Sintra - Discovering Portugal

Travelling to Sintra

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Sintra, a pretty good destination in Portugal (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Sintra and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Sintra, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Portugal, here's everything to know about Sintra for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Sintra

Sintra is a historic town located in the Lisbon district of Portugal. It is known for its charming and romantic atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and lush greenery. The town is situated on the slopes of the Sintra Mountains and is a popular destination for tourists visiting the region. Some of its most famous landmarks are the National Palace of Sintra, the Pena Palace, and the Quinta da Regaleira. The town is also known for its delicious local cuisine and traditional crafts, as well as its proximity to beautiful beaches.

What to visit in Sintra

Sure, here are some of the popular tourist attractions in Sintra, Portugal: 1. Pena Palace - This colorful palace is one of the most popular landmarks in Sintra. It was built in the 19th century and features a mix of different architectural styles, including Gothic, Renaissance, and Moorish. Visitors can explore the palace's decorative rooms, stunning gardens, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
2. Quinta da Regaleira - This impressive estate features a stunning palace, chapel, and expansive gardens filled with hidden tunnels, grottoes, and fountains. It is known for its unique architecture and mystical symbols related to alchemy and the Freemasons.
3. Castle of the Moors - This medieval castle was built in the 9th century and later restored in the 19th century. Visitors can walk along the castle walls and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
4. Monserrate Palace - This romantic palace is set amidst beautiful gardens and features a mix of different architectural styles, including Gothic and Indian. Visitors can explore the palace's opulent rooms, enjoy a picnic in the gardens, and discover the exotic plant life from around the world.
5. Sintra National Palace - This palace dates back to the 15th century and features a distinctive chimney and stunning tile work. Visitors can explore the palace's opulent rooms, including the famous Swan Room, and learn about the history of the Portuguese royal family.
6. Cabo da Roca – This is the westernmost point of mainland Europe, offering breathtaking views of the sea and the stunning cliffs.
7. Initiation Well - This spectacular underground well is located in Quinta da Regaleira and was used for mysterious initiation rites by the Freemasons.
8. Monserrate Park - This lush park features stunning gardens, hidden fountains, and a small palace. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the park's winding paths and discover its beautiful water features and exotic plant life. Sintra is a beautiful place to visit, with a rich history and stunning architecture.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Portugal, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Sintra.

When to go on holiday to Sintra

The best time to visit Sintra, Portugal is during the months of April to June or September to October. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are relatively smaller compared to the peak season of July and August. The temperatures during these months average between 18°C to 25°C, which is perfect for exploring the town and its many outdoor attractions. If you want to avoid the crowds, it's best to go early in the morning and avoid weekends and holidays.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Sintra

Sintra is a beautiful small town near Lisbon in Portugal. You can get to Sintra from Lisbon by train, bus, or car. Here are the details of each option: - By Train: You can take the train from Lisbon to Sintra. The train departs from Rossio Station in downtown Lisbon. The journey takes around 45 minutes, and the trains are frequent throughout the day. You can check the train schedule and buy tickets online at the CP website.
- By Bus: There are also several buses that go to Sintra from Lisbon. The buses depart from Sete Rios bus station in Lisbon. The journey takes around 45 minutes, depending on the traffic. You can check the bus schedule and buy tickets online at the Scotturb website.
- By Car: If you are driving to Sintra, it is advisable to take the A5 motorway towards Cascais and then follow the signs to Sintra. The journey takes around 30 minutes, depending on the traffic. Parking in Sintra can be challenging, but there are several public parking lots available around the town.
Regardless of the transportation mode, I would suggest you to plan your visit to Sintra carefully to ensure you make the most of your stay and enjoy the beautiful sites like Pena Palace, Sintra National Palace, Moorish Castle, etc.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Sintra, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Sintra

Sure, here are some typical foods of Sintra, Portugal, along with a short description for each: 1. Queijadas de Sintra: This is a traditional pastry made with a sweet and creamy filling of cheese, eggs, sugar, and cinnamon, baked in a crispy puff pastry crust.
2. Travesseiros de Sintra: Another popular pastry, these are long, pillow-shaped sweets filled with a delicious almond cream and dusted with a light coating of icing sugar.
3. Bacalhau à bras: This is a famous fish dish in Portugal made with shredded salt cod, sautéed onions, garlic, potatoes, eggs, and parsley. It's usually served as a main course.
4. Sardinhas assadas: Fresh grilled sardines are a staple in Portuguese cuisine. They're usually served with boiled potatoes and a side dish of crisp green salad.
5. Arroz doce: This is a traditional Portuguese dessert that consists of rice pudding flavored with cinnamon, vanilla, and lemon peel. It's often topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon and served cold.
6. Caldo verde: A traditional soup made with potatoes, onions, kale, and slices of Portuguese chorizo sausage. It's flavorful, hearty, and perfect for a cool evening.
7. Perdizes de escabeche: This dish is made with pickled partridges that are cooked in a sauce made with onions, garlic, vinegar, bay leaves, and olive oil. It's usually served cold as an appetizer.
I hope this helps!
You can find general info about typical foods in Portugal here.

Is Sintra an expensive destination for tourists?

Sintra can be a bit expensive for tourists, as it is a popular destination and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. However, the costs depend on several factors such as accommodation, food, transportation, and activities. The prices for accommodation in Sintra can be relatively high, especially during peak season, but there are also some options available for budget-conscious travelers. In terms of food, there are plenty of affordable options available, including local cafes, bakeries, and traditional food markets.
Transportation costs in Sintra are relatively low, especially if you use public transport, and there are several tourist passes available that can give you discounts on various activities.
Overall, it's possible to visit Sintra without breaking the bank, as long as you plan your trip carefully and look for affordable options.

Where to find accomodation in Sintra

For visiting Sintra, Portugal, the best areas to find accommodation are the town center or near the train station. This is because most of the attractions in Sintra are located in the town center, and the train station is the main transport hub connecting the town with Lisbon and other destinations. Additionally, staying near the train station will make it easier to take day trips to other nearby attractions, such as Cascais or Lisbon.
You can check hotel prices at Sintra here:
Booking.com

Is Sintra a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Sintra is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any destination, travelers should always take precautions to ensure their safety and security. It is advisable to be aware of your surroundings, keep valuables secure, and not leave belongings unattended. Additionally, it is always a good idea to have emergency numbers on hand and to stay informed about any local events or potential risks. With those precautions in mind, Sintra is a beautiful and popular tourist destination known for its stunning landscape, rich history, and cultural landmarks.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Portugal here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Sintra.

What type of travelers will enjoy Sintra the most?

Sintra is a beautiful town in Portugal that has a lot of attractions, so it can be enjoyed by different types of travelers. However, it is a destination that is more suited for couples and families since it has a lot of historical and cultural sites that are great for exploring and learning. Sintra is home to many historic palaces and castles such as the romantic Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle, which are sure to enchant visitors with their stunning and unique architecture. It also houses the Quinta da Regaleira, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, that has exquisite gardens and an underground tunnel that connects to a chapel.
While Sintra is not usually known for its nightlife, young travelers can still enjoy it for its numerous hiking trails that lead to scenic views and the beaches are a short drive away. Overall, Sintra is a destination that offers something for every type of traveler, but it is best suited for couples and families who are interested in exploring its fascinating historical and cultural sites.

How to get around Sintra

In Sintra, there are several options for transportation depending on your preference and itinerary. You can take a taxi, Uber, or a private transfer for a more comfortable ride. For a budget-friendly option, you can take a bus or a train. The bus is a convenient option for getting around the town, while the train connects Sintra with other towns and cities in Portugal. Another popular option for exploring the town is by foot or by renting a bike or scooter. Keep in mind that Sintra's center is pedestrianized, so walking is an excellent way to explore its narrow, winding streets and historical sites.

What to see around Sintra

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Sintra: 1. Cascais: This coastal town is about a 30-minute drive from Sintra and is known for its beaches, picturesque streets and trendy shops and restaurants.
2. Cabo da Roca: If you're a fan of beautiful natural scenery, head to the westernmost point of Europe, Cabo da Roca. The cliffs and ocean views will take your breath away.
3. Lisbon: Portugal's lively capital city is about a 40-minute drive from Sintra. Take some time to wander the charming streets, try some custard tarts and visit the famous Castle of São Jorge.
4. Mafra: This small town is about a 20-minute drive from Sintra and is home to the stunning Mafra Palace and Convent. The massive complex features a basilica, royal apartments, a library and a game room.
5. Estoril: Another coastal town, Estoril is about a 25-minute drive from Sintra and is famous for its glamorous casino and beautiful beaches.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
For every travel information about Portugal you can click here.

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