Visiting the Sintra palaces from the coast: a practical plan
Sintra's hills hold one of the densest collections of palaces and gardens in Europe, and the whole cultural landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also one of the busiest day trips from Lisbon. Staying on the coast lets you visit at the quiet times and spend the rest of the day at the beach.
Which palaces to choose
Pena Palace
The red and yellow palace on the hilltop, Portugal's most famous romantic building. The surrounding park is huge and worth as much time as the palace itself.
Quinta da Regaleira
A gothic mansion with gardens full of grottoes, tunnels and the spiral initiation well, which everyone wants to photograph. Children love the tunnels.
Moorish Castle
Medieval walls along the ridge, with views over Sintra, the Pena Palace and the coast on clear days.
Monserrate
An exotic palace in a botanical garden with plants from around the world. Usually much quieter than Pena and Regaleira, and closest to the coast. Our favourite.
Convent of the Capuchos
A tiny, austere convent lined with cork, hidden in the forest. A complete contrast to the palaces.
How to plan the day
- Book online for Pena and Regaleira, especially in summer and at weekends.
- Go early or late. Arriving at opening time, or in the last two hours, makes a big difference.
- Limit it to two sights a day. Pena plus the Moorish Castle, or Regaleira plus Monserrate, work well together.
- Don't drive into the old town. Parking is very limited. Use the circuit bus, a taxi or a tuk-tuk from the edge of town.
- Wear comfortable shoes. There are a lot of hills and steps.
A two-day plan from the coast
Day 1: Monserrate in the morning, lunch in Sintra town, Quinta da Regaleira in the late afternoon. Back to the villa for a swim at sunset.
Day 2: Pena Palace and park at opening time, then the Moorish Castle. Afternoon at Praia da Adraga or Praia Grande.
Staying near Sintra
Sintra town gets crowded and has few large houses. Villa Rio Seco is in Almoçageme, about 20 minutes' drive from the palaces and walking distance from the beach, with room for up to 12 guests.
Frequently asked questions
Which Sintra palace is best?
Pena Palace is the most famous. Quinta da Regaleira is the most fun, especially with children. Monserrate is the quietest and has beautiful gardens.
How many days do you need in Sintra?
Two days lets you see the main palaces without rushing. Add more to enjoy the beaches and the coast.
Can you drive to the Sintra palaces?
Parking near the palaces and in the historic centre is very limited. Use the circuit bus, a taxi or a tuk-tuk.
