A Fairytale Day in Sintra, Portugal 🇵🇹
Sintra is one of those magical places that instantly captures your heart. Nestled in the lush, misty hills just outside Lisbon, it feels like stepping into a storybook filled with colorful palaces, ancient castles, and winding cobblestone streets. It’s no wonder Sintra is a UNESCO World Heritage site — every corner seems to hold a piece of history and beauty.
Sintra, Portugal is located about 18 miles (30 kilometers) northwest of Lisbon, making it an easy and popular day trip.
Getting to Sintra from Lisbon
There are several ways to reach Sintra from Lisbon, including train, car, and guided tours. For our visit, we chose a tour bus, which made the journey effortless and informative. We were on a guided tour for part of the day, learning about Sintra’s rich history and royal past, and then had free time to wander on our own, which was the perfect balance.
The drive itself is scenic, gradually trading city views for rolling hills and greenery as you approach Sintra.
What to See in Sintra
There is so much to see that you could easily spend more than one day here. Highlights include:
- Palácio Nacional de Sintra (Sintra Palace) – Instantly recognizable by its twin chimneys, this palace sits right in the historic center and offers a fascinating look at Portuguese royal life.
- Pena Palace – Bright, colorful, and perched high above the town, it’s one of the most iconic sights in Portugal.
- Moorish Castle (Castelo dos Mouros) – For sweeping views and a bit of adventure, the castle walls offer unforgettable panoramas.
- Quinta da Regaleira – A must-see for its mysterious gardens, tunnels, and the famous Initiation Well.
Walkability & Getting Around
Sintra’s historic center is very walkable, with shops, cafés, and attractions close together. However, many of the major sites are spread out and uphill. Be prepared for steep climbs, or consider local buses, tuk-tuks, or tours to move between palaces. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.
Language & Currency
Portuguese is spoken throughout Portugal, but we found that English is widely understood, especially in tourist areas. With a few Spanish words thrown in, we were able to get by just fine.
The currency used in Portugal is the Euro (€). We prefer to use credit cards whenever possible so we don’t end up carrying unused euros back home, and most places happily accept them.
Best Time of Year to Visit
The best times to visit Sintra are spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summer is beautiful but can be very crowded, while winter is quieter and atmospheric, though cooler and sometimes rainy.
A Personal Observation
We also noticed conversations around Portugal becoming an increasingly popular destination for Americans, particularly seniors drawn by affordability and quality of life, and Black Americans seeking a more welcoming environment amid concerns about political climate and racism back home. While everyone’s reasons are personal, it’s clear that Portugal — and places like Sintra — offer a sense of calm, beauty, and possibility that many find appealing. (December 2024)
Final Thoughts
Sintra is a place to slow down, wander, and let yourself be amazed. Whether you explore with a guide or lose yourself in its winding streets, it’s a destination that stays with you long after you leave. If you’re visiting Lisbon, Sintra is an absolute must — a true highlight of any trip to Portugal.
