Things to do in Sintra

Activities, attractions and tours

Ursa Beach showing general coastal views, a sunset and rugged coastline
Sintra
Sintra showing a castle and heritage architecture
Sintra as well as a small group of people
Moorish Castle which includes heritage elements, chateau or palace and tranquil scenes
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Top places to visit

1. Pena Palace

An icon of the region, the striking orange-and-yellow Pena Palace stands out amid the lush forest-covered Sintra Mountains. Inspect the eclectic architecture and ostentatious interior of this former royal summer retreat and stroll through the pretty surrounding park, where you’ll find temples and other follies hidden among the trees and flowers.
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Pena Palace featuring chateau or palace and heritage elements

2. Sintra National Palace

From the Moors to the nation’s first imperial dynasties, Sintra has always been one of the preferred places for Portugal’s rulers to build their royal palaces. And this one has to be one of the most impressive examples.
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Sintra National Palace featuring a sunset, a garden and tranquil scenes

3. Quinta da Regaleira

The property has changed ownership a number of times over the years. The Barons of Regaleira from Portom who owned it since its constructions, sold it to the millionaire, Carvalho Monteiro, in 1892. With the help of the Italian architect Luigi Manini (architect of La Scala Milan), he then remodelled the palace by adding buildings with enigmatic symbols, related to alchemy, Masonry and the Knights Templar. Later the Palace was sold to Waldemar d'Orey, who confined its usage to that of a private residence.
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Quinta da Regaleira which includes heritage architecture

4. Cape Roca

Cape Roca, or Cabo da Roca as it’s known in Portuguese, is a dramatic, wind-battered tract of headland located at the most westerly point of mainland Europe. Admire the wild and windswept coastal scenery, follow trails along the cliffs and take photos of the monument that marks the spot as the westernmost on the continent.
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Cape Roca featuring general coastal views, rugged coastline and a lighthouse

5. Moorish Castle

Though the Moorish Castle of Sintra has been reduced to ruins, it is still a powerful presence on the forested slopes of the Sintra Mountains. Wander up to the hilltop ruins, trekking past fortified stone walls and precariously placed ramparts. Enjoy views that extend over the surrounding hills of Serra de Sintra and the Atlantic Ocean.
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Moorish Castle which includes tranquil scenes and chateau or palace

6. Monserrate Palace

Monserrate Palace is often said to be the most striking palace in Sintra. Admire the unusual, almost fantastical, design of the palace building and the gorgeous, wild gardens that sprawl on the hillside surrounding the structure.
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Monserrate Palace featuring heritage elements and a garden

What to do in Sintra

Popular places to visit

Rossio Square which includes heritage elements, street scenes and a fountain

Rossio Square

4/5(881 reviews)

See the people-packed central square whose swirling wave-patterned cobbles are thought to have inspired copycat pavements across the rest of Portugal and beyond.

Rossio Square
Avenida da Liberdade

Avenida da Liberdade

During your trip to Santo Antonio, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Avenida da Liberdade. Discover the top-notch restaurants in this romantic area or seek out the local tours.

Avenida da Liberdade
Campo Grande

Campo Grande

You can learn about the history of Alvalade when you stop by Campo Grande. While in this family-friendly area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

Campo Grande
Belem Tower which includes heritage architecture, a bridge and general coastal views

Belém Tower

4.5/5(779 reviews)

Belém Tower is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located on the northern bank of the Tagus River in the Belém district of Lisbon.

Belém Tower
Marquis of Pombal Square

Marquis of Pombal Square

4/5(259 reviews)

Learn about the local history of Lisbon with a stop at Marquis of Pombal Square. Stroll along the riverfront or experience the acclaimed art galleries in this culturally rich area.

Marquis of Pombal Square
Santa Justa Elevator showing outdoor eating, nightlife and night scenes

Santa Justa Elevator

4/5(719 reviews)

Ride the elevator designed in the 19th century to connect the districts of hilltop Bairro Alto and downtown Baixa. Enjoy views from the café atop the gothic lift.

Santa Justa Elevator
Lisbon Oceanarium

Lisbon Oceanarium

4.5/5(183 reviews)

Enjoy an underwater adventure at one of the world’s largest and most diverse aquariums right on Lisbon’s beautiful waterfront.

Lisbon Oceanarium
Castle of Sao Jorge featuring views, a castle and a city

Castle of São Jorge

4.5/5(764 reviews)

This medieval fortress offers insight into Lisbon’s long history as well as stunning views of the city and river below.

Castle of São Jorge
Commerce Square showing a statue or sculpture

Commerce Square

4.5/5(715 reviews)

People-watch in this historic square while you enjoy a coffee and pastry in the café where the city’s literati once gathered.

Commerce Square

Frequently asked questions

Is Sintra worth visiting?
Providing a mix of history and walking trails, there's no shortage of things to do in Sintra. When you're here, visit Carcavelos Beach, a leading attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Sintra?
Once you've checked off leading attractions like Carcavelos Beach and Guincho Beach, spend some time exploring the food and retail options in Sintra.
What is the top tourist attraction in Sintra?
You can't go home without visiting Carcavelos Beach, ranked the top tourist attraction in Sintra.
Is three days enough to stay in Sintra?
Three days will give you plenty of time to tick off popular city attractions, including Guincho Beach, Sintra National Palace and Grande Beach. The average stay in Sintra is two days. If you have the urge to extend your break, Lisbon District isn't far away.
Is Sintra a walkable city?
That depends on what you'd like to do and see in Sintra. Several attractions, such as Sintra National Palace and Moorish Castle, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a wander through some of Sintra's best neighbourhoods, Santa Maria e São Miguel, São Martinho e São Pedro de Penaferrim is 0.64 kilometres away from downtown, while Santa Maria e São Miguel is 2 kilometres away from the city centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Sintra with kids?
If you are after tours and attractions for all the family, have a look at these excellent ideas for what to do in Sintra with kids.

What to do in Sintra for adults?
National Hotel School and Lagoas Park are just a couple of the things to do in Sintra. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.
Are there free things to do in Sintra?
From relaxing in parks to strolling around vibrant neighbourhoods, it's a breeze to find free things to do in Sintra. If you're stuck for ideas, ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. Guincho Beach is a great spot for anyone wanting to save on their travelling adventures.