Welcome to our guide to Sintra, one of the most enchanting towns in Portugal. Nestled in the midst of lush green hills, Sintra is renowned for its magnificent palaces, stunning gardens, and picturesque streets. A destination beloved by many tourists as a fairytale land with a romantic and magical feeling. If you are planning a trip to this charming town, then you’ll want to know about the best attractions and things to do in Sintra. From exploring the opulent castles to hiking through the verdant forests, this guide will take you through some of the town’s most incredible experiences. So pack your bags, get your cameras ready, and let’s explore Sintra!

The 9 Best Walking Tours in Sintra

1. From Lisbon Sintra Cabo Da Roca and Cascais Day Trip
2. Sintra Moorish Castle Entrance E Ticket With Audio Tour
3. Private Sintra Tour One Hour Guided Visit to Top Outdoor Attractions
4. Sintra 2 Hour Private Surf Lesson at Praia Grande
5. Skip the Line E Ticket for Quinta Da Regaleira With Audio Tour on Your Phone
6. Sintra Touristic Sightseeing Train Ticket
7. Pena Palace Park Skip the Line Entrance Ticket
8. Park and National Palace of Pena
9. Sintra 15 Hour Small Group Guided Tuk Tuk Sightseeing Tour

The 9 Best Walking Tours in Sintra

1. From Lisbon Sintra Cabo Da Roca and Cascais Day Trip

Escape Lisbon and embark on a full-day small group tour with guide to some of Portugal’s most popular locations, including the iconic Pena Palace in Sintra. Enjoy the best views over the national park and explore the lavish interiors and lush gardens of the palace. Afterward, continue to Sintra to explore downtown and taste the local gastronomy while meandering through the tiny streets of the oldest Jewish quarter.

A few minutes’ walk brings you to Quinta da Regaleira, where you can learn about the history of the macons and explore the unique gardens. This is a great opportunity to avoid the long lines and get an in-depth guided tour of the palace interiors and learn about the palace’s history. Don’t miss this chance to see some of Portugal’s most breathtaking locations in comfort and style with air-conditioned transportation.

2. Sintra Moorish Castle Entrance E Ticket With Audio Tour

The medieval Moorish Castle in Sintra is one of the top attractions and provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. With this entrance e-ticket, you can avoid the long queues to get into the castle and explore its fascinating history at your own pace. Enjoy an immersive experience with the included self-guided audio tour, available to download straight onto your smartphone. The tour is available in English and provides interesting insights into the castle and the history of Sintra. Your admission ticket includes skip-the-line service, so you don’t have to waste time waiting in lengthy queues. Please note that the location is not wheelchair accessible. Don’t miss this amazing opportunity to visit one of the most popular attractions of Sintra.

3. Private Sintra Tour One Hour Guided Visit to Top Outdoor Attractions

Explore Sintra’s remarkable outdoor attractions in this one-hour private guided tour. With this tour, you’ll have access to private transportation and a knowledgeable guide who will take you to Sintra’s must-see destinations.

The tour includes the ticket cost for the Moorish Castle and Pena Palace. You can head straight to our meeting point or opt for pick-up service at the Sintra train station, the last stop on the train from Lisbon. Our meeting point is at Avenida Doutor Miguel Bombarda.

Starting at the Sabuga Fountain, our first stop is a quick 10-minute visit to the Sintra National Palace. We’ll then take you to the remaining remarkable stops in Sintra that are included in this tour.

Please note that confirmation will be received once you book the tour. We regret to inform that this tour is not wheelchair accessible, although service animals are allowed. Additional information about the schedule and limitations are available when you book.

4. Sintra 2 Hour Private Surf Lesson at Praia Grande

Enjoy an exciting surf lesson at Praia Grande in Sintra, perfect for anyone between 8 and 60. During this 2-hour private lesson, you’ll improve your skills with the help of an expert guide who provides a customized one-on-one experience. Your guide will ensure that you have the best surfboard for your needs and level, as well as a sanitized wetsuit for your comfort.

The lesson is divided into three parts: practice, surf knowledge, and actual surfing. Get started by discussing your expectations and goals for the lesson, and then warm up on the beach with technical training from your skilled trainer. Your trainer will go over beach and surf characteristics and safety rules before you hit the water to put your newly acquired skills into practice.

In the final portion of the lesson, your trainer will teach you how to improve your technique for optimal results. Don’t miss out on this fun, outdoor activity that offers amazing waves and personalized instruction.

5. Skip the Line E Ticket for Quinta Da Regaleira With Audio Tour on Your Phone

Quinta da Regaleira is a must-visit attraction in Sintra due to its mystical forests, hidden symbols, and lush landscapes. With this Skip-the-line E Ticket, you can avoid the queues that can last for hours in the summer months and head straight into the property. In addition, you will have access to a self-guided audio tour that you can download onto your smartphone, so you can explore the estate at your own pace while learning about its rich history and features. This ticket is an excellent way to experience one of Sintra’s top attractions with ease, and without having to wait in long queues. The ticket includes admission to Quinta da Regaleira, as well as headphones or smartphone to utilize the audio guide. Note that food and drinks are not included.

6. Sintra Touristic Sightseeing Train Ticket

Take in the stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Sintra on board a sightseeing train. This 45-minute loop offers panoramic views of Sintra’s most emblematic places, including the National Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, the Moorish Castle, and the iconic Pena Palace. The train stops near the entrance of the Pena Park, where you can visit the Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle. Your ticket includes entrance to the monuments and a headset to hear the guide better. Please note that this tour is not suitable for pregnant women. Enjoy Sintra, the village of a thousand charms, on board the Sintra touristic sightseeing train.

7. Pena Palace Park Skip the Line Entrance Ticket

Discover the beauty of Sintra with a skip-the-line entrance ticket for the Pena Palace Park. Admire the picturesque views from one of the highest hills in the region and marvel at the 19th century Romanticism style of architecture. Explore the forested grounds and natural beauty of Pena Park, including the fantastical version of an imaginary castle. With skip-the-line access, save time and snap some of the most iconic and picturesque pictures of your trip. Don’t miss the chance to visit the former Hieronymite monastery of Our Lady of Pena and its stunning surroundings on your next trip to Sintra.

8. Park and National Palace of Pena

Skip the long lines and delving straight into the 19th-century Pena Palace with a priority admission ticket. This romantic-style building is one of the most popular sights in Sintra and promises stunning views of the surrounding area on a clear day. You’ll have the flexibility to explore the palace and its ground at your own pace and choose which part of the palace you want to see. The admission ticket is inclusive of a guide, and the tour is both accessible and stroller-friendly. Please note that it is not recommended for pregnant travelers and those with back problems. Cancellation of the tour can be made up to 24 hours before the scheduled time.

9. Sintra 15 Hour Small Group Guided Tuk Tuk Sightseeing Tour

During this 15 hour small group guided tuk tuk sightseeing tour, you will get the chance to experience Sintra and witness the stunning views of beautiful palaces, castles, mountains and nature. The tour begins from Burger&CO opposite of Sintra train station, where your guide will take you on a tuk tuk ride through the city centre of Sintra and to the most important palaces of the area, such as the National Palaces, Quinta De Regaleira, the historical centre of Sintra, Moorish Castle, Pena Palace and more. Not only will you get to see these amazing landmarks, but you will also learn about the rich history of Sintra with a guided tour. Your tour includes tickets for the monuments and water, making your trip as comfortable as possible. It’s important to note that this tour is not suitable for children under 7 years old. Come explore the wonders of Sintra with this amazing tour!

Frequently Asked Questions About Sintra

Sintra is a small town located in Portugal, which is famous for its stunning architecture and historical buildings. It’s a popular destination for tourists all around the world, who come here to explore its castles, palaces, and other tourist attractions. However, if you’re planning to visit Sintra for the first time, you might have a lot of questions regarding the town. To help you with that, we’ve listed down some of the most frequently asked questions by tourists about Sintra.

1. What is Sintra famous for?

Sintra is famous for its beautiful palaces and castles, which are located across the town. The most famous of these are the Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and the Castle of the Moors. Each location has its own unique history, architecture, and design that are worth exploring.

2. Do I need a visa to visit Sintra?

This depends on your nationality and the length of your stay. If you’re a citizen of the European Union or Schengen Area, you don’t need a visa to visit Sintra. However, if you’re a citizen of a country outside the EU or Schengen Area, you may need to apply for a visa before your trip.

3. When is the best time to visit Sintra?

The best time to visit Sintra is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. You can also visit during the summer months, but keep in mind that the temperatures can get very hot, and there will be more tourists during this time.

4. How do I get to Sintra?

Sintra can be easily accessed using public transportation from Lisbon. You can take the train from Lisbon’s Rossio Station or the Oriente Station and arrive in Sintra in about 40 minutes. You can also take a bus from Lisbon’s Sete Rios Bus Station to Sintra.

5. How much time do I need to explore Sintra?

To explore all of Sintra’s tourist attractions, you would need at least two full days. However, if you’re short on time, you can explore the most popular attractions in one day. It’s recommended to arrive early to avoid crowds and long lines at the attractions.

6. Are there any restaurants or cafes in Sintra?

Yes, Sintra has a wide range of restaurants and cafes to choose from. You can find traditional Portuguese dishes or international cuisine. It’s recommended to try the local pastry called “queijadas” which is a Sintra specialty.

7. Can I explore Sintra on foot?

While it’s possible to explore Sintra on foot, it’s recommended to take public transportation or use a private car to get around. This is because Sintra has a lot of hills and steep streets, and some attractions are located far from each other.

8. Is it possible to book tours of Sintra?

Yes, it’s possible to book tours of Sintra that include a guide and transportation. These tours can be booked online or through a local tour agency. They offer an easy and hassle-free way to see all the attractions in Sintra.

9. How much does it cost to visit Sintra’s top attractions?

The cost of visiting Sintra’s top attractions varies depending on the attraction and whether you want to visit the interior or not. For example, the entrance fee for the Pena Palace is 14 euros per adult, while the entrance fee for the Quinta da Regaleira is 6 euros per adult.

10. What should I wear when visiting Sintra?

It’s recommended to wear comfortable clothing and footwear when visiting Sintra as there is a lot of walking involved. It’s also recommended to bring a light jacket or sweater as the weather can be unpredictable, especially during the off-season.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Sintra

Sintra is a small but picturesque town located just outside of Lisbon, Portugal. The town is known for its beautiful palaces, castles, and gardens. If you’re planning a trip to Sintra, here are some of the must-visit places and things to do.

1. Visit the Pena Palace

The Pena Palace is one of the most famous landmarks in Sintra. This colorful palace sits on top of a hill and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. You can explore the inside of the palace and the beautiful gardens that surround it. Make sure to buy your tickets in advance to avoid waiting in line.

2. Explore the Castle of the Moors

The Castle of the Moors is another popular landmark in Sintra. This medieval castle dates back to the 8th century and offers incredible views of the town and surrounding countryside. You can walk along the castle walls and explore the towers and battlements.

3. Wander through the Gardens of Monserrate

The Gardens of Monserrate are a botanical wonderland filled with exotic plants from around the world. You can take a leisurely stroll through the gardens and admire the waterfalls, fountains, and ornamental lakes. The gardens also feature a stunning palace with impressive architecture.

4. Visit the National Palace of Sintra

The National Palace of Sintra is a historic palace that dates back to the 14th century. The palace is famous for its chimneys, which are shaped like giant cones. You can explore the inside and see the beautiful rooms filled with art, furniture, and other historical artifacts.

5. Go on a Hike in the Sintra Mountains

If you’re feeling adventurous, the Sintra Mountains offer plenty of hiking trails with stunning views of the town and surrounding countryside. You can hike up to the Pena Palace or explore the woods and forests surrounding the area.

6. Shop for Souvenirs in the Historic Center

The historic center of Sintra is filled with quaint shops and cafes where you can buy souvenirs and enjoy a snack. You can also explore the narrow streets and alleys and admire the charming architecture of the traditional Portugese houses.

7. Sample Local Food and Wine

Sintra is also known for its delicious food and wine. You can sample traditional Portugese dishes like bacalhau (cod fish) or cozido (meat and vegetable stew). Make sure to try the local wine and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the many restaurants and cafes dotted around the town.

Book Your Tour Now

Sintra is a wonderful destination for tourists who want to explore the history and beauty of Portugal. From its historic palaces and castles to its beautiful gardens and hiking trails, Sintra offers something for everyone. Make sure to include these must-visit places and experiences on your Sintra itinerary for a trip you’ll never forget.