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Nestled among the lush hills of the Sintra Mountains, Sintra is one of Portugal’s most magical destinations. Once the country’s royal retreat, the town is renowned for its fairytale palaces, ancient castles, and dense forests, earning it UNESCO World Heritage status for its outstanding cultural and historical significance.
Things to Do in Sintra
1. Sintra Historic Centre
The historic centre of Sintra is a charming area of cobbled streets, traditional façades, and lively squares.
Traditional cafés and pastry shops
Try the famous travesseiro pastry
A relaxed atmosphere surrounded by historic buildings
Cultural highlights include the Anjos Teixeira Museum and the Natural History Museum, both offering insight into Sintra’s artistic and historical legacy.
2. Pena Palace Park
Surrounding the iconic Pena Palace, this vast park is a destination in its own right.
Lush gardens filled with exotic plants
Species imported from North America, Asia, and New Zealand
Winding paths, hidden viewpoints, and tranquil forest settings
It’s easy to spend hours exploring this immersive natural environment.
3. Pena Palace
One of Portugal’s most iconic landmarks, Pena Palace is a masterpiece of Romantic architecture.
Designed by Baron Ludwig von Eschwege and Possidónio da Silva
Vibrant colours and eclectic architectural styles
The attached Chapel of Our Lady of Pena dates back to the 12th century
Surrounded by dense forest and panoramic viewpoints
Visitors can explore the palace interiors before relaxing at the outdoor café overlooking the Sintra hills.
4. Cruz Alta
The highest point of the Serra de Sintra, standing at 540 metres above sea level.
Marked by a stone cross dating to the early 16th century
Panoramic views across the Sintra Mountains
On clear days, several palaces can be seen from above
A rewarding stop for nature lovers and photographers.
5. Monserrate Palace and Park
Designed in the 19th century by British architect James Knowles Jr., Monserrate Palace is a striking blend of architectural influences.
Exotic gardens with over 3,000 plant species
Flora collected from around the world
Romantic palace surrounded by rolling lawns and wooded valleys
One of Sintra’s most elegant and tranquil sites.
6. Moorish Castle (Castelo dos Mouros)
One of Sintra’s oldest landmarks, dating back to the 9th century during Moorish rule.
Walk along ancient stone battlements
Defensive towers and ruins to explore
Sweeping views over Sintra, the coastline, and nearby palaces
A must-see for history enthusiasts.
7. Quinta da Regaleira
Located near the historic centre, Quinta da Regaleira is one of Sintra’s most intriguing estates.
Built in the early 20th century
Distinctive Gothic and symbolic architecture
Home to the famous Initiation Well
Surrounded by gardens, tunnels, lakes, and caves
A site rich in mystery, symbolism, and atmosphere.
8. Palácio Nacional de Sintra & Vale dos Lagos
Originally built during Moorish rule, this palace served as a royal residence until the early 20th century.
Distinctive chimneys and medieval features
Set beside water features and lush greenery
A fairytale-like setting within the town
One of the best-preserved medieval royal palaces in Portugal.
9. Palácio Nacional e Jardins de Queluz
Located approximately 22 km south of Sintra, the Queluz National Palace is an 18th-century architectural jewel.
Exuberant Rococo and Baroque design
Expansive formal gardens and statues
Often compared to Versailles on a smaller scale
Well worth the short journey for architecture and garden enthusiasts.
With its UNESCO-protected heritage, proximity to Lisbon, and exceptional natural surroundings, Sintra offers a truly unique place to explore and to invest.
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