The Ultimate 2026 Sintra Day Trip Guide from Lisbon
Sintra, Portugal is a haven for palaces, castles, and ancient ruins. The town is overflowing with centuries of history and it’s well-known that taking a Sintra day trip is one of the best things to do while visiting Portugal!
Whether you’re coming from the capital of Lisbon or the nearby town of Cascais, you’ll find that it’s quite simple to get from one place to another due to Portugal’s impressive public transportation system.
In this post, you’ll find everything you need to know about taking a Sintra day trip including the best things to do, how much time you’ll need, a one day Sintra itinerary, how to get around, the best guided tours in the area, a budget calculator for your visit, and more!
If you’re on the fence about including Sintra in your Portugal itinerary, this post will surely persuade you to visit for at least one day before moving on to your next destination.
The Ultimate Sintra Day Trip Itinerary
The itinerary below has been designed to provide you with the best things to do in Sintra in an order that will be both efficient and exciting.
Take a look at the map I have provided below the itinerary to get an idea of how much walking may be necessary.
Pena Palace and Parque de Pena
As you probably know by now, Pena Palace and its well acquainted Parque de Pena are icons of not only Sintra but also Portugal. Easily recognized around the world as a Portuguese wonder, there is no way to visit Sintra and not see the Pena Palace!
This impressive landmark opened in 1854 and still dominates the town of Sintra with its empowering hilltop location and striking towers and walls.
Built as a Romanticist Castle, Pena Palace can even be seen from as far as Lisbon on a good-weathered day and is easily the best thing to do in Sintra.
Keep in mind that though the palace looks grand in size from the outside, some of the interior corridors can actually get quite small. So, for the best experience, be sure to come early and avoid the crowds!
You’ll also need to know that you’ll want to take the 434 bus service from Sintra train station to the Pena Palace to avoid a grueling uphill trek from the city center.
Castle of the Moors
Next on our list is the famous Castle of the Moors or the Castelo dos Mouros. This Moorish castle dates back to the 8th century during the time of the Moors’ expansion.
Built on craggy outcrops and surrounded by massive boulders, this stronghold once defended the surrounding region from invaders and was a powerful landmark for the entire region.
As centuries passed, the castle withstood countless battles and eventually was left to decay following the final push from the Christian Crusaders in the 12th century.
Today, the ancient ruins stand as a popular tourist destination and are well worth exploring due to the limitless amount of history still left to be explored here.
Quinta da Regaleira
The Quinta da Regaleira rivals Pena Palace with its popularity owing to its unique design and endless secretive passageways throughout the property!
On top of being situated in the center of hectares of breathtaking flora and fauna, the Quinta da Regaleira is full of hidden staircases and secret doors making it one of the most fun things to do in Sintra!
If you’re like me and love being surrounded by ancient ruins and exploring hidden hallways, rooms, and learning about life for those that lived there, then the Quinta da Regaleira needs to be included on your personal best Sintra day trip itinerary.
Sintra National Palace
Also known as the Town Palace owing to its location in the Sintra town center, the construction of the medieval National Palace of Sintra began back in the Middle Ages and it has been extremely well-preserved since.
Once a royal palace for hundreds of years, the National Palace of Sintra has held the Portuguese royal family over the centuries and is now home to gothic artifacts and an interesting history.
Easily recognized for its two tall chimneys and white-washed exterior, the National Palace of Sintra should be included on your Sintra visit even if only for its convenient location.
Monserrate Palace
Similar to the Pena Palace, Monserrate Palace is also home to a stunning park full of an array of gorgeous flora and fauna.
While this palace may be smaller, it will likely take you upwards of 1-2 hours to explore to the fullest. The entirety of this building is covered in intricate details and luxurious, gold facades and the inside is beaming with beautiful rooms and sophisticated hallways.
Since Monserrate Palace is a little bit more west than the rest of the attractions, if you plan on including the Cabo da Roca on your Sintra day trip, then also include a trip to this palace since you’ll be going right by it.
The best way to access this palace is via the 435 bus or a guided tour from either Cascais or Lisbon.
Cabo da Roca – *Bonus stop* if you have more than one day to visit Sintra!
As I mentioned before, the Cabo da Roca is one of the best day trips from Lisbon and should absolutely be included on your Sintra day trip!
At a mere 25 minutes away, there is no reason not to go get your picture on the westernmost point of the continent.
This piece of Portuguese coastline offers sweeping views over the Atlantic Ocean and striking, jagged cliffs that are spectacular to see.
There is also a rustic lighthouse with a museum on the property where you can learn about the history of the Cabo da Roca and the lighthouse’s purpose!
Historic Center of Sintra
After a day full of sightseeing in all of Sintra’s famous palaces, gardens, and castles, as well as standing on Europe’s westernmost point, it’s time to start strolling the historic center of town and find some food!
Portugal is well known for its unique use of local ingredients and flavorful dishes. If you enjoy seafood, you’re in for a treat!
Especially in towns close to the ocean, you’ll find endless options for seared octopus, squid ink pasta, delicately filleted salmon, steamed mussels, and even European lobster and crustaceans.
Once you have had your share of food, take to the streets of Sintra’s historic center and take a peek around for some interesting Portuguese souvenirs or crafts.
Don’t forget that the best items are almost always found on the side streets surrounding a city center, never in the city center itself!
Map of Sintra Day Trip Itinerary
The map below includes all of the main sites and attractions in Sintra, but does not show the Cabo da Roca.
If you are looking to visit this bucket list destination, zoom out to view it on Portugal’s west coast!
How to Get from Lisbon to Sintra
Getting from Lisbon to Sintra is very simple. You have a few options of getting there including a guided tour like the ones I have mentioned below, the train, or driving yourself.
Since I highly recommend not renting a car due to Portugal’s highly-developed public transportation system and the fact that driving through the cities can be a hassle with pedestrians, bicycles, parking, etc., let’s assume that you’ll be taking the train.
Access the Rossio Train Station in Lisbon’s center where there are direct trains departing to Sintra every 15 minutes. You’ll need to purchase your ticket inside the station for €4.50. There is no discount for roundtrip tickets, so a one-way ticket is €2.25 (subject to change).
The Lisbon to Sintra train is the most time and cost-efficient method of taking a day trip with the total travel time only reaching about 40 minutes. If you were to join a guided tour with private transportation in a vehicle, then the drive would only take you about 25 minutes.
How to Get from Cascais to Sintra
The best method of getting from Cascais to Sintra is to take the bus. It only takes about 25 minutes and is the easiest method of getting between these towns. Taking a Sintra day trip from Cascais is easy, fun, and super informational!
The price ranges between €1 and €6 depending on the season and day of the week, but it’s very affordable and efficient either way.
This is why many people decide to visit both Sintra and Cascais in one day! They’re close to one another and are relatively small so you can really pack a lot into your Sintra day trip and Cascais.
How To Get Around Sintra
You’ll hear from almost anyone who has visited Sintra that it is a very walkable place to visit. However, just because something is technically reachable by foot, doesn’t mean it is going to be an easy journey.
If you plan on walking for most of your day in Sintra, it won’t be a surprise if you end up with some blisters and possibly calling for an expensive taxi at some point!
To avoid these disruptions on your day trip to Sintra, consider using the Sintra bus services to help get you between the further attractions.
As shown on the map above, it would take you nearly 80 minutes to walk from the Sintra train station to the Pena Palace up a grueling, windy hill. So, to avoid that unenjoyable journey in the summer heat and wasting your precious time, hop on the 434 Bus Sintra!
It starts at the Sintra train station, drives through Sintra’s historic center, and takes you up the windy road to the top of the hill where you’ll hop out and walk past the dozens of tourists looking for a place to park their rental car (they usually end up driving back down the hill, parking in the historic center, then jumping on the bus anyway)!
From here, you’ll only be a few minutes walk to the Pena Palace and just a few more to the Castle of the Moors.
If you want to visit the Monserrate Palace as we included on the above itinerary, you’ll need to get on the 435 Sintra Bus from the Sintra train station.
↪️ Pro Tip: Keep in mind that these buses operate on a one-way loop, so you will need to get on the early morning 434 bus if you plan on following the above itinerary!
To include both the Monserrate Palace and the Cabo da Roca, your best option will be to hire a day trip guide via one of the tours I have suggested below.
Where to Stay in Sintra
On any Sintra day trip, it’s a good idea to stay close to all the action. Since you’re going to be short on time, you won’t want to waste a lot of that time getting to the palaces and scenic lookouts.
Sintra is covered in UNESCO World Heritage Sites, so if you can swing spending a little extra time there, you should absolutely do it.
I suggest staying near the main town where you’ll have the option of staying in an affordable accommodation close to bars, restaurants, cafes, and shops. You’ll also be nearby the bus and train stations, so you’ll be able to access all of the popular sites quite easily!
Sintra Hotels in the Center of Town
Here are a few of my favorite Sintra hotels:
↪️Tivoli Sintra Hotel
(Photo by Expedia)
The Tivoli Sintra Hotel is a four-star hotel located in the center of Sintra, close to public transportation. Rooms have air conditioning, which is a must in Portugal’s summer heat.
The onsite Miranda Restaurant offers international cuisine, and the Terrace Bar is the perfect spot to relax after a day of sightseeing. The hotel also arranges a variety of tours including wine tastings, hiking, and even sailing!
Just 1.2 miles from Pena Palace, the Tivoli Sintra Hotel is the perfect place to stay while exploring this historic town.
↪️Penha Longa Resort
(Photo by Expedia)
The Penha Longa Resort is a luxurious five-star resort located in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. It features a championship 27-hole golf course, three Michelin-starred restaurants (of the 9 restaurants onsite), and excellent wellness facilities, including a spa and fitness center.
Every guest room has a private balcony with stunning mountain or garden views. There are also three swimming pools onsite, perfect for cooling off in the Portuguese summer heat.
If you’re looking for luxury, comfort, and world-class amenities, the Penha Longa Resort is the place for you.
Sintra is relatively small, so most of the hotels and B&Bs will be located on the narrow cobblestone streets all around the region.
You also have the option of staying just outside of the park entrances, so if you really want to be first in line, then I recommend booking one of these spots. However, they do book up well in advance and can come at a higher price.
You also won’t be as near the town, so once all of the sites close for the evening, there won’t be much to do. You’ll need to take a bus or train back to the town for dinner and to enjoy the evening before taking a return trip back to your accommodation.
This is why I typically recommend staying in the main town, but on one of the more quiet side streets. The neighborhoods in Sintra are pretty safe, so you won’t need to really worry about which area you pick.
I prefer to stay out of the main areas since it can be quite touristy, so if you agree, then a simple spot off the main streets is a good compromise. But, if you do decide to stay as close to the park entrances as possible, then these hotels can get you there!
Sintra Hotels Near the Major Attractions
↪️Sintra Boutique Hotel
(Photo by Expedia)
The Sintra Boutique Hotel is a modern and spacious hotel located just 2 kilometers from the famous Pena Palace. The onsite restaurant serves up traditional Portuguese specialties, and the Sintra Natural Park is only 5 minutes away by car.
With Praia Grande Beach being only a 20-minute drive away and the Sintra Train Station being only a 10-minute walk away, you can easily access this hotel without a car. With everything so close by, it’s the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring Sintra!
The villas are beautiful and perfect for exploring this charming town, plus the beds are comfortable and the setting is cozy, making it the ultimate place to stay for your Sintra day trip.
↪️Storytellers Villas
(Photo by Expedia)
Looking for a charming and intimate accommodation in Sintra? Look no further than Storytellers Villas! This small and cozy hotel is just 1.2 miles away from the famous Pena Palace, and offers guests free WiFi, terrace access, and barbecue facilities.
The accommodations are perfect for travelers looking for a relaxing retreat, and the excellent daily continental breakfast is the perfect way to start your day.
With its close proximity to Quinta da Regaleira, Palácio Nacional de Sintra, Olga Cadaval Cultural Center, and Sintra Natural History Museum, Storytellers Villas is the perfect place to stay while exploring this historic town on your Sintra day trip.
Travel Tips for Taking a Sintra Day Trip
If you have not visited Sintra before, I have a few tips that may make your experience go a little bit smoother, especially if you’re coming from Lisbon!
✔️ If you’re taking a Sintra day trip, try to include some time at the westernmost point of Europe – the Cabo da Roca – while you’re there!
It’s only a 25 minute drive (50 minute train ride) away from Sintra and is a bucket list experience that shouldn’t be missed!
✔️ If you’re taking a Sintra day trip from Lisbon, you should purchase the Sintra Pass if you plan on entering a lot of attractions.
It includes access to Pena Palace and the Park, the Castle of the Moors, a Lisbon Card, an audio guide of Sintra, and an audio guide of Lisbon! It will also provide discounts on other attractions in Sintra.
✔️ Wear good walking shoes
This one is a must! Sintra is covered in cobblestones, bricks, dirt, and you possibly may even stumble upon some rubble in some parts of the castles.
✔️ If you are coming from a nearby town or city, be sure to get on an early train
The lines start early and the attractions fill up fast, especially in the peak summer months, so you’ll want to be one of the first ones there if you can.
✔️ Take in the history, not just the sights during your Sintra day trip.
This fairytale town is beaming with history, so either take part in a guided tour like the ones I have mentioned below, or read up on the history of the palaces and castles before visiting.
Even if you aren’t a history enthusiast, it will make the whole experience more enjoyable and you may even learn some things you find interesting!
Sintra Day Trip Costs & Budget Calculator
The palace is quite affordable, especially if you decide to purchase the Sintra Pass and your Sintra tickets online in advance. When it comes to things like accommodations, meals, attractions, and travel needs, I have provided you with a breakdown below.
Of course, these are only averages and may change depending on the season, day of the week, and other factors.
Accommodations
Budget Hostel: €37-50
Mid-Range Hotel: €90-120
Luxury Hotel: €200-315+
Meals
Sit-Down Restaurant in Sintra: €35-45 for two people
Fast Food: €6-8 per person
Budget Lunch at a Restaurant: €8-10 per person
Attractions
Pena Palace and the Parque de Pena: €12.50-14 / €49 (child/senior/adult) / family pass (2 adults + 2 kids)
Castle of the Moors: €6.50-8 / €26 (child/senior/adult) / family pass (2 adults + 2 kids)
Monserrate Palace: €6.50-8 / €26 (child/senior/adult) / family pass (2 adults + 2 kids)
National Palace of Sintra: €8.50-10 / €33 (child/senior/adult) / family pass (2 adults + 2 kids)
Quinta da Regaleira: €8-15 (child/senior/adult)
Transportation
Lisbon to Sintra by Train: €2.25 single ticket
Cascais to Sintra Bus: €1-6
343 Bus to Pena Palace: €3.90
What to Pack for a Sintra Day Trip
Even if you’re only planning on spending a day or two in Sintra, and regardless if you’re coming from nearby Lisbon or are actually staying in the town, there is a list of items I would highly suggest bringing with you while you’re out exploring.
First, a good day backpack is essential. Sintra is covered in ancient ruins, medieval palaces, and endless romantic gardens, so you’re probably going to be upset if you’re trying to carry all of the following items individually.
It’s also a great place to store your wallet and any other important travel documents if you don’t trust leaving them in your accommodation while you’re taking the Sintra day trip.
I personally use and love the Osprey Fairview 40l backpack since it has plenty of pockets, is made of super durable and lightweight material, and has a shoulder and waist strap to keep all the weight distributed evenly. They also have a version for men called the Osprey Farpoint 40l!
Second, a reusable water bottle with a filter will save you a lot of money. When you’re out in the hot sun roaming around numerous palaces and ruins, you’re going to get dehydrated. Save your money on the expensive tourist water bottles (and do your part to save the planet), and instead just bring along a reusable water bottle!
I personally use the LifeStraw Go Water Bottle since it has a 2-step filtering process. I’ve used it all over the world and have never gotten sick drinking from hotel taps, streams, etc.
Third, if you’re using your phone as your primary camera, I really recommend packing a spare portable battery pack.
I use this one from Amazon, and I’ve had it for 2+ years and it still has a long battery life and can charge my phone from nearly dead to full in about 75-90 minutes! I love it, and it always comes with me whenever I travel.
Fourth, snacks are always essential. If you’re in the middle of strolling the halls of Monserrate Palace, you’re not going to want to leave to go get lunch. Have some snacks in your bag to hold you over until an early dinner! I also suggest eating a hearty breakfast before you set out for the day.
Lastly, bring an extra warm layer with you. Even in the summers in Portugal, the temperature can drop a good bit once the sun goes down. I recommend a light sweater or rain jacket to have with you, just in case.
Best Sintra Day Tours from Lisbon
If you aren’t planning on driving yourself around Sintra and you aren’t interested in organizing bus and train tickets to meet your schedule needs, then perhaps consider booking one of these top Sintra Tours!
By clicking on a Sintra tour from Lisbon below, you’ll be informed of exactly what’s included and what you can expect the day’s itinerary to look like.
To make things super easy, two of the below tours include free pick up and drop off at your Lisbon accommodation, and the other includes pick up in the city center of Lisbon!
↪️ Pro Tip: This is by far the easiest, no-hassle way of taking a Sintra day trip if you’re short on time or want to relax on your vacation and not have to worry about much planning. Some of these may be small group tours, while others may be rather open to a big group. You also have the option of checking out
✔️Sintra and Cascais Small Group Tour from Lisbon
- about 9 hours in duration
- Multi-Language Driver & Guide
- Live on-board commentary
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Lisbon
- Transport by air-conditioned minivan
- Visits to the Park and National Palace of Pena, the Sintra National Palace (Palácio Nacional de Sintra), Cabo da Roca, and the historic center of Cascais
- Pass by the town of Estoril and the Boca do Inferno
✔️Private Day tour with private Guide – Palaces of Sintra & Gardens
- 8 hours in duration
- Hotel pick up and drop off from Lisbon included
- Light refreshments
- Visits to Park and National Palace of Pena, Quinta da Regaleira, and Cabo da Roca
Sintra Half Day Tours
Perhaps you only have a few hours or a half day to spare on your visit to Sintra, don’t fret! These Sintra half-day tours pack a ton of information and sights into a short amount of time, so you won’t miss out on too much.
Of course, you’ll always get to see and learn more if you have more time, but this is a great way to see and do all the big stuff while you are in Sintra!
✔️Private Tour of Sintra, Palaces, and Cabo da Roca
- 2-3 hours in duration
- Visits the Sintra National Palace, Castelo dos Mouros, Park and National Palace of Pena, Quinta da Regaleira, and the Farol do Cabo da Roca (Cabo da Roca Lighthouse)
- Bottled water is provided
✔️Sintra All Palaces Sight-Seeing Private Tour
- 2 hours in duration
- Visits either the place or viewpoint of Park and National Palace of Pena, Castelo dos Mouros, Quinta da Regaleira, Sintra National Palace, Parque e Palacio de Monserrate
- Private transportation is included
FAQ
What is Sintra Known For?
Sintra is well known for its iconic Pena Palace and the surrounding gardens. This grand palace has been vibrantly colored with the colors of Portugal’s flag and is most commonly recognized as one of Portugal’s best attractions!
Sintra, while within close proximity to the ocean, is actually located more inland about 17 kilometers from the coastline. Here, you’ll find lush gardens and dense forestry covered in wildflowers and stunning views around every corner.
The area is also well known for its numerous castles and ancient ruins that have been paired with endless sweeping views everywhere you look! Sintra is one of the most beautiful places to take a day trip in Portugal, so try to squeeze it into your trip if you can.
Can You Do Sintra as a Day Trip?
Yes, it is absolutely worth taking a Sintra day trip! It’s 100% worth the effort and I can almost guarantee that you won’t be disappointed.
There is something for everyone here from magical castles, historic old towns, and plenty of blooming gardens to stroll through. Not to mention, you’ll also only be 25 minutes from the Cabo da Roca and 20 minutes from Cascais and Estoril!
Since Sintra is only 40 minutes away from Lisbon via train, there is no reason not to spend at least the day here.
Even if you only have a few days in Lisbon, that is more than enough time to hop on a train and even just spend a few hours in this exciting Portuguese town!
How Much Time Do You Need in Sintra?
While you can technically get away with spending just 1 day in Sintra, I typically recommend setting aside 2 days since there really is a lot to see.
Most of the major sites are within walking distance or a very short tram ride away from one another, so it won’t take you long to get around the town.
That’s what makes taking a Sintra day trip so easy! You’re never far from the next castle or garden, and owing to the town’s small size, you’ll be able to include restaurants and shopping with ease.
For the most part, you’ll likely want to spend time at the iconic Pena Palace, the Castle of the Moors, the Quinta da Regaleira, and spend some time exploring the historic center of town.
If you take your time, all of this will likely take between 6-8 hours, depending on how fast you like to explore. So, one day in Sintra in enough time to include both sightseeing and leisure activities into your day!
Can You Visit Sintra and Cascais in One Day?
While it depends on how fast you typically like to sightsee, many people do choose to visit Sintra and Cascais in just a day or two.
Since Sintra and Cascais are a mere 25-minute bus ride from each other, it’s very easy to combine the two into a day trip from Lisbon.
In Sintra, you’ll find palaces, castles, and gardens, and in Cascais, you’ll find a historic old town and endless beaches. If you are comfortable with spending about an hour at each attraction in Sintra before jumping on the bus to Cascais, then one day will be plenty of time for visiting both.
If you’re planning on including Cascais on your Sintra day trip, be sure to check out the 10 Best Beaches in Cascais!
Can You Do Sintra in Half a Day?
While it is possible to get to and from Sintra from Lisbon in half a day, it’s not recommended. Likewise goes even if you are staying in the town of Sintra, since many of the sights I mentioned above could easily take you half a day on their own, like Pena Palace, for example!
If you only have half a day in Sintra, I recommend getting up bright and early to see the town (even if nothing is open yet), and making your way up to the Pena Palace at least an hour before they open.
This way, you’ll be the first one in the door and depending on how much time you spend there, you may or may not have time leftover to go and see one of the other attractions I mentioned.
They are all worth seeing, but if you only have half a day in Sintra, then it’s best to see the famous Pena Palace and the surrounding town.
Can Sintra be a Day Trip from Lisbon?
Sintra can be a great option for a day trip from Lisbon. Just a short train ride away, Sintra’s fairytale palaces and stunning landscapes provide a delightful contrast to Lisbon’s urban charm.
I will say that many people prefer to spend a whole day exploring the historical wonders, saving the town for a second day, so you may want to keep in mind that Sintra’s enchanting allure might entice you to extend your visit.
Nevertheless, if your schedule is tight, rest assured, many of Sintra’s main attractions can be comfortably visited in a single day.
Whether it’s the grand Pena Palace, the Gothic Quinta da Regaleira, or the Moorish Castle, each site holds a unique appeal that makes this day trip utterly worthwhile.
Can You Tour Sintra By Yourself?
Sintra is a town that’s perfectly suited for independent exploration and can definitely be visited without a tour.
With public transportation options aplenty and rich heritage sites within walking proximity of each other, you can easily navigate through the town’s enchanting pathways on your own.
Plus, ditching the tour means you can spend as much or as little time as you’d like at each site, soaking in the history and beauty at your own pace.
But remember, if you’re a fan of insider knowledge and prefer a local expert narrating the centuries of history behind these sites, a tour might be a better choice.
How Do You Get Around Sintra Without a Car?
It is definitely possible to get around Sintra without a car. In fact, most tourists avoid renting cars since it can be quite a hassle trying to find parking and navigating small, pedestrian-covered roads.
Most tourists take advantage of the local public transportation options available that make getting around Sintra simple and convenient.
From the local buses to trains leading directly into the center of the town, and plenty of local taxis, there are a variety of ways to get around the city quickly and easily.
Is Sintra a Walkable City?
Yes, Sintra is a very walkable city. With its winding streets and picturesque architecture, it is the perfect place to explore on foot. Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll through the town or see all of the major attractions, you can easily get around Sintra by walking.
I will say that if you’re hoping to take the train on a day trip from Lisbon to Sintra and don’t plan on taking any other means of transportation while you’re in the city, then be sure to wear really good sneakers or walking shoes as most of the city is uphill.
Plus, the distance between the town and Pena Palace is nearly 4 miles (about 6 kilometers) up a windy hill, so this could take you upwards of 90 minutes to complete on its own (one way!)
If you only have one day in Sintra, then plan on taking advantage of some local transportation to get between the major sites, or plan on renting bikes at the very least.
Which is Better Sintra or Cascais?
This will entirely depend on you and what you like to see and do when you travel. Sintra and Cascais, though very close to one another, are entirely different towns and boast completely different sites and attractions.
A day trip to Cascais from Lisbon typically includes hikes along the rugged Portuguese coastline, basking in the sun on one of the dozens of white sand beaches, then enjoying seafood tapas and wine at one of the many streetside cafes and restaurants in the historic old town.
On the contrary, a Sintra day trip is likely to include visits to numerous palaces and castles, learning about the history of the ancient ruins of the region, and enjoying scenic views over dense forestry and endless blooming gardens.
So, if you enjoy relaxing on beautiful beaches, swimming in the ocean, then treating yourself to a relaxed evening in Europe with a few glasses of wine, I think you will enjoy Cascais more.
But, if you enjoy medieval ruins, gothic architecture, and ancient palaces with history surrounding Portuguese royals and famous battles, then Sintra will likely be more your style.
Can I Use a Viva Viagem Card to Get to Sintra?
Yes, you can definitely use a Viva Viagem card to get to Sintra.
The Viva Viagem card has a chip in it, making it easy and efficient to buy any single journey or roundtrip ticket on public transportation in Portugal.
Just remember that the card is only valid for one person and it lasts for one year from the date of purchase. The cost of the card is only $0.50, so it’s absolutely worth it to get one for your Lisbon to Sintra day trip!
Should I Get a Lisboa Card to Go to Sintra?
Yes, if you’ll be spending time in both Lisbon and Sintra, definitely get a Lisboa Card!
It offers unlimited access to various public transportation options, including trains, buses, and trams across Portugal for up to 24, 48, or 72 hours, depending on the pass you choose.
The Lisboa Card also gives you free or discounted access to many popular attractions in both Lisbon and Sintra, including 20% off at Quinta da Regaleira and 15% off at the Castle of the Moors!
Buying the Lisboa Card can be a great way to save money while exploring these two amazing cities. Just be sure to plan out your itinerary carefully so that you can make the most of your Lisboa Card during your visit.
If you don’t plan on taking public transportation and don’t have much interest in seeing the popular museums or palaces, then it likely isn’t going to be a good fit for you.
What is the Best Day to Go to Sintra?
In our opinion, the best day to go to Sintra is mid-week. Even in the peak season months of June through August, you’ll still get a small break from the tourists if you opt to visit during the middle of the week versus on the weekends.
We also recommend visiting Sintra as early as possible. Early mornings are best to avoid the massive crowds, especially at the popular Pena Palace. Arrive by 8:00AM, if possible, to enjoy beautiful views, find parking, and be the first in line.
The Palace and surrounding museums typically don’t open until around 10:00AM, but you can capture some incredible, tourist-free photos of the palace and surrounding gardens if you arrive early!
Sintra, Portugal is home to some of the most highly sought after attractions in both Portugal and Europe.
From the medieval steps leading into the Castle of the Moors and the hidden staircase found deep within a well at the Quinta da Regaleira to the elegant facades at the National Palace, Sintra is a world-renowned destination for all!
The iconic Pena Palace also dominates the region and can be seen from miles around making it one of the best things to include on your Sintra day trip.
