Sintra: The Complete Guide

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Singa Hitam

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

Early 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.

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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9 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

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Alvesgaspar

The National Palace of Sintra is a remarkable building and one of the most notable mediaeval palaces in Portugal. From the earliest days of the nation, Sintra has been a favourite location of Portuguese monarchs, but the palace as we see it today was rebuilt by Dom João I and enriched by Dom Manuel I. The palace interior is a…

Visiting Sintra National Palace

We recommend to rent a car in Portugal through Discover Cars, they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies. Book your rental car here.

Castelo dos Mouros

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Luiyo

The ruins of the Castelo dos Mouros tower over Sintra and were once a formidable defense for the region during the Moorish era from the 8th to the 12th century. Built on a rocky outcrop, it afforded the Moors a strategic view of the coastline and surrounding lands. However, after the Christian Crusaders stormed the castle in 1147, it was…

Visiting Castelo dos Mouros

Palácio e Quinta da Regaleira

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Susanne Nilsson

Quinta Regaleira, one of Sintra's most mysterious attractions, is located very near to the town's historic center. The Palácio da Regaleira, surrounded by lush greenery, was constructed in the early 20th century by António Augusto Carvalho Monteiro (1848-1920), a millionaire who fulfilled one of his dreams with the help of architect Luigi Manini (1848-1936). The palace is a captivating discovery,…

Location: Quinta da Regaleira, Rua Barbosa du Bocage, Sintra, Portugal | Hours: 9.30am-7pm Apr-Sep, to 5pm Oct-Mar | Price: adult/child €6/4, tours €12/8 | Quinta da Regaleira Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket | Distance: 1.4km

Visiting Palácio e Quinta da Regaleira

Pena Palace

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Ingo Mehling

The magnificent Palácio da Pena exemplifies 19th-century Romantic revivalism in Portugal, and is a must-see for visitors to Sintra. Perched atop the Monte da Pena, the palace occupies the site of an old monastery belonging to the Order of St. Jerome. Its creation was inspired by Dom Fernando of Saxe Coburg-Gotha, who married Queen Dona Maria II in 1836 and…

Visiting Pena Palace

Cruz Alta Viewpoint

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Rick McCharles

Rising 529 meters above sea level, this viewpoint stands as the tallest peak in the Sintra Mountains. Situated in the heart of Pena Park, 4 km away from the historic centre, it offers a breathtaking view of the Sintra Mountains in all their glory. With a panoramic landscape and the ocean on the horizon, visitors can take in the entirety…

Location: Cruz Alta, Sintra, Portugal | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 2.7km

Visiting Cruz Alta Viewpoint

Park and Palace of Monserrate

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Jorge Lobo

William Beckford, who fell in love with the Serra de Sintra, created this magnificent Romantic park. Monserrate was originally a farm with fruit orchards and crop fields that was first imagined by Gerard DeVisme in the 18th century. Subsequently, William Beckford and Francis Cook also lived on the property. However, it was Francis Cook, the first Viscount of Monserrate, who…

Visiting Park and Palace of Monserrate

Convento dos Capuchos (Sintra)

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Mangelbenito

Capuchos Convent, also called Santa Cruz or the Cork Convent, was constructed in 1560 by Dom Álvaro de Castro to fulfill a vow made by his father, Dom João de Castro, who was Viceroy of India. The convent's small cells, chapel, refectory, and other facilities are built into the rock and lined with cork, showcasing the modest and ascetic lifestyle…

Visiting Convento dos Capuchos (Sintra)

Cabo da Roca

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Olga1969

Don't miss out on visiting Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe, when you're in Sintra. This important landmark, located at latitude 38º 47´ north and longitude 9º 30´ west, has historical significance for those navigating along the coast, as it serves as the most westerly point of mainland Europe. Visitors can even take away certificates as a…

Location: Cabo da Roca, Estrada do Cabo da Roca, Colares, Portugal | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 10.5km

Visiting Cabo da Roca

Palácio de Queluz

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Alvesgaspar

The Palace of Queluz, built during the late 18th-century at the command of Pedro III, the husband of D. Maria I (1734-1816), is an exceptional example of Portuguese architecture. As a former royal residence, the palace is a fine specimen of 18th-century Portuguese architecture, enriched with an extensive collection of decorative art, mostly belonging to the royal family. The palace's…

Location: Palacio de Queluz, Queluz, Portugal | Hours: 9am-7pm Apr-Oct, to 6pm Nov-Mar | Price: adult/child €10/8.50 | Website | Distance: 12.1km

Visiting Palácio de Queluz

Where to Stay in Sintra

Staying in the historic center provides access to palaces, gardens, and charming boutique hotels. For a quieter stay, accommodations in the surrounding mountains offer scenic views and a peaceful retreat.

A 2 to 3-day stay is ideal for exploring Sintra’s castles, historic estates, and hiking trails. A 4-day stay allows for visits to the Atlantic coast, including Cabo da Roca and Azenhas do Mar.

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
February 15°C
March 16°C
April 19°C
May 20°C
June 22°C
July 25°C
August 25°C
September 23°C
October 22°C
November 17°C
December 15°C

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.

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