The palaces and castles of Sintra are magical. Once the playground for the rich and royal, the remnants left for us to discover make this a fun and exciting town to explore.
Sintra is a 40-minute drive from the hustle and bustle of Lisbon, Portugal’s capital city, yet entering Sintra was like turning a page in a childhood fantasy book and stepping into an enchanted village.
Prominently visible, we highlighted six palaces and castles of Sintra, each an unexpected delight.
The cultural landscape of Sintra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as it is the first centre of European Romantic architecture. It is home to 10 national monuments, ancient ruins, hours of hiking trails, beaches, and impressive architecture. There is no shortage of things to do in Sintra.
We had only a day in Sintra. Our highlight, Palácio Nacional da Pena (National Palace of Pena), is not the only place to visit, but clearly the most popular. One glance at the striking mix of colourful terraces, ornamental battlements, and mythological statues and this castle will pull you in like a magnet.
Palaces and Castles of Sintra
- Pena Palace (Palácio Nacional da Pena)
- National Palace of Sintra (Palácio Nacional)
- Moorish Castle (Castelon dos Mouros)
- Quinta da Regaleira
- Monserrate Palace and Park (Parque e Palácio de Monserrate)
- Queluz National Palace (Palácio Nacional de Queluz)
Pena Palace (Palácio Nacional da Pena)
Palácio Nacional da Pena exemplifies the the19th-century Romanticism style of architecture. It is the quintessential fairytale palace, brightly painted to complete the effect.
A must-see for any visitor to Portugal, we loved it despite the crowds.
Originally a monastery, it was destroyed by an earthquake in the mid-1700s.
Almost 100 years later, King Ferdinand II chose it as his summer playground, a residence for the Portuguese royalty in a town they were already familiar with.
It is Ferdinand that brought the whimsical quality to Pena.
Aside from the element of fantasy, it’s the attention to detail that really captivated us. Two of my favourites are the mythological Triton symbolising the story of the creation of the world holding up one of Pena’s windows or the twisted columns of this neo-Manueline entrance inside the palace.
Pena gardens
Now the downside. Pena is the most popular of the palaces and castles of Sintra, and with that comes crowds, especially in summer. As a result, there are long queues to buy tickets and get in. The best option is to get tickets online in advance. You can reserve your Pena tickets here.
Similarly, parking is difficult at the palace. There is a low-cost shuttle bus that runs from the entrance of Pena Park to the palace and back down. Otherwise, it’s a 20-minute easy but uphill walk.
We opted to walk up the hill to reach this masterpiece standing out amongst the palaces and castles of Sintra as a favourite of visitors.
Through the 200 hectares of lush green forested park, we got occasional glimpses of the colourful palace. Bright and cheerful, it feels welcoming and inviting.
Note that tickets to Pena have timed entry. Reserve tickets for Pena Palace here.
Tickets to the other castles on this page can be reserved here.
National Palace of Sintra (Palácio Nacional)
The Palacio National de Sintra (National Palace) is in the centre of the historic district.
You can’t miss it along the cobblestone streets that also lead to shops, restaurants, and other tourist destinations, intermixed with old homes and businesses.
It is one of two Moorish palaces / castles of Sintra, the other being the ruins of the Moorish Castle (see below). In addition, the National Palace has Gothic, Mudéjar, and Manueline elements.
Originally built in the 10th or 11th century on this spot, it is Portugal’s oldest palace. Although the current construction has none of the original architecture.
While neither the most exciting nor the most elaborate of the Sintra Palaces, it is considered to be the best preserved medieval royal residence in Portugal.
We enjoyed a self-guided tour, being impressed by the Swan room (Great Hall), and overwhelmed by the giant kitchen.
The two massive conical chimneys standing tall over the royal kitchen are the most noted characteristic of the Palácio Nacional.
Moorish Castle (Castelo dos Mouros)
Unlike the first two castles on our list, there are only ruins remaining at the medieval Castelo dos Mouros.
That, and impressive, seemingly endless views over the town and of Pena Palace from the top of the castle wall. In fact, the first image of the Moorish Castle here was shot from Pena.
Quinta da Regaleira
Explore the palace, climb up the tower, wander the gardens, and ponder the Initiation Well of this majestic and mysterious house built in the early 1900s by Viscondessa da Regaleira.
Keep your eyes open for hidden symbols related to alchemy, Masonry, the Knights Templar, and the Rosicrucians.
Eerie and a bit mysterious, the most famous site at Quinta da Regaleira is the Initiation Well.
Circling 9 floors below ground and representing Dante’s 9 circles of hell, there is a secret tunnel at the bottom. Although, it’s not secret anymore as you will need to pass through it to get out.
What it was used for remains a mystery. What we know is that Instagram made it rather famous in recent years. Note that the stairs are narrow, slippery, dark, uneven, and one-way only. Therefore, be committed to finishing if you start.
Monserrate palace and park
With limited time, we had to choose, and unfortunately, we didn’t get to the beautiful Monserrate palace and park.
This palace of Sintra seamlessly blends Gothic, Indian and Moorish styles into a masterpiece that we have been told is equally as stunning on the inside as it is on its exterior.
Initially built by Sir Francis Cook, it was never occupied by royalty but was rather Cook’s summer home. Monserrate’s extensive gardens are also worth exploring.
Queluz National Palace
The home of three generations of the Portuguese Royal Family, Queluz is another of the palaces of Sintra with a sordid past. For it was here that “mad queen Dom Maria” was hidden away.
Unlike the older palaces, Queluz represents Baroque, Rococo and Neoclassicism styles.
Lovely manicured gardens and an impressive fountain complete the visit.
We did not stop here.
Getting to Sintra
- It’s easy to get here from Lisbon, and it makes for a great day trip.
- Primary transportation options are the train to Sintra, the public bus, a rental car, or a private guide.
Tips for seeing the palaces of Sintra
- Seeing all six castles in one day is nearly impossible. If you were to attempt it, be sure to have advanced tickets, a packed lunch, and excellent walking shoes. We enjoyed three and were exhausted by the end.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you will be doing more walking than you anticipate (at least we did).
- Bring a sun hat and sun protection. Despite all of the manicured gardens, there is somehow a lack of shade and plenty of sun if you hit the right days.
- Consider spending the night in one of the many local hotels in Sintra.
- The old town area is crowded with limited parking. While we had a car, we didn’t use it. We parked once, then either walked or took a bus.
- The Hop-on Hop-off Sintra bus is an ideal option. Its seven stops include: Estação de Caminhos de Ferro, Palácio Nacional de Sintra, Portão dos Lagos, Castelo dos Mouros, Palácio Nacional da Pena, Igreja de S. Pedro de Penaferrim, and Volta do Duche. Reserve your Hop-on Hop-off Bus tickets here.
Want more fairytale castles? Don’t miss: 13 Fairytale Castles in Europe: Exploring Enchanting Realms
Neighbouring regions – our itinerary
We think Sintra is one of the best seaside towns in Europe. We visited Sintra amongst a handful of cities in Portugal as we drove up the coast. Our journey started as we drove south from our Costa Brava home exchange house through the centre of Spain, then headed west to Seville before entering Portugal, where our first stop was Evora.
From there, we bypassed Lisbon and headed straight to Sintra before travelling north first to Obidos and then to Alcobaca.
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Which of the palaces and castles of Sintra is your favourite?
Photo Credits:
All photos on this page are either shot by our team and watermarked as such or stock images from Depositphotos.
Sarah Carter
Despite having been to Portugal many times I’ve never quite made it to Sintra, this is inspiring me to pack up and go!
Julie Kemp Pick
Portugal looks lovely, and your photos have really cheered me up after looking out at our dreary, rainy weather. You and your family have had a lifetime of fabulous travels. Thanks for reposting this fun adventure, Rhonda!
Nisha
Never heard of Sintra. After seeing your photos and reading your article, I have made a mental note of it, It is the unplanned destinations, we travellers love don’t we?
Veronika Tomanova
Sintra seems to a real gem of Portugal! I love historical cities with interesting architecture (and especially the cobblestone streets!), so I really should visit Sintra as well.
Trisha Velarmino
Sintra is indeed magical with all the photos and experiences you acquired! Keep sharing the magic!! Xx
Elisa
It is true that Sintra and its architecture has great photo opportunities but I also found it too much touristy. Did you taste the pasteis de queijo ? (cakes made of cheese) They are typical of Sintra
Rhonda Albom
We only had a short less than one day visit in Sintra, and I can’t remember anything we ate other than ice cream.
mark wyld
Amazing destination, we have been to Sintra twice and will certainly go again when we visit Portugal next time. There is no other place in the world like Sintra for castles and palaces in the one place
Photo(Geo)grapher
Wow ! I would love to visit here. It’s really beautiful. Great photos!
Laura (48 No Interstate)
I know next to nothing about Portugal, but this town looks like a magical place to visit!
Mark
Hi Rhonda,
Thanks for this post and the wonderful photos! My wife and I have been dreaming of visiting castles and going to Europe for quite sometime now. Portugal’s been on the list after we hosted a couple from Porto and we have this idea that there’s going to be some incredible food out there. The travel tips are much appreciate considering we’ll likely be out there during the summertime.
Cheers,
Mark
Rob+Ann
I’m a little surprised the Portuguese left to discover new places. I mean, we’re all dying to go TO Portugal and they wanted to leave? Granted, from a historical perspective, things are a little different now. 😉 Love your photos – very enticing!
Rhonda Albom
I live in New Zealand, I am sure people wonder why I want to leave, even if it’s just a few months at a time.
CHLOE LIN
Wow Sintra is really beautiful, not just the architecture, but also the nature and scenery outside of the architecture. I’m totally inspired to be there now!
Kat
Wow, this is really nice! I’m looking forward to my trip to Portugal in September, and the Palaces of Sintra is definitely on my must-visit list while staying in Lisbon. Your photos are convincing me that I made the right decision to add the Palaces to the list 🙂
Jim ~ Reflections Enroute
Sintra was one of our favorite places in Portugal. You’re photography captures it beautifully, Rhonda! #wkendtravelinspiration
Kenn
Sintra palace is definitely Portugal’s best kept secret and I still remember my visit like it was yesterday. Did you visit Cabo da Roca? It’s the westernmost point of the Europe continent, and the view is great there! – you could checkout.
Rosemary
I can’t wait to visit Portugal, and now you have introduced me to a new region – Sintra. Thank you for the wonderful introduction. Your pics are amazing and there is so much natural beauty. Absolutely adding Sintra to my list of places to check out when we finally get to Portugal. Thanks for sharing.
Raksha nagaraj
First of all I would like to start off with u saying you have amazing shots of the palace. I loved them. And Sintra looks magical and spectacular. I will add it to my bucket list. I am sure to visit that place and I will refer your article back when I am planning.
Michele {Malaysian Meanders}
Sintra looks like something out of a fairy tale. I especially like those arched openings looking out from Pena Palace and the photo of your girls in the mini castle in the forested park. I’ll have to keep it in mind for any Lisbon trip.
Laura Lynch
Places like this are what they use to build theme parks. It’s such a fairytale looking town. And so close to the city that it’s easy to visit. Love it.
Debra Schroeder
Sintra does sound magical. The castles look right out of a fairytale. That window with Triton is outstanding. Your photo of the view framed by the walls is awesome.Adding Sintra to my list and will be sure to allow for several hours, if not an overnight.
Linda Aksomitis
Palaces and castles are my very favorite historical buildings! My first trips to Europe were all planned to just get inside as many of them as I could. Thanks for sharing these great photos.
Drew
I love Sintra. I have a framed photo hanging on my wall right now of the National Palace of Penes. There is something special about that location and the architecture that makes it such a unique site. Something any visitor to Lisbon should check out, that’s for sure!
Jenn and Ed Coleman
Love what you have done with the Sintra post. We keep looking back at our old photos and imagine what it would take to bring them up to snuff. I shutter to think of the photos I was taking in 2012. Memories have a way of preserving the idea of me taking a great photo instead of the reality that’s on my hard drive.
Your photos were well shot from the beginning and the digital remastering only served to bring out every more vibrate colors. Great article and it gives me hope that the gems I treasure in my memories might be dug from the depths of my hard drive one day.
budget jan
We’ve been to Sintra and chose to go to the castle which was great. We didn’t see the palace as we only chose one place to visit. It would have been good to see more but we were happy with the castle and town.
Megan Jerrard
Wow, I can see why Palácio Nacional da Pena is the most popular – such an incredible castle! Thanks for this post Rhonda – Portugal is not actually a country I had associated with incredible castles – I had more thought this would be Germany, Spain ,France, so I don’t know why I discounted Portugal! Obviously I need to re-asses and add it to this years travel list!
eileen g
i visited Sintra with a girlfriend several years ago. I remember the long walk up to the palace more than i remember the palace it self. I’m enjoying your photos thought and they are jogging my memory a bit. I also remember the restaurant where we drank vino Verde and ate lunch after walking back down. It’s a lovely town and over all i recommend it as a day trip from Lisbon.
David @Travelsewhere
Sintra has to be one of my favourite towns in Europe, full stop. The castles are amazing, the smaller palaces are charming and the forest is so peaceful to walk in, even if I did get kinda lost. I’m actually revisiting Portugal as we speak and was considering seeing Obidos and Albacoa so will take a look at your posts.
Chrysoula
Wow Sintra is stunning. I haven’t been to Portugal but I really must go, it looks so beautiful and your photos from Sintra are impressive.
Anisa
Perfect timing on republishing this as I will be headed to Portugal in exactly one week. We are planning on doing a day trip to Sintra from Lisbon and your post is really helpful. Sounds like we need to get up early to really make the most of it. I am really excited.
Jill
Simply beautiful! I’ve heard and seen more about Portugal lately – and many have said that it’s a very underrated country that flies under the radar. I definitely would love to visit here!
Jessica @ Independent Travel Cats
Wow, beautiful palaces, and sounds like Sintra has a lot to offer travelers!
Lyn aka The Travelling Lindfields
We visited Pena Palace with our boys when they were young. It was a great experience.
Mary (The World Is A Book)
We were in Sintra last year and loved it. It’s such a chsrming town and all those castles were amazing. Pena Palace was everything I had dreamt of and more.
Anda
What a gorgeous architecture! It’s a sure thing, I’m adding Sintra to my bucket list. Great pictures, like always!
Kathy Marris
Stunning architecture! I haven’t been to Portugal but it is on my bucket list.
Pat -- Mille Fiori Favoriti
Sintra does look like an enchanted place! I’ve heard Portugal has many beautiful sights to see and I’d love to travel there one day. I’m sure the food there was delicious too.
Ahila
Beautiful photos! Sintra is in my travel list. #wkndtravelinspiration
Lexa Cain
I know the first castle! It’s on my Castles Screensaver and it’s very cool! lol The kitchen surprised me. Who puts an open fire in the middle of a room? Strange, huh? Thanks very much for sharing the great pics!
Rhonda Albom
I would find it difficult to work, if not working meant I could stare at this castle all the time. 🙂
jo
Fantastic pictures I love the spiral staircase and the Great Hall. I’m off to Portugal in a couple of weeks I don’t think we will make it to Sintra which is a real shame it looks like a place with a new discovery around every corner. I wonder what that little building covered in moss with the turret is? Thanks for hosting #Wkendtravelinspiration
Sandee
I would love to tour the inside of a palace. That would be most fun.
Have a fabulous day. ☺
Ruth
I have wanted to visit Sintra (and Portugal) in ages. For what I have seen, I think I would prefer to stay in Sintra at least one night. There are so many wonderful places yo visit in there. #TPThursday #wkendtravelinspiration
Paula McInerney
Sinatra looks very magical. I love fairytale cities and Europe does them so well
Christine | The Journey of Christine
Wow that architecture! It looks so intricate but beautiful at the same time!
L. Diane Wolfe
Absolutely beautiful. We would’ve loved all the hiking trails.
beatravelling
The palace looks stunning! Hadn’t heard of it before I got into the travel blog world. Now it’s on my list 🙂
Tomas
Yeah Sintra 🙂 I love this place, I hope we will come back soon and spend there more time. We haven’t visited Castelo dos Mouros and Palácio Nacional de Sintra. Thanks for your nice pics 🙂
Hilary Melton-Butcher
Hi Rhonda – definitely a place to add to the list – what an amazing place … and how lovely you decided to visit … cheers Hilary
Lolo
Ah this is the one castle I want to go to the most!!!!!! A Portugal trip keeps getting pushed back bc too many other things keep coming up! 🙁 Such a beautiful castle! #wkendtravelinspiration
Lolo
OOH yes, I also want to go there too! There are just too many places to see and not enough time!!
Shelly
This palace is a mixture of Arab minarets, towers and domes. It was built between 1840 and 1850.Prince of Baviera D. Fernando of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha, husband of D. Maria II ordered it to be build on the site of the ruins of the monastery of Our Lady of Pena.Inside the palace you can see a large ball room, the kitchen and several rooms.The palace has been painted yellow and pink in the 90’s. These were its original colors.
Nancy
Magical!!!
Love your family photo.
Tony Payne
This does look amazing. Sometimes the best experiences on vacation are those places you stumble across.
Samuel
Wow, love that castle. What fun.
Lisa
Awww what a lovely family pic.
PS I would have wanted to go to the medieval Fair too 🙂
Joan
Looks like another amazing place.