Sintra, Portugal, is a really popular day-trip from Lisbon. It’s a town full of majestic castles and old-world ruins, with stunning views and very friendly people.
Not surprisingly, this little town is absolutely swarming with tourists. And while I normally dislike really touristy places, this is the kind of town you should absolutely see if you get the chance.
Just 45 minutes away by train, Sintra is set high in the mountains overlooking Lisbon. It will cost you 4.80 Euro to get there, round-trip, leaving from the main train station in Lisbon (not Cais do Sodre).
What to See and Do
The main sights in Sintra–Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle– are set high on top of the mountains. The road to get there is very, very steep and would take you two hours or more to get up there. I considered it, briefly, until my boyfriend talked me into taking the #434 bus. It’s 5 Euros, round trip and you can take it from in front of the tourist information center. Best decision ever!
- Pena Palace
Someone described this place to me as a “palace on crack,” and that’s a pretty good way to put it. The architecture is pulled from several different cultures and the colors are all over the place. It’s quite a sight to see! Something they don’t tell you: The castle is not at the entrance. The castle is uphill about 10 minutes. It’s not a bad hike, and you can pay for a tram for 3 extra Euros, but we hoofed it to the top.
- Moorish Castle
By the time we walked up to and around Pena Palace, I was getting pretty tired. And then, we walked the 10 minutes or so down to the Moorish Castle. It kind of reminds you of a mini Great Wall. The castle itself is long gone, but the walls around the castle are still there, and you can hike up to one of the towers for a great view. Be prepared to walk. I wasn’t, and by the time I got all the way there, I was super tired. So what did we do? Hike to the top of the tower, of course! We were dripping in sweat by the end, but the photo ops were too good to pass up!
- Quinta da Regaleira
This gorgeous park, half botanical garden/half palace, is full of hidden gems and has been aptly described as “mystical” by many. There are tons of hidden tunnels and sculptures, secret passageways, waterfalls and small lakes. It costs 10 Euros, but is well worth it–especially if you have time to wander around. You can easily pass an entire afternoon here–we did!
Sintra is a really special place and I’m so glad we took the time to visit it. It’s an easy day trip from Lisbon, and something I won’t forget!
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
Love the Castles ! Pics are great, too ! I can see why this place will be very memorable. I also love the architecture. Very unique and un-like any I have ever seen with the different colors and variety of style in different sections of it.
I love Sintra! Every time I went there I discovered something new to adore about that place!
My favorite palace is Palácio de Monserrate, because it feels like a true Arabian Night’s dream 🙂
I know! Isn’t Sintra spectacular? I wish I could’ve stayed all day, I met a local who said it’s great at night without all of the people.