Best things to do in Sintra
Find out more about those top places in Sintra
Sintra: The Magical Fairy Tale Town You Can’t Miss in Portugal
Nestled in the lush hills of the Serra de Sintra, this enchanting town is like stepping straight into a real-life fairy tale. Though many travelers treat Sintra as a quick day trip from Lisbon, it’s actually a treasure trove of history, beauty, and mystery that deserves more than just a brief visit. Sintra’s blend of colorful palaces, misty forests, and ancient castles creates an unforgettable experience for anyone wandering through Portugal. If you’re planning your next trip and wondering what to do in Sintra, keep reading—this guide will take you on a journey through the best spots, with plenty of tips to make your visit truly magical.
What to Do in Sintra: Must-See Attractions That Feel Like Magic
Sintra is a place where history, nature, and quirky architecture come together in a way that’s totally unique. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just someone who loves getting lost in beautiful places, Sintra has something for you. Here’s a list of the top attractions to make sure you don’t miss a thing.
Pena Palace: The Colorful Castle That Looks Like a Dream
Forget what you think a castle should look like—Pena Palace is like a rainbow exploded on a hillside. Built in the 19th century, this romantic palace stands out with its bold red, yellow, and blue hues, whimsical onion-shaped towers, and a location that offers panoramic views of Sintra and beyond.
Once inside, you’ll feel like royalty wandering through lavishly decorated rooms filled with historic furniture and intricate tapestries. Don’t skip the gardens! They’re full of secret pathways, charming fountains, and hidden spots that make you feel like you’re in a fantasy novel.
Sintra National Palace: A Medieval Gem in the Heart of Town
Right in Sintra’s center lies the Sintra National Palace, a medieval fortress and royal residence that showcases stunning Gothic and Manueline architecture. One of its highlights is the Hall of the Shields, where dozens of coats of arms from noble Portuguese families decorate the walls.
Because it’s smack dab in the middle of town, you can easily explore it on foot and then stroll the charming cobblestone streets lined with local shops and cafes. Perfect for soaking up that authentic Sintra vibe.
Quinta da Regaleira: Mystical Gardens Full of Secrets and Symbolism
If you love a good mystery, Quinta da Regaleira will feel like a playground for your imagination. This estate’s palace and sprawling gardens are loaded with esoteric symbolism, secret tunnels, grottoes, and an “Initiation Well” that descends deep underground like a magical staircase to another world.
Spend hours exploring labyrinthine paths and hidden corners. Climb the tower for breathtaking views of the surrounding hills — you’ll feel like a character in an enchanted story.
Convent of the Capuchos: Serenity and Simplicity in the Forest
For a quieter, more introspective experience, the Convent of the Capuchos is a must-visit. Founded in the 16th century, this convent was home to monks who embraced a life of austerity and harmony with nature. Tiny cells, simple corridors, and moss-covered stone walls transport visitors to a peaceful time long gone.
Set amidst thick forest, it’s the perfect spot to escape the crowds and recharge your soul while enjoying stunning views of the greenery that surrounds it.
Moorish Castle: Medieval Fortress With Jaw-Dropping Views
Dating back to the 8th century, the Moorish Castle offers a thrilling step back in time. Built by the Moors during their occupation of Portugal, its rugged stone walls snake over the hills, offering some of the best panoramic views in the region.
Walking along the ancient ramparts and towers, you’ll feel the thrill of history beneath your feet — plus, the vistas of Sintra’s colorful rooftops and the distant Atlantic Ocean are absolutely unforgettable.
Where to Stay in Sintra: Charming and Cozy Options
After a full day exploring magical palaces and mysterious gardens, you’ll want a place to rest that matches Sintra’s charm. Here are some accommodation ideas for every budget and style:
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Tivoli Palácio de Seteais: For a truly regal stay, this 18th-century palace-turned-luxury hotel is hard to beat. Located near Pena Palace, it offers elegant rooms, immaculate gardens, and spectacular views — perfect for a romantic getaway or to treat yourself like royalty.
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Sintra Boutique Hotel: If you want something stylish but more budget-friendly, this centrally located hotel offers modern comfort just steps from Sintra’s main attractions. It’s ideal for travelers who want convenience without sacrificing charm.
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Airbnb in Sintra: For a more local experience, there are plenty of cozy and traditional homes available through Airbnb. Staying in one lets you immerse yourself in everyday Sintra life and discover hidden gems beyond the tourist trail.
Travel Tips: How to Make the Most of Your Sintra Visit
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Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn bring mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer can be hot and busy, so if you want to avoid long lines and packed streets, try to visit outside peak season.
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Getting There: Sintra is just about 40 minutes from Lisbon by train or bus, making it an easy day trip or weekend destination. Once in town, many attractions are walkable, but local buses and tuk-tuks can help you get around faster.
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Beat the Crowds: Arrive early at popular spots like Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira to enjoy them in peace before the crowds roll in.
Final Thoughts: Sintra, Portugal’s Real-Life Fairy Tale
Sintra is one of those rare places that feels like stepping into a storybook — full of color, mystery, history, and jaw-dropping natural beauty. If you’re crafting an itinerary for Portugal, don’t skip it. Whether you’re wandering through its castles, getting lost in secret gardens, or simply savoring a pastel de nata in a cozy café, Sintra will steal your heart and keep calling you back for more.
Ready to explore the magical corners of Portugal’s most enchanting town? Let me help you plan the perfect Sintra adventure — with all the tips, tricks, and secret spots you won’t find in a regular guidebook!
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Park and National Palace of Pena
On your way to Sintra National Park, the sophisticated and imposing Palace of Pena would definitely get your attention. The palace is seated on a high cliff as if to flaunt its extravagant beauty to all who pass by. On getting to the Park, which is one of the most visited tourist attraction sites in Sintra, there are lots of fun and relaxing activities to engage in.
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Castelo dos Mouros
Structures like the Castelo dos Mouros are quite common in Portugal as a result of the country's history. But of all other structures like it, Castelo dos Mouros (which is Portuguese for "Castle of the Moors") still remains one of the most populars. The castle sits about 400 meters above sea level making it very visible from all sides even with the big forest surrounding it. It is also on the list of UNESCO world heritage sites.
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Quinta da Regaleira
The Romantic Palace in Quinta da Regaleira is a place to be for couples, while the exquisite park makes the place suitable for everyone else. The park features fantastic fountains, lakes, caves, and other awe-inspiring structures. Considering all that this place has, it isn't at all surprising that it makes the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites while still being among Portugal's most visited tourist attraction sites.
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Sintra National Palace
This palace served as a home to the Portuguese royalties from the 15th century down to the 19th century. Although the simplicity of the palace's exterior makes it look quite uninteresting for a palace, the interiors of the palace more than make up for it with the highest level of sophistication.
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Park and Palace of Monserrate
The Palace of Monserrate, built in the 19th century, is not just known for its unique structures which give away the fact that it is a palace even before being told. Botanical gardens in the palace also contributed to its beauty, the park that surrounds the palace has many beautiful sights and natural edifices to offer, making the place a favorite among tourists.
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Sintra-Cascais Natural Park
This location used to be a mere fishing village but the sophisticated beauty of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park quickly made it into an exotic site where royalties from all of Europe come to relax and have fun. The park is filled with beautiful natural sights of clear water bodies and forest. The waterfront here is now known as Portuguese Rivera.
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Convent of the Capuchos
Hidden among the Sintra Mountains is the Convent of the Capuchos. This site served as a home for the Capuchos for a long time and has a lot of history to it. At this site, the tour guides would fill you in about the vibrant history of the Capuchos while showing you their many unique artifacts and edifices.
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Azenhas do Mar
The strategic location of this place makes it the perfect spot for tourists who are looking to enjoy some spare time on the beach while gazing at the endless Atlantic while the sun bathes them in its warmth. Azenhas do Mar is located on a cliff near Sintra with the Atlantic in front of it, and tall mountains behind.
