Sintra, Portugal: The Ultimate Travel Guide 2026
Sintra is a charming Portuguese town situated within the cooling hills of the Serra de Sintra. With its undulating mountains, lush forests teeming with ferns and lichen, exotic gardens, and dazzling palaces, feels like a fairytale come to life. The town's centre, Sintra-Vila, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is adorned with pastel-colored mansions nestled into verdant hills that slope towards the deep blue Atlantic.
The Celts venerated their moon god in Sintra, the Moors constructed a precipitous castle, and 18th-century Portuguese royalty strolled around its idyllic gardens. Even Lord Byron was entranced by Sintra's beauty and described it in his epic poem Childe Harold's Pilgrimage as, “Lo! Cintra's glorious Eden intervenes, in variegated maze of mount and glen.”
While it's a must-visit destination for those in Lisbon, many attempt to cram it into a single day trip, which can feel rushed. If time permits, Sintra is captivating enough to warrant a few days' stay.
History of Sintra
Sintra’s history dates back to prehistoric times, with evidence of human habitation as early as the Paleolithic era. The area was later inhabited by the Celts, who worshipped their moon god, Sin, from which the name Sintra is believed to have originated. The Romans also left their mark, using Sintra as a place of worship and building several structures in the area.
Sintra During the Moorish Period
In the 8th century, the Moors conquered Sintra and constructed significant fortifications, including the Castelo dos Mouros (Moorish Castle). This period saw the development of Sintra as a thriving town with a mix of cultural influences, reflected in the architecture and layout that can still be seen today.
Sintra in the Medieval Era
After the Christian reconquest in the 12th century, led by King Afonso I, Sintra became a part of the newly formed Kingdom of Portugal. The town gained prominence as a royal retreat, with several Portuguese kings and queens choosing it as their summer residence. This era saw the construction of the Palácio Nacional de Sintra (National Palace of Sintra), which became a favorite royal residence.
The Renaissance and Baroque Influence in Sintra
During the Renaissance and Baroque periods, Sintra continued to flourish. The town attracted artists, writers, and nobility, who built extravagant estates and gardens. The influence of these eras is evident in the intricate designs and elaborate decorations found in many of Sintra’s historical buildings.
Sintra in the 19th Century
The 19th century was a golden age for Sintra, marked by the Romantic movement. This period saw the construction of the iconic Palácio da Pena (Pena Palace) by King Ferdinand II, who transformed the ruins of a monastery into a fantastical palace blending Gothic, Renaissance, and Moorish styles. The Romantic era also saw the creation of extensive parks and gardens, enhancing Sintra’s reputation as a picturesque and idyllic retreat.
Sintra in the Modern Era
In the 20th century, Sintra’s historical and cultural significance was recognized on an international scale. The town was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995, highlighting its unique architectural and landscape heritage. Today, Sintra is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world to its stunning palaces, castles, and natural beauty.
Sintra Today
Sintra remains a vibrant town that seamlessly blends its rich history with modern amenities. It continues to be a cultural hub, hosting numerous festivals, exhibitions, and events. The town’s well-preserved historical sites, lush gardens, and scenic landscapes make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Portugal.
Moira & Andy
Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!
Visiting Sintra for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Sintra on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!
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7 Best places to See in Sintra
This complete guide to Sintra not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.
This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Sintra and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!
Sintra National Palace
Location: Sintra National Palace, Largo Rainha Dona Amélia, Sintra, Portugal | Hours: Daily: 09:30–18:30. Closed on 24 December, 25 December, 31 December & 1 January. | Price: 13€ (adults); 10€ (youth 6–17 & seniors 65+); 35€ (family: 2 adults + 2 youths). | Website | National Sintra Palace Ticket & Optional Audio Guide | Distance: 130.0km
Castelo dos Mouros
Location: Castelo dos Mouros, Sintra, Portugal | Hours: Daily: 09:30–18:00. | Price: €12 (adults 18–64); €10 (youth 6–17 & seniors 65+); €33 family (2 adults + 2 youths). | Website | Castle of the Moors & Quinta Entry with Audio Guides | Distance: 130.0km
Palácio e Quinta da Regaleira
Location: Quinta da Regaleira, Rua Barbosa du Bocage, Sintra, Portugal | Hours: (Summer) 1 April – 30 September; Daily: 10:00-19:30 (last entry 17:30). (Winter) 1 October – 31 March; Daily: 10:00-18:30 (last entry 17:30). Closed on 1 January, 24 December, 25 December & 31 December. | Price: Adult 15 €; Young (6–17) 10 €; Senior (65+) 10 €; Child (0–5) free. | Website | Quinta da Regaleira Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket | Distance: 130.0km
Pena Palace
Location: Pena Palace, Estrada da Pena, Sintra, Portugal | Hours: Daily: 09:00–19:00 (Park) & 09:30–18:30 (Palace). Closed on 24 December, 25 December & 31 December; 01 January. | Price: Adult: €20 (Park and Palace ); €10 (Park-only). | Website | Pena Palace and Park Entrance Ticket | Distance: 130.0km
Cruz Alta Viewpoint
Location: Cruz Alta, Sintra, Portugal | Hours: Daily: 09:00–19:00. | Price: Included with Pena Park entry (Park ticket from €10; Park + Palace ticket from €20). | Website | Distance: 130.0km
Park and Palace of Monserrate
Location: Park and Palace of Monserrate, Sintra, Portugal | Hours: Daily: Park 09:00–19:00 & Palace 09:30–18:00. Closed: 24 December; 25 December; 31 December; 01 January. | Price: Adults: €12 (Park and Palace); €6 (Park only). | Website | Monserrate Palace & Park E-Ticket with Audioguide | Distance: 130.0km
Convento dos Capuchos
Location: Convento dos Capuchos, Colares, Portugal | Hours: Daily: 09:00–17:30. Closed: 24 December; 25 December; 31 December; 01 January. | Price: €11; Youths (6–17): €9; Seniors (65+): €9; Family (2 adults + 2 youths): €29. | Website | Convent of the Capuchos Entry Ticket & Audioguide | Distance: 130.0km
Best Day Trips from Sintra
A day trip from Sintra offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Sintra provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary. If you are looking to rent a car in Portugal I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.
Cabo da Roca
Location: Cabo da Roca, Estrada do Cabo da Roca, Colares, Portugal | Hours: (Summer) May – September: Daily: 09:00–19:30. (Winter) October – April: Daily: 09:00–18:30. Closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. | Price: Free | Website | Distance: 10.5km
Visiting Cabo da Roca
Palácio de Queluz
Location: Palacio de Queluz, Queluz, Portugal | Hours: Daily: 09:00–18:00 (Palace) & 09:00–18:30 (Gardens). Closed on 24 December; 25 December; 31 December; 01 January. | Price: €13 adults; €10 youth (06–17) & seniors (65+); €35 family (2 adults + 2 youths). Gardens-only: €6 adults; €4.50 youth & seniors; €15 family. | Website | Distance: 12.1km
Visiting Palácio de Queluz
Lisbon
Visiting Lisbon
Óbidos
Visiting Óbidos
Tomar
Visiting Tomar
Évora
Visiting Évora
Where to Stay in Sintra
Sintra offers a captivating selection of accommodations, catering to visitors who seek historical charm, scenic retreats, or modern comforts. The Historic Center (Centro Histórico) is the best choice for travelers wanting to be immersed in Sintra’s fairytale-like atmosphere, surrounded by cobbled streets, aristocratic palaces, and cultural landmarks such as the Palácio Nacional de Sintra and Quinta da Regaleira. Staying here allows easy access to quaint cafés, artisan shops, and romantic gardens, ensuring an enchanting experience at every turn. A recommended hotel in this area is Tivoli Palácio de Seteais, offering luxurious accommodations in a historic palace with breathtaking views and elegant surroundings.
For those seeking tranquil nature escapes, the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park and Mountain Retreats provide serene lodgings nestled in lush forests with stunning vistas of rolling hills and dramatic cliffs. This area is perfect for travelers wanting peaceful hikes, secluded stays, and picturesque landscapes, while still being a short drive from Sintra’s iconic sights. A fantastic option here is Lawrence’s Hotel, featuring charming countryside accommodations with a cozy ambiance and historical character.
If modern convenience and coastal beauty are priorities, staying near Estoril and the Atlantic Coast offers beachfront tranquility, contemporary resorts, and upscale amenities. These areas provide seaside relaxation with access to luxurious spas, fine dining, and scenic oceanfront promenades, ideal for visitors looking to combine Sintra’s cultural treasures with coastal leisure. A recommended hotel in this district is Penha Longa Resort, offering a five-star retreat with golf courses, spa facilities, and panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Whether you’re drawn to historic elegance, mountain serenity, or seaside indulgence, Sintra has accommodations suited to every traveler’s preference.
Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Sintra. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.
Sintra Accommodation Map
Best Time to Visit Sintra
Visiting Sintra in Spring
Spring (March to May) is an ideal time to visit Sintra. The weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). The gardens and parks are in full bloom, offering vibrant colors and fragrant scents. Spring is perfect for exploring the town’s outdoor attractions, such as the Pena Palace gardens and the trails around the Moorish Castle, without the large summer crowds.
Visiting Sintra in Summer
Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season in Sintra. The weather is warm, with temperatures often reaching up to 30°C (86°F). While the town can be busy, summer offers the chance to experience Sintra’s lively atmosphere and numerous cultural events. It’s an excellent time to visit the beaches nearby or enjoy the cooler, shaded areas of Sintra’s lush parks and gardens.
Visiting Sintra in Autumn
Autumn (September to November) is another wonderful time to visit Sintra. The temperatures are moderate, typically between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F), and the summer crowds have diminished. The changing foliage adds a beautiful touch to the landscape, making it an ideal season for photography and leisurely exploration of Sintra’s historical sites and natural beauty.
Visiting Sintra in Winter
Winter (December to February) in Sintra is mild compared to many other European destinations, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F). While it’s the off-season for tourism, this period offers a peaceful and quiet experience. The cooler weather is suitable for exploring indoor attractions like the National Palace and the many museums, and enjoying the town’s cozy cafes and restaurants.
Annual Weather Overview
- January 14°C 61°F
- February 15°C 63°F
- March 16°C 65°F
- April 19°C 70°F
- May 20°C 72°F
- June 22°C 76°F
- July 25°C 80°F
- August 25°C 80°F
- September 23°C 77°F
- October 22°C 75°F
- November 17°C 66°F
- December 15°C 62°F
How to get to Sintra
Traveling to Sintra by Air
The nearest major airport to Sintra is Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) in Lisbon, which is about 30 kilometers away. From the airport, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or use public transportation to reach Sintra.
Traveling to Sintra by Train
Sintra is well-connected by train from Lisbon. You can take a direct train from Lisbon's Rossio Station or Oriente Station to Sintra. The journey typically takes about 40 minutes, offering a convenient and scenic route.
Traveling to Sintra by Car
Driving to Sintra is a convenient option, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding areas. From Lisbon, you can take the A5 motorway, followed by the IC19 road, which leads directly to Sintra. The drive usually takes about 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic.
Traveling to Sintra by Bus
Several bus companies operate routes to Sintra from Lisbon and other nearby cities. Buses from Lisbon's Sete Rios or Marquês de Pombal stations provide a comfortable and affordable way to reach Sintra. The bus journey from Lisbon takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour.
