Menu
Sintra is a picturesque Portuguese town that is full of enchanting sights and sounds. From historic palaces and fortresses to charming streets and stunning natural landscapes, there is no shortage of things to explore in Sintra. As you wander through this magical town, you’ll be transported back in time and feel as though you’ve stepped into a fairy tale. In this article, we’ll take you on a personal journey through the best places to visit in Sintra so that you can experience the wonder and beauty of this incredible destination for yourself. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Sintra!
Table of Contents
Pena Palace (Palácio da Pena)
Pena Palace is a must-see in Sintra! Built in the 19th Century, Ferdinand II transformed this former monastery into an exquisite and romantic palace. With its colorful walls and turrets, it looks like something straight out of a fairytale. You can explore Parque de Pena with its fabulous gardens, paths, and forest. It’s a great place to take some fantastic photos and explore the different areas of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This fabulous destination is genuinely one-of-a-kind and worth every penny spent on admission. Get ready for a unique journey through history and a stunning display of architecture that make Pena Palace so special. With its dreamy spires and vibrant colors, it’s sure to be a memorable stop on your trip through this enchanting nation.
And while the interior of Pena Palace is opulent, the tile panels are to be noticed. Whether you’re admiring the intricate designs of the Rococo, Neo-Gothic, and Manueline styles or just taking in the view from the terraces behind the palace walls, it’s an unforgettable experience. So don’t let your trip to Portugal end without a visit to Pena Palace! Come explore this magical place for yourself. You won’t regret it.
Quinta da Regaleira
If you want to take a journey back in time, then Quinta da Regaleira is the place for you! This historic estate in Sintra, was built by millionaire António Augusto Carvalho Monteiro between 1904 and 1910.
Upon first glance, it looks like any other lavish mansion, but a closer look will show that there’s much more to this mysterious property than meets the eye. Knights Templar symbols are scattered throughout the grounds, giving visitors an idea of how far back in time they can go.
One of the more unique features of Quinta da Regaleira is its Initiation Well – a tower with nine levels connected by tunnels and caves used to be used as part of secret initiation ceremonies.
Sintra National Palace (Palácio Nacional de Sintra)
The Magpies Room (Sala das Pegas) is an absolute must-see for tourists seeking to explore Sintra National Palace. Built in 1650 and decorated with blue tiles, this room was named by King Ferdinand II after the flock of magpies that were said to have nested there! Plus, it boasts a fantastic view from its windows on top of the palace.
As if that wasn’t enough, you can find a stunning marble floor depicting an example of traditional Portuguese paving and several paintings adorning the walls. But that’s not all – don’t forget to visit the Sala dos Cisnes (or Swan Room), which features gorgeous frescoes depicting swans in various scenes. We promise that your visit to Palácio Nacional will be a true delight!
Once you’ve taken in these sights, remember to check out the rest of this palace’s unique features. From its stunning towers to its enchanting fountains, there’s plenty more to discover – so make sure you take it all in! Here at Sintra National Palace, we guarantee a visit that’ll always leave you with beautiful memories. Come and explore today!
Monserrate Palace (Palácio de Monserrate)
The Monserrate Palace in Sintra is a must-see for tourists visiting this beautiful city. Built in the early 19th century as a summer house for a wealthy English merchant and his family, it instantly became one of the most famous landmarks in the area. The palace’s architecture combines several styles – from Gothic to Indian-inspired designs.
Visitors can marvel at an eclectic collection of furniture, artworks, and tapestries designed by some of the most renowned artists in Europe. But what makes the palace genuinely unique is its location – surrounded by lush gardens and waterfalls, it offers breathtaking views of the hillsides and valleys that make up Sintra’s stunning landscape.
Whether you’re looking to explore the area’s history or enjoy its natural beauty, a day spent at Monserrate Palace will surely be one you’ll never forget! And with such an exciting range of stories, sights, and experiences all rolled into one spot, it’s no wonder why this palace has become so beloved by both locals and tourists alike.
Castelo dos Mouros (Moorish Castle)
The Castelo dos Mouros in Sintra, Portugal, is a must-see for any day trip to this charming Portuguese town. Sitting atop one of the area’s highest points, its stunning views are second to none and will give you an appreciation of why people flock to this region year after year.
We recommend arriving as early as possible to beat the crowds, although if you’re feeling brave, then why not take on the challenge and explore it in the dark – just be sure to bring your torch! Once inside, there’s no shortage of attractions; from its impressive walls and towers (some with even earlier origins than the castle itself) to the magnificent gardens that adorn its grounds, there’s plenty here worth exploring.
Fun fact: William Beckford, the 19th-century British writer, and politician, famously said that Sintra was “the most blessed spot in all creation”.
See more: 10 Interesting Facts About Portugal
Convent of the Capuchos
The Convent of the Capuchos is a 16th-century Dominican monastery located in Sintra. The convent was built with a unique design that blends Gothic and Manueline styles in its architecture. Inside the convent, you can find beautiful frescoes and intricate details that adorn the walls, ceilings, and floors.
It’s no wonder why this breathtaking structure has been a popular tourist destination for centuries! But there’s more to this incredible place than meets the eye – it’s also home to an exciting story involving Franciscan monks and their unusual lifestyle choices.
According to legend, these friars rejected all worldly comforts, living in humble dwellings made of twigs and clay called “huts.” This tradition continues today, with several huts still standing on the convent’s grounds.
Seteais Palace
Seteais Palace is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Europe. From its luxurious gardens and stunning views, to its 18th-century architecture and fascinating history – Seteais Palace has it all! No wonder this magnificent palace is on many people’s list of destinations to visit.
The palace was built during the reign of King John V by Italian architect Luigi Vanvitelli in 1783, with an inspired blend of classical style and Portuguese Baroque elements. Today, visitors can marvel at the breathtaking courtyard and stunning frescoes which line the walls.
There are also three grand salons to explore, which feature intricate stucco work and beautiful furnishings from the 18th century. For those looking to take in the local culture and history, guided tours showcase the palace’s rich heritage.
Vila Sassetti
Villa Sassetti is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the charming and breathtakingly beautiful town of Sintra. Built in the mid-18th century, this majestic former royal palace stands tall atop a hill overlooking Sintra. It is nothing short of spectacular! From its grand entrance to its intricate and vibrant gardens, Villa Sassetti is truly a sight to behold.
If you’re looking for an enchanting getaway that brings together history, culture, and stunning views – this villa might be your perfect destination. Remember to bring your camera; you’ll want to capture every moment here! What’s more is that this impressive villa also features some beautiful attractions nearby, such as Quinta da Regaleira the fantastic Pena Palace, and the Moorish Castle
See more: Top 30 Castles in Portugal
Q&A
Is Sintra Worth Visiting?
My answer is an emphatic yes! It’s a beautiful town full of stunning architecture, picturesque gardens, and lush forests. Plus, there are plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained, such as horseback riding and mountain biking.
The great thing about Sintra is that you don’t have to be an avid traveler to enjoy it – the town has something for everyone! So whether you want a relaxing escape or an adventure-filled holiday, Sintra has it all.
What is Sintra known for?
Sintra is known for its fairytale-like beauty, with lush green hills dotted with colorful villas, castles, and palaces. It’s a magical place that will take your breath away. From the Moorish Castle to the Pena National Palace, it’s full of stunning sights you’ll never forget.
And while you’re there, why not sample some delicious local cuisine? Sintra is well-known for its Pastéis de Nata (custard tarts) – a must-try for any visitor.
Why is Sintra special?
Sintra is special because it’s like a portal to another world. With its magical forests and towering castles, the town of Sintra is sure to enchant anyone who visits. It’s like stepping into a fairytale, with winding cobbled streets, colorful villas, grand palaces, and lush gardens.
The views from the hills are stunning, offering sweeping panoramas of the Atlantic Ocean and Lisbon below. And don’t forget about the delicious Portuguese food – no visit to Sintra would be complete without trying some local delicacies! All in all, Sintra is truly a place like no other.
Is Sintra a day trip from Lisbon?
Yes and no! Sintra is a must-see destination close to Lisbon, but it depends on what you want to do there. If you’re looking for a leisurely day trip, then take the train from Lisbon and spend the day exploring the picturesque town of Sintra. There are some beautiful palaces and gardens, plus plenty of quaint cafes for a tasty snack or two.
On the other hand, if you want to make the most out of your visit to Sintra, stay overnight in one of its remarkable hotels or guesthouses and enjoy all that this magical place has to offer. So yes – Sintra can be done as a day trip from Lisbon.
When is the best time to visit Sintra?
When is the best time to visit Sintra? That’s a tricky question – it all depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. If you want to capture Sintra’s magical, fairytale atmosphere, the best time is during the cooler months (October-April). The days are still mild and often sunny, and fewer tourists are around, so it won’t be as crowded.
But suppose you’re looking for picturesque sunlight streaming through its Gothic architecture, or Portuguese beaches with a bit of warmth and sunbathing potential. In that case, late spring/summer (May-September) is definitely more your thing.