Location: Sintra
Top Things to do in Sintra
10 Things to do in Sintra That You Shouldn't Miss
Long the home of Portugal’s monarchs, Sintra is a magnificent town of marvelous historic mansions, all set against the backdrop of lush hills. Sintra’s many castles include the Palácio Nacional de Sintra (a main abode of Portuguese royalty until the early 20th century), the hilltop and storybook Palácio da Pena, Quinta de Regaleira (incorporating several architectural styles and with gorgeous surrounding gardens), the Castelo dos Mouros (Moorish Castle), and the Palácio de Monserrate.
Restaurants in Sintra
1. Quinta da Regaleira
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 13,313 reviews
Classified as World Heritage by UNESCO and built at the turn of the 20th century, this romantic architectural complex is comprised of a Palace, a Chapel, and gardens with grottos.
Reviewed By richardb552016 - London, United Kingdom
This palace is a must for anyone visiting Lisbon. Within easy reach by train and bus, the gardens are a delight with many follies, chapels, delightful views and what is called an Initiation Well which is an absolute must including stepping stones and looking through a waterfall amongst other attractions. The cafe affords a lovely outdoor seating area with views of the palace and gardens. The architecture of all of the buildings are magical in appearance. Allow at least 2 hours. The walk to the top of the garden area is fairly steep but worthwhile. Then it is all downhill from there!
2. Praia da ursa
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 521 reviews
Reviewed By 789stephend - Vancouver, Canada
I found Cabo da Roca to be beautiful and the ocean crashing against the cliffs. There are some hiking trails to explore, well worth the trip out here.
3. Initiation Well
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 919 reviews
Reviewed By ericsE2241OU - Birr, Ireland
This well is a great place to visit as part of a tour of the Quinta da Regaleira. It is unique (in my experience), and of great interest if you are into the Knights Templar and similar groups. Look ot for the Knights Templar cross there
4. Park and National Palace of Pena
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 18,360 reviews
Reviewed By bluecarrot - Los Angeles, United States
While not as old as so many other sights in Portugal, this palace and its surrounding grounds are truly awe-inspiring! If youre able, plan to go on a day with good weather and spend the day hiking around the stunning grounds and through the hundreds of paths and trails that wind all through the wooded area at the base of the palace! Seeing the palace itself is also quite interesting, but, for me, the outside of it is more amazing than the inside. The remaining furniture inside comes from a number of different styles and periods and the detail and craftsmanship are some of the finest Ive ever seen but try to go through the inside of the palace before it gets crowded if you want to see anything at all! Sintra is an easy day trip from Lisbon and this palace and its grounds are the gem of that trip, its absolutely worth the time!!
5. Castelo dos Mouros
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 6,492 reviews
The Moorish Castle is a military fortification that bears witness to the Islamic presence in the region, and was probably constructed between the eighth and ninth centuries and later expanded after the Reconquista. Overlooking the town of Sintra, it served as a watchtower, guaranteeing the protection of Lisbon and its surroundings.
Reviewed By howardform
Everyone comes to Sintra for Pena Palace and frankly I liked the Moorish Castle alot more, its really cool. Be aware there is alot of walking up stairs and hill climbing , so you have to be in shape The views are amazing, you can get the best photos of the castle from the castle and you can also get great photos of Pena Palace from here as well It is less crowded than Pena Palace
6. Palacio de Monserrate
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,089 reviews
Not very far from the historic centre of Sintra is one of the most beautiful architectural and landscape Romantic creations in Portugal: the Park and Palace of Monserrate, unique representatives of 19th century eclecticism.
Reviewed By polenasia - Jeonju, South Korea
Very small palace, with only few rooms. Interesting story behind it, worth reading as you walk through it. Make sure you thoroughly explore surrounding park, some amazing trees and plants. Altogether good place for spending morning or afternoon there.
7. Sintra Tram
8. Parque de Monserrate
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 754 reviews
Reviewed By LP528 - Manitoba, Canada
We were shocked by how beautiful the grounds were, even in January. They're beautifully maintained, and well worth an hour or two of wandering. The palace has been wonderfully restored; you have to see the 'before' pictures to fully appreciate the work that has been done. I wish we'd have been told to start on the top floor. This is where all of the information about the history of the palace is. There's a very interesting video to watch, as well. I highly suggest starting at the top and working your way down; it will all make much more sense that way. We stopped at the cafe, and it's a nice place for a drink and a snack (inside or out). The selection of food is likely much better during high season. Beware if you're driving to Monserrate - good old google maps sent us to the service entrance (a challenging drive to be avoided at all costs). This might be a disappointing place for anyone with mobility issues. Wear proper footwear as the paths can be steep and slippery in places. Would LOVE to see this place in summer (although, I fear the crowds would be annoying).
9. Centro Historico de Sintra
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,027 reviews
Reviewed By Vladimiramirela - Mississauga, Canada
My recommendation is to stay overnight in Sintra as there are too many castles and ruins and parcs to visit and with a day trip from Lisbon - as we did - there is not enough time. The architecture is magnificent and there are many small restaurants, however, very busy. Most likely, you may want to start your visit with a full circuit aboard the 434 bus taking you all the way to the Pena Palace, and start coming down, stopping at the Moorish ruins, then visit the palaces closer to the historical center. If you are staying the night, then you have the chance to enjoy a pleasant evening and the excellent Portuguese food on a terrace. You may want to jump on a bus to Cabo da Roca the next day or even spend some time on one of the beaches if you stay longer.
10. Sintra National Palace
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 5,037 reviews
The National Palace of Sintra, located in the historic town centre, was inhabited for nearly eight centuries by the Portuguese monarchy and its court. It was much used, particularly during the Middle Ages, as a hunting retreat and as a refuge from outbreaks of disease in the capital, or as a summer resort, thanks to the town's more agreeable climate.
Reviewed By vagabondafelice - Carisolo, Italy
We visited the Palacio Nacional and Palacio Pena ,one foggy November morning, on a combined ticket costing 22.80 euros. We bought the tickets at the tourist office just off the main square where you find the Palacio Nacional. We visited this palace first as the queue was not too long. The rooms are elaborately designed and furnished. The Swan Room with the painted swans on the ceiling, the Magpie Room with its particular story, the Coat of Arms Room and the kitchens with the two chimneys are well worth the visit. Thoroughly enjoyed the time spent there and once finished the fog had begun to disappear and we could see the building from the outside!
