Psstt… Let’s Travel around the world, a day at a time.
The second day of our adventure brings us to visit Sintra, the home of the Pink Palace (and Madonna).
Since my unforgettable trip to Sintra in Portugal, I’ve been captivated by its enchanting charm and breathtaking beauty. It’s a place where history, nature, and architecture meld together seamlessly, providing a truly one-of-a-kind experience. As I wandered through the narrow, winding streets, I felt like I had stepped back in time, with the colourful Pena Palace and the mystical Quinta da Regaleira beckoning me to explore their secrets. The lush gardens and forests surrounding me were a peaceful haven, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. You don’t often come across a destination that leaves you feeling so inspired and amazed. For that reason alone, I believe everyone should experience the magic of Sintra at least once in their lifetime.
What to see in Sintra?
Sintra, Portugal, is a treasure trove of historical and natural attractions catering to various interests. Some of the must-see sights in Sintra include:
Pena Palace (Palácio da Pena)
This colourful and whimsical palace is perched on a hilltop, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Its architectural style uniquely blends Romanticism, Gothic, and Moorish influences.
Quinta da Regaleira
A mysterious and fascinating estate featuring an extravagant palace, lush gardens, hidden tunnels, and the famous Initiation Well, which was used for ceremonial purposes by the Knights Templar.
Moorish Castle (Castelo dos Mouros)
This ancient fortress sits atop a mountain, providing panoramic views of the Sintra Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean. The castle dates back to the 8th century and offers a glimpse into Portugal’s rich history.
Sintra National Palace (Palácio Nacional de Sintra)
Known for its distinctive twin chimneys, this palace was the royal residence of Portuguese monarchs for centuries. It showcases a blend of Gothic, Moorish, and Manueline architectural styles.
Monserrate Palace (Palácio de Monserrate)
A beautiful 19th-century palace surrounded by lush gardens featuring Romantic, Gothic, and Moorish architectural elements.
Cabo da Roca (day 1)
The westernmost point of mainland Europe, this dramatic cliffside location offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and is a popular spot for watching the sunset.
Convent of the Capuchos (Convento dos Capuchos)
A 16th-century Franciscan monastery built into the natural rock formations of the Sintra Mountains, featuring simple architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.
Sintra Mountain (Serra de Sintra)
This forested mountain range offers scenic hiking trails, viewpoints, and opportunities to spot local wildlife.
Don’t forget to explore the historic centre of Sintra, with its charming streets, local shops, and traditional Portuguese restaurants. There’s plenty to see and do in this picturesque town, making it a must-visit destination for any traveller to Portugal.
Where to stay near Sintra?
Several accommodation options exist in and around Sintra, Portugal, ranging from hotels and guesthouses to holiday rentals and hostels. Here are some popular areas and accommodation suggestions for your stay:
Sintra Town Center
Staying in the heart of Sintra allows you to be within walking distance of many attractions, shops, and restaurants. Some recommended hotels and guesthouses in the town centre include:
- Tivoli Palácio de Seteais
- Lawrence’s Hotel
- Sintra Boutique Hotel
- Casa da Pendoa
Colares
This picturesque village is near the coast, offering a more relaxed atmosphere and easy access to nearby beaches. Some accommodation options in Colares include:
- Arribas Sintra Hotel
- Vila Vitorino
- Quinta dos Santos
- The Lodge – Wine & Business Hotel
Cascais
About a 30-minute drive from Sintra, Cascais is a famous coastal town with beautiful beaches and a lively atmosphere. Accommodations in Cascais range from luxury hotels to more budget-friendly options, such as:
- Grande Real Villa Italia Hotel & Spa
- Hotel Cascais Miragem
- Pestana Cascais Ocean & Conference Aparthotel
- Ljmonade Hostel
Estoril
Another coastal town, Estoril, is known for its glamorous history, beaches, and casino. Some places to stay in Estoril include:
- Palácio Estoril Hotel, Golf & Wellness
- Hotel Inglaterra Charme & Boutique
- Hotel Lido
- Blue Boutique Hostel & Suites
Holiday Rentals and Airbnb
If you prefer more privacy and the comforts of home, consider renting a villa, apartment, or cottage in the Sintra region. Browse platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com to find various options to suit your needs and budget.
No matter where you choose to stay, ensure that you book your accommodation well in advance, especially during the peak tourist season. Sintra is a popular destination, and accommodations can fill up quickly.
Top 3 Hotels near Sintra
Tivoli Palácio de Seteais
Address: Rua Barbosa do Bocage, 8, 2710-517 Sintra, Portugal.
This luxurious 5-star hotel is set in an 18th-century palace and offers stunning views of the Sintra Mountains and the Moorish Castle. The hotel features elegant rooms, a fine-dining restaurant, a bar, an outdoor pool, a spa, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Tivoli Palácio de Seteais is within walking distance of the historic centre of Sintra, making it an ideal base for exploring the town and its attractions.
Sintra Boutique Hotel
Address: Rua Visconde de Monserrate, 48, 2710-591 Sintra, Portugal.
Located in the heart of Sintra, this 4-star boutique hotel offers a perfect blend of modern comfort and traditional charm. The rooms are stylishly decorated and well-equipped; some have private balconies overlooking the town. The hotel also features an on-site restaurant, a bar, and a garden. Its central location allows easy access to Sintra’s main attractions, shops, and restaurants.
Lawrence’s Hotel
Address: Rua Consiglieri Pedroso, 38-40, 2710-550 Sintra, Portugal.
Lawrence’s Hotel is a charming and historic 5-star hotel in Sintra’s heart. Established in 1764, it is considered the oldest hotel on the Iberian Peninsula. The hotel offers elegantly decorated rooms with antique furnishings, a gourmet restaurant, and a cozy bar. Its prime location in the town centre makes it an excellent base for exploring Sintra’s attractions.
Each hotel offers a unique experience and excellent service, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay in Sintra. Be sure to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, as these hotels are popular and may fill up quickly.
Where to Eat in Sintra?
Sintra offers a variety of dining options, ranging from traditional Portuguese cuisine to international fare. Here are some recommended places to eat in Sintra:
Tascantiga Sintra
Address: Rua das Padarias 49, 2710-603 Sintra, Portugal.
A cozy and charming restaurant in the historic centre, Tascantiga Sintra serves delicious Portuguese tapas-style dishes (petiscos) and a good selection of wines. In addition, it’s a great place to try various local flavours.
Incomum by Luís Santos
Address: Rua Dr. Alfredo da Costa 22, 2710-524 Sintra, Portugal.
This contemporary restaurant offers a creative twist on traditional Portuguese cuisine, with beautifully presented dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. The restaurant also features a lovely outdoor terrace.
Apeadeiro
Address: Rua Almeida Garrett 22, 2710-567 Sintra, Portugal.
Known for its friendly service and delicious food, Apeadeiro serves various traditional Portuguese dishes, including seafood, grilled meats, and stews. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable.
Romaria de Baco
Address: Rua Gil Vicente 86, 2710-591 Sintra, Portugal.
This restaurant combines a warm atmosphere with a modern take on traditional Portuguese and Mediterranean cuisine. The menu features fresh seafood, meat dishes, vegetarian options, and an extensive wine list.
Casa Piriquita
Address: Rua das Padarias 1, 2710-603 Sintra, Portugal.
A visit to Sintra isn’t complete without trying the famous pastries at Casa Piriquita. Established in 1862, this iconic bakery is known for its delicious traversers and queijadas, which are traditional Portuguese sweets. It’s the perfect spot for an afternoon treat.
Nau Palatina
Address: Rua da Ferraria 4, 2710-631 Sintra, Portugal.
Set in a beautiful and historic building, Nau Palatina offers a delightful dining experience with a menu focused on Portuguese and Mediterranean cuisine. The atmosphere is elegant, and the service is attentive.
Saudade
Address: Rua Fonte da Vila 29, 2710-669 Sintra, Portugal.
For a casual meal or snack, Saudade is a charming café that serves sandwiches, salads, and a variety of pastries, along with great coffee. It’s an ideal spot for a quick bite or a relaxed lunch.
These are just a few of the many dining options available in Sintra. Be sure to explore the town’s narrow streets and discover other local gems, where you can enjoy delicious Portuguese cuisine and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
These are just a few of the many dining options available in Sintra. Be sure to explore the town’s narrow streets and discover other local gems, where you can enjoy delicious Portuguese cuisine and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
How to Get to Sintra?
Sintra is easily accessible from Lisbon, the capital of Portugal. Here are a few options to get to Sintra:
By Train
The most popular and convenient way to reach Sintra is by train. You can catch a train from Lisbon’s Rossio Station or Oriente Station, both of which have frequent services to Sintra. The journey takes approximately 40-50 minutes, and trains run every 15-30 minutes, depending on the time of day. Tickets can be purchased at the train station or via the Comboios de Portugal website or app.
By Car
If you prefer to drive, Sintra is approximately 30-45 minutes from Lisbon, depending on traffic. Take the IC19 highway from Lisbon to Sintra, and follow the signs. Parking in Sintra can be challenging, especially during peak tourist season. Consider using the designated park-and-ride facilities on the outskirts of town and taking a shuttle bus to the centre.
By Bus
While not as convenient as the train, you can also reach Sintra by bus. Scotturb operates bus services between Lisbon and Sintra, with the most frequent route being the 434 bus from Cascais. The journey takes about 1-1.5 hours, depending on traffic.
By Guided Tour
If you’d like a hassle-free experience, consider booking a guided tour from Lisbon to Sintra. Many tour operators offer half-day or full-day tours, which include transportation and visits to key attractions in Sintra. This option allows you to explore the area without worrying about transportation and navigation.
Once you’ve arrived in Sintra, the town is compact and walkable. However, some attractions, like Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle, are on steep hills. If you prefer not to walk, there are local bus services, taxis, and tuk-tuks available to help you get around.
Sintra in 4k
FAQ – Frequently asked questions about Sintra?
What is Sintra, Portugal, most famous for?
Sintra is famous for its picturesque landscape, fairy-tale palaces, historical castles, and lush gardens. Notable attractions include Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and the Moorish Castle. The entire town is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its cultural and natural beauty.
What is the best time of year to visit Sintra?
The best time to visit Sintra is spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller. However, summer (July and August) can be crowded and hot, while winter (December to February) may have cooler and wetter weather but offers fewer crowds and lower prices.
How much time should I spend in Sintra?
It is recommended to spend at least one full day in Sintra to explore its main attractions. However, if you want a more relaxed pace and the opportunity to visit all the sites in the area, consider spending two or even three days in Sintra.
Is it possible to visit Sintra on a day trip from Lisbon?
Yes, Sintra can easily be visited as a day trip from Lisbon. The most convenient way to get there is by train, which takes about 40-50 minutes. Trains frequently run throughout the day, making it simple to plan your visit. However, remember that Sintra has many attractions, and you may need to prioritize which sites you want to see during a day trip.
Are there any beaches near Sintra?
Several beautiful beaches are near Sintra, particularly along the coastline between Sintra and Cascais. Some famous beaches include Praia da Adraga, Praia Grande, Praia das Maçãs, and Praia do Guincho. The beaches are easily accessible by car, and bus services connect Sintra to the coastal areas.