Things to Do in Sintra Portugal

Sintra, Portugal, a place that truly captures the essence of enchantment. The ancient fairytale palaces, majestic mountains, lush forests, and meticulously manicured gardens of Sintra Portugal weave together to create a destination that feels straight out of a dream. Whether you find solace in the city’s natural surroundings or prefer to wander the streets in search of hidden wonders nestled within the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city center, you will find plenty of things to do in Sintra.

What is Sintra Portugal known for?

Having said so much about Sintra, if you are still in two minds about is it worth going to Sintra, here are the reasons that should convince you why Sintra is worth visiting. Sintra, Portugal, is renowned for its captivating charm and distinctive features. It is primarily known for the following:

Fairytale Palaces: Sintra is famous for its fairytale-like palaces and castles that seem to emerge from the pages of a storybook. The most prominent among them is the Pena Palace, a vibrant and whimsical structure perched atop a hill, showcasing a fusion of architectural styles and colors.

Visit to fairy tale castles – Things to Do Sintra

Natural Scenic Beauty: The town is nestled amidst breathtaking natural landscapes, including rugged towering mountains, lush forests, and verdant valleys. This captivating scenery adds to the allure of Sintra and makes it a haven for nature lovers.

UNESCO World Heritage Site: Sintra’s historic center is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its exceptional cultural value and well-preserved architectural treasures. The town’s rich history and architectural diversity make it a fascinating destination to explore.

Manicured Gardens: Sintra is home to meticulously manicured gardens that enhance the beauty of its palaces and estates. The gardens, such as those found in Quinta da Regaleira or Monserrate Palace, are adorned with exotic plants, hidden tunnels, and ornate fountains, creating an enchanting atmosphere.

Beaches: Sintra is also known for its stunning beaches, which offer a picturesque escape from the town’s historic allure. Praia Grande and Praia da Adraga are two popular choices known for their natural beauty and excellent surfing conditions.

Sintra beaches

Gastronomy: Sintra’s culinary scene is characterized by fresh seafood delicacies and traditional Portuguese dishes. Visitors can indulge in mouthwatering meals featuring locally sourced ingredients while savoring the unique flavors of the region.

Festivals and Traditions: Sintra is steeped in cultural traditions, with various festivals celebrated throughout the year. These festivals showcase vibrant parades, traditional costumes, music, and dancing, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the rich heritage of the region.

With such an abundance of captivating experiences, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. To alleviate any uncertainty, we’ve curated a list of the absolute best things to do in Sintra. These exciting activities and attractions deserve a spot on your Sintra bucket list, ensuring an unforgettable exploration of one of Portugal’s most breathtaking regions.

Day Trip to Sintra from Lisbon

Sintra, a true gem of Portugal, is an unmissable destination, particularly if you’re already in Lisbon. Even a day trip to Sintra promises an incredible experience with countless attractions to behold. After learning how easily one can reach Sintra from Lisbon, we knew we had to seize the opportunity. That’s precisely why I feel compelled to share some valuable tips and highlight the best things to do in Sintra.

Renting a car made our Sintra adventure a breeze; providing us with the freedom to explore at our own pace. However, there are also private transfers, guided tours, and buses departing from the center of Lisbon, offering convenient alternatives. With that in mind, allow me to present a selection of the best things to do in Sintra during your visit. Wishing you an unforgettable trip filled with incredible memories!

Road trip to Sintra

How to Reach Sintra

If you have come this far I understand you are convinced that Sintra is worth visiting from Lisbon. First things first: How to reach Sintra?

Sintra is easily accessible from various locations in Portugal, particularly from Lisbon. Here are some common ways I studied while I was planning my road trip through Portugal. With all info in hand it seemed cheaper and time saving to hire a self driven car. However you may look at these modes of travel to reach Sintra:
By Train: The most convenient and popular way to reach Sintra is by train. From Lisbon, you can catch a train from the Rossio Station or the Oriente Station. Trains depart regularly throughout the day, and the journey takes around 40 minutes. Once you arrive at Sintra Station, you can explore the town by walking or taking local transportation.
By Car: If you prefer to drive, you can reach Sintra by car from Lisbon. It’s approximately a 30-minute drive via the A37 highway. However, keep in mind that parking in Sintra can be limited, especially during peak tourist seasons. It’s advisable to arrive early to secure a parking spot.
By Bus: There are also bus services available from Lisbon to Sintra. Several bus companies operate regular routes between the two cities, offering a cost-effective option for transportation. The journey duration varies depending on traffic conditions. The 434 Tourist Bus connects all the main sights to see once in Sintra.
Organized Tours: Another option is to join an organized tour that includes transportation to and from Sintra. Many tour companies in Lisbon offer day trips to Sintra, providing hassle-free transportation and guided sightseeing.

Please do check the schedules and plan your visit in advance, especially during peak tourist periods. Sintra is a popular destination, and ensuring a smooth journey will enhance your overall experience.

Tourist bus

About Sintra – Little bit of History

A load of historic remains have been found in Sintra. They date right from Paleolithic ages through Neolithic ages. Go further down the time line; artifacts of Bronze Age and Iron Age too have been found. All of them proved that there were human settlements around this place.

Roman remains from late BC to early AD have been found here. Several evidences of settlements have been exhibited. Some of the most prominent ones like Sintra Collar, a middle Bronze Age gold neck-ring found near the city at the end of the nineteenth century has found their way to British Museum.

Today Sintra (Santa Maria e São Miguel, São Martinho e São Pedro de Penaferrim) is a civil parish in the municipality of Sintra, Lisbon District, Portugal. It was formed in 2013 by the merger of the former parishes Santa Maria e São Miguel, São Martinho and São Pedro de Penaferrim.

Embark on awe-inspiring hike to Praia da Ursa

If you’re up for an adventure, take this exhilarating experience – hiking to Praia da Ursa in Sintra. Picture this: a pristine golden beach with soft sand that glistens under the sun nestled in a secluded bay. It’s a sight that will take your breath away.

Located north of Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of Europe, reaching Praia da Ursa involves a rewarding 45-minute to one-hour hike. During the trail, you’ll be greeted by the mesmerizing aquamarine waters crashing onto the shore, creating a symphony of white, frothy waves. The rugged cliffs flanking the coastline add a dramatic touch. It’s an offbeat destination in Sintra, mainly because reaching it can be a challenge. You can take a refreshing dip, feeling at one with nature, and soak up the tranquility of this hidden oasis.

Tip – There is new parking and a much closer trail to get to Ursa Beach nowadays.

Praia da Ursa Sintra

Tram Ride to Praia das Maçãs

One of the most delightful things to do in Sintra is to embark on a tram adventure. It’s not only a fantastic option for sightseeing but also a thrilling experience, especially if you’re traveling with kids who love different modes of transportation. I remember experiencing a similar tram ride in Kolkata a while back, and it was such a memorable journey.

Electrico de Sintra (tram) departs from the city center and takes you on an 8-mile journey to the picturesque beach resort of Praia das Maçãs, located to the west. The trams operating along this route have a charming history, dating back to the 1930s. Enjoy the clickety-clack of the tracks that transports you through time as you enjoy the scenic ride to Praia das Maçãs.

A single ticket from Praia das Maçãs to Sintra costs €3.00/€2.00/€2.00(adult/child/senior). Tickets are purchased from the driver on entry.

Quinta da Regaleira

For an unforgettable experience in Sintra, a visit to Quinta da Regaleira is an absolute must. This extraordinary palace, conceived by António Augusto Carvalho Monteiro, son of wealthy Portuguese parents, is a testament to his fascination with Divination, Knights Templar, and the Masons.

Prepare to be enchanted as you explore Quinta da Regaleira, discovering its hidden treasures and secret passages. The estate is a labyrinth of tunnels and grottoes, purposefully designed to amaze and bewilder visitors. Do recce of the intricate gazebos, sculpted benches, and the initiation wells. Don’t miss the central staircase of the Initiatic Well, enveloped in a blanket of lush moss, epitomizing the ethereal beauty of this place – picture perfect for Instagram.

The sheer magic and uniqueness of Quinta da Regaleira have earned it the prestigious status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Quinta da regaleira Stairs Sintra

Cruz Alta Sintra Mountain’s Viewpoint

One of the must-see attractions in Sintra is Cruz Alta, a captivating viewpoint that offers breathtaking panoramic vistas and a unique perspective the majestic Pena Palace, Mafra, Lisbon, the picturesque Tagus River estuary, and the vast Atlantic Ocean. Translated as High Cross in English, Cruz Alta lives up to its name with an ornate twisted cross perched high above the city.

To reach Cruz Alta, at an impressive elevation of 529 m, you’ll need to follow a paved hiking trail that winds its way through the enchanting Pena Park. This magical route is adorned with towering trees that provide a pleasant shade throughout the year.

Cruz Alta is located in the heart of Pena Park, approximately 4 km away from Sintra’s Historical Centre.

Google Coordinates: 38°47’09.4″N 9°23’34.5″W

Pena Palace and Park

Pena Palace or The Palacio Nacional da Pena (The Feather Palace) is famous for its whimsical design and breath taking views of the mountain sides. It is a fairy tale kind of palace and a must visit if you travel with family. It is Europe’s one of the most fantabulous palaces. Pena Palace was built in 1840s much before Neuschwanstein Castle and the other mock-medieval castles of Ludwig of Bavaria in Germany.

Step back in Time in the Castle of the Moors

Situated majestically atop its rocky perch, the Moorish Castle stands as one of the oldest historical sites in Sintra. Its origins can be traced back to the 8th century, when it was constructed with the purpose of safeguarding the local population, primarily engaged in agriculture.

Originally built by the Moors and later expanded after the Reconquista, the castle features undulating walls reminiscent of the Great Wall of China, interspersed with four imposing square towers. Known by various names such as the Castle of the Moors or Castelo dos Mouros, this iconic fortress is an absolute must-visit attraction in Sintra.

Perched on one of the city’s highest peaks, the Castle of the Moors stands alone, commanding breathtaking views over the town and its surroundings. Although mostly in ruins today, the remnants offer glimpses of the grandeur the fortress once possessed.

Castle of the Moors Sintra

Sintra National Place

Nestled lower on the hill, the Sintra National Palace, often referred to as the Town Palace, is a distinct entity separate from the Palace of Pena, situated higher up. Dating back to the 15th century, this remarkable palace stands as one of Portugal’s most well-preserved medieval royal residences. Today, it serves as a captivating historic house museum, offering visitors a glimpse into its storied past.

National Palace

Captivating Convent of the Capuchos

If you have some spare time, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the hidden gem of the Sintra area, the Convent of the Capuchos which has the harmonious blend of architecture, spirituality, and nature. This historical convent offers a captivating experience that can be enjoyed in just around 30 minutes.

Officially known as the Convento de Santa Cruz da Serra da Sintra, but commonly referred to as the Convent of the Capuchos, this remarkable site is composed of small living quarters and public spaces. It is situated in the civil parish of São Pedro de Penaferrim within the beautiful Sintra Municipality of Portugal. Despite its lesser-known status, the Convent of the Capuchos holds historical and cultural significance that is worth exploring during your time in Sintra.

Timings: Open every day of the year, except December 25th and January 1st. 10 AM to 6 PM. Last ticket and last admission 5 PM
Ticket Pricing: Ticket for adults (18 – 64 yrs): € 6, Ticket for youths (6 – 17 yrs) and seniors (over 65 yrs): € 5.5, Family ticket (2 adults + 2 youths): € 22

Monserrate Palace, a Testament to the Past

Tucked away in the lush Sintra Mountains, the Monserrate Palace is another enchanting gem that may require a bit of effort to reach for those on a day trip to Sintra. Formerly a summer retreat for the Portuguese court, this villa exudes elegance and charm.

The history of Monserrate dates back to 1540 when Friar Gaspar Preto commissioned the construction of a hermitage dedicated to Our Lady of Monserrate. Inspired by the beauty of the nearby Montserrat hermitage in Catalonia, Spain, the hermitage in Monserrate became a symbol of devotion and admiration.

What to Eat in Sintra – The Gastronomical Delights

This place offers a delightful culinary experience, with a range of delicious dishes and flavors to explore. Add this among the interesting things to do in Sintra – a gastronomic adventure. There are some of the local specialties and must-try foods:

Travesseiros: This is a signature pastry of Sintra. Travesseiros are delicious almond-filled pastries. These famous pillow shaped pastry (the word literally means pillow) is made with a delicate puff pastry, filled with a creamy almond and egg yolk mixture, and dusted with powdered sugar.

Queijadas de Sintra: Another popular sweet treat, queijadas de Sintra are small, round pastries made with cheese, eggs, sugar, and cinnamon.

Sopa da Pedra: Sopa da Pedra, meaning “stone soup,” is a hearty and flavorful traditional Portuguese soup that originated in Sintra. It is made with a variety of ingredients, including beans, cabbage, carrots, potatoes, chorizo, and pork. The soup gets its name from the traditional story of a monk who asked for a stone to make soup and cleverly convinced the villagers to contribute ingredients. It’s a comforting and satisfying dish.

Seafood: Being located close to the coast, Sintra offers excellent seafood dishes. From fresh fish like sea bass and sardines to seafood rice and seafood cataplana (a flavorful seafood stew), you can savor a variety of dishes highlighting the richness of the Atlantic Ocean. We had our quota of sardines, pasta and bread here.

Sardines pasta and bread

Roasted Suckling Pig (Leitão Assado): While not exclusive to Sintra, the region is known for its succulent and tender roasted suckling pig.

Local Wines: Pair your meal with some of the delicious wines produced in the nearby region of Colares.

These are just a few highlights of the culinary delights that Sintraa has to offer. Exploring the local restaurants and cafes will allow you to discover more traditional dishes and flavors that will make your visit a gastronomic adventure.

How many days for Sintra?

At the end the question looms large in mind, how many days woyld be ideal for seeing all the tourist attractions of Sintra? Ideally 2 days would be good, 1 day would have a tight itinerary and 3 days in Sintra would be a lavish and luxurious itinerary.

Parting Thoughts

Leaving Sintra with cherished memories and a sense of awe! From the fairytale-like palaces to the rugged mountains and enchanting gardens, this castle town has captivated my heart. The hidden wonders, rich history, and delectable treats have made this journey unforgettable. As I bid farewell to this magical place, I carry with me the beauty and tranquility this beautiful town has bestowed. Until we meet again, Sintra, thank you for the incredible experience.

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