Top 14 Must-Do Activities in Sintra, Portugal for 2025

There are so many things to do in Sintra, Portugal. The history of the area dates back to the 1400s when a single monastery was placed on a hilltop in Sintra during medieval times. When the Lisbon Earthquake of 1755 destroyed most of the city, the area sat untouched and empty for many years. It wasn’t until the mid-1800s when one of the King’s sons was so fascinated by the forested area, that his father decided to acquire all the surrounding land and bring it back to life.

Top Things To Do In Sintra, Portugal

Sintra is located just 45 minutes north of the capital city of Portugal, Lisbon. This town boasts a rich history and cultural significance, which is beautifully reflected in its numerous ancient castles and palaces, such as the Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle. These exceptional buildings are known for their ornate decoration, historical significance, and picturesque locations, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Moreover, Sintra is renowned for its charming streets and neighborhoods filled with colorful houses, quaint shops, and excellent restaurants. This picturesque town has a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere, making it a popular destination for visitors eager to experience a more authentic and traditional side of Portugal.

1. Visit Pena Palace

Among the most popular attractions in Sintra, the Pena Palace is a captivating 19th-century Romantic palace that majestically overlooks the town from its hilltop position. Commissioned by King Ferdinand II, this lavish palace showcases vibrant colors and a blend of architectural styles, encompassing Gothic, Manueline, and Moorish elements.

Visitors to the Pena Palace are invited to explore the palace’s beautifully adorned rooms, such as the throne room, dining room, and bedrooms. Its elevated setting will remind you of Ludwig II’s Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria, although Pena Palace was built prior!

Tips for Visiting Pena Palace

Pena Palace often experiences high visitor traffic, thus, securing timed entries in advance is essential. It is advisable to arrive at least an hour beforehand to navigate through the guard gates at the entrance and embark on a 15-minute walk uphill to the palace.

Traffic heading to Pena Palace can be heavy, so consider leaving at least 1 hour before your scheduled entry time, but 2 hours would be more prudent. While Ubers cost around 7 Euro from the town center, they are often reluctant to ascend to Pena Palace due to traffic. Therefore, a tuk-tuk might be a more reliable option, costing between €10 – €20 per person.

Both taxis and tuk-tuks will take you to the gate, which allows for entry anytime on the day of your ticket. Afterward, you can enjoy a scenic walk up to the palace (approximately 15 minutes), where you will queue for your timed entry.

Pena Park

The Pena Palace is enveloped by Pena Park, a stunningly landscaped garden filled with exotic plants and flowers. This park is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll while enjoying breathtaking views of the idyllic countryside.

The entrance fee for Pena Palace is €7.50 for adults. Reduced rates of €6.50 apply for visitors aged 65 and older and children between 6 and 17 years old. A family ticket is also available for €26. Sintra offers a shuttle bus from the entrance that traverses the gardens, dropping you off right in front of the Pena Palace, or you might choose to walk through the gardens uphill to reach the palace.

2. Explore the Moorish Castle

The Moorish Castle is a well-preserved medieval castle located high above Sintra, Portugal. Dating back to the 9th century, it served as a summer palace for the Portuguese royal family. Today, it stands as one of the foremost tourist attractions in Sintra, celebrated for its well-maintained walls and spectacular views.

The architectural styles of the castle include Gothic and Mudéjar, marked by a series of defensive walls and towers. Visitors can delve into the castle’s interior, which houses royal apartments, a chapel, and a cistern, alongside a small museum providing insights into its history and regional significance.

In addition to exploring the castle, outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in activities like hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching within the surrounding area, making the Moorish Castle a must-visit for those intrigued by medieval history and architecture.

Entry costs are as follows: Adults (18 – 64 years) €8, Youth (6 – 17 years) €6.50, Seniors (over 65 years) €6.50, and Family ticket (2 adults + 2 youths) €26.

3. Visit Cabo da Roca

Situated a short drive from Sintra, Cabo da Roca represents the westernmost point of mainland Europe and is a sought-after tourist location praised for panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.

This rocky promontory juts out into the sea, providing visitors with breathtaking views of the dramatic coastline and vast ocean. The observation deck is the ideal spot to absorb the scenery and the refreshing sea breeze.

Cabo da Roca also features a historic lighthouse, built in the 17th century to assist ships navigating safely to Lisbon. The lighthouse welcomes visitors and provides sweeping views of the adjacent coastline. Despite the possibility of waiting in line for a photograph alongside the famous plaque, this experience is one you will want to cherish!

4. Tour the Sintra National Palace (Palácio Nacional de Sintra)

The Sintra National Palace is a remarkable 15th-century palace located in the heart of the old city. Once a residence for the Portuguese royal family, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This palace stands out for its architectural diversity, reflecting a blend of Manueline, Gothic, and Mudéjar styles. Its stunning facade is truly captivating.

Upon entering, visitors are transported to a luxurious past filled with refined elegance. The grand halls and spacious rooms are adorned with intricate furnishings, exemplifying the wealth and power of the royal family.

Guests can wander through the beautifully decorated rooms, including the throne room, dining room, and bedrooms, while learning about the palace’s rich history. A chapel still in use for religious ceremonies today can also be found within the palace, along with a charming garden exhibiting exotic flora.

The Palácio Nacional de Sintra operates daily from 9:30 AM to 7:00 PM, with the last entrance at 6:30 PM. Admission fees are €10.00 for adults, €8.50 for children and seniors, and €33.00 for families. Consider obtaining a fast-track ticket to bypass the queues.

5. Visit Quinta da Regaleira

Quinta da Regaleira is undoubtedly the most picturesque spot in Sintra, inviting you to set aside your map and follow the enchanting winding paths.

This estate embodies mystery and magic, nestled in the town’s heart and surrounded by lush gardens, home to a variety of exotic plants and flowers.

Constructed in the early 20th century by affluent Brazilian businessman António Augusto Carvalho Monteiro, Quinta da Regaleira served as a showcase for his impressive collection of art and rare artifacts.

The centerpiece of Quinta da Regaleira is a stunning palace, a triumph of architectural and design mastery. The estate is also famous for its underground tunnels and caves, which were historically used for initiation rites by secret societies—an intriguing exploration awaits visitors willing to navigate these secretive corridors.

If you arrive by car, parking is available down the street from the main entrance. Entrance fees range from €10.00 for adults to €4.00 for seniors and children, including access to both the house and grounds.

6. Monserrate Palace

Monserrate Palace, nestled in the beautiful hills of Sintra, is a treasure of wonder and enchantment. This 19th-century palace boasts architectural elements from Gothic, Moorish, and Indian styles, and is a hidden gem awaiting discovery.

Upon approach, the palace’s grandeur becomes evident. Once the residence of Sir Francis Cook, the first Visconde de Monserrat, it is now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Stepping into the palace transports visitors to a bygone era of opulence. Its spacious halls are adorned with exquisite details and luxurious furnishings, reflecting the splendor of the former owner, a wealthy English merchant.

However, the true allure lies in the gardens, sprawling with exotic flora—a nature lover’s paradise. Visitors are encouraged to take leisurely strolls through the gardens, appreciating the harmonious relationship between nature and the regal palace.

Entrance fees are €8.00 for adults, €6.50 for children and seniors, with opening hours from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM. To avoid crowds, it is recommended to purchase tickets in advance.

7. Praia da Ursa

Praia da Ursa is a breathtaking beach situated just a short drive from Sintra. Surrounded by rugged cliffs and vibrant greenery, its stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean are nothing short of spectacular.

This beach is an ideal destination for swimming and sunbathing, with its secluded location providing a perfect opportunity to escape the crowds. Adventurous visitors can also explore the hidden coves and caves along the shore.

After basking in the beauty of one of Portugal’s most stunning beaches, you can take in the panoramic vistas from the cliffs above. It’s the ideal spot to unwind and revel in nature’s splendor.

8. Explore the Serra de Sintra

The Serra de Sintra is a magnificent mountain range located just outside of Sintra, Portugal. Known for its extensive hiking trails and rich history dotted with castles, it serves as a popular sanctuary for nature lovers.

The Serra de Sintra offers various trails, allowing hikers of all skill levels to take in breathtaking views while immersing themselves in the area’s natural beauty.

This captivating range is home to numerous historical sites, including castles and palaces that attract visitors seeking to enrich their knowledge of the region’s heritage.

9. Learn about the Knights Templar

The Knights Templar, a military order formed in the 12th century to safeguard Christian pilgrims traveling to the Holy Land, played a significant role in the region’s history. Visitors can further their understanding of these knights by exploring the Convent of the Order of Christ, once their headquarters in Portugal.

10. Visit the Praia das Maçãs

Praia das Maçãs is a scenic locale situated on Portugal’s rugged western coast, offering an array of activities and attractions for visitors.

This beach captivates visitors with its stunning natural beauty, framed by rugged cliffs and lush greenery on one side, while a picturesque town graces the other. It’s a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying crystal-clear waters along a long stretch of sandy beach.

In addition to water activities, observing the breathtaking views from the cliffs that abound provides a great opportunity to explore hidden coves and caves along the shoreline. Praia das Maçãs remains a serene retreat, ideal for those seeking tranquility amidst nature’s beauty—a must-see for anyone visiting Sintra or the western coast of Portugal.

11. Take a hike in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park

This natural park is home to sandy beaches and dunes, with the Praia da Adraga being a striking example—featuring an extensive stretch of sand and picturesque dunes, popular for swimming.

Outdoor enthusiasts flock to the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park for its impressive natural beauty, rich with diverse plant and animal species. The scenery captivates visitors, while the park’s historical and cultural landmarks, including castles and palaces, enhance the experience.

Moreover, hiking through the park allows visitors to stay active while relishing the fresh air. With trails catering to various skill levels, everyone from novice walkers to seasoned hikers can find their fit.

12. Take a boat tour of the Sintra Coast

A boat tour of the Sintra Coast is a must for those spending more than a day exploring this enchanting city. These tours generally include stops at landmark sites such as the Cabo da Roca and the secluded Praia da Ursa beach, which can only be reached by boat.

Participants can arrange boat tours after arriving in the city, with tour durations typically spanning a few hours and often featuring commentary by knowledgeable local guides. This immersive experience is an exceptional way to appreciate the beauty of the Sintra Coast while absorbing insights about the region’s rich history and culture.

13. Try some local cuisine

Sintra is home to a variety of excellent restaurants serving authentic Portuguese dishes. Visitors can indulge in local favorites such as pastel de nata (custard tarts), bacalhau (salted cod), and cozido à portuguesa (a hearty traditional stew).

The Portuguese culinary scene prominently features sardines, readily available in most stores, and even rental shops in Sintra; in Lisbon, they seem to be everywhere.

While sardines may not appeal to everyone, they offer a tasty and salty snack perfect for enjoying while exploring the attractions. With a variety of flavor options available, visitors should take their time to read the labels before indulging!

14. Visit the Sintra Museum of Modern Art

The Sintra Museum of Modern Art (Museu de Arte Moderna de Sintra) resides in the former Palace of the Counts of Edla, a 19th-century structure once used as a summer retreat for the Portuguese royal family.

Its collection showcases works from both Portuguese and international artists spanning the 19th and 20th centuries, emphasizing modern and contemporary art. The museum houses paintings, sculptures, photographs, and other artistic works, known particularly for its robust representation of Portuguese modernism.

Additionally, the Sintra Museum of Modern Art frequently hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events, such as lectures, workshops, and concerts. Art enthusiasts will undoubtedly want to experience one of Portugal’s most significant cultural institutions.

Admission is free for individuals under 17, over 60, or those holding a student card; everyone else pays just 1 euro.

In conclusion, Sintra is a beautiful and historic town offering an extensive range of cultural and recreational activities for visitors. Whether you’re captivated by its history, eager to explore the grand Pena Palace, or longing to relax on the stunning beaches, there’s something for everyone when visiting Sintra.

This post has been updated by iBestTravel to ensure you have the most current and accurate information for your journey.