Sintra Travel Guide: 6 Ultimate Attractions and Things to Know

Just a short train ride from Lisbon, the enchanting town of Sintra feels like stepping into a storybook. Nestled in the foothills of the Sintra Mountains, this UNESCO World Heritage site is packed with colorful palaces, ancient castles, and lush gardens, making it the perfect day trip for anyone visiting Portugal’s capital. Here’s a guide to the top things to do in Sintra, the best way to get there from Lisbon and advices on how to get around between the different activities.

1. How to Get to Sintra from Lisbon
2. Getting Around Between the Activities
3. Pena Palace (Palácio da Pena)
4. Moorish Castle (Castelo dos Mouros)
5. Quinta da Regaleira & the Initiation Well
6. Monserrate Palace (Palácio de Monserrate)
7. Sintra National Palace (Palácio Nacional de Sintra)
8. Wander the Historic Center of Sintra

1

How to Get to Sintra from Lisbon

The easiest and most popular way to reach Sintra from Lisbon is by train. Trains run regularly from Lisbon’s Rossio Station, with the journey taking about 40 minutes. They depart every 30 minutes, and a round-trip ticket costs around 5€. No need to book in advance, as tickets are easily available at the station.

2

Getting Around Between the Activities

Once you arrive in Sintra, most attractions are relatively easy to reach, though the town is quite hilly and the main sights are spread out. Planning your transportation ahead of time will save you valuable time during your visit. Walking is an option, but it’s only practical for certain activities that are close to each other. Your choice of transportation will depend on how much you plan to see in one day and which specific attractions you want to visit. While there are several transport options, these are the best, cheapest, and easiest ways to get around.

Traveling Around by Buses

There are two popular lines in Sintra, the 434 and 435 lines. They both offer different loops that stop to the famous and tourist appreciated activities.

• Bus 434 Route: 

1. Sintra Train Station
2. Biester Palace
3. Moorish Castle
4. Pena Palace
5. National Palace & Center

• Bus 435 Route:

1. Sintra Train Station
2. National Palace & Center
3. Quinta da Regaleira
4. Seteais Palace 
5. Monserrate Palace

A single ride ticket on each of the buses cost around 3.90 EU, but considering you will likely take more than one, you should think about the 24-hour pass. It costs 12.50 EU and offers unlimited rides on both lines. This is the price per person, which makes it the best option for solo travelers but not necessarily for groups, where sharing the prices of Uber can end up the same or even cheaper.

Traveling Around by Uber

Using Uber is a convenient and efficient way to get around Sintra, especially if you want to avoid the sometimes crowded and slower public transportation options. Uber is widely available in Sintra, and it’s a great choice for traveling between the main attractions, which are often spread out across the hilly terrain.

The average Uber ride from Sintra Train Station to Pena Palace typically costs between €5 to €8, depending on factors such as time of day, demand, and traffic conditions. The ride takes about 10 to 15 minutes. 

• The Only Inconvenience: Although I didn’t experience this issue personally during my visit, I’ve heard that using Uber in Sintra for trips to Pena Palace can sometimes be tricky. The steep, narrow, one-way roads leading to the palace may cause some Uber drivers to hesitate when it comes to pick-ups.

That said, we had no trouble using Uber to get to Pena Palace. However, we didn’t rely on it for the return trip as we walked to our next activity. I thought it would be helpful to mention this potential issue, just in case it affects other travelers.

Walking Between the Pena Palace, Moorish Castle & Quinta da Regaleira

Walking between all the attractions would take so much time that you’d only be able to see a few during a single day. However, if you plan to visit Pena Palace, walking to the Moorish Castle takes about 17 minutes, and from there, it’s around a 30-minute walk to Quinta da Regaleira. Alternatively, you could skip the Moorish Castle and walk directly to Quinta da Regaleira, which takes about 36 minutes.

Combining Uber and walking, as I did during my trip to Sintra, is a great option if these are the attractions you plan to visit. It offers flexibility while saving time, energy and a little money.

3

Pena Palace (Palácio da Pena) & Park

Pena Palace is one of the most iconic landmarks in Portugal and a must-visit when in Sintra. Its vibrant colors, unique architecture, and breathtaking hilltop location make it a favorite among travelers. Visitors are drawn to Pena Palace for its fairy-tale appearance, blending romantic, gothic, Moorish, and Renaissance styles.

History of Pena Palace

Pena Palace was originally a 16th-century monastery built on the site of a medieval chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Pena. After an earthquake damaged the monastery in 1755, King Ferdinand II acquired the site in the 19th century and transformed it into the dazzling romantic palace we see today. Ferdinand’s vision was to create a summer residence for Portuguese royalty, blending various architectural styles into one whimsical, eclectic masterpiece. The palace became a symbol of Portugal’s romanticism and remains a cultural and historical treasure. It has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1995.

Ticket Prices

• Park and Palace Admission: €14 (adults), €12.50 (seniors or students), and €12.50 (children 6-17). This ticket grants full access to the palace’s interior and the surrounding park.
• Park-Only Admission: €7.50 (adults), €6.50 (seniors or students), and €6.50 (children 6-17). This ticket allows you to explore the extensive grounds and gardens without entering the palace itself.

During peak season, Pena Palace can get extremely busy, and tickets often sell out quickly. Booking your tickets online in advance is highly recommended to ensure you reserve your entrance for a specific time slot. This not only guarantees your entry but also helps you avoid long lines at the ticket counter, saving valuable time during your visit. Not doing so could sadly prevent you for doing other activities the same day.

Accessing Pena Palace

Once you arrive at the base of the hill where Pena Palace is located (this is as far as any transportation will go), you’ll need to navigate a steep incline to reach the palace. The entrance for the park and palace is at the bottom of the hill, but walking up to the palace can be quite strenuous.

For those who prefer not to walk (probably everyone), shuttle buses are available to transport visitors from the park entrance up to the palace for a small fee of €3 (one way). It’s highly recommended to take the shuttle, especially if you’re short on time or energy, as the walk up can take around 15 to 20 minutes on a steep slope. The shuttle drops you off right near the palace entrance, making it a more comfortable option.

Duration of the Activity

Visiting Pena Palace and its park can take between 2 to 3 hours, depending on how much you want to explore. Here’s a breakdown of the time you might spend:

• Palace interior: 1 to 1.5 hours to fully appreciate the ornate rooms, terraces, and historical exhibits.
• Exploring the park: You could see beautiful things in a quick 30 minutes but to fully explore the park, it could take 1 to 2 hours, depending on how much of the sprawling grounds you want to see.

4

Moorish Castle (Castelo dos Mouros)

Dating back to the 8th century, this medieval fortress invites visitors to walk along its ancient stone walls, explore its towers, and take in panoramic views that stretch all the way to the Atlantic Ocean. As you stroll along the walls, you’ll be treated to sweeping vistas of Sintra, Pena Palace, the Atlantic Ocean, and even Lisbon on a clear day. The combination of rugged stone ruins, lush greenery, and panoramic scenery makes the Moorish Castle a favorite for photographers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

History of the Moorish Castle

The Moorish Castle was originally constructed in the 8th century by the Moors, who ruled much of the Iberian Peninsula during that time. The castle served as a strategic defensive structure, protecting the region from invaders and overseeing trade routes between Lisbon and Sintra. It was later conquered by Christian forces during the Reconquista in the 12th century. Over time, the castle lost its military significance and fell into disrepair. However, it was restored in the 19th century under the direction of King Ferdinand II, who sought to preserve the castle as part of the romantic landscape of Sintra. Today, it stands as a reminder of Portugal’s Moorish and medieval history.

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5

Quinta da Regaleira & the Initiation Well

This romantic estate, surrounded by lush gardens and mysterious underground tunnels, offers visitors a unique experience that blends history, architecture, and symbolism. It is famous for its Initiation Well, a spiraling staircase descending deep into the ground, which is believed to have been used for secretive initiation rites. With a labyrinth of hidden tunnels, towers, grottos, and fountains scattered throughout the gardens, exploring Quinta da Regaleira feels like a treasure hunt.

History of Quinta da Regaleira

The history of Quinta da Regaleira dates back to 1697, but it gained its present form in the early 1900s when Carvalho Monteiro purchased the estate and transformed it into a fantastical playground filled with symbols from various spiritual traditions. Carvalho Monteiro, a collector and intellectual, designed the estate to reflect his interests in alchemy, Masonry, and the occult. He worked with architect Luigi Manini to create a place full of hidden meanings, aimed at promoting reflection on life, death, and the divine. In 1997, the estate was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and today it serves as a popular tourist destination that captivates visitors with its enchanting atmosphere.

Ticket Prices

• Adults: €10
• Seniors (65+) and Students: €5
• Children under 6: Free

Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online in advance. Purchasing online allows you to skip potential lines during busy seasons.

Exploring The Initiation Well

The Initiation Well is the most iconic feature of Quinta da Regaleira. This deep, spiral well descends 27 meters into the ground and features a staircase that winds around the walls. It’s often said that the well symbolizes a journey into the depths of the earth or the soul, offering a spiritual experience to those who descend its stairs. The well leads into a network of underground tunnels, adding a sense of adventure to your exploration.

Duration of the Visit

To fully explore Quinta da Regaleira, set aside at least 2 to 3 hours. The estate is large, and you’ll want plenty of time to explore the gardens, discover hidden tunnels, and enjoy the views from the palace and towers. 

Tip for Visiting: Bring a map

While maps are available at the entrance, it’s easy to get lost in the gardens’ winding paths, so keep one handy to make sure you don’t miss any important features.

6

Monserrate Palace (Palácio de Monserrate)

Monserrate Palace is one of the hidden gems of Sintra, often overshadowed by Pena Palace, but it’s a must-visit for anyone interested in romantic architecture and stunning botanical gardens. The palace’s architecture is unique, featuring intricate stone carvings and vibrant interiors that contrast beautifully with the surrounding greenery. The botanical gardens are world-renowned, housing exotic plant species from all over the globe, making them perfect for leisurely strolls.

History of the Monserrate Palace

Monserrate Palace has roots dating back to the 16th century when it housed a chapel. In the late 18th century, an English merchant, Gerard de Visme, built a Neo-Gothic mansion on the site. However, the palace as we know it today was created in 1856 when Sir Francis Cook, a wealthy British textile merchant, bought the property and transformed it into a Moorish, Gothic, and Indian styled palace. He also developed its renowned botanical gardens, importing exotic plants from around the world. After falling into neglect in the 20th century, the palace was restored in the 1990s and now stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing the opulence of the Romantic period.

Ticket Prices

• Adults: €8
• Seniors (65+) and Students: €6.50
• Children (6-17): €6.50
• Children under 6: Free

Duration of the Visit

You should set aside about 1.5 to 2 hours to explore both the palace and the gardens, depending on your pace.

7

Sintra National Palace (Palácio Nacional de Sintra)

Located right in the heart of Sintra town, the Sintra National Palace is easily recognizable by its two large conical chimneys. This palace was the residence of Portuguese royalty for centuries and features a mix of Moorish, Gothic, and Manueline styles. Inside, you’ll find beautifully decorated rooms, including the Swan Room and the Magpie Room, with intricate tile work and stunning ceilings.

Tip: The palace is one of the more accessible attractions in Sintra, so it’s a great option if you’re short on time and want something that’s easy to explore.

8

Wander the Historic Center of Sintra

Before or after visiting the main attractions, take some time to wander through the historic center of Sintra. The charming streets are lined with cafes, shops, and local bakeries offering travesseiros and queijadas, two local pastries you should try. The town itself is full of history and provides a picturesque setting for a leisurely stroll.

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