Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site located just 30 kilometers northwest of Lisbon, is known for its romantic 19th-century architecture, historic estates, and lush gardens. A day trip to Sintra offers a perfect blend of nature, history, and culture. I lived only four stopage ahead of Sintra train station ( Agualva Cacem). There are a lots of memory i have created in this small town. Here’s a detailed plan i have shared to make the most of your day in Sintra.
Morning
8:00 AM – Departure from Lisbon
- Take the train from Rossio Station in Lisbon to Sintra. Trains run every 30 mnt. frequently, and the journey takes about 40 minutes.
9:00 AM – Arrival in Sintra
- Once you arrive at the Sintra train station, consider grabbing a quick breakfast at one of the nearby cafes if you haven’t already eaten.
9:30 AM – Visit Pena Palace
- Address: Estrada da Pena, 2710-609 Sintra
- Highlights: Start your day with a visit to the iconic Pena Palace, a colorful and eclectic 19th-century Romanticist palace. Explore the vibrant interiors, terraces, and the surrounding Pena Park with its lush gardens, lakes, and viewpoints.
- Tips: Buy tickets online in advance to skip the lines. Consider taking a tuk-tuk or the 434 bus from the train station to the palace as it is located on a steep hill.
11:30 AM – Explore the Moorish Castle
- Address: 2710-405 Sintra
- Highlights: Just a short walk from Pena Palace, the Moorish Castle offers breathtaking panoramic views of Sintra and the surrounding area. Walk along the ancient ramparts and imagine the castle’s storied past.
- Tips: Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking and climbing involved.
Afternoon
1:00 PM – Lunch in Sintra Town Center
- Head back to the town center for lunch. Some recommended spots include:
- Tascantiga: For traditional Portuguese tapas.
- Cantinho Gourmet: A cozy restaurant offering local dishes.
- Piriquita: Famous for its pastries like the travesseiros and queijadas.
2:30 PM – Visit Quinta da Regaleira
- Address: Rua Barbosa do Bocage, 2710-567 Sintra
- Highlights: After lunch, make your way to Quinta da Regaleira, a fascinating estate known for its Gothic architecture, enigmatic symbols, and the stunning Initiation Well. Wander through the lush gardens, tunnels, and secret grottoes.
- Tips: The estate is within walking distance from the town center, but you can also take a tuk-tuk or taxi.
4:00 PM – Explore the Sintra National Palace
- Address: Largo Rainha Dona Amélia, 2710-616 Sintra
- Highlights: Located in the heart of Sintra, the National Palace is easily recognizable by its twin chimneys. It features a mix of Gothic, Manueline, and Moorish styles, and its interiors include beautifully decorated rooms and impressive tilework.
- Tips: The palace is relatively close to the town center, making it a convenient stop on your way back from Quinta da Regaleira.
Evening
5:30 PM – Relax at a Café
- Before heading back to Lisbon, take some time to relax at a café in Sintra. Enjoy a coffee or a refreshing drink and soak in the charming atmosphere of the town.
6:30 PM – Return to Lisbon
- Head back to the Sintra train station and catch the train back to Lisbon. Trains run frequently, so you won’t have to wait long.
7:30 PM – Dinner in Lisbon
- Arrive back in Lisbon and end your day with dinner at one of the many excellent restaurants in the city. Bairro Alto and Chiado offer a variety of dining options to suit all tastes.
Additional Tips
- Wear Comfortable Clothing and Shoes: Sintra involves a lot of walking and some steep climbs, so make sure you are dressed comfortably.
- Weather Preparation: Bring a light jacket or umbrella if there’s a chance of rain, as Sintra’s weather can be unpredictable.
- Plan Ahead: Buying tickets for major attractions online can save you time. Consider the Sintra Green Card, which includes transportation and entrance to several attractions.
- Public Transport and Taxis: Sintra’s attractions are spread out, so use the local bus (like the 434 tourist bus), tuk-tuks, or taxis to get around efficiently. ( In Portugal Uber, Bolt is more cheaper thn any others European country) Tuk Tuk is best option to sightseeing.
- Early Start: Starting your day early helps avoid crowds, especially at popular sites like Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira.
By following this itinerary, I hope you’ll be able to experience the best of what Sintra has to offer in a single day, making your visit both enjoyable and memorable.
