can take you from palace to palace, and split between a few people, will be less expensive than taking the bus. Just remember, depending on traffic, it may take a while for a car to arrive.

Guided tour

If you booked yourself on a guided tour, then your guides will be right alongside you, guiding the way! This is by far the easiest option if you don’t wanna mess with all the trains and buses and all that nonsense (buying transportation tickets, waiting for the bus, figuring out where to get off, etc).

Driving in Sintra

And well, if you decide to drive, you can get around that way! But remember – parking can be a nightmare, especially in busy season (June to September)! You may want to keep your car in one spot for the day and use the buses anyways, haha. Do yourself a favor and keep your car in Lisbon.

When to Visit Sintra

Time of Year: In general, summers in Sintra are warm, dry, and mostly clear. Winters are cold and wet, with at least some overcast/clouds. It’s pretty windy year round, but with the chilly temps in winter, it’ll feel pretty frigid! You’ll definitely need to take along your layers!

The weather is quite unpredictable from mid-autumn to early spring, so you never really know what you’re gonna get. But this means there’ll be less crowds…

Of course it’s way more crowded during the prime summer months, so if you’ve got max flexibility, I’d recommend visiting in either May or October.

For reference, I visited Sintra in early August – and it was cool and a bit misty in the morning, much warmer later in the day, and the crowds were outta control. 

Time of Day: There’s no need to get to Sintra super super early, since the palaces and castles don’t open up until around 9am. So nope, no sunrise missions here! I’d aim to get on an 8am train from Lisbon, arrive in Sintra around 8:45, and hop right on a bus to your first castle (either Pena Palace or Quinta da Regaleira).

Whatever you do, DO NOT VISIT PENA PALACE IN THE MIDDLE OF THE DAY. It’s ridiculously jam packed and will drastically impact your experience in the worst way possible. Plan to either get to Pena Palace as soon as the gates open (at 9am) or even a bit before, or much later in the day, after 4pm.

For less(er) crowds, plan to visit Sintra on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday. Avoid weekends if you can!

Remember to time it right; the palaces and castles don’t stay open all night. They actually close quite early, even in summer when the sun doesn’t set until 9pm. The last entry for Pena Palace is around 5:45pm, so give yourself plenty of time to walk up that hill!

Weather in Sintra

Being high up in the mountains (and closer to the coast), Sintra’s climate is way cooler than that of Lisbons. Which feels super refreshing if you’re visiting Portugal in the dead of summer, when temps are known to reach upwards of 90F! 

Sintra has its own microclimate, meaning the weather can change pretty frequently. We got there in the morning to fog and cool temps, and it eventually burned off and got much warmer later in the day. On my first day trip to Sintra a few years back, it was gloriously sunny in the morning, and then all of a sudden it started pouring like crazy! Definitely bring some layers you can easily take on/off.

Kinda reminds me of the weather in San Francisco , haha. 

Rain and mist are more common in Sintra than nearby Lisbon (especially in the winter months), so come prepared! If the fog is super thick you unfortunately won’t be able to see much of the view, so just keep that in mind. Don’t get upset – it’s hard to plan around the weather if you’ve only got a few days or booked a guided tour.

Other Info For Your Sintra Day Trip

Is one day in sintra enough.

Yes, if you just wanna see the main highlights and don’t mind being rushed to do so.  

No, if you wanna explore the palaces and castles in depth. Whatever you do, buy your tickets to the palaces and castles in advance. You don’t wanna waste time waiting in line for a ticket. 

One day in Sintra is a great introduction to the area. In my opinion, there’s far too much to see in only a few hours though (I would’ve loved an extra day but I was on my way to the Algarve shortly after – highly recommended). 

While most people choose to simply take a day trip from Lisbon to Sintra, know that you can actually stay the night if you’d like more time to explore! Or, you can hop back on the train from Lisbon for a second day if you don’t feel like switching out accommodation too much – the train is under 5euro roundtrip and only takes 45 minutes or so.

Brief History of Sintra

Sintra has a long and fascinating history – it’s quite complex, so I’ll give you the tiniest gist. Just know that the palaces were all built by Portuguese royalty!

But before the elites and royalty came along, the Berbers (North African Moors) built up the town (and specifically the Moorish Castle to guard it). Once the Christian conquest of Portugal occured in 1147, the area deteriorated and was neglected for quite some time.

Then the Portuguese royals and elites discovered it! Since the area has a cooler climate than surrounding areas (and is oh so pretty with all the greenery), Sintra was the perfect place for them to build their palaces and summer residences. Talk about a mountain retreat! Pena Palace is now the fantasyland of the creative King Ferdinand II.

The whole area is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site – and it surely deserves that title!

Other Important Sintra FAQS

• Is there a beach in Sintra? No beach in Sintra Town itself (or near the palaces), but there’s some popular beach towns on the Sintra coastline! Check out Praia Grande (with its massive oceanfront swimming pool), Praia das Maçãs, and Praia do Magoito.
• Can you walk from palace to palace? Technically yes, but you won’t wanna. The castles and palaces are built on hills, so you’ll be walking up and down all day. No thanks.
• Can I do Sintra if I only have ½ day? Of course, but you’ll only get to see one (max two) castles/palaces. I recommend checking out Pena Palace of course, and if you’ve got more time, Quinta da Regaleira is spectacular and oh so different.
• What should I bring to Sintra? You’ll wanna bring a decent amount of water and a light jacket/sweater, and wear super comfy shoes and layers. Plus sunscreen and a hat!
• Why does Sintra have so many palaces? The royalty and elite LOVED Sintra back in the day (for its beauty and cooler temps than Lisbon), and built their summer homes here! Just imagine waking up in Pena Palace! What a dream!

BUY YOUR TICKETS IN ADVANCE

One way to really maximize your time in Sintra: buying your tickets to the castles ahead of time. Most people just buy them at the gate, meaning yes, you’ll bypass the long line for tickets! Buying online is super easy, just know you need to choose a designated time to enter Pena Palace. 

→ Buy your ticket to Pena Palace here (the most popular one with all the colors), and I guarantee you’ll save time! Most tour groups make sure you buy them in advance to keep the group from waiting anyways. 

Don’t expect to show up and get right in. There may be a line, and possibly a VERY long one. Give yourself extra waiting time if you’re not planning on buying a ticket in advance. But that’s just silly!

Palaces and Gardens to Visit on a Day Trip to Sintra

Remember – if you’re taking a day trip to Sintra from Lisbon, you won’t be able to see every single palace and garden in the area. You really gotta prioritize with only one day in Sintra. Don’t fret – most people only spend a day in Sintra on their much longer Portugal itinerary, and if you plan it right, you can see a whole lot!

Pena Palace (Palacio Nacional de Pena)

This is everyone’s favorite palace, and it’s easy to see why. Just look at all those bright colors – there’s blinding yellow walls, blue tiles, and a red painted exterior. And that stunning architecture against all the greenery – whoa! Pena Palace is truly wild (in the best way possible) — crazy exotic and tons of interesting architecture. Don’t miss out on this Romanticist castle standing on top of the hill, it’s truly a sight to be seen. 

DO NOT MISS PENA PALACE! I repeat, don’t miss Pena Palace!!! It’s probably the main reason you’re coming to Sintra in the first place! So yes, the hype around Pena Palace is real. And this means it’ll be crowded beyond belief (but that’s why you’re visiting either first thing in the morning or much later in the day once the guided day trips have left). Be smart and never visit Pena Palace in the middle of the day – as that’s when it’s the most crowded.

Read Next: Everything You Need to Know About Pena Palace (plus lots of pretty pictures!)

Psst: Once you make it to the bus stop, you’ll need to then get to the palace itself. You can either walk up the hill (about 10-15 minutes) or take a 3euro bus ride to get to Pena Palace.

This is the palace you’ll 100% want to purchase tickets in advance for . There are two different official ticket types for Pena Palace:

• Palace and Park Ticket: The EVERYTHING ticket! You get entry into the palace itself, with all the lavish rooms and history. Plus all the grounds and gardens. (€14)
• Park Ticket: If you don’t think you’ll wanna go inside the palace and just wanna check out the exterior, save a few euros by grabbing a park ticket. You can thankfully still see the Arches Yard and do the Terrace Walk – the views are phenomenal! (€7.5)

At first I thought going inside would be a waste, but I actually enjoyed it way more than I initially thought I would. Every single room was oh so different than the last, and all so lavishly decorated! The cloisters were completely covered in azulejos! It just sucked that it was SO crowded, which made it difficult to truly enjoy. Another reason to get there ASAP in the morning and to buy skip-the-line-tickets ahead of time .

Make sure to walk around the castle walls, especially the Arches Yard and Terrace Walk– this was my favorite thing to do at Pena Palace. There were SO many beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and even the Moorish Castle (which I sadly missed out on visiting). I also wandered around the Palace Gardens a bit — you’ll never see everything (there’s oh so much), but I particularly liked the lily pad pond and forest trees.

I actually visited Pena Palace twice on my last trip – once in the morning on a guided tour, and then later on in the day once the sun finally came out. Yes, I opted to forgo my included ride back to Lisbon, but the palace was really calling my name. No regrets.

Quinta da Regaleira

Moody and mysterious, Quinta da Regaleira is such a vibe. Hidden tunnels, breathtaking gardens, princess-like towers, and even an initiation well in this neo-gothic mansion. Tons of mystery and magic over here, and completely different from Pena Palace. The grand house is five floors, surrounded by lush, green gardens. Don’t miss the secret passageway that takes you below a waterfall – one of my favorite parts of the estate!

Pro Tip: If you wanna see the mysterious initiation well, head there first, and then see the rest of the castle afterwards. It’s the most popular spot in Quinta da Regaleira, so it gets busy!

Monserrate Palace

Before heading off on my guided tour of Sintra , I didn’t give much thought to Monserrate Palace. What a mistake that was – it ended up being one of my favorites! Probably because it was hardly crowded and oh so peaceful (the exact opposite of Pena Palace). The building is striking (with tons of intricate latticework), and I loved all the Islamic/Arabian architectural influences and symmetry (helps so much with photography!).

Wanna escape the crowds of Sintra? Head here! And don’t miss out on the tranquil gardens – so charming and tranquil.

Castle of the Moors (Castelo dos Mouros)

Moorish Castle, Castle of the Moors, Castelo dos Mouros – yes, they’re all the same thing! Just slightly different names. I didn’t make it to The Castle of the Moors, but I’ve heard such good things about it. You can easily walk here from Pena Palace, and actually get an awesome view of the castle from the terraces over there!

For starters, it’s got some of the best views over Sintra (and being so high up, you know the views are good). It’s also the oldest monument in Sintra – yes, the castle is crumbling, but this makes it feel as authentic as ever! The Moorish Castle once guarded the entire region – kinda like the Great Wall of Portugal if you may, haha.

And plus, most guided tours don’t stop here, so it’ll be far less crowded than the others! 

Historic Center of Sintra (Sintra Town)

A visit to Sintra Town is a must on any Sintra day trip. You’ll probably need to head back to town anyway to switch buses at some point – making it the perfect excuse to explore for a bit!  

And the city center is full of charming little shops (with plenty of hand painted tiles), restaurants, and tasty little treats. I recommend spending a half hour or so wandering throughout the quaint streets and up and down the narrow staircases.

Hungry? This is a good place to stop. There’s plenty of sit-down restaurants serving traditional Portuguese dishes, with Incomum, Apeadeiro, and A Praca (vegetarian) being popular places. If there’s octopus on the menu, order it! I had some of the freshest and most delicious octopus of my life in Portugal, and while I didn’t have any in Sintra itself, I’m almost positive the quality is of the same standard.

Whatever you do, don’t miss out on some pillow-like pastries from Piriquita Bakery. This pastry shop is famous for a reason (and there’s always a line out the door). Instead of an actual lunch, I opted for two pastries – when in Sintra, right?! 

I tried a queijada (kinda like a tiny cinnamon cheesecake tart), and an almond travesseiro (a traditional puff pastry filled with almond cream and dusted with powdered sugar, very flaky and warm, mmm). I also grabbed a nutella travesseiro to snack on later in the day, haha. Travesseiros are synonymous to Sintra, kinda like pastel de natas are to Lisbon!

National Palace of Sintra (Palacio Nacional de Sintra)

The National Palace of Sintra is super close to Sintra Town, so if you’ve got time and wanna check that out, feel free before leaving town. With its two massive chimneys and white Gothic-style exterior, the National Palace is iconic to Sintra.

I personally chose to skip visiting the inside (as there were other attractions in Sintra I didn’t wanna miss!) and simply admired it from afar. 

A recommended Sintra day trip itinerary:

Decided to go on your own and head from Lisbon to Sintra by train? Here’s how I would plan out my day:

Take an early train from Lisbon (leaving around 8am) to arrive in Sintra around 8:45. 

• Stop 1 (9:30-11:30am): Quinta da Regaleira . Start your Sintra day trip by hopping right on Bus 435 from the train station, walk down the Initiation Well, and explore the gardens and main palace.
• Stop 2 (12-1pm): Montserrat Palace . Continue on the 435 bus from Quinta da Regaleira and explore the palace and lush gardens.
• Stop 3 (1:30-3): Sintra Town . Back on the 435 bus to Sintra Town for lunch, pastries, and a wander in town; this is where you’ll find the National Palace of Sintra too.
• Stop 4 (3:30-5:30pm): Pena Palace . Take the 434 to Pena Palace – most guided day trips to Sintra head to Pena Palace first thing in the morning, which means it’ll be jam-packed. If you’re traveling yourself from Lisbon to Sintra by train, you have the opportunity to visit later in the day, once the tours have cleared out (a bit).
• OPTIONAL Stop 5: Castle of the Moors . If you’ve spent less time at any of the above stops, walk over to Castle of the Moors from Pena Palace and explore. Remember, last entry to most palaces is 6pm, so plan your day trip to Sintra wisely!
• Dinner and sunset from Sintra Town. Stay and watch the sunset in Sintra — we found a random spot after dinner in Sintra and loved the colors!

Hope this helps you plan out your day trip to Sintra from Lisbon! Get ready to feel like a fairytale princess – all the castles and palaces and lush greenery await!

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April 1, 2023 at 11:06 pm

HI Jess, Thanks for a great day trip suggestion for Sintra. I am thinking if we catch the 8:11 train from Lisbon, we get to Sintra around 9-then catch the 434 straight to Pena palace. Should I buy the timed palace and park tickets for 10am or 10:30 (just want to leave a bit of a buffer in case we don’t get on the 9:15 bus up? Then I read that from the palace entry gate to the actual palace interior takes 30 minutes and the entry ticket is for the palace not park??? Hope that makes sense. Thanks Lynette

April 5, 2023 at 11:02 am

Hi Lynette,

I’d buy the 10:30am just to be on the safe side. You can always explore the exterior of the palace and gardens if you have extra time before the timed ticket starts for the interior of the palace. 🙂

April 8, 2023 at 9:10 pm

Thanks , Jess I will do that.

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How to Plan a Perfect Lisbon to Sintra Day Trip

Sintra, once the preferred summer destination for royalty looking to escape the oppressive Lisbon heat, is a picturesque hilltop town just northwest of Lisbon.

In Sintra, you’ll find amazing views in all directions, some unique architectural styles that you aren’t likely to find anywhere else in Portugal, and expansive castles and palaces fit for royalty. Which makes sense given that’s who they were built for. 

At just 45 minutes away from Lisbon by train from Rossio Station in Baixa, a day trip to Sintra is a great option if you’re looking to add a trip out of the city to your Lisbon itinerary . 

But is it possible to squeeze the many delights of Sintra into just one day? We certainly think so. In fact, we did it for ourselves and had a fantastic time. Our number one tip is to get an early start – the crowds in Sintra build over the course of the day, and we found wandering the grounds of Pena Palace in solitude was much more preferable to wading through crowds in Sintra town later in the day. 

In this guide, we’ll take you through exactly how to plan a Lisbon to Sintra day trip on your own, from how to get there, how to structure your time, and exactly what we think you should do and see based on our own experience. 

You’ll start in Lisbon, hop on an early train, and make your way to the top of the hill to start with Pena Palace. From there, make your way downhill, stopping to admire the views from the site of an old hilltop castle, and indulging in Sintra’s famous pastries – the Travesseiro. 

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

A Brief and Incomplete History of Sintra

Sintra has been around throughout much of Portuguese history, from Paleolithic settlements to its Roman and Moorish occupations, right up until the Reconquista by Christian armies in the 9th century.

But the town had its real golden age during the 18th and 19th centuries when it became a popular vacation destination amongst Portuguese aristocracy and royalty, who chose the hilltop town of Sintra as a perfect getaway from the summer heat in the lowlands surrounding it. 

It was during this period that many of the palaces and villas were regenerated in the Romantic architectural style the town is famed for today.

The unique mix of beautiful architectural styles and the number of impressive historical landmarks in the region even earned Sintra UNESCO World Heritage Site status. The town is now one of the most popular tourist destinations in Portugal, with millions of tourists making the journey annually.

Is a Day Trip to Sintra Enough Time? 

We’d say yes and no. 

Yes, you’ll definitely be able to see the main highlights of Sintra in a day. In one – albeit very busy – day, it’s possible to check off three or even four of Sintra’s top attractions, depending on how much time you spend in each spot.

No, because you won’t be able to see all of the sights. With one day in Sintra, you’ll have to focus on the bigger attractions or pick and choose what you want to see and do.

Below, we’ve outlined the main sites in Sintra that you won’t want to miss, with some extra stops if you happen to have more than a day.

Getting from Lisbon to Sintra

Sintra is located around 30km northwest of Lisbon and sits within the stunning Parque Natural Sintra-Cascais. The town is one of the most popular day trip destinations from Lisbon, mostly thanks to how easy it is to get to from the Portuguese capital.

Since we’re covering the “getting there” piece before we get into the itinerary itself, it’s worth pausing here to talk about how you should structure your day trip to Sintra from Lisbon. 

In our opinion – and this is what we did – you should plan to start at Pena Palace at the crest of the hill above the town of Sintra, and work your way downhill from there . We walked down to the town from the Castelo do Mouros, and would definitely recommend it. There are, of course, other options for getting downhill, which we’ll cover below.

Doing it this way will allow you to tackle the most popular sight first, before the crowds descend on it later in the day, and it also means any walking you do will be downhill. 

After the walk down to town, break for lunch and pastries, and then tackle some of the sights in and around town before heading home. 

The implication here is that you’ll be making two journeys to get to your first stop of the day: the train from Lisbon to Sintra, and the leg from Sintra to Pena Palace at the top of the hill. We’ll cover them both in this section. 

Taking the Train From Lisbon to Sintra

The best way to get to Sintra from Lisbon is by train. 

You can catch the train to Sintra from Rossio Train Station (or Oriente, which is a slightly longer ride) in Baixa in the heart of Lisbon. Trains depart roughly every 30 minutes (more during weekday rush hours) and the journey takes just 40 minutes. 

Tickets between Lisbon and Sintra cost between €2-3 each way, and you can also grab a round trip ticket. You can easily purchase tickets at the kiosks or self-service machines at the station – there’s no need to book in advance .

Make sure you take the train to the end of the route – which is called “Sintra” – NOT “Portela de Sintra”, which is further away from all the sights.

When to Take the Train to Sintra?

We’d recommend getting on the first feasible train you can. For us, that was 8:11 am, but the schedule might vary slightly by year and season. 

Taking the train around 8:00 am is ideal for making the most of your day. You’ll arrive in Sintra just before 9:00 am, which is just in time for most of the attractions to open at 9:30 am. 

This gives you 30 minutes to get up the hill to Pena Palace to start your day and beat the rest of the visitors.

When to Take the Train Back from Sintra?

Return trains from Sintra to Lisbon also run roughly every thirty minutes throughout the day. 

The last train usually departs Sintra around midnight (it’s still best to check the exact train schedule for the day you’re visiting). You probably won’t need this long in Sintra – 13 hours is a long day trip! – but it’s always good to know that you won’t have to rush back to the station before you’re done.

Should You Drive to Sintra?

Yes, it is possible to drive TO Sintra, but you should not, under any circumstances, try to drive IN Sintra! Trust us on this one.

The drive from Lisbon to Sintra takes as little as 25-30 minutes along highway A37. The road into Sintra can get pretty congested during peak times, so try to arrive early to avoid heavy traffic.

BUT while you can arrive in Sintra by car, the historic town center itself was not designed with cars in mind. 

If you drive in Sintra, you’ll end up spending most of your day stuck in traffic, getting lost on tiny back roads, and hunting out limited parking. Trying to drive between the sights is much more hassle than it’s worth.  

If you are planning on taking a day trip to Sintra from Lisbon by car, we’d highly recommend parking it somewhere on the outskirts of town for the day, then walking or using public transport for the rest of the itinerary below.

If you are driving to Sintra, some of the top parking options are: 

• Sintra Parking : This central parking lot is completely free but fills up very early, especially on weekends and during the summer. Arrive early to avoid disappointment.
• Parque de Estacionamento Estação de Sintra : Conveniently located opposite the train station and on the 434 bus route, this parking lot has a maximum daily rate of €14.
• Parque Estacionamento P3 Portela Sintra : A little further away from the town center and main tourist sites, this parking lot can be found close to Portela de Sintra station. But at only €2 for the entire day, it’s one of the cheapest parking options in Sintra.

Getting Around Sintra

Sintra is located at the top of a gigantic hill. We’d recommend starting at the top – which means Pena Palace – and making your way downhill on foot. 

It’s certainly possible to walk around once you’re in Sintra itself. And if you follow the itinerary as outlined below, you’ll mostly be walking downhill.

If walking long distances isn’t an option for you, we’d suggest going to Pena Palace and the Castelo dos Mouros first, then catching a taxi, bus, or tuk-tuk from there to get back down into town. 

The 434 tourist bus runs on a loop around the main attractions and the town center and is the cheapest option for getting around Sintra. However, the buses can get extremely busy during peak times and you could end up waiting in line for up to an hour (peak times are around midday and early afternoon at Pena Palace). 

Taxis and tuk-tuks are available everywhere in Sintra. Just be sure to negotiate a good price BEFORE you ride, and don’t get ripped off by tourist scams.

Getting from Sintra Train Station to Pena Palace 

Like we covered above, your first stop is at the top of the hill looming over the town, so you’ll need to make your way there from the train station in town.

While it is possible to walk around the main sites and attractions in Sintra, walking from the train station to Pena Palace (the first stop on this itinerary) is a different story.

The walk from the train station to Pena Palace takes around 45 minutes and is a steep uphill climb the entire way. We’re all for walking, but even we didn’t feel like taking on this challenge first thing in the morning (we do, however, recommend walking down the hill back into town). 

Instead, to get to the top of the hill, you have a few different options.

• Bus: The 434 tourist bus runs roughly every 15 minutes between Sintra train station and Pena Palace. The buses aren’t too busy first thing in the morning, but you can expect long lines later in the day. A single ticket costs €3.90, while a hop-on-hop-off ticket is €6.90 for the day. Jumping on the bus is the cheapest option for a single person or even a couple. But if you have a bigger group, it’s more economical to grab a taxi or tuk-tuk instead. Here’s a guide to the 434 for more information.  
• Rideshare (Uber) : An affordable and convenient option if you’re a regular Uber user. The journey should cost around €7-10. However, cell service in Sintra can be spotty, which can make it a little hard to call a ride. There are also not that many drivers around later in the day, which means you may not be able to get one at all.
• Local Taxi : Local taxis are abundant in Sintra, especially around the main tourist attractions. Just be careful not to get ripped off by drivers overcharging naive tourists. You shouldn’t be paying more than €15-20 for the journey (MAX!), depending on the time of day and group size.
• Tuk-Tuks : We opted to take a tuk-tuk because we had a group of four and saw the long lines for the bus. The standard fare between the station to the entrance of Pena Palace is roughly €5 per person (we paid €20 for a group of four). 

Other Tips for Visiting Sintra

Here are some odds and ends to know before your trip. 

• Get there early! Trust us, it makes a difference. The crowds at 3:00 pm are infinitely less manageable than those at 9:00 am. We essentially had the grounds up at Pena Palace to ourselves when we arrived at 9:30 am. 
• Buy your tickets for attractions ahead of time . Book attraction tickets online in advance to save yourself time and hassle on the day. Lines for the ticket machines aren’t bad at 9:30 am, but later in the day they can be a nightmare. Buy tickets for Pena Palace here , Castelo dos Mouros here , and Quinta da Regaleira here .
• Be prepared for it to be foggy and cold at Pena Palace in the morning . Multiple locals in Lisbon and Sintra told us that this is a common occurrence, and it’ll burn off by 11:00 am or so. And that’s exactly what happened for us. Make sure to pack a jacket for the morning.
• Wear practical walking shoes . If you do plan on walking around Sintra, you’ll be walking a decent amount, so remember to wear good shoes. Even if it’s a hot day, you’ll definitely regret wearing flip-flops or uncomfortable sandals by the end of the day.
• Bring water and snacks . While there are a few pastry shops and restaurants in Sintra town center for lunch, there’s not much else to eat around the wider region or at the attractions. If you think you’ll need some extra sustenance throughout the day, make sure to pack a few snacks and drinks to take with you so you don’t get hangry.

A Lisbon to Sintra Day Trip: Exactly What to Do with One Day in Sintra

Before getting to the exact itinerary, let’s talk about organizing your time in Sintra. 

We’d recommend starting at the top of the hill and making your way back down, breaking for lunch in the town of Sintra itself. This is the most convenient and logical way to explore as much of the area as possible in a day.

Here’s a rough map of the morning , which will have you exploring Pena Palace and Castelo dos Mouros, before walking down into town. 

9:00 am: Arrive at Sintra Train Station 

Jump on the train from Libson nice and early so that you’ll arrive in Sintra around 9:00 am.

On arrival, head straight for Pena Palace. Either jump on the 434 bus or take an Uber, taxi, or Tuk-Tuk to the palace entrance.

9:30 am: Start Your Day at Pena Palace

The Palacio Nacional da Pena (Pena Palace) is undoubtedly the most famous landmark in Sintra and the reason most visitors are so drawn to the area.

The brightly colored palace is one of the greatest examples of 19th century Romanticism, combining Moorish and Manueline architectural styles. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995 and is one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal.

There are two main ticket options for visiting Pena Palace: 

• The exterior and grounds: €7.50/€6.50 (adult/youth and senior)
• The exterior, grounds, and interior: €14/€12.50 (adult/youth and senior)

You can pre-book your tickets online in advance. Advanced tickets come with a scheduled time slot. Pena Palace is open daily from 09:30 am (grounds open at 09:00 am) to 6:30 pm (grounds shut at 7:00 pm) , with the last entry at 6:00 pm.

Should You Visit the Interior of Pena Palace? 

This depends on what you’re into.

We didn’t go inside – we’ve seen plenty of rich people’s palaces over the years, and generally find them underwhelming unless there’s something special or unique about them. We found that the exterior and gardens had plenty to keep us busy.

But, for what it’s worth, my older brother did go inside and really enjoyed it. 

What to Do at Pena Palace

In terms of visiting the Palace, you have three main options which we’d recommend tackling in the order listed below (if you choose to do the interior).

As we mentioned previously, it’s often foggy in Sintra first thing in the morning. So head inside first, then come back out to admire the famous exterior of the Palace when the fog starts to burn off.  

• The interior – Untouched since the last royals left in 1910, visiting the Palace’s interior will give you a glimpse into the life of its past royal residents. The Palace is filled with rich stucco decoration and beautiful art and furnishings.
• The grounds – Wander around the vast gardens and endless walking trails. It’ll likely be foggy when you get to Sintra, so spend the first bit of your time in the grounds waiting for it to clear up. Head up to Cruz Alta ( here on Google Maps) – the highest point in the grounds with a fantastic viewpoint – if you’re up for a bit of a walk (it was foggy when we were up there, unfortunately). 
• The exterior – Saving the best for last, the exterior of Pena Palace is really what most visitors come to see and photograph. The bright yellow and red castle exterior is truly a unique site to behold. There’s a nice path that takes you along the outside of the base of the palace, which has some pretty incredible views of the surrounding landscapes too. 

When you’re done, walk down towards the Vale dos Lagos e Pateira ( here on Google Maps) and exit from there.

There’s a path at the end of the parking lot across the street that will take you up to the Castelo dos Mouros (it starts here ).

12:00 pm: Castelo dos Mouros

A lot of people opt to skip this, and we think that’s a mistake. The reconstructed castle walls are really cool and the views out towards the ocean are spectacular.

We were hesitant about it at first. Alysha even said that my brother and I could go on, and she’d wait outside. But she ultimately decided to go for it. For what it’s worth, she was very, very glad she went!

Castelo dos Mouros sits close to Pena Palace on the hill’s summit. The historic castle was built in the 8th and 9th centuries by the Moors (Muslims that occupied the Iberian Peninsula at the time). It was then restored by King Ferdinand in the 19th Century.

The castle blends beautifully with the surrounding forest and grounds in which it sits. The structure is home to a small exhibition about Moorish history and has numerous artifacts found during archaeological excavations of the area.  

The main draw of visiting has to be the fantastic viewpoints from the castle turrets over the surrounding region and out to the Atlantic coastline.

Tickets for the castle cost €8/€6.50 (adult/youth and senior). You’ll get a small discount by buying your tickets online in advance. The castle is open from 9:30 am to 6:30 pm, with the last entry at 5:30pm.

A visit to Castle dos Mouros only really takes an hour or so. It’s located just a short walk from Pena Palace at the hill’s summit, so makes for an easy addition to your day in Sintra. 

1:00 pm: Walk Down to Sintra for Lunch

At this point, you’re probably going to be pretty hungry from a busy morning walking around the huge palace and castle grounds. This means it’s time to head into Sintra itself to grab some lunch. 

Follow this walking route , which is downhill all the way. It should take you around 20–30 minutes to walk to the historic center.

If walking isn’t an option for you, you’ll either need to find a taxi or tuk-tuk, or take the 434 bus down into town. If you choose the latter, be prepared for long lines at this time of day. It’ll save you time and hassle to just grab one of the other forms of transportation instead – unless you’re traveling on a tight budget. 

Heads up: You’ll need to walk back out to the main road (Estrada de Pena) to catch the bus, a taxi, or a tuk-tuk.

1:30 pm: Lunch (and Pastries) in Sintra

There are several great places to grab lunch in Sintra town, depending on what type of food you want to eat. 

Here are some options. 

• Casa Piriquita – The most popular pastelarias (pastry shop) in Sintra, which makes the famous local Travesseiro pastry (a puff pastry filled with cream) that Alysha HAD to try… for science of course. The pastry shop dates back to 1862 and was a favorite of King Carlos I.
• Bacalhau na Vila – An authentic local restaurant where you can share tasty grilled cod and fish tapas dishes. There are gluten free options too.
• Tascantiga – A lovely casual spot serving delicious Portuguese tapas with a nice outdoor terrace! Also has a good kids’ menu for families.
• Alba Gelato – Serves some of the best ice cream in Sintra for those in need of a sugary pick-me-up on a hot day. The ice cream parlor is located near the train station, so it also makes for a great end-of-the-day treat before you head back to Lisbon.

3:00 pm: Quinta da Regaleira

After you’ve finished with lunch and have regained your energy, the next stop on this Sintra itinerary is Quinta da Regaleira.

To get to Quinta da Regaleira from the town center, you can either walk, get the 435 bus, or jump in a taxi or tuk-tuk. Walking is the easiest option – here’s the route . The walk takes 10-15 minutes.

Quinta da Regaleira is a large country estate in Sintra, made up of a grand villa, small chapel, and gardens. Dating back to the early 1900s, the villa was designed by Italian designer Luigi Manini, who was commissioned by an entrepreneur from Brazil who made his fortune in coffee, António Carvalho Monteiro (aka “Monteiro the Millionaire”).

The villa was built in a neo-Gothic/Romantic revivalist style and was heavily influenced by the mythological beliefs of its eccentric owner. Monteiro was fascinated by secretive religious orders such as the Knights Templar and Freemasons. 

All across the estate, you’ll find unusual symbols, hidden passageways, secret caves, and curious little nooks and crannies. The unique estate has a fairytale-esque air of mystery and intrigue to it. 

One of the highlights of the estate is The Initiation Well (“Poço Iniciático”), which features an imposing Gothic spiral staircase filled with mysterious symbolism. The staircase leads you down into an underground grotto that then takes you out to a hidden lake in the gardens.

Tickets to Quinta da Regaleira cost €10/€5 (adult/youth and senior). You can book online in advance to save time when you arrive. The estate is open daily for self-guided visits from 9:30 am to 6:30 pm, with the last entry at 5:30pm.

Guided tours of the estate are also available for €18/€9 (adult/youth and senior, including entry). Check the schedule for tour times as they vary each day.

Note : We didn’t actually end up visiting Quinta da Regaleira during our trip to Sintra. We headed back to Lisbon in the early afternoon to tackle a couple of things we wanted to do before we headed to Porto. But it was highly recommended by our tour guide for our walking tour in Lisbon ( We Hate Tourism Tours ). To be honest, we’re sad we missed it and have it on our list for our next trip to Portugal!

5:00 pm: Take the Train Back to Lisbon

Finally, finish your day trip to Sintra by heading back to the train station ( here ) and catching the train back to Libson. 

Return trains from Sintra to Lisbon’s Rossio station run roughly every thirty minutes up until midnight. The journey takes about 40 minutes to get back to Lisbon.

By leaving around 5:00 pm, you’ll have time to grab dinner and enjoy a relaxing evening back in Lisbon.

Planning a trip to Portugal?  

Here are our other Portugal travel guides to help you plan an incredible trip (even if you have to eat gluten free!).

If there’s no link below, it means we’re still working on it – long, in-depth guides take time! We’re working on it, though, we promise.

• 10 Days in Portugal: Planning the Perfect Portugal Itinerary
• 25 Incredible Things to Do in Lisbon: A Complete Guide
• 3 Days in Lisbon: Planning the Perfect Lisbon Itinerary
• One Day in Lisbon: The Best of Lisbon in 24 Hours
• Where to Stay in Lisbon: Our Guide to 4 Amazing Places to Stay
• Gluten Free Lisbon: A Complete Guide to Lisbon’s Best Gluten Free Restaurants
• The Best Coffee in Lisbon: 9 Amazing Lisbon Coffee Shops to Add to Your List
• 3 Days in Porto: Planning the Perfect Porto Itinerary
• One Day in Porto: How to See the Best of Porto in a Day
• Where to Stay in Porto, Portugal: The 3 Best Places to Stay

The Algarve:

• A Complete Guide to Planning an Algarve Road Trip (3-7 Days)
• Where to Stay in the Algarve: 5 Charming Towns to Use as a Home Base
• How to Hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail: Complete Trail Guide

What to Do with More Time in Sintra? 

To be honest, you’ve covered the main highlights in this one day in Sintra itinerary. But if you do have more time to play with, you could either spread the above sights out over a longer timeframe (which will be less exhausting) or add in these two additional spots.

Palácio Nacional de Sintra 

The Palácio Nacional de Sintra is another important palace located in the heart of Sintra’s historic town center. 

The location was once the site of a Moorish castle, similar to nearby Castelo dos Mouros. The original castle was destroyed and reconstructed by Christian Kings during the 15th and 16th centuries. Its current gothic exterior is most noticeable for the two large cone-shaped chimneys that extend from the palace’s kitchens.

Palácio Nacional de Sintra was a favorite with Portuguese nobility and was used continuously as a royal residence for almost 500 years. Today, it is the best preserved royal residence in all of Portugal. 

On a visit to the palace, you can explore its elegant and unique interior. Each room is designed in a different artistic style that’s representative of the King that lived there and is named accordingly. Some of the highlights include the Swan Room, the Coat of Arms Room, and the Magpie Room.

Inside the palace, you’ll also learn more about the history of Portugal and the development of the decorative azulejo tiles.

Tickets to Palácio Nacional de Sintra cost €10/€8.50 (adult/youth and senior). The palace is open daily from 9:30am to 6:30pm, with the last entry at 6:00pm. A visit will take around an hour.

The palace is located in the town’s historic center, just 10 minutes from the train station, so is easy to walk to. It’s best to visit after lunch or as the last stop on your Sintra day trip.

Palácio de Monserrate

Located a short distance from Sintra, deeper into the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, the Palácio de Monserrate is another amazing architectural wonder of Portugal. 

Built by an English merchant in 1790, the grand palace is one of the best examples of European eclecticism, with a mix of Indian, Moorish, and Gothic influences, topped with a dome inspired by the Duomo in Florence. 

The fairytale-esque villa is surrounded by one of the most extensive botanical gardens in Portugal, boasting beautiful exotic plants from all over the world. The entire estate has a magical atmosphere and is usually much quieter than most of Sintra’s other big attractions.

Tickets for Palácio de Monserrate cost €8/€6.50 (adult/youth and senior). The park is open daily from 9:30 am to 6:30 pm, with the last entry at 6:00 pm. A visit will take you around one to two hours.

The palace is not walkable from Sintra town center – unless you’re happy to walk over an hour down winding back roads. The best way to get there is to jump on the 435 bus or grab an uber or taxi. There is parking at the palace, but the one-way roads to get there from Sintra can be extremely confusing, so we wouldn’t recommend driving.

The Best Time to Visit Sintra

Sintra is a popular day trip destination from Lisbon all year round. Meaning that you’ll probably encounter crowds whenever you decide to go. But as with any popular tourist destination, some times are better to visit than others.

The peak summer months are the busiest time of year to visit Sintra. You can expect the town and attractions to be packed with other tourists and day-trippers. The ticket and bus lines will also be considerably longer. The weather can get particularly hot during these months too, making walking around the attractions all day a little uncomfortable.

The best time to visit Sintra is during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. During these periods, the crowds will be slightly smaller and you’ll get to experience the beautiful colors of Sintra’s amazing fauna blooming into life.

Winter in Sintra doesn’t get too unbearably cold. But it can certainly be overcast and rainy. If you’re visiting Sintra during the winter months, don’t forget to bring lots of layers and an umbrella.

If you can visit Sintra on a weekday rather than a weekend, you’ll also avoid some of the heavier crowds and lines.

Plan an Incredible European Adventure

Planning (or thinking about planning) a trip to Europe? We’ve got you covered! We’ve been to Europe many times, including a recent three month trip to Portugal , Paris , Italy , and Spain .

Here are our in-depth European travel guides to help you plan a trip full of learning, discovery, and unforgettable experiences.

LONDON : How to Plan your London Itinerary , Where to Stay in London , and the Best Coffee Shops in London

PARIS : A Perfect Paris Itinerary , Where to Stay in Paris , and the Best Coffee in Paris

ROME : A Complete Rome Itinerary , Where to Stay in Rome , and the Best Things to Do in Rome

AMSTERDAM : A Perfect 2 Day Amsterdam Itinerary and Exactly Where to Stay in Amsterdam

BARCELONA : A Complete Barcelona Itinerary and Where to Stay in Barcelona

MADRID : An Amazing 2 Day Madrid Itinerary and Where to Stay in Madrid

LISBON : A complete guide to 3 Days in Lisbon and Where to Stay in Lisbon

FLORENCE : The Best Things to Do in Florence , Where to Stay in Florence , and a Perfect 3 Day Florence Itinerary

SICILY : How to Plan an Amazing Sicily Road Trip and the Best Things to Do in Catania

SPAIN : A Complete 14 Day Spain Itinerary and a 2 Day Seville Itinerary

PORTUGAL : How to Plan an Amazing Portugal Itinerary and a guide to planning an Algarve Road Trip

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

Hi Matt and Alysha, It sure is super detailed! Wow!Thank you so much for the work you put in towards detailing every aspects of the trip and thinking of every kind of traveller. Its amazing! I normally never comment but I just could not refrain from thanking you both for your time and thoughtfulness. This is so helpful. We are 4 adults in our late 50s planning a trip to Portugal this month. Would it be possible for you to recommend any skip the line tours or private tours to the different palaces in Sintra and Quinta da Regaleira? Thanks again!

Hey there! Thanks for the kind words. If you want a tour that covers everything in Sintra with pickup from Lisbon (and some bonuses), go with We Hate Tourism Tours ( https://www.wehatetourismtours.com ). We did a walking tour in Lisbon with them, and love their approach to responsible tourism. They have a day trip to Sintra and Cascais.

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Home page - Sintra day trip - Lisbon to Sintra - Tourist bus - Pena Palace - 2 days in Sintra - Lisbon day trips

A day trip to Sintra; a suggested 1-day tour of Sintra in 2024

Sintra is a picturesque town that boasts extravagant palaces, ancient castles and stunning scenery.

Situated only 25km from Lisbon, Sintra is easily reached via a regular train service, making the town an ideal choice for a day trip.

The most popular day trip route takes in the Palácio da Pena, the Castelo dos Mouros (optional), the historic centre and the Quinta da Regaleira. All of these sights are connected by the 434 tourist bus route (€11.50), with highlights of the day being the Palácio da Pena and the mystical gardens of the Quinta da Regaleira.

This article details this highly recommended day trip to Sintra, helping you to get the most from your time here.

Warning: Sintra can get very crowded during the summer months, so it is advisable to start your day trip as early as possible. Related articles: Sights of Sintra – Lisbon day trips – How many days in Sintra?

Highlights for a day trip to Sintra

The Palácio da Pena – One of the world’s most stunning palace, with its elaborately decorated exterior, magnificent staterooms and forested gardens ( guide here ).

The Quinta da Regaleira – A 19th century neo-gothic mansion with fascinating gardens that conceals a cave system, hidden pathways and mystical symbolism ( guide here ).

Castelo dos Mouros – A Moorish castle that stands high above Sintra and offers wonderous views from its battlements ( guide here ).

An overview for a day trip to Sintra

Our suggested day trip to Sintra is: • Take the train from Lisbon to Sintra (50min) • Catch the 434 bus from the station up to the Palácio da Pena (20min) • Visit the Palácio da Pena's terraces (30min) and staterooms (40min) • Explore the Parque da Pena (optional, 1-2 hours) • Walk from Palácio da Pena to Castelo dos Mouros (400m) • Visit the Castelo dos Mouros (optional, 1 hour) • Ride the 434 bus to the historic centre of Sintra (15min) • Have lunch in the centre of Sintra • Explore the historic centre of Sintra (30min) • Visit the Quinta da Regaleira (85min) • Visit the Palácio Nacional de Sintra (optional, 45min) • Return train to Lisbon (50min)

Note: Entrance to the Palácio da Pena is via a time slot ticket, and it is advisable to purchase these before your day trip to secure the best time. These timed tickets can be purchased from GetYourGuide for €20 - link here .

The suggested itinerary above is a very long day, but it is definitely possible to visit the three main sights – the Palácio da Pena, Castelo dos Mouros and Quinta da Regaleira (or Palácio Nacional de Sintra) – in one day. If this seems too much, reduce the day trip to just two sights. The Palácio da Pena and Quinta da Regaleira are the recommended sights for a shorter-day trip.

The Palácio Nacional de Sintra is an enjoyable alternative to the Quinta da Regaleira if you are interested in Portuguese history

The Sintra day trip is suggested in this order as it follows the route of the 434 bus, which connects the train station to the top of the hill where the Palácio da Pena and Castelo dos Mouros are situated. The bus only stops in the historic centre of Sintra after the Palácio da Pena.

As the Palácio da Pena will be the highlight of your day trip, as well as being the most famous sight, it makes sense to visit it earlier in the day. Getting to the palace early (before 10am) will also help you to avoid some of the major queues and give you a chance to buy a time slot ticket, if you haven't pre-purchased one.

It is always best to plan to have lunch in the historic centre of Sintra, as there are limited food options near the Palácio da Pena and Castelo dos Mouros.

Alternatives for a day trip to Sintra are detailed later in this guide, which may be useful during the extremely busy peak season.

Below is an interactive map for the suggested day trip to Sintra. The yellow markers are the sights of the day trip, while the blue line and markers show the route of the 434 bus.

Sights of the day trip: 1) Palácio da Pena 2) Castelo dos Mouros 3) historic centre of Sintra 4) Quinta da Regaleira 5) Palácio Nacional de Sintra 6) train station The 434 bus route (blue): 7) Train station 8) Castelo dos Mouros bus stop 9) Palácio da Pena bus stop 10) Sintra Vila bus stop 7) Train station

Sintra has a pretty town centre

Costs of a day trip to Sintra

Sintra is a popular tourist destination and the elevated costs reflect this, so visiting everything can make for an expensive day out. The above day trip for one adult works out at about €74, based on current prices: • Return train fare €4.80 (2x€2.40) • 434 tourist bus €11.50 (unlimited use) • Palácio da Pena timed ticket €20 • Palácio da Pena grounds only €10 • Castelo dos Mouros €12 • Lunch in a restaurant €17- €25 • Quinta da Regaleira €12 • Palácio Nacional de Sintra €10 • Snacks, drinks and ice creams €5-€10 • Taxi from train station to Palácio da Pena €12

A day trip to Sintra can cost a lot less, especially if you're happy to walk and focus on exploring the historic centre, instead of the major sights. For a guide to the free sights of Sintra and a budget-friendly day trip please, read this guide .

The Castelo dos Mouros with its amazing views over the region

Should I join an organised tour?

Sintra is a destination where an organised tour can be useful. There are steep hills separating the main attractions and a large portion of the day can be wasted waiting for public transport.

Over the last six years, we have worked with GetYourGuide.com, and a selection of their best tours of Sintra includes: • 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)

Note: An organised tour is essential if you plan to visit both Sintra and Cascais in one day; this route by public transport leaves almost no time for sightseeing. Only consider combining Cascais and Sintra if you are really limited for time, as both towns deserve a day each.

The Câmara de Municipal Sintra (Sintra town hall)

An in-depth guide for your day trip to Sintra

The following section explains in-depth the 1-day tour of Sintra.

Lisbon to Sintra

The recommended means of travel to Sintra from Lisbon is by train, and there are two train services: • Rossio station (Lisbon) to Sintra • Oriente station (Lisbon) to Sintra

The majority of visitors to Sintra depart from Rossio station as it is close to the popular tourist areas of Baixa and Alfama. The Estação do Oriente station is better if you're travelling from the airport.

Both train routes have similar journey times (40min Rossio, 47min Oriente). A single fare costs €2.40/€1.20 (adult/child), and a return is twice the price at €4.80. There is a departure approximately every 20 minutes during daylight hours, with both services starting early in the day and continuing late into the night.

If you are visiting Sintra from Cascais or Estoril, the bus is the best way to travel. There are regular services from Cascais bus station and Estoril train station. Related articles: Lisbon to Sintra – Cascais to Sintra

The train to Sintra waiting in Rossio station

Sintra train station and the tourist confusion

Sintra train station is the final stop of the railway, but the historic centre is a further 1.5km to the west. When exiting the train station, it is advisable to know if you want to see the historic centre of Sintra first or want to head up the hill to visit the Palácio da Pena and Castelo dos Mouros.

If you want to take in the town centre first, it is best to walk from the train station. This is a scenic route that passes the decorative town hall - the Fonte Mourisca - and is lined with tourist stalls selling gifts.

If you'd prefer to see the Palácio da Pena earlier in the day (which is what we’d recommend), it is advisable to catch the 434-bus service from the train station. The Palácio da Pena cannot be realistically walked to from the train station, as it is a very demanding 50-minute uphill walk and would waste most of your day.

Insight: When exiting the station, it is not very obvious where to go for the town centre or the Palácio da Pena. Amid this confusion, tour guides will pounce in an attempt to convince visitors to join tuk-tuk tours, guided tours or other gimmicky tourist activities.

These tours are very expensive when compared to the 434-bus service. If you are considering a tour, it makes more sense to book a tour that picks you up from your accommodation instead of wasting time catching the train.

Sintra train station

The 434 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. This loop ticket is known as the ‘Pena Circuit Round Trip’ and costs €7.60.

The bus is expensive, but it is cheaper than a return taxi journey or tuk-tuk tour. Additionally, there can be very long waits for Uber/Bolts.

During the peak season there will be many departures per hour, but the sheer number of tourists mean the buses will be packed. The road up to the Palácio da Pena has many twists and turns, so it is always advisable to try and get a seat.

The route of the 434 bus means that to ride the bus from the town centre of Sintra up to the Palácio da Pena, you must go past (and stop) at the train station. It therefore makes sense to ride the bus from the train station to the Palácio da Pena at the start of the day. Related article: The 434 tourist bus

The 434 tourist bus waiting at Sintra train station

Palácio da Pena Sintra

The Palácio Nacional da Pena is regarded as one of the finest palaces in Europe and will be the highlight of your day trip to Sintra.

The colourful palace perches atop a craggy, rocky outcrop and was constructed around an abandoned monastery. The interior of the Palácio da Pena is equally fascinating, having been restored to how it appeared in 1910 when the monarchy was forced to flee Portugal due to revolution.

The colourful terraces of the Palácio da Pena

Due to its popularity, visits to the palace are via a timed ticket, which provides a 30-minute time window to enter the main building of the palace.

The most popular time slots will sell out during the peak season, so it is advisable to book tickets at least the day before. Tickets can be purchased from Getyourguide.com for €20 - click here .

There is a cheaper ticket (€10) that provides entrance to the gardens and forests that surround the Palácio da Pena, but not the actual palace. Surprisingly very little of the palace can be seen from the grounds, so the cheaper 'Park Only' ticket is not recommended if this is your first visit.

The entrance to the palace is guard by a statue of Triton

The kitchens of the Palácio da Pena

The Parque da Pena (Pena Park)

The Parque da Pena is the 200 hectares of forested parkland that surrounds the Palácio da Pena.

There is a surprisingly large amount to see within the Parque da Pena, and a half day could be easily spent exploring it.

On a hot summer's day, you can enjoy the cooling Feteira da Condessa fern gardens, Vale Dos Lagos (Valley of the Lakes) and the shaded forest footpaths of the Jardim Inglês.

The Parque da Pena also includes the highest point of the Serra da Sintra hills, the Cruz Alta (529m), which is a pleasant 20-minute walk from the palace. The best view of the Palácio da Pena is from the seldom-visited Alto do Cha viewpoint, and there is also the mock Alpine Chalet Da Condessa D'edla to visit. Related articles: The Parque da Pena

The Chalet da Condessa d'Edla

A 16th century cross marks the highest point of the Serra da Sintra

The Castelo dos Mouros

The Castelo dos Mouros is the optional sight for the day, and visiting it really depends on whether you want to include another 90 minutes of sightseeing before lunch.

The castle dates from the Moorish era of Portugal (8th to 11th century) and was constructed as both a stronghold and fortified viewpoint, with its impressive views northwards and over the Atlantic coastline. The castle was extensively reconstructed during the building of the Palácio da Pena to become the major feature of the Parque da Pena gardens.

The rebuilding embellished everything expected from a medieval castle, from the massive battlements traversing the boulder-strewn landscape to the ancient towers providing spectacular views. The Castelo dos Mouros is a magnificent castle, however it is the least impressive attraction of the day trip when compared to the other unique sights of Sintra. Related articles: Guide to the Castelo dos Mouros

Advice: The Castelo dos Mouros and the Palácio da Pena are only separated by a gentle 400m walk, so there is no need to catch the bus.

The impressive views from the battlements of the Castelo dos Mouros

The historic centre of Sintra

Once finished at the top of the Palácio da Pena hill, catch the 434 bus down to the historic centre of Sintra, which is served by the Sintra Vila bus stop. There is a scenic footpath, the Caminho de Santa Maria, which leads down from the Castelo dos Mouros to the town centre. However, for the day trip there is not normally enough time for this.

Sintra has a delightful centre, with its cobbled streets and traditionally painted buildings filled with family-run cafes and unique shops. Highlights of Sintra include the flamboyant town hall, the busy tourist shopping streets of Rua das Padarias and the pretty church of Igreja de Santa Maria. There is a wide selection of restaurants and cafes in the centre of Sintra, so this makes the ideal location for lunch.

While in one of Sintra's cafes, do try a Queijadas - the traditional sweet pastry of Sintra.

The Rua Padarias and the warren of cobbled streets at the heart of Sintra

For the later part of the day, you could either visit the Quinta da Regaleira or the Palácio Nacional de Sintra. The Quinta da Regaleira has fascinating gardens filled with caves and secret passages, while the gothic Palácio Nacional is rich in Portuguese history, being the most used royal palace in Portugal.

• Quinta da Regaleira

The Quinta da Regaleira is a 19th-century mansion that is famed for its mystical gardens. The gardens feature hidden cave passages, ornamental fortifications and the Poço Iniciático. This well, which is better described as an inverted tower, may have been used for initiation rituals (possibly by Freemasons) and was inspired by the Knights Templar.

The gardens are one of the finest attractions of Sintra, but it is best to visit early or late in the day to avoid the peak hour crowds. Related articles: The Quinta da Regaleira

The hidden cave network below the gardens of the Quinta da Regaleira

The Palacio Nacional de Sintra (Palácio da Vila)

The gothic exterior of the Palacio Nacional de Sintra is distinctive due to the two coned chimneys that extend from the palace's kitchens.

This medieval palace was a favourite with the Portuguese nobility, being in continuous use from the 15th century through to the 19th century, making it the most used royal residence of Portugal.

The extensive history is reflected in its varied interior, but many of the rooms follow a simplistic styling of cooling floor tiles, high vaults and beautifully painted ceilings. Highlights include the Magpie Room, the decorative Throne Room and the Swan Room. Useful links: National Palace tickets .

The Palacio Nacional de Sintra

The Sala dos Brasoes (Coat of Arms Room) in the Palacio Nacional

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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?
• A day trip to 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?
• Evora or Sintra?
• Palácio da Pena
• Palácio Nacional de Sintra
• Castelo dos Mouros
• Palácio de Monserrate
• Palácio de Queluz
• Convento dos Capuchos
• Parque da Pena
• Sintra Town Hall
• Sintra Tram
• Santuário da Peninha
• Cascais introduction
• Day trip to Cascais
• Cascais beach guide
• Cascais sights
• Cabo da Roca
• Lisbon to Cascais
• Evora guide
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• Evora day trip
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• Lisbon to Evora
• The Alentejo region
• Sesimbra intorduction
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• Cabo Espichel
• Obidos Introduction
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• Setubal introduction
• Serra da Arrabida
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North Portugal

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South Portugal

• Algarve introduction
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Sintra is the famous suburb of Lisbon which includes many parks and palaces. You will discover a beautiful natural landscape, the center of a small Portuguese city, royal palaces and charming parks, all surrounded by beautiful vegetation. The visit to Sintra is a must for all those who come to visit Lisbon. In this article you will find all the information you need to visit Sintra: how to get there by bus, what are the main visits to Sintra and some information about each of them regarding prices or timetables.

Guided tour of Sintra

Some of you will want to visit Sintra alone and this is not a problem if your visit is well prepared, so that you are sure not to miss anything. There are many things to see in Sintra and it would be a shame for your first one to miss half of them and their meaning.

That’s why for those who wish to organise a guided tour of Sintra, i.e. to be accompanied by an english speaking guide who knows what he is talking about, then you will find below a selection of the best rated and commented guided tours of the area. If you wish to discover others to make your choice, just click on the button just below. The comments are visible, the visits are all organized by english-speaking guides and can be cancelled up to 24 hours before the start of the visit, so that you don’t take any risks and don’t make any mistakes.

Some organizers will meet you somewhere in Lisbon, others will pick you up directly at the hotel, depending on the price of the tour. You have visits by bus, mini-van, on foot, organized for a day or half-day, it’s up to you to choose according to your wishes. Please note that you have some visits only of Sintra but in general, the organizers take you to discover the surroundings also as Cascais.

How to get to Sintra

First of all, please note that it is not necessarily necessary to find a hotel in Lisbon depending on your visit to Sintra. Some of the guided tours of Sintra pick you up in front of your hotel and if you do this tour on your own, then you can easily take transport from Lisbon to the train station and then to Sintra. Oriente or Entrecampos train stations will take you there but they are not in the centre of Lisbon. Unlike the Rossio station where the train will take you to Sintra in only 40 minutes. It’s not complicated and it’s not expensive, so you can take it several times and make as many return trips to Lisbon and Sintra as you like.

If your hotel is in Cascais, then you can take bus number 403 to Sintra via Cape Roca.

For your information, there is the Lisboa Card: a card that will give you access to many discounts on transport, tickets to monuments and even free entrance to some of Lisbon’s sights. Discover the main discounts and all you need to know about the card by visiting the Lisboa Card page, or click on the card below to order it directly online.

Click on the Lisboa Card to order it online

Lovers of chic historical hotels will be able to stay directly in Sintra, I recommend one of these two hotels:

• The Tivoli Palacio of Seteais : a five-star hotel with all imaginable and unimaginable amenities and a magnificent view of the Castle of Moors and the Palace of Pena. If this building had not been a hotel, it could have been a museum!
• The Palacio of Sintra Bed & Breakfast is also a very good choice, not far from the Quinta da Regaleira estate and much more affordable than a five-star palace.

Bus to Sintra from Lisbon

Different buses to go to the different visits of Sintra :

• Palais national de Sintra : Bus n° 434 et n° 435
• Palais Pena (Palais + Parc) : Bus n° 434
• Palais de Pena (Parc) : Bus n° 434
• Château des Marues : Bus n° 434
• Le manoir de la comtesse Elda : Bus n° 434
• Quinta da Rigaleira : Bus n° 435
• Palais de Montserrat : Bus n° 435
• Monastère des Capucins : Bus n° 435

Excursions to Sintra

Visit to the national palace of sintra.

The most accessible and best known of all the excursions in Sintra: the National Palace of Sintra. You can easily get there from the train station. The walk will not take more than 10-15 minutes. Buses 434 and 435 pass in front of the palace. The National Palace is located in the centre of Sintra and around it there are houses, restaurants, cafes and museums. There is no park nearby.

It is the only palace in Sintra that has kept its shape since the Middle Ages. It began to be built in the 12th century. During the first three centuries, the palace was rebuilt, rebuilt, decorated in a new way, and then left as it was in the middle of the 16th century. In the National Palace of Sintra, you will see rooms decorated in the Mudejar style, tiled with azulejos, furniture, that is to say, the Portuguese coloration is strongly present. The visit will last about an hour and a half.

It is possible to register for the visit with a guide directly on the spot but only in English at 2.30pm every day. In addition to the tickets, you will have to pay 5 € for the guided tour. You can also discover on this website a guided tour of Lisbon according to your wishes.

Visit to the Pena Palace in Sintra

The Pena Palace is one of the most beautiful pearls of Sintra and an unmissable site. If you have to visit only one, then this is it. Most tourists visit this palace perched in the hills of Sintra. It was built in the first half of the 19th century by the Portuguese king of German origin, Ferdinand II (Fernando II), in the style of historical romanticism.

The appearance of the palace is enchanting and attracts the attention of all those who have only seen it on a postcard or on the Internet. Pena Palace is surrounded by a huge park, also worthy of attention. The view from the top of the palace is breathtaking but be careful, the climb is rough. There are paying minibuses that will take you from the entrance of the park to the foot of the Pena Palace.

You can also book a tour with a guide on the spot but only in English at 2.30pm every day. In addition to the tickets, you will have to pay 5 € for the visit. The estate of the Countess of Elda is located in the park of Pena: it is a modest alpine chalet. For the Portuguese, this residence is important, as well as the memory of the love story of their king and a simple opera singer. If you still want to visit this house, you can plan to drop by on your way up to Pena Castle.

If you get to the bottom of Sintra, you can easily find a tuk tuk that will take you up to Pena Palace.

Visit of the Castle of the Moors in Sintra

The Moorish castle is located very close to the palace of Pena de Sintra , the distance between the two is only 200 meters, but the vegetation is lush and the journey will not be easy. The Castle of the Moors is a medieval fortress that has been extensively restored. The view is superb, you will remember it. There is no interior in the Moorish castle but there are archaeological areas. The Moorish castle is very close to the castle of St. George in Lisbon .

For a day trip to Sintra, I advise you to visit the National Palace, the Pena Palace and Park and the Moorish Castle. It’s already a lot and you will find it difficult to see more on one day. The palaces and the castle are located along a bus line number 434, which is very convenient if you visit Sintra by yourself.

Visit of the Quinta da Rigaleira to Sintra

Quinta da Regaleira was built by the Brazilian Portuguese millionaire, Carvalho Monteiro, at the beginning of the 20th century. The peculiarity of this vast and very interesting building is its mystery and symbolism. Until the 1960s, the estate was privately owned and has since passed into the public domain. At Quinta da Regaleira there is a mysterious initiation well or inverted tower that sinks deep into the ground. The 9 floors of the tower symbolize the 9 circles of hell of Dante’s Divine Comedy. And that’s not all, there are many different pavilions in the park, caves and underground passages. Everything was built for a particular reason and has a deep religious significance.

A walk through the park and the palace will take between 2 and 3 hours. From the train station the estate is only 2 km away and the terrain is quite flat. It is quite possible to do it on foot. But if you also want to visit the Palace of Montserrat, you must absolutely book a ticket for bus number 435 round trip.

Visit of the Montserrat Palace in Sintra

The Montserrat Palace is located on the other side of the Sintra Mountain and is not visible from the Quinta da Regaleira estate. It is practically impossible to reach it on foot, 4 km from the centre of Sintra by road.

The palace of Montserrat is famous for its British masters and for the fact that Byron himself sang it in his poem “Child’s Harold’s Pilgrimage”. When he visited Sintra in 1809, the palace of Pena and the Quinta da Regaleira estate did not yet coexist. The interior of the palace of Montserrat is characteristic of medieval, Indian and Moorish styles. The palace is surrounded by a magnificent park, more like a collection of plants collected from all over the world, than a botanical garden. The estate was built in several stages. Our current vision is that of the British industrialist Sir Francis Cook from 1856 to 1863.

Visit of the Queluz palace in Sintra

The Queluz Palace is an example of Portuguese Baroque, Rococo and Neoclassicism. Built in 1747, the palace later became the permanent residence of the royal family. The Palace of Queluz surrounds a beautiful park and differs from all the palace complexes and parks already mentioned by the fact that it was built in the same style as Versailles in Paris. Its visit will be interesting for those who want to get acquainted with the peculiarities of the Portuguese Baroque. Those who have already managed to see several Baroque palaces elsewhere may find it somewhat similar.

The Queluz Palace is located 14 km from the centre of Lisbon and 15 km from Sintra. There are two ways to get there: if you go to Sintra by train, you have to get off at Monte Abrão or Queluz-Belas station before going to Sintra. Count about 1 km between the stations and this palace of Sintra.

Or you can go to Queluz Palace by bus directly from Lisbon. Bus number 101 leaves from Tercena metro station, bus number 106 leaves from Falagueira-Carcavelos metro station. In one of the palace buildings there is a luxury hotel (the Pousada Palacio de Queluz ) with a reasonable price for the standard and services offered.

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Due to the complexity of this process, I have found only one serious english speaking service provider to assist you with the registration of your vehicle in Portugal. This is a law firm based near Lisbon that will take care of the registration application + the ISV exemption application to the customs . The price of this firm is 2000€ per vehicle and does not include the costs of the technical inspection, the registration and the registration fee.

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The form below will be forwarded to an insurance broker specialising in the Portuguese market who will offer you the best prices for life insurance in Portugal.

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Sintra - last minute decision - Lisbon Forum

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Morning everyone. A last minute decision to visit Sintra today. What’s the best site to book tickets just for the Pena Palace gardens? I think I can also just buy a bus ticket to take us to the Palace and then walk down? Many thanks in advance.

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11 Best Things to Do in Lisbon with Teenagers

T he Portuguese capital of Lisbon is a fabulous city for all ages. It is one of the safest cities worldwide, so it’s a great option for a family trip. Lisbon is culturally rich with many historic sites and museums. It might sound boring to teenagers, but some are really cool! There is always something going on in this lively and vibrant city. Be sure to check out any special events, festivals, or music performances that are scheduled during your visit. If you’re traveling to Lisbon with teenagers, there are plenty of places to explore! Check out some of our favorites.

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something we have recommended. Please check out our  disclosure policy  for more details. Thank you for your support!

Best Places to Visit in Lisbon with Teenagers

​ The best way to explore Lisbon is by foot. However, there are plenty of steep hills throughout the city, so it might take longer to walk from one place to the next.

We had good luck using Uber if we needed it, but there are also plenty of taxis and tuk tuk drivers to take you to your destination. We also used the  hop-on hop-off bus tour  for transportation one day because it has several routes through the city and saved our tired feet. No matter how you choose to explore Lisbon, we are sure the whole family will enjoy Portugal’s capital city.

1. The Oceanarium

The  Oceanarium  is one of the most visited places in Lisbon amongst families. It’s one of the largest indoor aquariums in Europe, and it’s located in Parque das Nações. The aquarium features a central tank that holds an incredible 5 million liters of saltwater! 

The aquarium is designed to represent the open ocean, and you can discover many unique species of marine life in the water. Keep an eye out for rays, sunfish, sharks, and fish from around the world. There are dedicated spots where otters and penguins play and do their shenanigans. 

If there are younger children in your family there are plenty of educational opportunities, and the Oceanário de Lisboa is a highlight for many visitors. 

2. Go surfing

If you or your kids prefer to be in the ocean, why not try surfing lessons? Lisbon is very close to The Atlantic Ocean, and you can find several surf schools along the coast. Do you know how to surf? You can also rent your gear here. 

Ericeira is a famous surf town, but Praia do Guincho is closer to Lisbon. Other popular surf spots are Praia da Adraga and Costa da Caparica. 

Lisbon’s surf season runs from September to May, but that means the waves are also higher. The surf in Lisbon can be challenging during this time, so it’s best for intermediate to advanced surfers. 

Did you know some of the highest waves surfed are in Nazaré Portugal? Between October and March, you can expect ginormous waves here, and it is a must-see if you like surfing.

In summer, the waves are smaller and perfect for learning how to surf. The ocean will also be slightly warmer!

The surf camps offer lessons and coaching for all levels of surfers. They also usually provide all the necessary equipment, including wetsuits and boards, and can arrange transportation to the best surf spots.

3. Take a day trip to Sintra

Sintra is a picturesque town located just outside of Lisbon, and you can easily reach it in 40 minutes by car. You can also use public transportation to reach Sintra from Lisbon by taking the metro from Rossio Train Station to Sintra at the end of the route. If you want someone else to do all of the transportation, consider  booking a local guide  to take you to Sintra.

Sintra was a popular destination for Portuguese royalty and aristocracy, and the place is famous for its many palaces and mansions. There are many historic landmarks, including the Moorish Castle, the Pena Palace, and the Quinta da Regaleira. In addition to the stunning architecture, there are fabulous gardens that you can visit. 

Sintra is located within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, which is also an excellent place for hiking. Along the coast of Sintra, you’ll discover some of the best beaches close to Lisbon. 

If you’re up for a coastal hike, Praia da Ursa is one of the area’s most beautiful beaches! However, Praia da Adraga and Praia Grande are a lot easier to reach.

4. Visit the LX Factory

In the Alcântara neighborhood of Lisbon, you can visit the LX Factory . This complex was once a textile manufacturing factory but has become a cultural and creative hub. It’s a popular spot for all ages due to the many restaurants, shops, street art, and design studios. 

Check out the sculpture Bumblebee by Bordalo II, visit the coolest bookstore  Ler Devagar  or discover the fabulous shops. There are often events such as concerts, DJ nights, and cultural festivals. So from early morning until night, there is always something to do here!

5. Check out the street art

Speaking of street art, Lisbon has plenty of it! It’s scattered throughout the city, and a  guided tour   will ensure you’ll get to see the most important displays. 

Bordalo II is one of Lisbon’s favorite artists, and he creates sculptures and murals from waste. Discover the artworks of Raposa, Big Raccoon, Monkey, Pelicans, and Iberian Lynx in the city. Vhills is another prominent artist with works all over Lisbon. Brazilian artists Os Gemeos, Italy’s BLU, and Spain’s SAM3 all left a mark on the city! 

Other well-known works are from Pichiavo at Rua de Santa Apolonia, the revolutionary mural by Shepard Fairey on Rua Natalia Correia, and chief Raoni Metuktire by Eduardo Kobra on Rua Alberto José Pessoa.

6. Take a ride on Tram 28

Tram 28 is an icon in Lisbon, and a ride on the historic cable car is a favorite of many! The tram has been in operation since 1914 and is one of the last remaining traditional streetcar routes in Lisbon. It was originally used to transport goods and people, but today it is a popular tourist attraction. 

Unfortunately, the queue can be long, but there is also an option to take an old historical tram tour instead. The tram ride goes through some of the most picturesque neighborhoods in Lisbon! If you have a public transport card, you pay a little less, but it’s public transport, so you pay per ride. There are, however, many interesting points where you can disembark. 

Examples are Miradouro da Graça, Sé Cathedral , Miradouro de Santa Luzia, and Igreja de São Vicente de Fora, which are all located in the Alfama district. 

The endpoint of the train is on the other side of town, close to Jardim da Estrela. While Tram 28 is a classic Lisbon experience, it’s not the only way to see the city’s historic neighborhoods. Walking tours, bike rentals, and other forms of transportation are also available, offering a more personalized and flexible way to explore the city’s many sights and sounds.

7. Discover Alfama

Alfama  is the oldest neighborhood in Lisbon. It’s also a charming place with many narrow streets and tourist highlights. On top of the hill, you can visit Castelo de São Jorge (St. George’s Castle). You can walk along the castle walls to enjoy some of the best views over Lisbon! The surrounding park is full of peacocks, and around the castle are many beautiful streets. 

Besides the castle, there are many other viewing platforms throughout the city. From Miradouro das Portas do Sol and Miradouro de Santa Luzia, you enjoy a stunning view over Alfama and the river Tagus. 

Discover the small streets full of azulejo tiles and enjoy a night of Fado. Alfama is the birthplace of Fado, a traditional Portuguese music style that is often described as melancholic and soulful. There are many Fado bars and restaurants where you can experience this unique cultural tradition. 

On Tuesdays and Saturdays, it’s fun to visit the flea markets at Feira da Ladra. And if you’re in Lisbon in June, Alfama is THE place to be. The Santo António is celebrated throughout Lisbon, but most celebrations are in this neighborhood. There are parades, street parties, and a lot of sardines!

8. Fun museums to visit in Lisbon with teenagers

Although it doesn’t rain often, having a backup plan for your family vacation is always a good idea. Lisbon has a lot of museums, especially in the Belém neighborhood! Some of the museums that teens might like in this area include –

• Berardo Collection Museum (modern art)
• The Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology (MAAT)
• The National Coach Museum (a collection of horse-drawn carriages)
• The Maritime Museum
• Calouste Gulbenkian Planetarium
• National Archaeological Museum.

A relatively new museum in Belém is  Quake – The Lisbon Earthquake Experience . This one is a bit more serious, in the sense that it’s about the destroying 1755 earthquake that hit Lisbon and many other places in Portugal.

You travel back in time to relive Lisbon’s most dramatic and transformative event and learn more about the history and science of earthquakes. It’s an immersive experience with simulators, video mapping, and interactive 4D technology. This is sure to be a favorite for teens!

Belém is also home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Jerónimos Monastery which dates to the 16th century, and Belem Tower (Torre de Belem) which was a departure point for many of Portugal’s famous early explorers, including Magellan and Vasco da Gama. While you’re exploring the area, be sure to stop at Pasteis de Belem, which has been baking the famous pasteis de nata (Portuguese custard tarts) since 1837.

If you need another place to explore on a rainy day in Lisbon, check out the  3D Fun Art Museum Lisboa . As the name implies, everything here is in 3D, which is great for pictures! You can take pictures upside down and in distorted rooms with illusions. Your imagination can roam freely here! It’s a fun activity for all families! 

9. Ride the Santa Justa Lift to the Bairro Alto

​ The Santa Justa Lift, an iconic elevator towering over the city, offers breathtaking panoramic views of central Lisbon and beyond. This is the easiest way to get between the Baixa district and the Bairro Alto. A ride is included in a 24-hour Lisbon transportation ticket.

Once you’ve arrived at the top, walk to the Carmo Convent and the convent ruins. This building was mostly destroyed in 1755 by the deadliest earthquake in Lisbon’s history. Teens will be fascinated by the remains of this building with its gigantic arches and columns. There’s also a small archaeology museum on-site that’s included in the ticket price.

10. Outdoor Activities on the Water

If your teens want more than surfing, you can visit Lisbon beaches such as Praia de Carcavelos, Praia do Tamariz, and Praia das Avencas. 

Cascais is also a lovely beach town to visit, and from Lisbon, you can travel here easily by train. You can also take the ferry across the Tagus River and see the Christ statue in Almada. There is a fabulous view over Lisbon and the Ponte 25 de Abril bridge from this point. 

From here, you can easily reach Costa da Caparica, with many more beaches. Along these coastal towns are opportunities to try kayaking, kitesurfing, and canoeing. You can even  book a sailing tour  on the Tagus to enjoy a relaxing view from the water. Most ships depart from Belém, and a  sunset tour  is especially magical.

11. Try all the food!

​ Portuguese cuisine does not disappoint and teens will love a  Lisbon food tour  that allows them to try bite-size dishes of local favorites. If you don’t have time for a tour, be sure to make a stop at Time Out Market in the Mercado da Ribeira. This food hall showcases some of the best chefs in the city, and teens will love the variety of dishes. Our teens loved it so much, we ate there for dinner two out of three nights!

Lisbon is the perfect spot for a vacation with teens. With beaches, a rich history, unique museums, and delicious food, it’s sure to be a trip they will never forget!

About the author : Meet Marga, a travel writer, and photographer who used to be a flight attendant and traveled extensively for many years. After settling in Portugal, she started the Discover Portugal blog with insightful and engaging travel stories.

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