What to see, what to do
à Sintra

Travel guide Sintra

Sintra, a picturesque town nestling in the hills of the Serra de Sintra, is famous for its colourful palaces, lush gardens and rich historical heritage. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers a unique blend of romantic architecture and natural landscapes.

Sintra has long been a favourite haunt of Portuguese royalty and aristocrats, a fact reflected in its extravagant palaces and historic homes. Its history dates back to medieval times, and the town has been a source of inspiration for many poets and writers.

Sintra is easily reached by train from Lisbon, with a journey time of around 40 minutes. The town is also accessible by car, although parking can be limited in the historic centre.

Accommodation

Sintra offers a variety of accommodation options, from boutique and luxury hotels in historic buildings to family-run guesthouses and youth hostels.

Gastronomy

Queijadas de Sintra, travesseiros, fresh seafood, local wines.

What is there to see? What to do?

Pena National Palace, Moorish Castle, Sintra National Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, Monserrate Palace.

The historic centre, the area around the Parque de Pena and traditional villages such as Colares.

Hiking in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, exploring the gardens and forests, visiting the beaches of the nearby Atlantic coast.

Educational visits to palaces and castles, play areas in parks, activities on nearby beaches.

Sintra Music Festival, traditional Portuguese celebrations, craft markets.

Activities

Shopping

Local crafts, souvenirs from the palaces and regional products in the centre's shops.

Nightlife

Cafés and bars in the historic centre, quiet evenings with a local atmosphere.

Did you know?

The Palais de Pena is one of the finest examples of 19th-century Romantic architecture in Europe.
The Quinta da Regaleira is home to initiation gardens with Masonic and alchemical symbols.
Sintra was a summer retreat for Portuguese royalty, escaping the heat of Lisbon.
Sintra's microclimate creates a landscape of lush forests and gardens, in stark contrast to the rest of the region.
Lord Byron described Sintra as a "glorious Eden" in his writings, contributing to its international renown.

Tips and tricks
Wear comfortable shoes to explore the cobbled streets and footpaths.
Use local bus 434 for a convenient route between the main tourist sites.
Sample the local pastries in Sintra's traditional cafés.

Visit the palaces early in the morning to avoid the crowds, explore the lesser-known hiking trails for spectacular views, discover the workshops of local craftsmen.

Hi, I'm a passionate globetrotter with a deep love for Portugal and especially for mystical Sintra. At 54, I've been lucky enough to travel the world, but it's here, between enchanting castles and lush forests, that my heart has found its home. I have a soft spot for the local wine, the fascinating history and the friendly people of this land. Every street corner, every azulejo reminds me of a story, an anecdote that I'd like to share with you.

Carlos R.

DiamsTrotter Sintra