Sintra is a captivating gem in Portugal that feels like a page torn from a fairy tale. Just a short train ride from Lisbon, this enchanting town is renowned for its stunning palaces and lush landscapes. The crown jewel is the colorful Pena Palace, perched atop a hill and offering breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and coastline. Its eclectic architecture and vibrant hues make it a photographer's dream. Wander through the cobblestone streets of Sintra’s historic center, where you can indulge in local delicacies like travesseiros, a delightful puff pastry filled with almond cream. The town's rich history is palpable, with the Moorish Castle standing as a proud reminder of its past, dating back to the 8th century. Don't miss the Quinta da Regaleira, a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its mystical gardens and intriguing initiation wells that spark the imagination. Sintra’s natural beauty is equally impressive, with the lush Sintra-Cascais Natural Park offering countless trails for hiking enthusiasts. With its blend of history, culture, and stunning scenery, Sintra is a must-visit destination that promises to leave a lasting impression. Did you know that Sintra has been a favorite retreat for Portuguese royalty since the 19th century?
Sintra, Portugal
Top things to do in Sintra
15 attractions, landmarks and museums worth your time, ranked by traveler reviews.
Castle of the Moors
Ruins of a medieval Moorish fortress on a Sintra hilltop, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and coastline.
Sintra National Palace
A well-preserved medieval palace in Sintra's town center, renowned for its iconic twin chimneys and exquisite azulejo tilework.
Cabo da Roca
Stand at mainland Europe's westernmost edge, where a historic lighthouse crowns dramatic sea cliffs with endless Atlantic views.
Monserrate Palace
A whimsical 19th-century palace blending Gothic, Moorish, and Indian styles amid lush, exotic gardens.
Sintra-Cascais Natural Park
A protected mosaic of hills, forests, and coastline around Sintra, offering hiking trails through lush landscapes and historic sites.
Seteais Palace
A neoclassical palace turned luxury hotel with sweeping gardens and stunning views of Pena Palace.
Convent of the Capuchos (Sintra)
A 16th-century Franciscan convent carved into the rocks, enveloped by a lush forest.
Praia da Adraga
A golden-sand beach flanked by dramatic cliffs, popular for surfing and sunbathing.
Azenhas do Mar
Azenhas do Mar is a cliffside village with whitewashed houses cascading to the ocean, featuring a natural swimming pool carved into the rocks.
Cabo da Roca Lighthouse
Cabo da Roca Lighthouse stands at mainland Europe’s westernmost point, guiding ships along the rugged Atlantic coast since the 18th century.
Sintra Natural History Museum
Sintra Natural History Museum houses an extensive collection of fossils, minerals, and dinosaur eggs, offering a journey through prehistoric times.
NewsMuseum
An interactive museum in Sintra exploring the evolution of news and journalism through hands-on exhibits and multimedia displays.
Igreja de Santa Maria (Sintra)
A medieval church in Sintra's historic center showcasing Gothic and Manueline architectural details, with a serene interior.
Sanctuary of Peninha
A hilltop sanctuary near Sintra with a chapel and hermitage, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic coast and surrounding countryside.
Pena Palace
A 19th-century Romanticist palace atop a Sintra hill, famed for its vivid colors and eclectic blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Moorish styles.
Tickets & tours
Skip the queue in Sintra
Compare live prices for entry tickets, guided tours and day trips from trusted local operators.
Some booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.