The Most Popular Sightseeing Attractions in Sintra

Sintra is a charming and picturesque town located in the hilly area of the Serra de Sintra mountains in Portugal, just a 30-minute drive from Lisbon. This small town is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its fairytale-like castles, palaces, and gardens, as well as its rich history and cultural heritage. Visitors can spend days exploring the sights and attractions in Sintra, but to help guide your visit, we’ve put together a list of the most famous ones.

The Pena Palace

The Pena Palace is undoubtedly the most famous and prominent attraction in Sintra. This colorful and flamboyant castle is perched atop a hill and can be seen from anywhere in town. It was built in the mid-19th century by King Ferdinand II as a summer residence and blends different architectural styles from around the world, including Gothic, Renaissance, and Moorish. The palace’s interior is just as impressive as the exterior, with ornate decorations and furnishings, valuable art pieces, and magnificent views of the surrounding countryside. You can spend hours wandering through the palace’s many rooms and exploring its extensive gardens and parklands.

The Moorish Castle

The Moorish Castle is another must-visit attraction in Sintra that offers unparalleled views of the town and its surrounding countryside. This medieval fortress was originally built in the 8th century by the Moors to defend the region and later restored by King Ferdinand II in the 19th century. Visitors can explore the castle’s towers, walls, and battlements, as well as the cistern and archaeological site within its walls.

The National Palace of Sintra

The National Palace of Sintra is the most important historical building in the town and was once the summer residence of the Portuguese monarchy. This impressive palace is a fine example of Portuguese architecture and a testament to the country’s rich cultural and artistic history. The palace’s interior is beautifully decorated with azulejos (hand-painted ceramic tiles), intricate stucco work, and ornate furniture that reflects the country’s wealth and prosperity during the medieval period. Highlights of the palace include the Sala dos Brasões (Coat of Arms Room), the Sala dos Cisnes (Swan Room), and the Kitchen.

The Quinta da Regaleira

The Quinta da Regaleira is an enchanting estate located a short walk from the town center. This mystical and magical estate was built in the early 20th century by Carvalho Monteiro, a wealthy Portuguese philanthropist, who incorporated various esoteric and Masonic symbols and themes into its design. Visitors can explore the estate’s beautiful gardens, chapels, fountains, and grottoes, as well as the palace’s many rooms, which are decorated with intricate mosaics, stained glass, and frescoes.

The Monserrate Palace

The Monserrate Palace is a stunning example of Romantic architecture and design that was built in the mid-19th century. This palace is set within lush and exotic gardens that contain plants and trees from around the world, including African, South American, and Asian species. The palace itself is a fusion of different architectural styles, including Gothic Revival, Indo-Islamic, and Moorish design, and is adorned with ornate decorations and furnishings that reflect the Romantic taste and style of the time.

The Convent of the Capuchos

The Convent of the Capuchos is a humble and contemplative site located on the outskirts of Sintra. This small Franciscan convent was founded in the 16th century by the monk Dom Frei Álvaro de Castro and is set within a forested natural reserve. The convent is built in a simple and austere style that reflects the Franciscan order’s values of poverty, humility, and detachment from worldly goods. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful and reflective walk through the convent’s corridors, cells, and chapels, and get a glimpse into the simple and ascetic life of the Franciscan monks.

The Cabo da Roca

The Cabo da Roca is the westernmost point of mainland Europe and a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. The cape offers awe-inspiring views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged coastline, as well as a lighthouse, a monument, and a small souvenir shop. Visitors can walk along the cliffside paths and take in the natural beauty of the area, or simply bask in the sun and watch the waves crash against the rocks.Sintra is a unique and unforgettable destination that offers a wealth of historical, cultural, and natural attractions. Whether you’re interested in castles, palaces, gardens, or scenic views, Sintra has something to suit every taste and preference. So, pack your bags and head to this charming Portuguese town, and discover all the wonders it has to offer!