Planning a day trip to Sintra from Lisbon? We’re here to help you discover all the best that one of Portugal’s most enchanting towns has to offer.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or just in search of breathtaking views, Sintra has something special just for you.
From magical palaces to lush gardens, we’ll show you the best ways to get there, what to see, and how to make the most of your visit. Get ready to explore the beauty of Sintra through our eyes!
History of Sintra
Sintra, a charming town near Lisbon, is like a page out of a fairy tale with its lush green hills and ancient castles. It has always been a favorite spot for people to live, dating back to when the Romans and Moors ruled the land. The Moors built the impressive Moorish Castle that overlooks the town, protecting it for centuries.
As time went on, Sintra became a popular getaway for Portuguese kings and nobles who built beautiful palaces and gardens here, enjoying the cooler climate away from the city. Its unique mix of natural beauty and historical buildings made it so special that it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Getting to Sintra from Lisbon
The most budget-friendly and convenient way to travel to Sintra is by train. Trains depart from Rossio train station in downtown Lisbon approximately every half hour, and the journey takes about 45 minutes. We recommend catching an early train, around 9:00 AM, to maximize your time exploring Sintra’s wonders. While the attractions open at 10 AM, arriving early gives you a head start.
First Stop: Quinta da Regaleira
Our first recommended stop is Quinta da Regaleira, located just a 30-minute walk from Sintra train station. This estate is a masterpiece of romantic architecture, designed by the Italian architect Luigi Manini in the late 19th century. The estate includes a palace, a chapel, and a luxurious park adorned with the famous Initiatic Well, grottos, and towers. We suggest starting here to enjoy the serene ambiance with fewer crowds.
Second Stop: The Moorish Castle
Next, make your way back to the train station and hop on the 434 bus to the Moorish Castle, perched on a high rocky peak above Sintra. The castle, dating back to the 10th century, played a crucial role during the Moorish occupation of Portugal. Exploring the ancient walls offers panoramic views of Sintra and the Atlantic Ocean. The bus ticket allows for unlimited hop-on-hop-off access, making it easy to navigate between sites. Don’t forget to get your ticket in advance!
Final Highlight: Pena Palace
A short 15-minute walk from the Moorish Castle brings you to Pena Palace, Sintra’s most iconic sight. The palace is set in a sprawling park filled with exotic trees, vibrant flowers, and stunning viewpoints. Inside, the palace is just as impressive, showcasing a rich blend of colors and architectural styles. It’s advisable to book your tickets in advance to avoid long queues.
Pena Palace is one of the most famous spots in Sintra. It started as a simple chapel on top of a hill and grew into a grand palace in the 19th century. King Ferdinand II turned it into a summer house for the royal family. He wanted it to have bits of Gothic, Egyptian, Moorish, and Renaissance styles, making it a stunning example of Romantic architecture.
The palace is painted in bright yellows and reds, standing out against the green forest around it. Inside, it’s just as beautiful, filled with ornate rooms that tell stories of royal life long ago. Today, it’s open for everyone to visit and explore its history and beauty.
Enjoying Sintra Town
After a day of exploring, unwind in the charming town of Sintra. The town center offers a variety of quaint restaurants and bars, perfect for a relaxing dinner or a drink. Trains back to Lisbon run until late, so there’s no rush. Catching a train around 9 PM should work perfectly, giving you ample time to soak in the local atmosphere.
Guided Tour and Transportation to Sintra, Pena, Regaleira, Cabo da Roca & Cascais
If you’re not planning to rent a car or don’t want the hassle of public transportation, the best solution is to book a spot on an organized tour. The best one I found – and the one I went on – is this one right here!
It’s an all-day affair – lasting about 10 hours – and includes bus transportation, a half-hour guided tour of Sintra, 1.5 hours at Quinta da Regaleira, 1.5 hours of free time in Sintra, 1.5 hours at Pena Palace, a half-hour guided tour of Cabo da Roca, and a trip to Guincho Beach, Cascais, and Estoril.
What’s great is that you can choose whether you want just transportation or to include the guided tours, so prices range from €44 to €99.
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