The Fairy-Tale City of Sintra - An Enchanted Day Trip From Lisbon

Discover the magic of Sintra, a fairy-tale town very close to Lisbon. Our easy guide will help you enjoy a wonderful day trip full of beautiful sights and special places to explore.

Are you ready to visit a place that feels like it’s straight out of a fairy tale? Sintra is just that — a magical town full of beautiful castles, old buildings, and rich history. It’s located only about 40 minutes by train from Lisbon, making it a perfect spot for a day trip if you want to add something special to your Portugal travel plans. Although Sintra is small, it has many amazing sights packed into a small area, so you’ll want to take your time exploring. If possible, stay for two days to really enjoy everything without rushing. We visited in July when the weather was sunny and warm, but keep in mind that summer is also the busiest time. Lots of tourists come to see Sintra, so the main attractions can get crowded.

Still, the beauty and charm of this town make it worth the extra people. You’ll be amazed by places like the colourful and stunning Pena Palace and the peaceful gardens of Quinta da Regaleira. The town’s narrow streets are full of cute cafés and small shops where you can rest and soak in the local atmosphere. Whether you have just one day or more, Sintra promises a wonderful adventure full of magic, history, and unforgettable views. Pack comfortable shoes and get ready to explore this fairy-tale town that’s waiting to welcome you!

HISTORY

Sintra is a magical place full of rolling hills and a rich history that goes back thousands of years. Many different groups of people have lived here over time. The Celts believed that their moon god came down to these hills to bless the land. Later, the Romans took over and called the area the “Mountain of the Moon” to honor their moon goddess. After that, the Moors arrived in the 8th century and built a strong fortress on the highest hill to protect the land and control the surrounding region. The castle they built still stands today as a reminder of their time here. In 1147, King Afonso I of Portugal conquered Sintra from the Moors as part of the Christian Reconquest, bringing the area back under Portuguese rule.

Over the centuries, Sintra became a favorite retreat for Portuguese royalty and nobles who wanted to escape the heat of Lisbon. The area’s unique microclimate — cooler and wetter than nearby regions — kept the hills lush and green all year round, making it an ideal place to relax. During the 18th and 19th centuries, the Romantic movement inspired wealthy families and artists to build beautiful palaces and grand estates known as quintas. The most famous is the colorful Pena Palace, commissioned by King Ferdinand II, which combines Gothic, Moorish, and Renaissance styles — showcasing Sintra’s rich cultural history.

Today, Sintra is a perfect mix of nature and history. Whether you love exploring ancient castles, wandering through lush gardens, or learning about centuries-old stories, this enchanting town promises an unforgettable experience that you won’t find anywhere else.

GETTING THERE

Embark on your journey to Sintra from the picturesque Rossio train station located in the heart of Lisbon. The train ride takes approximately 40 minutes and costs a reasonable 2.25 EUR for a one-way ticket. Early birds have the advantage of catching the first train departing at 6.01 a.m., while frequent departures between 7 to 10 a.m. every ten minutes provide flexibility for later risers. If you plan on visiting during peak tourist season, we recommend taking the earliest train possible to avoid waiting in line and maximize your time exploring Sintra's enchanting landscape. While waiting for your train, grab a bite at the station's coffee shop to kickstart your adventure!

Several bus routes connect Lisbon to Sintra, offering a scenic journey through the countryside. Bus services depart from various locations in Lisbon, including Sete Rios and Campo Grande bus terminals. The journey typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions and the specific bus route. Bus tickets can be purchased onboard or in advance at ticket counters or online platforms.

Travelers can also reach Sintra by car, enjoying the flexibility to explore at their own pace. From Lisbon, follow the A37 motorway towards Sintra, with the journey taking approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. While driving provides the convenience of door-to-door transportation, parking in Sintra can be challenging, especially during peak tourist season. Consider arriving early or using designated parking areas to avoid any inconvenience.

BEST THINGS TO DO

Sintra is filled with beautiful places to explore, even if you only have one day. In this section, you’ll find the best things to see and do during your visit — from fairy-tale palaces and hilltop castles to hidden gardens and the charm of the old town. Whether you're here for the views, the history, or the atmosphere, these highlights will help you make the most of your time in Sintra.

PALÁCIO DA PENA

Getting to Pena Palace

The Palácio da Pena (Pena Palace) sits high on a forested hilltop above Sintra, offering amazing views but making the climb quite steep and time-consuming. Walking from the town center can take over an hour and is not ideal, especially in hot weather or if you’re short on time. The most popular option is bus line 434, a hop-on hop-off service that connects Sintra’s main sights and costs around 7 EUR. It drops you close to the palace entrance, but during busy seasons, buses fill up quickly and long lines are common. A quicker, more flexible (but pricier) alternative is to take a tuk-tuk, which takes you directly to the top without the wait — perfect if you want to save energy and make the most of your day.

Buy Tickets in Advance to Save Time and Money

Avoid the frustration of waiting in long lines by purchasing your tickets online ahead of time. Not only does this save valuable time, but you’ll also receive a 5% discount compared to buying tickets at the gate. If you’re planning to explore several of Sintra’s top attractions, consider buying combined tickets or passes that offer entry to multiple sites at a reduced price. These are great value for money and simplify your visit, letting you focus more on enjoying the sights than dealing with ticket counters.

Once You Arrive - What to Do First

When you reach the palace, it can be tempting to immediately start snapping photos of the stunning exterior. However, the interior tours tend to have long lines that grow throughout the day. To make the most of your visit, head straight to the ticket check and join the queue for the inside tour. Once you’ve explored the richly decorated rooms and grand halls, you’ll have plenty of time to wander the palace grounds and capture all the beautiful views and architectural details outside. The panoramic views from the terraces are particularly spectacular, so save your photo session for after the tour to avoid rushing.

| Opening hours |

daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. (6 p.m. in winter)

| Admission - 20 EUR |

A Palace Born from Legend and Ruins

Legend has it that in the Middle Ages, the Virgin Mary appeared on a rocky summit above Sintra. This inspired the building of a small chapel called Our Lady of Pena. Later, in the 1500s, King Manuel I loved this holy place so much that he built a monastery there and gave it to a religious group called the Order of Saint Jerome. But in 1755, a huge earthquake in Lisbon destroyed most of the monastery, leaving only the original chapel standing.

King Ferdinand’s Vision - From Ruins to Royal Palace

For almost a century, the ruined monastery was mostly forgotten. Then King Ferdinand II of Austria saw its potential. He bought the land and worked hard to turn the old ruins into a beautiful summer palace for the Portuguese royal family. Ferdinand mixed different styles in the palace’s design, including Medieval and Islamic influences, like the fancy arches and detailed windows. Thanks to his vision and care, the broken monastery became the amazing Pena Palace we see today — a symbol of creativity and determination.

An Architectural Wonderland of Styles

The Pena Palace is a real wonder of architecture because it combines many different styles all in one place! Built during the Romanticism period, it mixes styles like Neo-Gothic and Neo-Renaissance in a way that looks amazing and unique, especially in Southern Europe. The palace has four main parts, each with its own special features. The old walls and gates show how the palace was once built to protect itself. The red building with the Clock Tower was part of the ancient monastery and feels like stepping back in time. The Courtyard of the Arches is famous for its beautiful Moorish arches — a perfect spot for photos. And the big yellow palace area with round towers is very grand and colorful, making it stand out.

Highlights Inside the Palace

Inside, you’ll find a mix of art, culture, and royal history. The Manueline cloister is a calm, peaceful courtyard that reminds visitors of the palace’s old monastery days. The dining room is decorated with pretty sea designs, showing the creative and romantic style of the 1800s. The reception room has beautiful Islamic-inspired patterns and colors that make the palace feel even more special. The noble hall is full of fancy chandeliers and rich furniture, showing the luxury of royal life. One of the most fun rooms is the stag room, decorated with deer antlers and hunting themes — a cool spot that animal lovers and history fans really enjoy.

Exploring the Grounds - Views & Hidden Gems

When you're done exploring the interior, don’t miss walking around the palace walls. From here, you get amazing views of the park and the area around the palace. Be sure to visit the old monastery chapel too, which still has its original 16th-century design. If you have extra time, explore the large romantic park around the palace. Some highlights are the High Cross, the highest point in the Sintra mountains with great views, and the charming Countess Edla’s Chalet, a cute little house inspired by Swiss style.

MOORISH CASTLE

A Castle with a Long History

The Moorish Castle sits high on a rocky hill surrounded by the green forests of Sintra’s mountains. It was built a long time ago during the Muslim rule in Iberia to watch over and protect the farming lands below. The castle was very important and strong, surviving many battles during the Reconquest until King Afonso I took control in 1147. After the Muslims were pushed out and peace came, the castle lost its importance and was eventually left to fall apart, especially after the big Lisbon Earthquake in 1755 caused heavy damage. But in 1840, King Ferdinand II saved the castle from ruin. He repaired the walls, planted new trees around it, and preserved the old chapel, bringing the castle back to life.

What You Can See and Do

Although we didn’t get a chance to visit it ourselves, people say the views from the Moorish Castle are amazing. From its winding walls and towers, you can see beautiful sights like the town of Sintra, the colorful Pena Palace, the Atlantic Ocean, and the rolling hills around. Inside the castle, there are interesting things to explore too, like a water cistern, an old Arab-style gate shaped like a horseshoe, and the remains of a Romanesque chapel built by King Afonso I. If you have time and don’t mind another hike up the hill, the Moorish Castle is definitely worth visiting to enjoy the history and the stunning views.

| Opening hours |

Summer: daily from 9.30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Winter: daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

| Admission - 12 EUR |

QUINTA DA REGALEIRA

Getting to Quinta da Regaleira – Practical Tips

Quinta da Regaleira is located just outside Sintra’s old town, about a 10 to 15-minute walk along Rua Barbosa du Bocage. If you don’t want to walk uphill back, you can take bus 435 (the Villa Express), catch a tuk-tuk in town, or grab a quick taxi—each stops near the entrance. Driving isn’t the best idea because parking is very limited, so it’s better to leave your car in Sintra’s center. To avoid waiting in lines, buy your tickets online before you go. It’s also a good idea to visit early in the morning or after 4 p.m. when there are fewer visitors, so you can enjoy the gardens peacefully.

A Fairytale Estate with a Mysterious Past

Sintra has many amazing places to visit, but if you’re short on time, Quinta da Regaleira is a must-see. It first belonged to the Viscountess of Regaleira, but later the wealthy and unusual collector António Augusto Carvalho Monteiro took over. Together with Italian architect Luigi Manini, he turned the estate into a magical place full of Gothic towers, secret tunnels, quiet lakes, and mysterious caves. When you walk through the beautiful gardens, you’ll find beautiful statues, fountains, and the famous Initiatic Well — a deep spiral staircase that looks like an underground tower. Inside the grand house, every room has hidden meanings and rich decorations. Quinta da Regaleira is full of surprises and secrets, making it one of the most exciting stops on any visit to Sintra.

| Opening hours |

daily from 10 a.m. to 7.30 p.m. (6.30 p.m. in winter)

| Admission - 15 EUR |

Gothic Grandeur Inside and Out

The main house at Quinta da Regaleira is just as fascinating as its gardens. Its outside is decorated in dramatic Gothic style, with towers, carved gargoyles, and an eye-catching octagonal tower that offers stunning views over the estate. Inside, every room is full of detail and elegance. In the King’s Room, you’ll find portraits of Portuguese monarchs and a beautiful wooden ceiling. The Hunting Room is especially impressive, with a large fireplace carved with scenes of animals and hunting, showing the wealth and taste of the estate’s former owner.

A Chapel Full of Secrets

Next to the mansion, you’ll find a small but richly decorated chapel, built in the Manueline style, known for its mix of religious and maritime symbols. Look closely and you’ll see detailed carvings showing moments from the life of Christ, as well as mysterious symbols linked to the Knights Templar. These touches add to the spiritual feel of the estate. Beneath the chapel lies a hidden crypt with a tunnel that leads directly to the main house — one of many secret passageways that make this place feel like it’s straight out of a storybook.

The Initiatic Well and the Mystical Gardens

However, the true highlight of Quinta da Regaleira is its mystical garden, designed by Luigi Manini, which takes visitors on an initiation quest to paradise, modelled after Dante's Inferno. The garden features eerie underground walkways and grottoes, culminating in the Initiatic Well, a 27-meter "subterranean tower" with an esoteric atmosphere that represents the end of the initiation journey through the connection between the underground and the heavens. This place was believed to be a site for initiation rituals to the order.

SINTRA'S OLD TOWN

Sintra’s old town sits at the bottom of the hills and is full of charm and character. Its narrow, twisting streets are lined with bright, colorful buildings, cozy cafés, and small shops selling local crafts and souvenirs. As you wander through the alleys, you’ll find many restaurants offering tasty Portuguese food — from fresh seafood to traditional meat dishes. The old town is always busy, especially in summer when visitors from all over come to enjoy Sintra’s magical feel. The streets are filled with the sounds of street musicians, friendly chatter, and laughter from both locals and tourists. When you need a break, stop at one of the outdoor cafés for a coffee or a glass of wine and soak up the lively atmosphere all around you.

If you need a break from busy city life, head to Piriquita, a charming bakery that’s been making tasty treats since 1862. Its unusual name comes from a nickname King Carlos I gave to the baker’s wife — “periquita” means parakeet, because she was short and lively. The king loved visiting the bakery, especially for their Queijada, a sweet pastry made with cheese or cream cheese, eggs, milk, and sugar. The bakery owners started making Queijadas in larger batches, and soon Piriquita became famous for them. Visitors from everywhere come to try this Sintra specialty. Don’t miss the Travesseiro either — a soft, flaky pastry filled with rich egg and almond cream that tastes amazing with a cup of coffee. If you’re in Sintra, stopping by Piriquita for these treats is a must!

| Opening hours |

daily from 8.30 a.m. to 7.30 p.m.

Take a break from your busy day and explore the impressive Palácio Nacional de Sintra (Sintra National Palace), the best-preserved medieval palace where Portuguese royalty once lived. Its history goes back to the 10th century when it was first built as the home of the Islamic Moorish ruler of Lisbon. Over the years, the palace was expanded and improved. In 1415, King John I added beautiful Manueline and Moorish-style features like the decorated entrance, arches, windows, and the palace’s famous cone-shaped kitchen chimneys. Later, in 1497, King Manuel I built a new wing with special Manueline windows. One of the palace’s highlights is the Sala dos Brasões (Coats-of-Arms Room), which has a stunning wooden dome ceiling carved with 72 coats-of-arms from the king and important noble families.

| Opening hours |

daily from 9.30 a.m. to 7 p.m. (5 p.m. in winter)

| Admission - 10 EUR |

FINAL THOUGHTS

Sintra truly stole our hearts. There’s something magical about walking its narrow streets and seeing beautiful palaces and castles surrounded by green forests and gardens. We could have spent many days exploring all the amazing places here, from the famous Pena Palace to the charming old town and its tasty pastry shops. Even though one day isn’t enough to see everything, we highly recommend visiting  Monserrate Palace with its amazing gardens, the royal Queluz Palace, or the quiet Franciscan Convent of  the Capuchos. Believe us, these places are worth your time!

Do you have any hidden gems you discovered during your visit to Sintra? We would love to hear about your Sintra experience. Feel free to leave a comment below, we can't wait to learn from your experience.

Tags: Portugal