With 3 days in Sintra, you'll have time to experience the city's highlights. Unlike anywhere else in Portugal, Sintra offers a multi-sensory journey. You'll climb ancient stone steps through foggy forests, smell the damp earth of mystical gardens, and stand in palace rooms where Portuguese royalty once dreamed.
Why Visit Sintra
Mystical Gardens and Microclimates: The Sintra Mountains create a unique, often misty environment that nurtures exotic gardens. Explore the fern-filled valleys and waterfalls of the Pena Park, the Mexican and Japanese gardens at Monserrate Palace, and the symbolic landscape of Regaleira.
A Fairytale Escape from Lisbon: Just a 40-minute train ride from Lisbon's Rossio station, Sintra offers a complete change of scenery. You trade city bustle for forested hills, historic trams, and the feeling of stepping into a storybook setting.
For Photographers and Romantics: The dramatic contrast of vibrant palaces against grey stone and green foliage, the atmospheric morning mists, and the golden hour light on castle ruins provide endless, iconic photo opportunities and a deeply romantic ambiance.
Find cheap transport to Sintra
Compare prices for trains, buses, and flights to Sintra
Enter your departure city to see prices
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & First Impressions
Start your Sintra adventure by getting your bearings and exploring the city's most iconic landmarks. Take time to soak in the atmosphere and discover why this destination captures the hearts of millions.
Pena Palace
Experience Pena Palace, one of Sintra's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Portugal's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Quinta da Regaleira
Experience Quinta da Regaleira, one of Sintra's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Portugal's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 2: Local Life & Neighborhoods
Experience Sintra like a local today. Wander through authentic neighborhoods, discover hidden cafes, and get a taste of everyday life in Portugal.
Moorish Castle
Experience Moorish Castle, one of Sintra's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Portugal's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Sintra National Palace
Experience Sintra National Palace, one of Sintra's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Portugal's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 3: Bonus Discoveries & Departure
Before you leave, squeeze in a few more Sintra experiences. Even a morning can hold wonderful discoveries in this city.
Monserrate Palace
Experience Monserrate Palace, one of Sintra's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Portugal's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Traditional Travesseiros Pastry
Experience Traditional Travesseiros Pastry, one of Sintra's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Portugal's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Ready to explore Sintra?
Travel Tips
- 1Book accommodation in the city center for easy access to attractions. Sintra is very walkable for a short trip.
- 2The best time to visit Sintra is April to June, September to October. Shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
- 3The local currency is Euro (€). Cards are widely accepted.
- 4A few words in Portuguese go a long way with locals. Even "please" and "thank you" will earn smiles.
- 5Download offline maps and translation apps before your trip. WiFi can be spotty in historic areas.
- 63 days is ideal for the main highlights. Prioritize what matters most to you.
Must-Try Food in Sintra
💡 Pack a light jacket or sweater year-round. The microclimate in the hills is significantly cooler and damper than Lisbon, even in summer.
Book Activities in Sintra
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Neighborhoods to Explore in Sintra
Vila Velha (Historic Center)
The bustling, pedestrian-friendly heart of Sintra, centered around the Sintra National Palace.
São Pedro de Sintra
A more local, village-like neighborhood just north of the center, known for its famous bi-weekly flea market.
Estefânia
A primarily residential area that serves as a major transport hub, home to the Sintra train station.
Plan your Sintra adventure
Let AI create the perfect itinerary for your trip to Sintra. Just describe what you want to experience.
Plan Sintra trip