13 Things to do in Sintra
Hilltop-perched palaces, eerie castles and ancient walls paint this Portuguese town as one of the most captivating escapes. Before you peruse the sites and indulge in pastel de nata, check out these top things to do in Sintra, Portugal.
Sintra is known for the vibrant Pena Palace and other-worldly Quinta da Regaleira. Framed by a fusion of architectural styles and time-worn attractions, the landscape looks like it’s been ripped straight out of an adventure book.
During your holiday in Sintra, you can expect misty morning fog, verdant terrain and fewer crowds than in the capital city.
It’s only a 40-minute day trip from Lisbon, making it worth a day trip. If you tire of the capital city, this is the perfect stop to slide into your itinerary. And you may even find that you want to spend more than one day in Sintra!
Make your Sintra vacation unforgettable with these activities and top-rated attractions.
The top things to do in Sintra, Portugal, certainly come in no shortage. But we’ve narrowed down the best of the best so that you can save both time and money. Let’s get to it.
Best Things to do in Sintra, Portugal
Whether you’re travelling to Portugal for 7 days, 10 days or 14 days, Sintra deserves a spot in your itinerary. Although Cascais steals many visitors’ attention, it is well worth doing a Sintra day trip from Lisbon.
While you can see the major attractions in one day in Sintra, it’s best to set aside at least two to three days. During this time, you can fully immerse yourself in the history, culture and cuisine, while travelling at a leisurely pace.
On my trip to Portugal, we road-tripped along the Algarve Coast, up to Lisbon, and ended our stay with one week in Sintra.
Hazy mornings were spent sightseeing in the hilltops, late afternoons in the Old Town and evenings were filled with all the food I could’ve asked for.
Here’s a summary of the top things to do in Sintra:
Cabo da Roca
Hispano Moresque Tile Workshop
The Santuario da Peninha
Convento dos Capuchos
National Palace of Sintra
Villa Sassetti Trail
The Old Town
Monserrate Palace
Food
Quinta da Regaleira
Beaches
Moorish Castle
Pena Palace
13. Cabo da Roca
Kick off your Sintra vacation in the westernmost point of continental Europe. Cabo da Roca calls for adventure, with it’s wild waves and striking rock formations.
Portugal is famous for its beaches, and this iconic spot will leave you in awe (especially if the weather pulls up). There are many things to do in Sintra, but if you tire of the countless castles and palaces, a day at the beach could be exactly what you need.
Cabo da Roca is marked by a large, stone column that reads: “Aqui... onde a terra se acaba e o mar começa” (“Here... where the land ends and the sea begins”), a quote by Portuguese poet, Luís de Camões.
As part of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, you’ll see stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Peer up at one of Portugal’s oldest lighthouses, the Cabo da Roca Lighthouse, which was built in 1772. This rugged terrain is dominated by the 140-metre-high clifftops, so be sure to admire the wave-warped coastal cliffs (a photographer’s delight!).
If you’re looking for free things to do in Sintra, Cabo da Roca is a must-see. This is a popular tourist attraction in Sintra; you can expect big crowds, tour buses and busy parking. There is also a restaurant, gift shop and bathrooms for your convenience.
12. Sintra: Hispano Moresque Tile Workshop
Get crafty on your Sintra trip! Portugal is known for its azulejos, colourful tiles traditionally used in buildings around the country. Make your own and take home a unique souvenir.
Things to do in Sintra, Portugal, typically involve a lot of history and sightseeing. And a workshop is the perfect way to break up your trip. Learn the traditional "Aresta" tile crafting and painting technique as you discover the cultural impact of Islamic influence in Sintra.
In this workshop, you’ll create a clay-moulded tile and paint another one with coloured glazes. Take your pick between a wide selection of motifs, then pick up your painted tile later and bring it home.
11. The Santuario da Peninha
This scenic place will take you off the beaten track. The Santuario da Peninha is located about 20 minutes from Sintra, and the grounds are completely free to visit.
The Santuário da Peninha is a small chapel and former sanctuary located in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. This place to visit in Portugal is less popular with tourists, but it offers awe-worthy panoramas of the Atlantic Ocean and Sintra Mountains.
There isn’t much to do here, but it is one of the top things to do in Sintra just based off its beauty. The landscape oozes natural splendour, and even just 30 minutes is enough to take it all in. Make the most of your time and pack a picnic to enjoy here.
The Santuário da Peninha has religious origins dating back to the 16th century. It provides a 360-degree view of the region, thanks to its position at 488 meters above sea level. There’s even an unfinished 20th-century palace, as well as several scenic trails.
You can drive close to the site, but the last stretch requires a short hike. If you choose to visit, pack a jacket as this spot can get notoriously windy.
10. Convento dos Capuchos
Minimalist architecture and a rocky landscape combine to make Convento dos Capuchos one of the most unique things to do in Sintra.
Framed by forested surroundings, this 16th-century Franciscan monastery is much less visited. The humble Convento dos Capuchos offers a sharp contrast to the opulent palaces in town.
The ‘Cork Convent’ is situated in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. The simple architecture is made up of tiny stone rooms, small doorways and basic living spaces which reflect the Franciscan values of the time. The convent’s nickname comes from the many doors, windows and walls that are lined with cork.
Trail the overgrown pathways, admire the moss-covered walls and soak in the serenity of these quite surroundings. If you wish to visit the Convento dos Capuchos, a car is the best mode of transport.
9. National Palace of Sintra
The colourful clash of Moorish, Gothic and Manueline architecture makes the National Palace of Sintra a must-see for many.
This tourist attraction was built in the 14th century and was used by Portuguese monarchs for centuries on end. The National Palace of Sintra is considered one of the best-preserved medieval royal residences in Portugal.
The scene is illustrated by two massive conical chimneys and astonishing azulejo tilework. Highlights include the Swan Room, the Coat of Arms Room, the Magpie Room and the Tile Room. With over 1000 years of history, the National Palace of Sintra takes first place as the oldest palace in the country.
You can expect to spend one to two hours exploring the National Palace of Sintra. While it can get busy, you’ll find that most tourists lean towards more popular attractions. The National Palace of Sintra is a great thing to do in Sintra on a day trip, even if it’s your first time visiting.
8. Villa Sassetti Trail
This awe-inspiring hiking trail links Sintra Old Town to the Moorish Castle and Pena Palace. The Villa Sassetti Trail is a must for any avid adventurer!
With sublime views of the mountains, this hiking route is widely considered one of the top free things to do in Sintra.
The Villa Sassetti Trail is the main hiking trail is mostly shaded and begins near the top of the Old Town. The cobbled walking path winds through manicured gardens and past Villa Sassetti, a 19th-century Italian-esque mansion.
The trail splits at several points, with each spot looping back to the main trail.
If you’re anything like me and fear getting lost, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that all roads lead back to the same track. Along the way, you’ll encounter a mix of dirt trails and steep steps.
The trail ends at the Moorish Castle, then it’s another five-minute walk to the Pena Palace. The hike usually takes around one hour to complete, but it depends on your fitness and the weather conditions.
7. The Old Town
A stay in Sintra ushers in romance, nature and a fairytale-like feel. The Old Town captures all that and more, making it one of the best things to do in Sintra, Portugal.
Sintra is separated into two different areas - the new and old town. The Old Town in Sintra is very walkable, and exploring on foot boasts a world of opportunities. Stumble in and out of the cosy bars, sample local delicacies in the bakeries and lock lips with Port wine as you watch the sun go down.
Life in the Old Town revolves around the National Palace of Sintra and the original village has plenty to see. The UNESCO-listed historic centre is lined with winding streets, cafés and souvenir shops. Highlights include Volta do Duche (a scenic walkway), Praça da República (the main square) and Igreja de São Martinho (a 12th-century church).
This area of town can be explored in about an hour. The New Town sits in the east and is connected to the Old Town via wide sidewalks. If you’re driving to Sintra, park in the first spot you see available. Parking in Sintra is notoriously limited, and it can be a bit of a nightmare trying to find spaces.
6. Monserrate Palace
Amp up your Sintra vacation with a visit to this 16th-century Romantic palace. The Montserrate Palace is woven with strong Moorish and Indian influences, pinning it as one of the top things to do in Sintra, Portugal.
Monserrate Palace has served a huge haul of purposes over the years, from a hermitage to a hospital. This is viewed as one of the most important Romanticism-inspired landscapes in Portugal. The humble structure can be explored in just one hour or so, making it an ideal spot for any Sintra day trip.
Highlights include the ornate interiors, carved arches, intricate stucco work and central dome. When you’re done admiring this architectural delight, stroll around the surrounding exotic botanical gardens. You’ll find species from around the world!
5. Food
It turns out that one of the best things to do in Sintra is to eat. Pack your appetite because this place is a foodie’s paradise.
Must-try pastries include queijada and travesseiro, and you can find these treats in most of the bakeries in town. Local favourites include Tascantiga, Romaria de Baco and Apeadeiro. For homestyle Portuguese food, you can’t go wrong with the latter option. Set aside an evening to indulge in the food scene - calamari, roasted peppers, pork belly and more. Uh, I’m drooling just thinking about it.
For the ultimate stay in Sintra, join this organised food tour. This local tour offers the best tastings of savoury, sweet and drinks. Begin the tour with a coffee and ouriço (regional pastry delicacy), while you learn about the rich culinary culture in Portugal.
4. Quinta da Regaleira
This 20th-century mystical estate is one for the books. If you’re looking for the best things to do in Sintra, add Quinta da Regaleira to your bucket list.
Quinta da Regaleira is famous for its Initiation Well, an eerie underground spiral staircase.
The site features hidden tunnels, secret passages and 19th-century Gothic architecture and is filled with tales of the Knights of Templar and the Freemasons.
The surrounding gardens are lined with lakes, grottos and towers, and you could easily spend half a day here. No day trip to Sintra is complete without visiting the Quinta da Regaleira, so set aside at least 1.5 to 3 hours to explore.
3. Beaches Near Sintra
A splash in the sea is the best way to break up any standard sightseeing experience. Portugal is famous for its beaches, so escape the town and dig your feet in the sand!
There are a handful of breezy beaches near Sintra, from Praia da Ursa to Praia Grande. Downhill trekking and winding trails lead you to staggering clifftops and large rock formations. My favourite beaches include Praia da Adraga, Azenhas do Mar and Praia da Aguda.
The beaches are one of the best things to do in Sintra, Portugal. Especially during the warmer months! If you have more than one day in Sintra, check out these famous beaches:
Praia da Ursa – Located near Cabo da Roca, it‘s best for hiking and photography.
Praia Grande – This large, sandy beach is ideal for surfing and sunbaking.
Azenhas do Mar – This seaside village is home to whitewashed houses on the cliffs.
Praia das Maçãs – This family-friendly beach will keep the whole gang entertained.
2. Moorish Castle
Fill your Sintra trip with verdant forests and soaring walls - the Castelo dos Mouros (Moorish Castle) should be at the top of your itinerary.
The 8th-century Moorish Castle was once used to defend the region from invaders, so it’s rife with historical finds. Aside from its rich history, the lyrical landscapes are painted by views of Pena Palace, Sintra, the forested mountains and Atlantic Ocean.
Built by the Moors and then later reconquered by the Portuguese, Castelo dos Mouros is features well-preserved stone walls and watchtowers. This iconic attraction can be accessed via the Villa Sassetti Trail and takes around one to two hours to complete.
Make the most of your time in the Moorish Castle with a guided tour. Your guide will take you through the history and culture that’s shaped it into one of the most unique things to do in Sintra.
1. Pena Palace
Your holidays in Sintra promise plenty of history, food and fascinating sites. Among all the architectural gems, Pena Palace steals the show.
If you’re on a day trip from Lisbon, don’t miss the Pena Palace (Palácio da Pena).
The most famous landmark in Sintra is characterised by a colourful palace that’s perched on a hilltop. Constructed in the 19th century by King Ferdinand II, you can admire the mix of Romantic, Moorish and Manueline styles.
With panoramic views of Sintra and the Atlantic Ocean, it’s easy to spend a few hours here. Highlights include the ornate Great Hall, the Queen’s Terrace and leafy gardens. Make the most of your trip and opt for a guided tour.
Pena Palace is one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal, and the site was once used as a church and a monastery.
This is the best thing to do in Sintra, so be sure to book your tickets a couple of days in advance. It’s best to visit as soon as the gates open, as the crowds and waiting times can become frustratingly long.
One Day in Sintra Itinerary
So, now you’re up to speed on the best things to do in Sintra. From the ancient castles to the vibrant palaces, this charming town is one of the best places to visit in Portugal.
If you have one day in Sintra, you may be wondering how to squeeze in all the top attractions. In this 1-day itinerary, we cover everything you need to know.
Morning: Arrive in Sintra & Pena Palace
Arrive in Sintra
8:30 AM - 9:00 AM
Take the train from Lisbon (Rossio Station) for 40 minutes.
Arrive early to avoid the crowds. If you’re driving, finding parking can be challenging after 9:30 am.
Take Bus 434
9:00 AM - 9:15 AM
Head straight to the most famous attraction in Sintra
The steep walk to Pena Palace takes 45 minutes, so taking the bus is ideal.
Bus 434 connects Sintra Station, Moorish Castle, Pena Palace and the Old Town.
Additionally, you could opt for a taxi or Uber.
Explore Pena Palace (Book Tickets Prior)
9:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Start your day early and appreciate the colourful towers, grand halls and panoramas.
Walk through the lush Pena Park.
Moorish Castle (Optional)
11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Walk downhill for 15 minutes from Pena Palace.
Climb the ancient walls for unforgettable views of Sintra and the Atlantic Ocean.
Skip if you’re running short on time.
Afternoon: Lunch Break, Sintra Old Town & National Palace
Walk Down & Explore Sintra Old Town
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Stroll through Villa Sassetti Trail for a scenic descent (optional).
Take Bus 434 to the town centre.
Walk through the charming streets, filled with cafés, shops and azulejo-covered buildings.
Eat Lunch in the Old Town
1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
There are many restaurants, cafes and local bakeries to choose from.
Visit Casa Piriquita to taste local pastries:
Travesseiros (puff pastry with almond cream)
Queijadas (cheesy tarts)
Post-Lunch: Quinta da Regaleira & Cabo da Roca
Quinta da Regaleira
2:30 PM - 3:45 PM
Take a 15-minute walk from the Old Town to one of the most unique places in Portugal.
Explore the mystical palace and underground tunnels. Don’t miss the Initiation Well!
Taxi or Uber to Cabo da Roca
3:45 PM - 4:15 PM
Catch a cab to the westernmost point of mainland Europe.
Appreciate the stunning coastal vistas and watch the sunset.
Beach (Instead of Cabo da Roca)
4:15 PM - 5:30 PM
Praia da Ursa
Azenhas do Mar
Return to Lisbon
5:30 PM
Take the train from Sintra back to Lisbon (Rossio Station).
Avoid rush hour by leaving a little bit earlier or having dinner in Sintra before going back to the capital.
Best Time to Visit Sintra
The best time to visit Sintra, Portugal, depends on your preferences for budget, weather and activities. Here's a breakdown:
Spring
From March to May, you’ll experience pleasant weather with mild temperatures around 15–20°C (59–68°F). It’s a great time to see the flowers bloom, especially in places like the Monserrate Palace and Quinta da Regaleira. The spring is less crowded compared to summer, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Summer
From June to August, the weather averages 25–30°C (77–86°F). It’s worth noting that Sintra is cooler than nearby Lisbon due to its higher altitude, so be sure to pack extra layers. Summer is the peak tourist season in Sintra, so expect big crowds at attractions like Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle.
Autumn
From September to October, you’ll enjoy warm temperatures (20–25°C or 68–77°F). With fewer crowds after the summer season, it’s an ideal time for those seeking a mix of nice weather and smaller crowds. Plus, you can see the surrounding landscape light up with fall hues of orange, yellow and gold. Magical!
Winter
From November to February, Sintra has cooler weather that ranges from 8–15°C (46–59°F). This weather is perfect for hiking and sightseeing, especially if you don’t enjoy big crowds. It’s important to consider that the days are significantly shorter and there’s a much higher chance of rain or mist. This can effect the views from big attractions like Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle.
How to Get Around Sintra
Before you jet-set off on your Sintra holiday, let’s figure out the best way to get around.
Getting around Sintra can be a challenge due to its winding roads, steep streets and hilly terrain. Here’s a quick guide to help you navigate the area efficiently.
By Foot
Exploring the Old Town is best done on two feet. Sintra's historic centre is compact and walkable, and some attractions, like Quinta da Regaleira, are within 15 minutes walking distance. Be prepared for steep climbs and don’t forget comfortable walking shoes.
By Bus and Train
The top things to do in Sintra, Portugal are scattered around the town. The bus is the best budget option between major attractions. That said, peak season involves big crowds and long waiting times for public transport. If you’re taking a day trip from Lisbon, a Viva Viagem card makes train travel more convenient and affordable.
Bus 434: Connects Sintra train station, the historic centre, Moorish Castle and Pena Palace.
Bus 435: Connects Sintra train station, Quinta da Regaleira and the Palace of Monserrate.
By Car
Hiring a car offers the flexibility to visit off-the-beaten-path locations and travel on your own schedule. Keep in mind that driving in the city centre can be challenging due to limited parking and narrow roads.
Where to Stay in Sintra
Most travellers opt for a day trip to Sintra from Lisbon. That said, it’s not a bad idea to spend at least one night here. Most of the hotels in Sintra are locally run, so you’re bound to enjoy a unique experience.
Here are the best options for budget, mid-range and luxury accommodation in Sintra, Portugal:
Budget (€): Hotel Ibis Lisboa Sintra
Mid-Range (€€): NH Sintra Centro
Luxury (€€€): Penha Longa Resort
FAQs
Is Sintra, Portugal worth visiting?
Sintra is worth visiting if you’re interested in Portuguese history, culture and architectural influences. This place in Portugal offers a unique mix of natural beauty and rich history that’ll make your trip unforgettable.
Why is Sintra so famous?
Sintra is a town that showcases Portugal’s mix of cultural influences. You’ll find everything from Gothic and Egyptian to Moorish and Renaissance elements. The collection of castles and palaces creates a striking contrast between the surrounding landscape and the Atlantic Ocean.
How many days for Sintra?
You can visit Sintra on a day trip from Lisbon. That said, two to three days is enough to see the sites at a slower pace and fully immerse yourself in the town.
Can I do Sintra in half a day?
A half-day trip from Lisbon to Sintra can be done, but it’s not enough time to see all of the top attractions. In half a day, you could visit the Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira.
Top Things to do in Sintra, and Beyond!
Make your Sintra vacation unforgettable with this local guide. Whether you want to traverse the ancient walls or play dress-up in the palaces, you won’t regret spending time in this Portuguese town.
Before you travel to Portugal, save this guide on the best things to do in Sintra.