Overview
Sintra's hills, west of Lisbon, were a royal summer retreat for centuries. In the 19th century they became a showcase of Romantic architecture, with palaces, villas and gardens set among woods and boulders.
The cultural landscape of Sintra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its sights are spread out and some are steep to reach, so planning helps.
Best time to visit
Spring and autumn are ideal; summer is busy. Sintra can be misty and cooler than Lisbon, so bring a layer. Arrive early to avoid queues.
Highlights
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1
Pena Palace
A brightly coloured hilltop palace and park.
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2
Moorish Castle
Walls of a medieval castle along the ridge.
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3
Sintra National Palace
The town-centre palace with its two conical chimneys.
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4
Quinta da Regaleira
A villa and garden with an initiation well and grottoes.
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5
Monserrate
A palace with exotic gardens, quieter than the main sights.
Getting there
Trains from Lisbon Rossio station to Sintra take about 40 minutes. Local buses, tuk-tuks and walking trails link the town with the hilltop palaces.
Practical tips
- Opening & tickets
- Opening times, ticket rules and transport timetables change, so check official information before you go.
- Time needed
- A full day; two days for more than three sights.
Official information: Parques de Sintra (official website). Check opening hours, prices and entry rules there before you go.
Map
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