Pena Palace Sintra, Day Tour from Lisbon Portugal 2023

You are in Lisbon and you are looking for  wonderful one day trip to Pena palace from Lisbon with your family and kids? Look no further, here I have my personal travel notes from my visit to Pena palace. In this blog I will tell you the reasons why Pena Palace (Portuguese: Palácio da Pena) is worth visiting how many days are required for Sintra and what to see in Pena Palace Portugal.

While planning my 5 days itinerary for Portugal I included a day trip to Sintra Portugal. On visiting I realised my blunder of just keeping only one day to visit Pena Palace because Sintra is a treasure trove of history, culture, and architectural beauty. I strongly recommend a two days trip to Sintra, the land of enchanting castles in Portugal.

National Pena Palace Sintra Portugal

Reasons to visit Pena Palace Portugal

Pena Palace, located in Sintra, Portugal, is a magnificent and enchanting castle that attracts visitors from around the world. Here are some of the best reasons why Pena Palace is worth visiting:

Architectural Beauty: Pena Palace is a remarkable example of 19th century Romanticism architecture. Its vibrant colors, combination of intense red, yellow and purple colors, with oriental elements in places, intricate detailing, and unique design make it a truly mesmerizing sight. The palace combines elements of the Neo-Gothic, Neo-Manueline, Renaissance, and Moorish architecture styles, creating a visually stunning and eclectic masterpiece.

Stunning Location: we did a short hike up the Sintra Mountains. Pena Palace offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and the Atlantic Ocean. The palace is surrounded by lush gardens, including the Pena Park, which is filled with exotic plants, lakes, and hidden paths. The combination of the palace’s grandeur and its idyllic setting makes it a truly magical place to explore.

Rich History: Pena Palace has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages when a chapel was built on the site. The palace itself was constructed in the 19th century as a summer residence for the Portuguese royal family. As we explored the palace’s interior we got to see the royal family’s lifestyle and the architecture of the time.

Bedroom of Ferdinand II

Cultural Heritage: Like me, if you too are a lover of cultural heritage sites then the Palace of Pena is a must visit. This palace is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting its significance as a cultural treasure. It represents Portugal’s historical and artistic heritage and is a symbol of the country’s monarchy.

Day Trip from Lisbon: Palacio Pena is conveniently located just a short distance from Lisbon, 28.4km inn 30 min depending on traffic. Sintra, the town where the palace is located, is easily accessible. We drove down in our hired car.

Photography Opportunities: Palacio de Pena Portugal provides endless opportunities for photography enthusiasts. From the panoramic views of the landscape to the intricate architectural details, I found that every corner of the palace offers a picture-perfect moment.

Fairy-tale Atmosphere: The combination of the palace’s unique architecture, its picturesque location, and the surrounding gardens creates an enchanting atmosphere reminiscent of a fairy tale, thus making it a favourite destination for travelling kids.

7 Wonders of Portugal: In addition to all the above reasons for why Pena Palace is worth visiting, there is one more significant reason – it was named in the prestigious list of 7 Wonders of Portugal in 2007.

The other six are:

• Belém Tower
• Hieronymites Monastery
• Óbidos Castle
• Alcobaça Monastery
• Batalha Monastery
• Guimarães Castle

The 3 hours we spent there watching the splendor and grandness left us dazed.

Pena Castle Portugal

A Journey through Pena Palace’s Rich History

It is always good to know a little history! Town of Sintra is mentioned in texts that it existed from the times of Muslim occupation of the region. The Moorish Palace that existed here was taken over by the first King of Portugal in 1147. In 1493 a monastery was built by King John II. Wiki mentions – “For centuries Pena was a small, quiet place for meditation, housing a maximum of eighteen monks.”

The 1755 earthquake reduced the monastery to ruins. The chapel however continued to stand strong with out much damage. In 1838 Ferdinand II acquired old monastery, all of the surrounding lands, the nearby Castle of the Moors and a few other estates in the area. Ferdinand II transformed the monastery into a palace. This Pena Palace became the summer residence for the Portuguese royal family.

Walk Uphill from Park Entrance

After we got off the town bus there was one more bus that takes you up the hill and down for 1.50 euros per head. We preferred to walk uphill. The path took us through the beautiful park surrounding the palace. Most of the trees were labeled. The park has a collection of 2000 different species of trees. Keep your tickets safe, they are checked at a couple of places inside.

Entrance to Pena Palace

We were greeted by ferocious looking half fish, half man statue. Once inside we crossed rooms after rooms, all left and arranged in the same way as the Kings who stayed there had left. The last queen of Portugal, Queen Amélia, spent her last night at the palace before leaving the country in exile.

Chapel Pena Palace Portugal

Tiles and Ceilings Pena Palace

What to see inside Pena Palace Lisbon

Exploring the Interior Treasures of Pena Palace

Inside Pena Palace Lisbon, there are several notable areas and attractions that are worth seeing. Here are some of the best things to see inside Pena Palace:

Royal Chambers: The opulent and lavishly decorated royal chambers, including the bedrooms, living rooms, and dining areas are truly stunning. Every intricate detail, luxurious furnishings, and vibrant colors reflected the tastes of the Portuguese royal family.

Arab Room: The room is a unique blend of Moorish and Portuguese styles. It is a stunning space inspired by Islamic art and design. It features intricate geometric patterns, vibrant tiles, and a beautiful domed ceiling.

Great Hall: The Great Hall is the heart of the palace. It had a grand space that impresses with its soaring ceilings and ornate decorations with impressive chandeliers, decorative tiles, and intricate woodwork that create a sense of grandeur.

Collection of Glass and stained glass – Ferdinand II’s Passion

Queen’s Terrace: We stepped out onto the Queen’s Terrace and whoa! What a sight! We feasted on the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the lush Pena Park, Sintra town, and the distant Atlantic Ocean. Many tourists lingered on here as the terrace provides a fantastic vantage point to take in the palace’s architecture and the stunning natural scenery.

Kitchens: We explored the palace’s well-preserved kitchen area that offer a glimpse into the daily operations of the royal household. It had a beautiful display of antique cooking utensils, pots, and ovens. It provides insight into the culinary practices of the time.

Kitchen of Pena Palace

Clock Room: The Clock Room is a fascinating space that houses an impressive collection of clocks from various eras. This reminded me of the one I had seen in Jodhpur – Collection of Clocks in Unmaid Bhavan Jodhpur

Exhibition Rooms: Pena Palace also features exhibition rooms that showcase historical artifacts, photographs, and documents related to the palace’s history. These exhibitions provide further context and insights into the palace’s past and the Portuguese monarchy.

Chapel in Pena Palace: Even if you miss visiting other parts of the Pena castle don’t miss the visit to the palace’s chapel. The chapel showcases beautiful stained glass windows, intricate woodwork, ornate religious motifs and intricate frescoes. The stained glass paintings had lovely depictions. It’s a serene and spiritual space within the palace. The chapel here is dedicated to ‘Our Lady of Pena’, this chapel miraculously escaped severe damage and withstood the fury of nature for several centuries.

Pena Palace, one of the grandest in the whole of Portugal!

View from Palacio de Pena Portugal – terrace of Pena National Palace in Sintra, Portugal

Captivating Views from Pena Palace: A Photographer’s Delight

As a photographer’s delight, Pena Palace offers a range of photographic possibilities, from breathtaking vistas to intricate details. I spent so much time clicking pictures of the beautiful castle of Portugal. Here I am sharing with you some photography tips on capturing the scenic views that Pena Palace offers, making it a perfect destination for photographers.

Panoramic Overlooks: The greatest advantage that Pena Palace has is its strategic position, atop a hill. This location provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. From various points within the palace and its terraces, you can capture sweeping vistas that include the picturesque Sintra Mountains, the town of Sintra itself, and even glimpses of the Atlantic Ocean on clear days.

Unique Architectural Perspectives: Pena Palace’s architecture presents fantastic photographic opportunities. Its colorful facade, ornate details, and mix of styles, including Romanticism, Gothic, and Moorish influences, create a visually captivating subject. Photographers can capture close-up shots of the intricate tile work, decorative motifs, and ornamental features that adorn the palace’s exterior, highlighting the unique character and craftsmanship.

Play of Light and Shadow: The changing light conditions throughout the day add another layer of charm to Pena Palace. Photographers can take advantage of the interplay of light and shadow to create captivating compositions depending on the time of the day they plan to visit. The soft glow of sunrise or sunset cast a warm hue on the palace, while the midday sun creates dramatic shadows. These lighting conditions can add depth, texture, and mood to your photographs.

Seasonal Beauty: While soaking in the scenic views I wondered how it would look during peak of winters! Will it be covered with snow? Pena Palace’s surroundings undergo seasonal transformations that photographers can capture. In spring, the park bursts with colorful blooms, providing a vibrant backdrop for photos. In autumn, the foliage displays rich hues of red, orange, and gold, creating a picturesque scene.

Atmospheric Weather: Sintra’s elevated location often leads to unique weather conditions. Misty mornings, low-hanging clouds, or the occasional fog rolling in can create a mystical and ethereal atmosphere around the palace. These atmospheric elements lend a sense of intrigue and fairy-tale quality to your pictures, making them truly captivating and evocative.

Composition and Perspective: Pena Palace offers photographers a plethora of compositional possibilities. With its multiple towers, terraces, and viewpoints, you must experiment with different angles and perspectives to create visually interesting and dynamic shots. The juxtaposition of the palace against the backdrop of the sky and surrounding landscape allows for creative framing and storytelling through photographs.

Details and Close-ups: While capturing the grand views, don’t forget to zoom in and focus on the intricate details and textures found within Pena Palace. The ornamental carvings, decorative tiles, and finely crafted architectural elements offer plenty of opportunities for close-up shots.

Architectural details of National Pena Palace

The must photograph sights are:

• Drawbridge
• A conglomeration of turrets
• Ramparts and domes
• A gargoyle above a Neo-Manueline arch
• Extravagant interior decorated in late Victorian and Edwardian furnishings
• Paintings and priceless porcelain preserved

All just as the royal family left them in 1910 when the Portuguese royal court fled to Brazil to escape the revolution.

Pena Park

As you embark on your incredible one-day trip to Pena Palace, make sure to include a visit to its breathtaking park. Trust me, it’s a sight to behold! You can truly appreciate the dedication King Ferdinand put into its decoration, as if he handpicked every detail himself. The park is a true testament to his love for nature and beauty.

What amazed me the most was the remarkable variety of plant species from all corners of the world. From towering trees from Australia to delicate blooms from China and vibrant flora from America, the park showcases a rich tapestry of vegetation that truly takes your breath away.

But here’s the best part: the park is full of delightful surprises that keep you in awe throughout your visit. As I wandered along its pathways, I stumbled upon tranquil lakes, charming footbridges, and charming pavilions that provided perfect spots to rest and soak in the serene atmosphere. And let’s not forget the secret passages that whispered tales of mystery and adventure.

So, as you plan your visit to Pena Palace, make sure to set aside time to immerse yourself in the Pena park’s wonder.

Mexican Cypress in Pena Park Sintra

Planning Your Visit to Pena Palace: Tips and Recommendations

Timing and Crowds: Pena Palace can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. To avoid long queues and crowded spaces, consider visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon when the number of visitors tends to be lower. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends. Arriving early also allows you to explore the palace and its surroundings with more tranquility.

Ticket Purchase: purchase your tickets in advance which allow you to skip the ticket queue and proceed directly to the entrance. Or else, consider purchasing a combined ticket if you plan to visit other attractions in Sintra, as it can provide cost savings. Check here: PenaPalaceTickets

Travel modes – How to reach Pena Palace? Sintra is located about 30 km west of Lisbon. You can reach Sintra by train from Lisbon. Alternatively you can try buses and taxis. We rented a car for more flexibility in exploring the region. However it took some time to find parking space. It is important that you arrive early.

Comfortable Attire: Pena Palace involves some walking, including uphill sections and staircases. Therefore, wearing comfortable shoes and clothing is recommended to ensure an enjoyable visit. Bringing a light jacket or layer can prove helpful, as the weather in Sintra can be cooler and more unpredictable due to its elevated location.

Exploring the Grounds: Pena Palace is not just about the palace itself; the surrounding Pena Park is a beautiful area to explore. It is huge, about 200 hectares of land. Set aside enough time to wander through the park, discover hidden paths, and enjoy the serene atmosphere. The park offers stunning viewpoints, picnic areas, and beautiful flora, making it worth dedicating some time to explore.

Photography Tips: Pena Palace and its surroundings offer numerous photo opportunities. So glad, that I was armed with my camera (Smartphone) with ample battery life and memory space. The viewpoints from the palace and the surrounding park are particularly captivating. Don’t hesitate to experiment with angles and perspectives to capture unique shots.

Colorful facade of Pena Palacio

Guided Tours: If you wish to get deeper insights into the history and architecture of Pena Palace join a guided tour, however we were on a self guided trip. Check in advance to see if guided tours are available and book one that suits your preferences.

Timings to National Pena Palace Portugal

Open every day of the year, except December 25th and January 1st.
The Pena Palace hours are between 9.30 AM to 6.30 PM; the last entry is at 6 PM.
Pena park is open from 9 AM to 7 PM, the last entrance is at 6 PM.

Tickets for Palace and Park

Pena Palace tickets that include a visit to the Pena Palace and the park and cost 14 € per person, with certain discounts for children, families, and seniors
If you want to visit only Pena Park and admire just the palace facade, Tickets cost 7.5 €.

We took the Timed-Entry Tickets to the National Palace of Pena and Pena Park. The inclusions in this ticket were:

• Flexible duration
• Entrance to Pena Palace
• Entrance to the park
• Entrance to the Chalet of the Countess of Edla
• We didn’t take Shuttle service between the main entrance of the Park and the Palace (optional)
• Guided tour inside Pena Palace (optional)
• Guided tour of Sintra and/or Regaleira (optional)
• Guided tour of Cabo da Roca, Cascais & Estoril (optional)

Other tickets available are:

• 4.5 Hour Guided Tour of Sintra with Entry to Pena Palace – duration 4 hr 30 min
• Guided Tour of Pena Palace, Cabo da Roca, Cascais & Estoril from Lisbon – duration – 9 hr

Pena Palace Tickets

How to enter Pena Palace?

There are two entrances to the Palace, the main gate and the gates of the park. You can avoid the walk uphill by taking the short, but paid, bus service to the main gate. We enjoyed our walk uphill going in through the park entrance.

Where is Pena Palace located?

The Pena Palace (Portuguese: Palácio da Pena) is a Romanticist castle in São Pedro de Penaferrim, in the municipality of Sintra, on the Portuguese Riviera.
Address: Estrada da Pena, 2710-609 Sintra, Portugal.

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