Two Nights in Sintra, Portugal: Why You Should Spend More Than a Day in This Fairytale City

Sintra, Portugal, feels like stepping into a fairytale, with its castles perched on hills, palaces with secret tunnels, and streets lined with colorful buildings. It’s no wonder Sintra is a popular day trip from Lisbon, but with so much to explore, many travelers face a common dilemma: Is a day trip enough, or is it better to stay overnight?

We opted for two nights in Sintra and quickly realized that this gave us the time to truly experience the magic of the area. From exploring the palaces to catching a stunning sunset at Cabo da Roca, our extended stay allowed us to see a side of Sintra that day-trippers often miss.

In this post, I’ll walk you through how we spent our two nights in Sintra and why I believe it’s worth more than just a quick day trip from Lisbon.

affiliate disclosure: Please note this post may contain affiliate links. This means that if you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products and services that I personally use and believe in. Your support makes it possible for me to provide valuable travel content. Thank you!

Why not just a day trip?

We chose to spend two nights in Sintra instead of just doing a day trip for several reasons. Firstly, we didn’t want to rush through the palaces. Taking our time meant we could fully appreciate each without feeling hurried. Additionally, since we relied on public transportation, having extra time was crucial. We wanted to visit Cabo da Roca for sunset, which required at least an overnight stay. We also wanted this to be on the same day we visited Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle, as we used a transportation ticket that covered all three. (Note: This exact ticket that includes Cabo da Roca is no longer available, as there is now a new operator for that route, but no worries—I’ve included the updated details later in this post.)

Spending two nights in Sintra allowed us to spread out our sightseeing and enjoy both the palaces and the coast at a relaxed pace. We also knew that by staying overnight, we could start our day early at Pena Palace, avoiding the crowds of day-trippers and enjoying a quieter experience.

What to do in Sintra

Sintra is home to some of Portugal’s most captivating attractions, from the vibrant Pena Palace to the walls of the Moorish Castle. Here are the must-visit spots that should be on your itinerary:

Palaces

Pena Palace (Palácio da Pena): Pena Palace is perhaps the most iconic landmark in Sintra, with its bright colors and eclectic mix of architectural styles, perched atop a hill with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Built in the 19th century, it features a whimsical blend of Gothic, Moorish, and Renaissance elements.

Note: In my experience, the interior rooms of Pena Palace were a bit underwhelming compared to the exterior. There isn’t much that stands out compared to other European palaces. If you’re short on time, you might find better ways to spend it—like exploring the lush gardens of Pena Palace or visiting Monserrate Palace, whose interiors look far more ornate.

For my boyfriend, who was experiencing Europe for the first time, I think seeing the interior was nice for him. But if you’ve seen other palaces, you might consider skipping the inside and spending more time exploring the gardens.

The grounds-only ticket still provides access to many of the palace terraces, where you can enjoy panoramic views and visit the cafe. You can take most of the iconic photos with just this ticket. However, be aware that whether a grounds-only ticket allows access to the terraces has changed back and forth in the past. As of spring 2024, the grounds-only ticket did allow terrace access, but policies can change, so double-check before you go.

Quinta da Regaleira: This enchanting estate is known for its intricate gardens, tunnels, and the iconic Initiation Well, a deep, spiral staircase leading underground. The palace itself boasts intricate architecture and is adorned with symbols of alchemy, Masonry, and the Knights Templar.

Castle of the Moors (Castelo dos Mouros): This medieval fortress dates back to the 8th and 9th centuries when it was built by the Moors. Located on a hilltop overlooking Sintra, the castle offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can explore its well-preserved walls, towers, and ramparts.

National Palace of Sintra (Palácio Nacional de Sintra): Situated in the heart of Sintra’s historic center, this palace is distinguished by its distinctive twin chimneys. It served as a royal residence for centuries and features a blend of architectural styles, including Moorish, Gothic, and Manueline. Highlights include the elaborate Sala dos Cisnes (Swan Room) and the Sala dos Brasões (Coat of Arms Room).

Monserrate Palace (Palácio de Monserrate): Nestled amidst lush gardens, Monserrate Palace is renowned for its exotic architecture and botanical treasures. Built in the 19th century, it combines elements of Moorish, Indian, and Gothic Revival styles. The surrounding gardens feature a diverse collection of plants from around the world.

This is one that I wish we would have had time for. Next time!

We managed to fit in Pena Palace, Castle of the Moors, and Quinta da Regaleira. Out of the three Quinta was our favorite. Exploring the grounds and the tunnels was a blast.

What to do in Sintra besides palaces

Hiking: If you’re up for a hike, the Santa Maria Trail is a popular route that takes you up to the Moorish Castle and the Park and Palace of Pena. This trail offers a scenic and adventurous way to reach two of Sintra’s most famous landmarks while enjoying the natural beauty of the area. You can find the route details on AllTrails.

The Historic Center of Sintra: The charming historic center of Sintra is quite lovely. This area is perfect for a leisurely stroll, exploring quaint shops, and tasting local delicacies like “travesseiros” and “queijadas” (traditional pastries) from local bakeries like Piriquita. The historic center also houses the National Palace of Sintra, with its distinctive twin chimneys, which is a great spot to learn more about the town’s royal history.

Convent of the Capuchos: For a unique and tranquil experience, visit the Convent of the Capuchos, a humble Franciscan monastery nestled within the forested hills of Sintra. Built in the 16th century, this site is known for its simple, rustic architecture and its integration with the natural landscape.

Cabo da Roca: As the westernmost point of mainland Europe, Cabo da Roca offers stunning panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and dramatic cliffs. It’s a popular spot for watching the sunset, and there’s a lighthouse that adds to the scenic beauty. The site is easily accessible by bus from Sintra, making it a perfect half-day trip. If you visit, remember to dress warmly, as it can get quite windy along the cliffs.

Two Nights in Sintra: Our Day by Day Breakdown

Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation

We arrived in Sintra by train from Lisbon in the afternoon and took a quick 10-minute walk to our accommodation, Casa Azul Hostel. Unfortunately, my boyfriend wasn’t feeling well, so we decided to take it easy for the rest of the day. I picked up some salads from the nearby grocery store for lunch and dinner. Although our first day was more about resting, this downtime allowed us to recharge for the days ahead. We ended up doing 3 of the 5 main palaces during our time in Sintra but if you want to do more, this is where you could add them.

Day 2: Exploring Palaces and Sunset at Cabo da Roca

On our second day, we focused on exploring Sintra’s most famous sites: Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle. We walked to the tourist bus station in the morning and bought two Sintra transportation tickets for a total of $25.20. At that time, these tickets included the bus to Cabo da Roca, which we planned to visit for sunset. Note: The bus route to Cabo da Roca is now operated by a different carrier, and the Sintra transportation ticket no longer includes this route.

We took the Sintra tourist bus 434 at 9am to Pena Palace for our 10am ticket entry time for the interiors. After exploring the palace and terraces of Pena, we went to the Moorish Castle. We walked between the two as there is no transportation that direction. After visiting the castle, we caught the 434 bus again back down to Sintra historical center. We grabbed lunch at Kebabish, had an afternoon rest, and then took the 1253 bus (formerly the 403) to Cabo da Roca for a stunning sunset. After returning to Sintra, we ended the day with some sushi back at our hostel.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss the gardens of Pena Palace. We focused mainly on the palace itself and, due to a tight schedule and still feeling a bit lethargic due to illness, we skipped the gardens. However, I’ve since seen some incredible photos and heard many recommendations for exploring them. If you have the time, definitely don’t miss the gardens!

Day 3: Quinta da Regaleira and Departure

Our final day began with a breakfast of Nutella sandwiches from O Melhor Croissant. Then, we walked to Quinta da Regaleira, our favorite palace of the trip, where we spent hours exploring its grounds and tunnels. After a delicious lunch of falafel wraps at Kebabish, we took the train from Sintra to Sete Rios in Lisbon to catch our bus to Nazare.

Pro Tip: Quinta da Regaleira was our favorite palace of the trip—not so much for the interiors, but for its incredible grounds and unique architecture. Exploring the expansive gardens was a highlight, especially the Initiation Well, and tunnels. We particularly loved wandering through the less-explored areas toward the back of the map, where we discovered a network of unlit tunnels. These tunnels were a bit eerie but exciting to explore, and it seemed like most visitors didn’t find them, as we had them all to ourselves. If you’re up for a bit of adventure, definitely walk through all the areas of the gardens and see what you can find!

Where we stayed

We stayed at the Casa Azul Hostel. We booked a private double room, and the bed was the comfiest of our entire trip—I still think about that bed to this day and was even tempted to ask what kind of mattress it was! 😆. The location was fantastic; we could easily walk everywhere, and the grocery stores, bus stops and train station were conveniently nearby.

All about transportation in and around Sintra

How to Get to Sintra from Lisbon and Vice Versa

Getting to Sintra from Lisbon is straightforward and can be done using several modes of transportation. I will talk about the option we used as it is the most convenient.

By Train: The Most Popular and Convenient Option

The train is the most popular way to get from Lisbon to Sintra, thanks to its convenience and affordability. Trains run frequently from two main stations in Lisbon:

From Rossio Station: Located in the heart of Lisbon, Rossio Station offers direct train service to Sintra. Trains run every 20-30 minutes, and the journey takes about 40 minutes. This is the most straightforward option if you’re staying in central Lisbon.

From Oriente Station: If you’re staying near Lisbon’s Parque das Nações or coming directly from Lisbon Airport, you can catch a train from Oriente Station to Sintra. Trains from Oriente are slightly less frequent but still offer a direct route. The trip also takes about 45 minutes.

Tickets: A one-way ticket costs around €2.30 per person. Tickets can be purchased at the station or via the Comboios de Portugal website or app. Remember to validate your ticket at the yellow machines before boarding the train.

Getting Back to Lisbon:

Returning to Lisbon from Sintra is just as easy. Simply reverse your route. Make sure to check the latest schedules, especially if returning late in the day, as some services may be less frequent in the evening.

Getting Around Sintra

When exploring Sintra, it’s important to know that driving a private car is not the best option due to restrictions aimed at reducing traffic congestion and improving the visitor experience. Private cars are no longer allowed to access several key areas in Sintra such as Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle.

If you want to get to the castles earlier than the first bus departure, consider taking a taxi, Uber, or doing the hike up. However, if you’re planning to visit places like Monserrate Palace, you’ll still need the bus ticket or another taxi ride unless you have a rental car.

Walking: Know When to Walk and When to Ride

While Sintra is a small town, walking to the major attractions, like Pena Palace or the Moorish Castle, is more challenging than it appears on the map. The hills are steep, and the roads are quite narrow with no shoulder and fast moving busses.

To reach Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle on foot, you’ll need to take a hiking path. This can be a reasonable option if you have more time and enjoy hiking. It’s a scenic route, but keep in mind it requires a good level of fitness and a willingness to tackle a steep incline. We opted to conserve our energy for exploring the actual sites since we were short on time. However, if you have a longer stay in Sintra and aren’t on a face paced trip, I would imagine hiking up could be a nice option.

That said, walking around the historic center and nearby areas is wonderful and allows you to fully soak in the town’s charm. For example, we enjoyed the walk from our accommodation to Quinta da Regaleira. 

Public Transportation: Buses are Your Best Bet

Using the tourist buses is one of the easiest ways to get around Sintra and and explore the main attractions. Here are the key routes to know:

434 Bus – The “Circuito da Pena”: Operated by Scott Urb, the 434 bus is ideal for visiting Sintra’s top sites, including Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle. This circular route starts at Sintra’s train station and loops around the main attractions, making it convenient to hop on and off as you explore. The bus runs frequently, allowing you to avoid the steep uphill walk to the palaces. To beat the crowds, we recommend catching one of the early buses in the morning.

435 Bus – The “Villa Express 4 Palaces”: Also run by Scott Urb, the 435 bus connects the town center with several other popular spots, such as the National Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, Monserrate Palace, and Seteais Palace.

You can buy a 24 hour “Hop on Hop off” pass that includes both of these bus routes.

Our Experience: We caught one of the first 434 buses in the morning to get to Pena Palace early, avoiding the worst of the crowds. After exploring Pena Palace, we walked down to the Moorish Castle and then hopped back on the 434 bus to return to Sintra. I think this is the best way to do this route to maximize timing. The next morning we just walked from our accommodation to Quinta da Regaleira, which is a much easier stroll through town.

How I Would Plan Out the Palaces and Transport with Two Nights in Sintra

If I were to plan a trip to Sintra today, with the recent changes to transportation tickets that no longer include Cabo da Roca, here’s how I’d recommend structuring two nights in Sintra to maximize your time and make the most of the transport options available.

Day 1: Arrival and Monserrate Palace

Afternoon Arrival: Arrive in Sintra in the afternoon and check into your accommodation around 3 p.m.

Visit Monserrate Palace: Take the 435 bus to Monserrate Palace at around 4pm. This will activate your 24 hour transportation ticket. The palace’s interior closes at 6 p.m., and the park closes at 7 p.m. Arriving at Monserrate by around 4:30 p.m. gives you approximately 2 hours to explore. The last bus leaves Monserrate at 6:30 p.m., which is just enough time to enjoy the palace and its gardens.

Return Trip: Make sure to catch the last 435 bus back from Monserrate Palace, which departs at 6:30 p.m.

Day 2: Pena Palace, Moorish Castle, and Cabo da Roca

Morning at Pena Palace: Start your day with a visit to Pena Palace. Take the 9 a.m. 434 bus up to the palace. It takes around 30 minutes (it took us 15) to walk from the bus drop-off to the palace interiors entrance, so book your entry ticket for the 10 a.m. time slot. It’s crucial to be at the entrance at your scheduled time.

Explore the Grounds: After touring the palace interiors, consider spending some time exploring the palace grounds, which are highly recommended but often overlooked. We skipped this part during our visit, but it’s worth doing if you have the time and energy.

Walk to Castle of the Moors: From Pena Palace, it’s a short walk down to the Castle of the Moors. There is no bus heading in the direction from Pena Palace to the Castle of the Moors. Spend about an hour exploring the castle.

Return to Town: By the time you finish at the Castle of the Moors, should have enough time to take the 434 bus back to Sintra to stay within the 24-hour validity of your transportation ticket. Make sure to catch the bus by around 3:30 p.m. to remain within the ticket’s validity.

Evening Trip to Cabo da Roca: For a scenic sunset, head to Cabo da Roca using the 1253 bus. Be sure to check the last return bus time, especially if you want to stay for the sunset.

Day 3: Quinta da Regaleira

Morning Walk to Quinta da Regaleira: On your final day, take a leisurely morning walk to Quinta da Regaleira. This palace is easily accessible by foot from most accommodations in Sintra, allowing you to explore its enchanting gardens and mysterious tunnels at your own pace.

This itinerary effectively uses the 24-hour transportation ticket and maximizes your time in Sintra, allowing you to see all the major attractions.

How to get from Sintra to Cabo da Roca by Bus

To visit Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe, you’ll need to use the following bus route.

Bus 1253: As of 2023, the route to Cabo da Roca is now served by the 1253 bus, operated by Carris Metropolitana. This bus runs frequently from Sintra’s train station and stops at Cabo da Roca, making it an easy and scenic trip. Tickets can be bought from the bus driver.

Timing Tips: If you’re visiting in the summer, be mindful of sunset times and the last bus back to Sintra, as public transport can be limited in the evenings. During our trip in November, we were able to catch the last bus back after watching a beautiful sunset, but this might not be possible in the summer months when sunset is later. It is still a beautiful and worthwhile spot, even if you cannot stay all the way until sunset.

Affordable 2 Nights in Sintra: Detailed Budget Breakdown

For those curious about the cost of a two night stay in Sintra, here’s a detailed breakdown of what we spent to help you plan your own stay. We tracked all our spending using the Tripcoin app, which I use to track all of my trips.

Accommodation:

2 Nights at Casa Azul Hostel: $44 per night for a private room

Total: $88

Day 1 Expenses:

Train Tickets to Sintra from Sete Rios, Lisbon: $6.21

Lunch: 2 salads and drinks from the grocery store – $12.33

Dinner: Salad, quiche, and a burger from a mini-mart – $8.21

Day 2 Expenses:

Entrance to Pena Palace & Moorish Castle: $45

Sintra Transportation Tickets: $25.20 for bus transport to various sites

Lunch in Sintra: 2 large platos del dia of Indian curry with sides and a drink at Kebabish – $22.20

Afternoon Drinks: A Gin & Tonic and a juice from the mini-mart – $7

Dinner: Sushi (18 rolls) – $8

Day 3 Expenses:

Breakfast: Nutella sandwiches from O Melhor Croissant – $7.40

Entrance to Quinta da Regaleira: $22.60

Lunch: 2 falafel wraps at Kebabish – $14.69

Train to Sete Rios, Lisbon: $6.21

Total for Sintra: Approximately $265.84 for two people for a two-night stay

(Prices are approximate and may vary depending on the season and currency exchange rates.)

For a complete budget breakdown of our entire two-week trip across Portugal, check out my ultimate Portugal travel budget guide.

Recommendations for Your Stay in Sintra

Accommodation

Hostels

Casa Azul Hostel: A great option if you’re looking for a budget-friendly stay in Sintra. Located just a short walk from the train station, this hostel offers private rooms and dorms. The private double room we stayed in was SUPER comfortable, in fact it is the comfiest bed that I have ever slept on. I still talk about that bed to this day. Plus it has a beautiful view of the street and castle on the hill. Book Casa Azul here.

Budget Guest Houses

Lanui Vintage Guest House: A cute, cozy guest house just a 5 minute walk from the train station. Highlights include rooms with private bathrooms, a shared lounge area, kitchen, and garden. It’s in a great location for exploring Sintra. They have a breakfast included rate. Book your stay at Lane Vintage Guest House here.

Guest House Villa dos Poetas: A charming guest house just a short walk from Sintra’s historic center and train station. This picturesque property has an outdoor swimming pool, and a terrace. They have a complimentary breakfast option and free parking. It’s ideally located for exploring Sintra’s main attractions. Book your stay at Guest House Villa dos Poetas here.

Quinta Das Murtas B&B: A historic 19th-century manor house located in a serene setting within Sintra. This accommodation features rooms with vintage charm, an outdoor pool, and beautiful gardens. Excellent daily breakfast buffet included. Book Quinta Das Murtas B&B here.

Something Fancier

Sintra Marmoris Palace A beautifully renovated 19th-century manor house featuring elegantly designed rooms and top-notch amenities. The property includes an outdoor pool and is surrounded by lush gardens. It is just a 7-minute walk from the heart of Sintra. A complimentary breakfast buffet is included. Book Sintra Marmoris Palace here.

Food

Budget Options

Kebabish: A popular spot for affordable meals, Kebabish offers a range of kebabs, falafel wraps, salads, and Indian cuisine. It’s a great choice for a casual lunch or dinner in Sintra. Google Map Link.

Café Saudade: A charming café located near the train station, perfect for a light breakfast or a budget-friendly lunch. They serve fresh pastries, sandwiches, and a variety of coffee drinks. The cozy atmosphere makes it a great place to relax after a morning of sightseeing. Google Map Link.

Sopa d’Avo: A restaurant focusing on traditional Portuguese cuisine. Google Map Link.

A Praça: A vegetarian restaurant offering a delicious 3-course meal. Known for its fresh ingredients, creative dishes, and welcoming atmosphere it provides a satisfying and healthy dining option for those looking to enjoy plant-based cuisine. Google Maps Link.

Piadina’s Wine & Co.: Handhelds and great sangria. This spot offers a simple yet delightful dining experience with really good reviews and delicious food. Google Map Link.

Tascantiga: Laid-back restaurant with tapas, sandwiches, beer and wine. Google Maps Link.

Something Fancier

Volta e Meia Restaurante: A hidden gem in Sintra with rave reviews for its delicious food and exceptional service. With a modern atmosphere and cozy terrace, this restaurant offers a variety of dishes served tapas style, including standout options like octopus salad and cod cakes. Google Map Link.

Como: Offers a refined dining experience and a carefully selected, high-quality wine list. The menu features a modern twist on Portuguese cuisine, with standout dishes including steaks and seafood. Google Map Link.

Sintra Terrace: Known for its outstanding views, atmosphere, and food. Google Map Link.

Tips for Visiting Sintra

When to Visit Sintra: Aim for the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) to enjoy mild weather and fewer crowds.

Start Your Day Early: To make the most of your time and avoid the largest crowds, start your day early. This is especially important for popular spots like Pena Palace. Book tickets in advance for the earliest time slots to get a head start and enjoy the sites before they get busy.

Book Tickets in Advance: Sintra’s main attractions, like Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira, can get crowded, especially during peak season and weekends. To avoid long queues and secure your spot, book your tickets online ahead of time.

What to Pack: Be prepared for Sintra’s unpredictable weather. Bring comfortable walking shoes for the steep hills and cobblestone streets, layers to adjust to changing temperatures, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. An umbrella or rain jacket is also handy since rain can come unexpectedly, even in the warmer months.

How to Avoid Crowds: Besides starting early, consider exploring some of Sintra’s lesser-known gems, like the Convent of the Capuchos or the trails of Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. Visiting these spots not only helps you avoid the crowds but also lets you experience a different side of Sintra that many tourists miss.

Navigating Sintra: Use Google Maps or a local transport app to navigate Sintra efficiently. Public buses are a great way to get around, but be sure to check the latest schedules and routes, as they can change. The Sintra tourist bus routes, like the 434 and 1253, cover most of the key attractions, making them a convenient choice for visitors.

Saving Money: To keep your trip budget-friendly, rely on public transportation instead of taxis. Sintra’s bus and train network is efficient and covers all the major sites. Also, consider buying tickets online—they offer a good discount and save time at the ticket counters.

Final Thoughts: Why Two Nights in Sintra is the Best Choice

While it’s possible to see Sintra on a day trip from Lisbon, staying two nights in Sintra allowed us to experience the town at a more relaxed pace. Instead of rushing through the attractions, we had the time to fully appreciate each site, and catch a breathtaking sunset at Cabo da Roca. If you’re planning a visit, consider extending your stay to truly soak in the charm and beauty of this fairytale town.

Interested in more budget-friendly travel tips? Head to the full story of our Portugal trip on a budget!