Sintra is a charming and historic town located on the hills of the Serra de Sintra, just outside of Lisbon, Portugal. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a popular destination for tourists due to its stunning palaces, castles, and gardens, as well as its rich cultural heritage. Sintra’s picturesque streets, delightful climate, and beautiful landscapes make it an ideal place to explore, relax and enjoy. In this article, we will explore the best time to visit Sintra, how to get there, getting around, and the top 10 things to do while you’re there.
Weather and Best Time to Visit:
Sintra has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm summers and mild winters. The best time to visit Sintra is from April to June and September to October when the temperatures are pleasant and the crowds are thinner. July and August are the peak tourist season, and the town can get overcrowded, making it difficult to explore. During the winter months, the weather can be unpredictable, with occasional rain and lower temperatures.
How to Get There:
The easiest way to get to Sintra is by taking a train from Lisbon. The train journey takes around 40 minutes, and trains run every 20 minutes from Lisbon’s Rossio station. If you’re driving, take the A5 highway from Lisbon to Cascais and then follow the signs to Sintra. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or hire a private transfer.
Getting Around:
The best way to get around Sintra is on foot, as the town is relatively small, and the streets are narrow and steep. There is also a tourist bus that runs through the town and stops at all the major attractions. You can buy a hop-on-hop-off ticket for the bus and explore Sintra at your own pace.
FUN FACT: Sintra was a popular destination for Portuguese royalty, and the town is filled with stunning palaces and castles, including the colorful Pena Palace and the romantic Quinta da Regaleira.
10 Things to Do in Sintra:
1. Visit Pena Palace
The Pena Palace is a must-visit attraction in Sintra, Portugal, known for its stunning architecture, vibrant colors, and breathtaking views. Located on a hilltop in the heart of the town, the palace was built in the 19th century as a summer residence for the Portuguese royal family. Today, it’s a popular destination for tourists from around the world, and for good reason.
To make the most of your visit to the Pena Palace, there are some important details to keep in mind. Firstly, it’s located about 30 kilometers (18 miles) west of Lisbon, Portugal’s capital city. The palace is open every day except for certain holidays, and admission fees vary depending on whether you want to visit the palace only or both the palace and its gardens. To avoid long lines, it’s recommended to purchase your tickets online in advance, and guided tours are available for those who want to learn more about the history and architecture of the palace.
While visiting the Pena Palace, it’s important to be aware that the palace is located on a hill, and there are steep paths and stairs throughout the palace and gardens. Therefore, comfortable shoes are a must. Additionally, it’s best to avoid visiting during the peak tourist season from June to September, when the palace can get crowded. However, autumn is a great time to visit as the foliage changes color and the views are stunning.
Finally, there are other popular attractions in Sintra that are located near the Pena Palace, such as the Moorish Castle and the Quinta da Regaleira estate, which are also worth visiting. In conclusion, the Pena Palace is a remarkable destination that should not be missed when visiting Sintra.
2. Explore Quinta da Regaleir
Quinta da Regaleira is an enchanting estate located in Sintra, Portugal, that is famous for its gothic and romantic architecture, underground tunnels, and beautiful gardens. Built in the early 20th century, the estate was designed by the Italian architect Luigi Manini and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The most notable features of Quinta da Regaleira are the intricate and mysterious underground tunnels, which are believed to have been used by the Knights Templar.
Guided tours are available to explore the tunnels and learn about the history and symbolism of the estate. The gardens at Quinta da Regaleira are also worth exploring, with various hidden paths, grottoes, and waterfalls to discover. The estate is open every day of the week, and admission fees vary depending on whether you want to visit the palace and gardens or just the gardens. To avoid crowds, it’s recommended to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
3. See the Moorish Castle
The Moorish Castle is a historic fortress located in the hills above Sintra, Portugal. Originally built in the 8th and 9th centuries by the Moors, the castle was later conquered by the Portuguese during the Reconquista in the 12th century. Today, the castle is a popular tourist destination, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the town of Sintra below.
Visitors can explore the castle’s walls and towers, and learn about the history of the Moors in Portugal. The castle is open every day of the week, and admission fees are reasonable. It’s important to note that the castle is located on a hill and requires some walking and climbing, so comfortable shoes are recommended. The best time to visit the Moorish Castle is during the cooler months, as the castle can get crowded during the peak tourist season.
4. Wander through Sintra’s historic center
The historic center of Sintra is a charming and picturesque town located just a short distance from the stunning palaces and castles for which the region is famous. The center is filled with narrow, winding streets lined with traditional Portuguese houses, colorful storefronts, and plenty of restaurants and cafes.
Visitors to the historic center can explore the town’s many churches and monuments, including the Church of Sao Martinho and the Sintra National Palace. There are also plenty of shops selling local handicrafts and souvenirs. To fully immerse oneself in the town’s atmosphere, it’s recommended to visit during the quieter months, as the town can get quite crowded during peak tourist season.
FUN FACT: The town of Sintra has a mystical atmosphere, and it’s said that the Knights Templar used to hold secret meetings in the area. The underground tunnels at Quinta da Regaleira are believed to be part of their network.
5. Visit the National Palace of Sintra
The National Palace of Sintra is another must-visit attraction in the town. The palace, which dates back to the 14th century, was once the residence of the Portuguese royal family and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The palace features a mix of architectural styles, including Gothic, Manueline, and Mudejar, and is notable for its stunning tilework, elaborate courtyards, and intricate decoration.
Visitors can explore the palace’s many rooms, including the impressive Sala dos Cisnes (Swan Room), which features ceiling decorations depicting swans. The palace is open every day except for certain holidays, and admission fees vary depending on whether you want to visit the palace only or both the palace and its gardens. Guided tours are available for those who want to learn more about the history and architecture of the palace.
6. Hike in the Serra de Sintra Natural Park
Serra de Sintra Natural Park is a protected area located in the Sintra Mountains, just a short distance from the town of Sintra. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare species such as the Iberian lynx and the peregrine falcon. Visitors to the park can enjoy hiking and cycling trails that wind through the mountains, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. There are also several picnic areas and rest stops, making it a great place for a day trip with family and friends. The park is open year-round, and admission is free.
7. Taste the local cuisine
Sintra is also known for its delicious local cuisine, which combines traditional Portuguese flavors with fresh, local ingredients. One of the most famous dishes is the Queijadas de Sintra, a sweet pastry made with cheese, eggs, and sugar. Another popular dish is the Cozido de Sintra, a hearty stew made with various meats, vegetables, and beans. Seafood is also a highlight, with dishes such as grilled sardines and octopus salad featuring prominently on many menus. Visitors to Sintra should be sure to try these local specialties at one of the town’s many restaurants and cafes.
FUN FACT: Sintra’s mild climate and fertile soil make it an ideal place for growing fruits and vegetables. The town is known for its delicious pastries, including the famous “travesseiros” – a puff pastry filled with almond cream.
8. Explore Monserrate Palace
Monserrate Palace is another stunning palace located in Sintra, Portugal. The palace was built in the 19th century by Sir Francis Cook, an English businessman who fell in love with the region’s beauty. The palace is a mix of Gothic, Indian, and Moorish architectural styles and is surrounded by beautiful gardens filled with exotic plants and trees. Visitors to Monserrate Palace can explore the many rooms of the palace, including the music room, which features intricate plasterwork and stained glass windows. The gardens are also a highlight, with winding paths, waterfalls, and a stunning collection of plants from around the world. Guided tours are available, and the palace is open every day except for certain holidays.
9. Visit the Convent of the Capuchos
The Convent of the Capuchos, also known as the Convent of the Holy Cross, is a unique and fascinating religious complex located in the Sintra Mountains. The convent was built in the 16th century by a group of Franciscan monks who sought a simpler, more ascetic way of life. The complex is made up of tiny rooms and cells carved out of the rock, which the monks used as living quarters and chapels. The convent’s simple, rustic architecture and beautiful natural setting make it a must-visit attraction for those interested in religious history and architecture.
10. Take a day trip to Cascais
Cascais is a charming coastal town located just a short distance from Sintra, making it an excellent day trip destination. The town is known for its beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and lively atmosphere. Visitors to Cascais can spend their day exploring the town’s winding streets, admiring the colorful buildings and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
One of the main attractions in Cascais is the Boca do Inferno, a stunning natural feature that consists of a rock formation with a large hole eroded by the sea. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the ocean from the top of the cliffs, or take a walk down to the shoreline to experience the waves crashing against the rocks. Another must-see attraction is the Cascais Marina, a bustling harbor filled with colorful boats and yachts.
Cascais also boasts a rich cultural history, with several museums and historic buildings to explore. The Cascais Cultural Center is a modern venue that hosts a wide variety of exhibitions, concerts, and other events throughout the year. The town’s many cafes, restaurants, and shops also offer plenty of opportunities to sample local cuisine and pick up souvenirs.
Sintra is a town that offers something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just want to relax and enjoy the stunning scenery. With its charming streets, beautiful palaces and castles, and lush natural parks, Sintra is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Portugal. Plan your trip carefully, and be sure to explore all that this enchanting town has to offer.
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