Add dates

Sintra Palace

Sintra Palace: Our most recommended tours and activities

Sintra: Castle of the Moors Fast Track Ticket

1. Sintra: Castle of the Moors Fast Track Ticket

The Castle of the Moors was classified as a National Monument in 1910 and it also forms part of the Sintra Cultural Landscape classified by UNESCO as World Heritage Site in 1995. It soars 412 m above sea level and looms high above the surrounding forest.  The 10th-century Moorish castle’s dizzying ramparts stretch across the mountain ridges and past moss-clad boulders the size of small buses. The best walking route here from Sintra-Vila is not along the main road but the quicker, partly off-road route via Rua Marechal Saldanha. The steep trail is around 2 km, but quiet and rewarding.  Once you reach the castle, the views over Sintra’s palace-dotted hill, across to the glittering Atlantic are breathtaking. Along the walkways, you can admire the unique landscape that in the foreground features Sintra town and its town hall, the Palace of Pena and the hills. In the background, admire the extensive plain running northwards and the Atlantic Ocean.

Sintra: Monserrate Palace and Park Skip-the-Line Ticket

2. Sintra: Monserrate Palace and Park Skip-the-Line Ticket

Four kilometers from Sintra’s historic center is the unique Monserrate Palace, located in the center of a beautiful 30-hectare park. The Park and Palace of Monserrate were included in the Cultural Landscape of Sintra, which was been classified by UNESCO as World Heritage Site in 1995. The 19th-century castle is known not only for its unique Moorish-Gothic-Indian style architecture but also for its surrounding gardens.  Over the years, the gardens have welcomed plant species from all over the world. In the various gardens, you will find surprisingly contrasting scenery, from tree ferns from Australia and New Zealand, to agaves and yuccas from Mexico. Seek out the Himalayan rhododendron and the bamboo-fringed Japanese garden abloom with camellias. Enjoy a stroll along the paths and discover ruins, lakes and waterfalls. 

National Palace of Sintra and Gardens Fast Track Ticket

3. National Palace of Sintra and Gardens Fast Track Ticket

Explore 1,000 years of Portuguese history with a skip-the-line entry ticket to the National Palace of Sintra. Enter the historic monument, first built as a Moorish castle after the Umayyad conquest of Hispania in the 8th century. Follow in the footsteps of the first king of Portugal, who extended the fortress in 1147. Marvel at how later extensions made use of the natural landscape as you admire the Manueline and Mudejar designs of the interior courtyards and discover windows with surmounted arches and walls covered in glazed tiles of geometric patterns.

Sintra: Hop-on Hop-Off Bus Travel Pass

4. Sintra: Hop-on Hop-Off Bus Travel Pass

Get access to all the tourist lines and local bus routes in the towns of Sintra with a 24-hour travel pass. Enjoy comfortable rides on air-conditioned buses to visit all the main landmarks in the area at your own pace. Hop on and off as many times as you wish for 24 hours without paying extra. Once you have finished visiting a landmark, simply catch the next bus and enjoy a comfortable journey to the next location. Discover the mesmerizing landmarks of the UNESCO Cultural Landscape of Sintra, including the stunning Quinta da Regaleira, the Moorish Castle, and the famous Pena Palace. Visit: • Moorish Castle • Pena Palace • Sintra Town Palace • Quinta da Regaleira Palace • Monserrate Palace

Lisbon: Sintra, Pena Palace and Cascais Day Trip

5. Lisbon: Sintra, Pena Palace and Cascais Day Trip

Embark on a captivating journey into the heart of enchantment with our Sintra and Cascais guided tour, where you'll witness the allure of Portugal's most mesmerizing destinations. Brace yourself for an extraordinary adventure that promises lasting memories. The first leg of the tour takes you to the captivating town of Sintra, renowned for its immense historical significance and natural beauty. Instead of heading directly to the palace, you'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the town's enchanting streets. As you wander through Sintra, you'll feel the echoes of a time long past, with its cobbled streets, ancient buildings, and local tales that resonate with history. Delight in the town's unique architecture, vibrant local markets, and the whispered legends of kings and queens that seem to linger in every corner. Next, you'll make your way to the majestic Park and National Palace of Pena, an enchanting hilltop retreat that seems like it's been plucked straight from a fairy tale. As you ascend towards the palace, you'll be greeted with breathtaking views of lush greenery and the surrounding countryside. The palace itself is a dazzling fusion of colors and architectural styles, showcasing an eclectic blend of Neo-Gothic, Neo-Renaissance, and Moorish influences. Take your time exploring the charming gardens, dotted with exotic plants and hidden grottoes as you uncover the romanticism that pervades every corner of this enchanting haven. Continuing your journey, you'll arrive at the mesmerizing Guincho Beach. Let the forceful waves of the Atlantic and the gentle rustle of surrounding dunes envelop you in nature's embrace. This stunning sandy expanse is a testament to nature's raw beauty, where you can feel the cool ocean breeze, hear the roaring surf, and be awed by the sheer vastness of the coastline. Your journey then brings you to the charming coastal town of Cascais, a haven of elegance and relaxation. Wander through its picturesque streets, lined with quaint cafes, boutique shops, and beautiful architecture. Feel the vibrant energy of the town as you interact with friendly locals and immerse yourself in its laid-back atmosphere. The two hours spent in Cascais will give you ample time to soak in the coastal charm and perhaps enjoy some delicious seafood by the water's edge. While passing through Estoril, another coastal gem, there won't be a stop, but you'll catch glimpses of its cosmopolitan allure. This glamorous town has been a playground for the rich and famous, attracting visitors with its luxurious resorts, pristine beaches, and vibrant nightlife. As your adventure comes to a close, you'll carry the memories of Sintra's enchanting palaces, the exhilaration of standing at the edge of Europe, and the coastal charm of Cascais.

From Lisbon: Pena Palace, Regaleira, Sintra & Cascais Tour

6. From Lisbon: Pena Palace, Regaleira, Sintra & Cascais Tour

Travel to the wonderfully preserved city of Sintra on this day trip from Lisbon. Have some free time to explore Pena Palace, see stunning views of the National Park and Moorish Castle, and stop at the viewpoint at Guincho Beach for panoramic views of Roca and Cascais. Be picked up from our meeting point or Hotel in Lisbon. Sit back and relax on the scenic drive through the countryside to Sintra. Take some time to explore the vibrantly colored hilltop castle of Pena Palace ,free time at Quinta da Regaleira and Sintra Old Town to admire one of the many views over the National Park and the ocean. Continue to Guincho Beach, where you can see the westernmost point of continental Europe, Roca. Snap some breathtaking shots of the impressive views of the ocean crashing against the high rocky cliffs and cross the sand dunes in front of the ocean. Arrive in Cascais, an elegant seaside resort town on the Portuguese Riviera. Stroll through the lovely city center and check out Cascais’ luxury marina, its charming fishing port, and a restored fort that houses many local craftsmen.

From Lisbon: Pena Palace Visit & Sintra Guided Day Trip

7. From Lisbon: Pena Palace Visit & Sintra Guided Day Trip

On this guided day trip, experience the natural and cultural wonders of Portugal as you travel from Lisbon to Pena Palace. Explore the medieval streets and local cuisine of Sintra Village. Admire the beauty of Roca Cape and Guincho Beach in Sintra-Cascais Natural Park before returning to Lisbon. Your day trip sets out from Lisbon. Relax as you travel to Sintra's Mountain, home to the Pena National Palace of Portugal. Enjoy this prime example of 19th-century Romantic architecture, a UNESCO world heritage site, with elements of Renaissance, Manueline, and Moorish styles. Next, discover the beautiful palace gardens with rare plants and trees from all over the world. Follow the garden trails to the mountaintop, where you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the peaceful forests and gardens with exotic plants and flowers. Gaze down at the coastline and Lisbon below. Continue your tour in Sintra Village and visit the Historical Center. Wander the streets of this medieval village, taste the "Travesseiros de Sintra" and "Queijadas de Sintra" - both traditional local pastries - and enjoy the magical landscape that has inspired so many artisits, writers, and kings. After lunch, drive along one of Sintra's picturesque roads to Roca Cape, the westernmost point of continental Europe. Experience the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean as it crashes against high rocky cliffs. Further on, you'll make your way to Cascais. Pause in Sintra-Cascais Natural Park at the beautiful Guincho Beach. Admire the white sand dunes in contrast with the Serra de Sintra hills as the ocean waves pound the sand. Glimpse surfers enjoying the strong swells. In Cascais, also known as the French Riviera, take some time to explore the charming city center and enjoy the elegant ambience of this seaside resort town. Finally, after some leisurely strolling, board the minivan and relax with more beautiful views on the way back to Lisbon.

From Lisbon: Quinta da Regaleira, Sintra & Cascais Day Trip

8. From Lisbon: Quinta da Regaleira, Sintra & Cascais Day Trip

On your trip to Lisbon, you must set aside a day to explore the surrounding area. This is a must if you want to leave the city having seen everything. Because although it may not seem like it, Portugal's most impressive treasures are to be found in the surrounding area. Departing from Lisbon, you will have the opportunity to visit many of the most beautiful places in the country. The starting point will be at one of Lisbon's most iconic squares, Pedro IV Square. From there, you'll head to Sintra, where you'll discover all the charms of this marvellous town with the best team of local guides. It will be there where you will see for the first time one of those monuments that impresses everyone who has the opportunity to appreciate it: The National Palace of Sintra will welcome you to the city. Quinta da Regaleira Our route will take you to one of the most fascinating stops you can imagine: the Quinta da Regaleira. A priceless jewel that is part of Portugal's historical heritage. For this reason, we are aware that this is one of the must-visit places. Its extraordinary beauty will blow your mind. Quinta da Regaleira has everything to impress its visitors. First of all, its setting. Because few monuments of this style can be found in such a privileged space. Its heritage importance has led UNESCO to declare it a World Heritage Site. For the thousands of tourists who stop here every year, this is undoubtedly the most romantic place in Portugal. And after getting to know the Quinta da Regaleira, it is time to enter one of the most valuable villas in Portugal. And we say this because Sintra will surprise you with its monuments and historical buildings. We will visit the whole town, walking through all its streets and corners, so that you won't miss anything. Once in Cascais, you will discover all the charms that make up this charming town. A landscape that will leave you in awe and streets, houses and monuments that are ideal for getting lost and melting in their beauty. The Cascais Citadel is one of the must-see sights. It has its origins in the Middle Ages. Its outer wall, which is monumental, will give you a good clue as to how majestic the interior is. Strolling through the charming old quarter of Cascais, discovering the paradise formed by its beaches and reaching the Santa Marte lighthouse are plans that cannot be missed during your stay in Cascais. In addition, a stroll along the promenade will allow you to relax while you listen to the sound of the waves of the sea. You will also be able to enjoy the views of its mansions and monuments. Before finishing the excursion, you will also have some free time in Cascais before heading back to Lisbon. Don't hesitate any longer, come with us and spend an unforgettable day!

From Lisbon: Sintra, Cascais, and Cabo da Roca Day Trip

9. From Lisbon: Sintra, Cascais, and Cabo da Roca Day Trip

Explore the greater Lisbon area on a full-day trip with stories of local legends, fairytale palaces, history and more. First stop of the day will be to Sintra Mountain where you can appreciate the magnificent views over the Sintra historic center, including the Moorish Castle and Pena Palace. Leaving the mountain behind, continue at the historic Sintra National Palace before exploring shops and pausing for lunch at a traditional local restaurant. After lunch you will be able to visit the Quinta da Regaleira, the unique palace with gardens full of myths, legends and secrets. Changing directions to the coastline, Cabo da Roca is the next stop on this tour. The westernmost point of Continental Europe has a stunning view and lays 143 meters above sea level. Peruse the fishing village Cascais, known as the Portuguese Riviera. Enjoy the sights at Guincho beach, Boca do Inferno and Cascais Bay.

From Lisbon: Sintra and Pena Palace Tour

10. From Lisbon: Sintra and Pena Palace Tour

Benefit from pickup at your hotel in Lisbon, and then travel to the UNESCO World Heritage monument of Pena Palace, one of the finest expressions of 19th-century Romanticism in the world. Marvel at the extravagant decorations and royal collections of the opulent interiors, and get amazing views from the rooftop cafe and terraces. You then head down to Sintra to enjoy some free time to shop or explore the historical center. Try the local pastries and take souvenir photos of the best-preserved medieval royal residence in Portugal, the Sintra National Palace. Continue towards the historic estates of Seteais and Monserrate on the way to Cabo da Roca. Get panoramic views from the westernmost point of mainland Europe, and take souvenir photos of the surfers paradise of Guincho Beach. Stop at the village of Cascais and take some walk along the bay before the return journey to Lisbon.

Available activities

83 activities found
Sort by:
Page 1 of 6

Other Sightseeing Options in Sintra Palace

Want to discover all there is to do in Sintra Palace? Click here for a full list.

What people are saying about Sintra Palace

Overall rating

4.5 / 5

based on 1,795 reviews

The National Palace is the less visited of the 2 main attractions in Sintra, therefore much less crowded than the Pena Palace. We were able to enjoy the palace at a leisurely pace. The collection of art, tiles and ceramics was excellent and the reception room was spectacular. The other advantage is it's right in the center of town, so no long bus ride is necessary. Definitely worth the visit if you go to Sintra.

The Sintra and Pena Palace tour is a must do for all travellers to put on the top of their list of things to do when in Lisbon, known locally as Lisboa. The access roads are not easy to negotiate and so organising a driver and guide is essential. The guides provided were wonderful people who knew their stuff.

We were picked up promptly by our guide, James! He took his time to explain everything and was very knowledgeable! A great day, thank you.

The visit to Sintra was excellent. Our guide did a good job in explaining the history and the the significance of Sintra.

Amazing guide, she definitely made our trip very enjoyable and stress free! Highly recommended this activity