Sintra, Portugal is an UNESCO World Heritage site that is unique in its awe-inspiring castles and hidden gems. It’s a destination that promises to inspire wanderlust of both photographers and travel enthusiasts.
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Below I have some of my top tips for when you plan your visit.
BEATING THE CROWDS AT SINTA PORTUGAL
To truly relish the beauty of Sintra without the hustle and bustle of crowds, set your alarm clock a little earlier. During peak seasons Sintra can get quite busy with long queues and packed buses. By starting your day early you’ll have a better chance of experiencing the magic of this place in a more serene atmosphere. My tip would be to get here before 10 am before the popular spots like the magnificent Pena Palace, start to get busy.
TICKETS AND PRICING
Unlocking the wonders of Sintra’s castles requires a does require a ticket. The good news is that the entry fees for most castles are similar. For example, the iconic Pena Palace entrance costs approximately €12.60 per person. So be prepared to invest in all the history, architectural marvels, and breathtaking landscapes that Sintra has to offer.
HOW TO GET TO SINTRA PORTUGAL
Getting to Sintra, Portugal is an adventure in itself! If you’re not traveling by car, hop aboard a train at Rossio Train Station in Lisbon for a scenic 30-minute journey. Convenient hop-on hop-off buses are available within Sintra, making it easy to explore each castle and its surroundings. While some places are within walking distance, it’s worth noting that the roads can be narrow and crowded with buses. Save your energy for the exploring and opt for the bus rides when possible.
TRANSFERS
Get ready for a little uphill trekking as Sintra’s castles are on elevated ground. The ascent, particularly to places like the remarkable Pena Palace, might challenge your calves. However, at the base, you’ll find convenient transfers available for those who prefer a more relaxed approach or wish to conserve their energy. Keep in mind that these transfers involve a small cost.
RESEARCH AND PLAN YOUR ITINERARY
Investing a little time in research and planning could save you time in the long run, especially on the day. Before your visit, familiarise yourself with the palaces you wish to explore. A well-thought-out plan will ensure a smoother and more fulfilling experience. We did this the day before and it made exploring so much easier. With your itinerary in hand, you can navigate Sintra with confidence, leaving more time to soak in beauty of the place.
EATS IN SINTRA PORTUGAL
Before setting off on your journey, make sure to check out the eateries in Sintra’s charming town centre. While options within the palaces and parks can be limited and pricey, the town of Sintra boasts a great amount of delightful dining choices at more reasonable prices. Explore the centre, indulge in the local cuisine, and energise yourself for the adventures ahead.
HOW LONG TO SPEND IN SINTRA PORTUGAL
With so much to see and experience, you might wonder how much time to allocate for visiting Sintra, Portugal. While a single day is sufficient to visit the highlights, including Pena Palace (Palácio da Pena), Castle of the Moors (Castelo dos Mouros) and Quinta da Regaleira and a leisurely stroll through Sintra centre, you can easily spend more than one day exploring here. It really depends on your style of travel, if you have time and if you have any other plans.
PENA PALACE VS CASTLE OF THE MOORS
While the Pena Palace boasts spectacular views, and is unique in its blocked colour palette, the Castle of the Moors medieval fortress not only offers breathtaking panoramic views but also evokes a sense of adventure reminiscent of the epic landscapes from “The Lord of the Rings.” Being a Kiwi myself this was pretty epic to see in person. I’d say that these destinations are both so different that you should make time to put both on your itinerary.
THE RICH HISTORY OF SINTRA, PORTUGAL
If you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about the origins of these magnificent structures, take a moment to delve into the history of each palace. Or go even further by researching Sintra as a whole. Learning about their storied pasts adds a layer of fascination to the journey.
UNIQUE CASTLES
Sintra’s castles are not mere replicas of one another. Each holds its own uniqueness, boasting a distinct exterior, atmosphere, and charm. For example, if vibrant and whimsical is your vibe, Pena Palace should be on the top of your list. Or, immerse yourself in the medieval nature of Castle of the Moors, and if that’s not your cup of tea wonder through the fairytale-like gardens of Quinta da Regaleira, complete with its mesmerising Initiation Well. These are just a glimpse of the extraordinary destinations that await you when you visit Sintra in Portugal.
Sintra, a realm of captivating castles and hidden wonders should be on everyones bucket list to explore. With these tips I hope you’ll navigate the enchanting landscapes with ease.
Also, if you are traveling from Lisbon, don’t miss my Lisbon guide here for all you need to know about this incredible city.