Sintra History
Sintra is a must-visit for those who love history and opulence. This Portuguese town has a rich and diverse history dating back thousands of years. The Moors took over control of Sintra in the 8th century. They built the Moorish Castle, Almoáda Baths, the fortress walls, and aqueducts. The Moors significantly influenced the architectural style of buildings constructed during their occupation. Moorish design elements, such as horseshoe arches, decorative tilework (azulejos), and intricate stucco ornamentation, can be observed in some of Sintra’s historic buildings, including the National Palace of Sintra.
In the 12th century, Christians recaptured Sintra and banished the Moors. It then came under Portuguese rule and was later repurposed as a royal retreat and summer residence for Portuguese monarchs. From then on, many Portuguese nobles began building palaces and summer homes, making it the “it” place to be. In 1995, Sintra was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in recognition of its rich cultural significance and architectural heritage.
How to Get From Lisbon to Sintra
Renting a Car in Lisbon
Traveling from Lisbon to Sintra is not hard at all. We rented a car in Lisbon and drove about 30 minutes before arriving in Sintra. We saved a lot of money because of our ability to drive a manual car. The automatic cars are a bit more expensive to rent. One drawback of renting a car is finding parking. It is very difficult to find parking during high season and it’s quite common for people to receive parking fines.
Lisbon to Sintra Train
Going from Lisbon to Sintra by train is very easy and convenient. You can begin your journey from any train station in Lisbon. The most common starting point is Rossio Station, located in Lisbon’s Baixa district. However, you can also catch a train from Lisbon’s other major train stations. Once there, purchase your train ticket at the ticket machine. Once you have your ticket, proceed to the platform for trains bound for Sintra. Check the departure boards or ask the station staff for the platform number.
The train ride is about 45 minutes and offers scenic views of the Portuguese countryside. The train will arrive at Sintra Station, located in the center of Sintra town. Once you disembark, you’ll find yourself within walking distance of many of Sintra’s attractions, including the National Palace of Sintra and the historic town center.
From Sintra Station, you can explore the town on foot, take local buses to reach attractions located further away, or even opt for guided tours available in the area. Many of the most famous landmarks, such as the Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira, are easily accessible from the train station.
Weather in Sintra
The weather in Sintra depends on the season, but generally, this area enjoys a mild and temperate climate throughout the year due to its coastal location. Here’s a breakdown of the weather you can expect in Sintra across different seasons:
Spring (March to May):
- Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a popular time to visit. Daytime temperatures typically range from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), although it can still be a bit cool in March.
- Rainfall is moderate during this season, so it’s a good idea to pack an umbrella or rain jacket, especially for outdoor activities. My first trip to Portugal was in March, and it rained the entire time! Pack waterproof shoes and clothes, or skip this season altogether.
Summer (June to August):
- Summer is the peak tourist season in Sintra. Visitors flock to enjoy the warm weather and sunshine. Daytime temperatures average between 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F), with occasional spikes into the 30s°C (86°F+).
- While summers are generally dry, occasional showers or thunderstorms may occur, particularly in August. Sunscreen and light clothing are essential for exploring the outdoor attractions during this time.
Autumn (September to November):
- Autumn sees gradually cooling temperatures and fewer crowds compared to the summer months. Daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F) in September, dropping progressively to 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F) by November.
- Rainfall increases as the season progresses, especially in November, so bringing layers and waterproof clothing is advisable.
Winter (December to February):
- Winters are mild but can be damp and overcast. Daytime temperatures typically range from 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F), with cooler nights.
- While snow is rare in SIntra, it’s not unheard of. However, rainfall is more common, so be prepared for wet weather if visiting during the winter months.
How Many Days Do You Need to See Sintra?
I recommend spending 2-3 days in Sintra, but you can comfortably get away with 2 full days. A day trip is fine if you’re short on time, but seeing everything in one day is impossible. Things are pretty close together but require a bus ride, a short drive, or copious amounts of walking.
Things to do in Sintra
Pena Palace
The Pena Palace is a colorful Romanticist castle located in Sintra. It is one of Portugal’s most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a great spot for photos but make sure to bring comfortable walking shoes.
Moorish Castle
The Moorish Castle is a medieval fortress dating back to the 8th century. It was initially built by the Moors during their occupation of the Iberian Peninsula and was used as a defensive stronghold overlooking the town of Sintra and the surrounding countryside. Tourists can explore its ancient walls, towers, and scenic viewpoints. It gets crowded, so get there early and check the weather, as it can become a very muddy walk if you don’t take the bus.
Quinta da Regaleira
Quinta da Regaleira is a magnificent estate near the historic center of Sintra, Portugal. It was built by a Freemason named Carvalho Monteiro. Carvalho Monteiro was a very wealthy businessman who has been described as eccentric. He worked with well-known architects to design his home. Quinta da Regaleira is known for its stunning architecture and mystical symbols throughout the estate.
The estate was designed to evoke a sense of mystery and magic with hidden passages, secret tunnels, and symbolic structures like the Initiation Well, a spiraling underground staircase believed to represent a journey into the afterlife or to the “light,” depending on how you navigated it. The Initiation Well was also thought to be used for both Freemason and Templar Knight initiation ceremonies.
Sintra Cascais Natural Park
The Sintra-Cascais Natural Park is located in the western region of Portugal. It’s a protected area known for its beautiful coastline, biodiverse forests, and sandy beaches. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a plethora of activities, including hiking, mountain biking, birdwatching, and surfing. The water is quite cold so I recommend bringing a thick wetsuit and beach coat. Overall, the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park a must-visit destination for those seeking adventure and nature.
More Fun Things to Do in Sintra
Where to Stay in Sintra
Tivoli Sintra – Valverde Sintra Palácio de Seteais
Valverde Sintra Palácio de Seteais is a luxury historic hotel. Some amenities include a pool, piano room, spa, and city transfers. Valverde Sintra Palácio de Seteais will make you feel like you’re staying in a castle or palace. It is one of the most romantic and dreamy hotels in Sintra.
Chalet Saudade
Chalet Saudade is a budget-friendly hotel located near most Sintra attractions. The rooms are gorgeous and have a very vintage European vibe. Some rooms include a balcony with a view of Pena Palace and more.
Sintra Restaurants
Incomcum by Louis Santos
Incomum is one of the top restaurants in Sintra. I recommend booking in advance as it gets busy, especially on the weekend. The food was extremely good, and the price is comparable to local restaurants. I recommend the Nero linguini with crab for your entree and tiramisu for dessert.
Bacalhau na Vila
Bacalhau na Vila offers many traditional Portuguese dishes. It’s a seafood lover’s dream, with many different bacalo/codfish dishes. For dessert, I recommend Pastel de Nata or chocolate pudding.
