Sintra: Day trip from Lisbon
Nestled in the lush hills just outside of Lisbon, Sintra is a charming town that feels like a step back in time. With its fairy-tale palaces, mystical gardens, and ancient castles, Sintra captivates visitors with its enchanting blend of history and natural beauty. Wander through its colourful streets, explore the stunning estates, and soak in the breathtaking vistas. Sintra offers a perfect escape into a world of romance and wonder, making it an unforgettable destination for any traveller.
How to get to Sintra
Sintra is easily accessible from Lisbon by train. From Lisbon, you can take the train to get to Sintra from either the Rossio or Oriente station. Tickets cost €5 return and the trip takes around 40 minutes depending on what train station you choose to depart from.
Getting around Sintra
To get around Sintra to the main attractions there are 2 buses you can take: the 434 and 435 which will take you to all the major attractions.
The buses depart from in front of the train station every 15 minutes. The first bus departs at 08:50 and if you booked your visit to the Palace of Pena at 09:30 I’d suggest taking this one as it takes 20-25 minutes to get there.
The ticket costs €12.50 and is available for the whole day on both bus lanes. While it’s not the cheapest option, the buses do leave you in front of the attractions. If, like me, you only have a limited time in Sintra, I personally think it’s the best option.
You can buy the tickets directly from the driver.
The cheaper option would be combining the local buses with hiking.
Top Things To Do
1. Palacio Nacional da Pena
Even if it’s not the first stop along the bus route I would suggest you visit the Palacio first as it’s the main attraction and it will be very crowded.
The Palacio Nacional da Pena was built as a summer residence for the Portuguese royal family. It was commissioned by King Ferdinand II in the mid-19th century.
Arriving at the palace will feel like stepping inside a fairytale! The vibrant facades and whimsical design elements make it one of the most picturesque landmarks in Europe.
Tickets cost €20 and can also be bought from the ticket machines at the entrance. Since they are sold based on time slots there is a big chance you won’t find any available tickets in the morning.
From the main entrance, it’s a 15-20 minute hike uphill to get to the Palacio. Alternatively, there is a small bus that you can take up the hill. You can also book the bus online together with your entrance ticket.
Ticket Tip: Make sure you buy your tickets online ahead of time so you can avoid some of the big crowds. You can purchase your ticket here.
2. Castelo dos Mouros
From the Palacio Nacional da Pena walk downhill to visit the Castelo dos Mouros next (it’s just a 5-minute walk).
The Moors (Mouros) were Muslim inhabitants of the Iberian Peninsula, North Africa, and the Mediterranean region during the Middle Ages. They were primarily of Berber and Arab descent and played a significant role in the history and culture of Spain and Portugal.
The Moors left a lasting legacy on the region, evident in the architecture, language, and culture, Castelo dos Mouros being one of the landmarks that showcase their influence.
The castle was built in the 8th century, its rugged stone walls and strategic battlements offering amazing views of the surrounding forests and the Atlantic Ocean.
Tickets cost €12 and can easily be bought at the entrance.
3. Sintra Old Town
From Castelo dos Mouros you can hop on one of the buses and head into the Old Town for lunch.
In the Old Town, you can explore quaint shops, cosy cafes, and historic landmarks, all while soaking in the town’s unique blend of Portuguese charm and romantic allure.
Here you can also visit the Sintra National Palace and the beautiful Fonte Mourisca.
4. Quinta de Regaleira
From the Old Town, it’s a 10-minute walk to Quinta de Regaleira.
Quinta da Regaleira in Sintra is a captivating estate that invites you to explore its mysterious and enchanting grounds. Wandering around this Gothic mansion you will discover lush gardens, winding paths leading to hidden grottoes and beautiful fountains.
Here you will also find the mesmerising Initation Well. The Well is a spiral staircase that descends approximately 27 meters into the earth, connecting to a series of underground tunnels. Its purpose is believed to be symbolic and mystical, used for Masonic or occult initiation rituals.
Tickets cost €12 and you can buy them either at the entrance or online here.
Good to know: the queue for the Initiation Well is very long and you can wait in line for as long as 30 minutes.
5. Parque e Palacio de Monserrate
From Quinta de Regaleira hop back on the bus and stop at Parque e Palacio de Monserrate.
The construction of Parque e Palácio de Monserrate began in 1858 and continued throughout the 19th century. The palace and its surrounding gardens were commissioned by Francis Cook, an English merchant and art collector, who was captivated by the beauty of Sintra
As you explore this lush park, you’ll find an astonishing variety of plants from around the world, meticulously arranged to create a serene and enchanting landscape.
Tickets cost €12 and you can buy them either at the entrance or online here.
Where should you stay?
If you have more time to spend in Sintra, here are a few hotel options based on your budget:
Budget – Happy Holiday Sintra – features a garden, allergy-free rooms, free wifi throughout the property and barbecue facilities.
Medium – Hotel Sintra Jardin – a150 year-old residence is surrounded by a garden with a swimming pool and offers a view of Sintra’s Moorish Castle.
High – Sintra Boutique Hotel. Located in the centre of the historic UNESCO town of Sintra, this boutique hotel offers rooms and suites with views of the old town and Sintra-Cascais Natural Park
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