Whimsical and fanciful, Sintra, Portugal seems a world away from the hustle and bustle of Lisbon. Yet it is easy to reach on a Sintra Day Trip.
The Lisbon-to-Sintra train whisks passengers between the two in less than an hour, making it a very popular tourist destination. Visitors can choose to embark on a fun Lisbon to Sintra day trip with a guide or on their own.
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We are providing our detailed Day Trip from Lisbon to Sintra Itinerary that shows fellow travelers how they can plan their time. Plus, we offer need-to-know info about getting there, how to get around, costs and what you will need to take with you when visiting Sintra from Lisbon.
Sintra Day Trip: Why You Should Go
While there are numerous destinations for day trips from Lisbon, visiting Sintra ranks at the top. For centuries, Sintra has been a retreat used by Lisbon’s elite. They built the region’s sprawling estates and grandiose castles that are today’s main tourist attractions.
Our Sintra Day Trip Guide highlights exactly what to see and do at one of the most enthralling UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Portugal.
Best Things To Do in Sintra, Portugal
In order to plan your ideal trip to Sintra from Lisbon (or choose the best tour), you need to know what to see in Sintra, Portugal!
The Sintra region extends roughly 11 miles from the Old Town Sintra village to the picturesque coastline. There are historic attractions scattered throughout the mountainous, tree-covered landscape.
That said, some of the very best things to do in Sintra are located within close proximity to Sintra Station. This makes it very convenient for visitors on Lisbon day trips to Sintra to plan their own adventure.
Top Things To See in Sintra in One Day
The prime attractions to see on a Lisbon to Sintra trip are the Pena Palace and Park, the Moorish Castle, Vila Sassetti, Regaleira Estate, the National Palace of Sintra and the historic Sintra Old Town.
These sights are in close proximity to the Sintra Train Station and can be reached on foot or with the sightseeing bus.
We are highlighting each spot along with a brief description. You will find more information – like buying tickets, getting around and our suggested itinerary for Sintra – later in the article.
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#1 Pena Palace – Palacio Nacional da Pena
The colorful, hill-topping Palace of Pena is the highlight of Sintra – and it’s not to be missed! The Neo-Romantic palace incorporates parts of a previous chapel (Our Lady of Pena) and monastery that survived the 1755 Great Lisbon Earthquake. In the mid-1800s, King Consort Ferdinand II had the ruins converted into a royal summer residence.
Pena Palace was built in the Romantic style. However, other elements, such as Medieval, Gothic, Manueline, Renaissance and Islamic touches, can be observed throughout the property.
The Pena Palace interior is richly decorated and the terraces and watchtowers provide exceptional views of Sintra (all the way out to sea on clear days!).
Pena Palace + Park Tickets
Adult (18-64): €20 | Youth (6-17): €18 | Seniors (65+): €18 | Family (2 Adult + 2 Youth): €65
Note: As of 2024, tickets for the interior of Pena Palace need to be purchased in advance with a specific date and time selected for your visit.
#2 Pena Palace Park
The expansive Palace of Pena Park encompasses more than 200 acres of land around the Pena Palace. The planned park features numerous statues, pleasant ponds and wonderful viewpoints.
Trees and plants from around the world decorate the garden – and a network of trails weave through the park. It’s a stunningly serene and exceptionally beautiful green space.
Pena Park Only Tickets
Adult (18-64): €10 | Youth (6-17): €9 | Seniors (65+): €9 | Family (2 Adult + 2 Youth): €35
#3 Moorish Castle – Castelo dos Mouros
Strategically located for defense purposes, the imposing Moorish Castle was constructed from the 8th to 10th centuries. Built by the Berbers (Moors) who controlled the territory at the time, the castle has been expanded and altered throughout history.
From the 12th century to the 15th century, the castle featured a chapel and was used more for religious functions than as a military fort. In 1840, King Consort Ferdinand II renovated the castle and, soon after, an archaeological investigation began.
Moorish Sintra Castle Tickets
Adult (18-64): €12 | Youth (6-17): €10 | Seniors (65+): €10 | Family (2 Adult + 2 Youth): €33
#4 Vila Sassetti Sintra
Built in the 1890s, Vila Sassetti was designed as the summer residence of Victor Carlos Sassetti, a wealthy hotel owner. After Sassetti’s death, the home passed through several entities – and both the compound and garden were expanded.
Inspired by castles in the Northern Italian region of Lombardy, the residence features a turret and terracotta decoration. Antique 17th century tiles are found on the outer wall near an entrance door.
Vila Sassetti Admission
Tickets are not required to visit the Vila Sassetti Estate. However, visitors are not permitted to go inside the building itself.
#5 Quinta da Regaleira Estate
The Regaleira Estate is named for the Viscountess of Regaleira, the original owner of the property. However, it was Caralho Monteiro who transformed the land into the fairytale Sintra estate it is today.
Constructed between 1904 and 1910, the extraordinary complex includes an intricately decorated palace and chapel, as well as a hillside garden that is fraught with extravagant features. It’s simply fascinating and an absolute Sintra must-see!
Quinta da Regaleira Estate Tickets
Adult (18-64): €12 | Youth (6-17): €7 | Seniors (65-79): €7 | Senior or Child (80+ or <5): Free
#6 Palace of Sintra – Palacio de Sintra
Easily recognizable by the double cone chimneys, the historic Palace of Sintra was established sometime before the 10th century under Islamic Moorish rule.
Destroyed, expanded and embellished over the years, the Palace of Sintra was used by the Portuguese royal family from the 15th to 19th centuries. This iconic Portuguese royal residence palace is located in the heart of the Sintra old town.
National Sintra Palace Tickets (Garden Included)
Adult (18-64): €13 | Youth (6-17): €10 | Seniors (65+): €10 | Family (2 Adult + 2 Youth): €35
#7 Sintra Town
The town of Sintra, which crawls up the hill toward the Moorish Castle, is quaint and beautiful. Cobblestone lanes and narrow alleys weave in between historic buildings, passing boutique shops and bakery cafes.
Wander through the Sintra historic center and admire the architecture. The Sintra Old Town is free to explore – no tickets required!
More Ideas for What To Do in Sintra, Portugal
Above, we outlined our top picks of what to see in Sintra in One Day. Detailed further in our Sintra Itinerary below, they are the most famous sights and are ideal destinations for first-time visitors.
However, there is much more to see in the region. Guests with a car, those staying in Sintra or anyone looking to make multiple trips might want to add in these attractions.
Additionally, organized Sintra tours (which we outline later) include some of these spots that are found further from the historic center of Sintra.
Monserrate Palace
Founded on the site of an ancient chapel, Monserrate Palace was built in 1863. It features Romanticism, Moorish Revival and Neo-Gothic elements. The property is surrounded by a large park that features grottos, ponds and exotic plants. Tickets required.
Seteais Palace
The national landmark Seteais Palace was built in the late 1700s and expanded in the early 1800s. The neoclassical structure now houses the luxury Valverde Hotel and its restaurant offers decadent meals and creative libations. Visitors are welcome to enter the hotel and dine at a restaurant.
Sintra to Cabo da Roca
Cape Roca is the westernmost point of Portugal (and the European continent) – and can be reached from Sintra by car, bus or bike. Steep cliffs and weathered rocks line the coast and the prominent red lighthouse is one of the oldest in the country.
Cascais
Seaside Cascais is an inviting tourist town famous for its beaches and dramatic coastline. Long a summertime escape for Lisbon’s wealthy, Cascais exudes a posh ambiance. It’s 10 miles from Sintra and it takes just 20 minutes to get from Sintra to Cascais.
Top Tip: Plan your time with our list of Top Things To Do in Cascais!
Sintra Museums
There are a handful of small museums that visitors might want to see during their day tour of Sintra.
Sintra Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum opened in 2009 and is a interesting place to see for families planning a Sintra day trip with kids. The artifacts on display belonged to the private collection of Miguel Barbosa. Top attractions include fossils and a Big Bang simulation.
Ferreira de Castro Museum House
The museum celebrates the writings of author Ferreira de Castro – and displays some of his personal affects.
Anjos Teixeira Museum House
A small, 4-room museum showcasing the sculptures of father-and-son artists, Artur and Pedro Anjos Teixeira.
MU.SA Sintra Museum of Art
An array of artworks housed in a beautiful old casino building. Exhibitions range from sculptures to photographs to contemporary works.
Tour or DIY Day Trip: Sintra from Lisbon
Now that you know what to see on Lisbon day trips to Sintra, you need to decide if you want to join a tour or plan a Sintra visit on your own.
Lisbon to Sintra Tour
Organized Lisbon tours offer an easy way to visit Sintra. When you join a tour, you don’t need to worry about the specifics. All the plans for your one day in Sintra are orchestrated by your tour guide.
That said, organized day trips to Sintra from Lisbon can be expensive. Furthermore, participants are kept to a regimented schedule and will likely have little time to explore on their own.
Best Organized Lisbon Day Tours to Sintra
We are highlighting a few of the best guided Sintra tours from Lisbon. Bear in mind that while these Lisbon excursions visit Sintra, they often include multiple destinations. For example, there are day trips from Lisbon that visit both Sintra and Cascais in one day.
On the other hand, very few guided Lisbon to Sintra tours include all of the best sights. This one visits Pena Palace, Regaleira and Sintra Old Town. Before booking one of the day trips from Lisbon to Sintra, make sure you understand what sights will be included.
Sintra Cascais Tour Options
Lisbon visitors who want to see both Sintra and Cascais can join one of the many tours that makes stops in both destinations.
On a popular day trip from Lisbon to Sintra and Cascais, participants visit the Pena Palace in Sintra, Roca Cape coastline and Cascais Beach. Read the reviews!
On a similar Sintra daytrip, guests can visit both Sintra and Cascais – but this tour also includes both the Pena Palace and Regaleira Estate in Sintra. Book it!
Private Sintra Half Day Tour or Full Day Tour
Visitors can embark on one of the half-day Sintra private tours that allows guests to completely customize the tour. Choose which sights you want to see within a 4-hour timeframe on this Sintra guided tour. Find out more about a personalized half day trip to Sintra from Lisbon!
Alternatively, book a private guided tour from Lisbon to Sintra for the entire day – allowing for much more sightseeing. Learn more about private tours from Lisbon to Sintra!
Sintra, Cascais, Belem and Lisbon City Tour
Those short on time can join a full-day private tour of the best of Lisbon and the surrounding area. Guests begin by exploring Sintra, then travel along the coastline to Cascais and Estoril before arriving at Belem. End the day discovering Lisbon’s Alfama district. Get the details!
Sintra Day Trip Tuk Tuk Tour
Visitors who make their own way to Sintra – but want a personal tour – should consider taking the Sintra Tuk Tuk Tour. While this 2.5-hour tour does not enter any attractions, it does offer a good overview of the region. Get tour info!
DIY Tours to Sintra from Lisbon
Those on a budget – and travelers who simply like touring at their own pace – can plan their own day trip to Sintra. We believe the very best Sintra day tours from Lisbon are ones that you plan on your own.
If you are wondering how to visit Sintra from Lisbon on your own, the following information is exactly what you need! We share a copious number of details for planning your own Lisbon day trip to Sintra.
Why We Created a 1 Day in Sintra Guide
On our first Lisbon to Sintra day trip, we failed miserably. Without doing prior research, we arrived late in the afternoon from Cascais without a clue of what to do in Sintra. We spotted the cylindrical cones of the Sintra Palace and strolled in that general direction.
Somewhat predictably, when we arrived at the palace doors it was closed for the day. We wandered aimlessly through the Old Town of Sintra, popping into a few souvenir shops, stopping at a café for a glass of wine and wondered what all the fuss was about. It was only then that we spotted the faint outline of the Moorish Castle and the vague silhouette of Pena Palace perched far up the hills behind us. “Ohhhhhhhh…”
At dusk, we followed the hordes of people (“Where did they all come from?”) back to the station to catch the next Lisbon train. To sum it up: It was the worst planned day trip to Sintra…ever.
Sintra Tour from Lisbon (Take 2)
On a return trip to Lisbon, we were determined to complete a successful Sintra day tour! We researched the top things to do in Sintra, Portugal well in advance. We made a list of Sintra sightseeing destinations and nearly memorized the Lisbon to Sintra train timetable.
Because of our detailed planning, our second Sintra day tour from Lisbon went off without a hitch! Now, we are sharing our detailed Sintra day trip itinerary to help others enjoy their excursion from Lisbon.
How To Plan the Perfect Day Trip to Sintra
Before we jump into our Sintra Itinerary, we first need to cover some logistical information. In this section, we share how to get there and the estimated total cost of a DIY Sintra tour.
How To Get to Sintra from Lisbon
Getting to Sintra from Lisbon is actually fairly easy. Simply hop on the direct Lisbon-Sintra train at the Rossio Train Station and exit with everyone else at the final stop.
A second line originating at Lisbon Oriente also travels to Sintra. The Oriente-Sintra line is likely not as convenient for most Lisbon tourists, but it’s best to check both routes for the closest station to your accommodations.
Current Lisbon to Sintra train times can be found online at the official Comboios de Portugal (CP) website.
Sintra to Lisbon Train for the Return Trip
Catching the Sintra to Lisbon train for your ride back should be just as easy – but we do have a couple of tips.
At the Sintra Railway Station, check the departure platform to ensure you get on the correct Lisbon-bound train! If you want to end in the Lisbon city center, board the Rossio train. Services run late into the night, with the last train from Sintra to Lisbon departing after midnight.
What Does the Lisbon to Sintra Train Cost?
Train fares are calculated by the number of zones you travel through. Passengers traveling from Rossio or Oriente to Sintra will cross 4 zones. Find a complete fare explanation here.
Lisbon-Sintra Ticket
Single train tickets for Sintra day trips from Lisbon cost €2.40 each way and can be purchased from a machine or at the counter. The valid fare will be loaded onto the Navegante Ocasional Card – which costs €.50. When using the card, make sure to ‘Tap On’ before boarding the train. You will also be required to ‘Tap Out’ to exit the train station in Sintra. More info.
Tourist Travelcard
Another way to get to Sintra by train is to purchase the Tourist Travelcard, which is also loaded onto a Navegante. The fare can be used for unlimited rides (trains only) for 24 or 72 hours for a flat rate. If you plan on traveling by train frequently from Lisbon, this is a great option.
Sintra Green Card All-Inclusive One Day Pass
Unfortunately, this option is no longer available! There is however a 24hr ticket that covers all transport in the greater Lisbon region. Find out more!
How To Get Around Sintra on a Day Trip
Once you are actually in Sintra, there are multiple ways to get around. This includes walking, buses, taxis, mini cars, tuk tuks and bikes.
Sintra Walking Trails
The top Sintra things to do are linked together by intertwining trails through forested nature parks. The paths allow visitors to create their own Sintra walking tour from sight-to-sight.
Not only is it free to walk on these paths, but it’s also less chaotic and requires zero time standing in lines. (Because, there will be lines for all the Sintra sightseeing buses.)
That said, the region is covered in hills – and the uphill walk can be strenuous. Relatively fit people with good walking shoes shouldn’t have any issue, but rainy season can make the dirt paths muddy and the summer heat can make for an arduous trek. Bottom line, use your own judgement.
Top Tip: Get a map of the Sintra Pedestrian Path from the tourist office.
Sintra Bus 434
This option is an economical and fairly straight-forward way to get to the sights in Sintra without walking. The Sintra tourist bus route, Circuito da Pena, departs from the train station (Sintra Estacao) and makes stops at the important Sintra sights (including Moorish Castle and Pena Palace).
Bus 434 departs frequently from directly outside the train station. Just follow everyone else and remember your patience. You can choose a one-way, round-trip or 24 hour Sintra Hop On Hop Off ticket. The all-day option is the only ticket that can be purchased online. It also includes Sintra Bus Line 435 (to Monserrate Palace), 403 (for Cabo da Roca) and 417 to Cascais. More info.
Sintra Sightseeing Car
Those who want to go further afield, but want to move at their own pace, can hire a compact e-car that features GPS enabled commentary. Fellow travelers proclaim that these cars are easy to drive and park – making it simple to get around on your day tour in Sintra. Learn more about the talking cars of Sintra!
Sintra Self Guided Tour via E-Bike
One of the things that makes it difficult to get around Sintra is all of the hills – but not with an e-Bike! Sintra day trippers can rent an e-Bike to explore not only the sights of Sintra, but all the way to the coast. Reserve your e-Bike!.
Our Recommended Way to See Sintra Sights
We believe the best way to see Sintra is a combination of bus and walking. We recommend buying the one-way ticket on Route 434 at the bus/train station. You will save time and energy by riding uphill to Pena Palace. Then walk between the sights the rest of the day.
Top Tip: Do not use the road to walk to the Moorish Castle and Pena Palace! Although Google Maps does not show the hiking trail, there is a path that leads to both.
About Exploring Sintra Sights
It is important to note that taking the bus – or anything with wheels – will not completely eliminate the need to walk in Sintra. After passing the gates, sights like the Palace of Pena and the Moorish Castle, still require a fair bit of walking to actually enter them.
Additionally, the parks at both Pena Palace and Regaleira Estate are part of the attraction and really shouldn’t be missed. Even if you plan on using a bus to get between Sintra sights, be prepared for some walking.
Sintra Tickets Tips
Tickets are required for almost all Sintra sightseeing. Although they are not individually expensive, they do add up. So, we are sharing some advice about buying tickets for Sintra attractions.
Buy Sintra Tickets Online
Buying online tickets for Sintra not only saves time and hassle, but also money! Tickets for Pena Palace, Moorish Castle and Sintra Palace can all be purchased on the official website for a 15% discount (at least 3 days in advance).
Keep in mind that if you plan to go inside Pena Palace, it is required that you purchase tickets in advance for a specific date and time.
Quinta da Regaleira Estate tickets are available on their own website (recommended) or in person (long lines).
One Day in Sintra Itinerary
On our DIY Sintra full day tour, we offer a step-by-step plan to get the most out of your visit. We include information about each stop and how to travel from sight-to-sight, as well as a Sintra map of attractions.
Prior to Your Sintra Day Trip
If you plan on visiting the inside of Pena Palace, be sure to book your time slot! Purchase all Sintra ticketed attractions online at least 3 days prior to save 15% and avoid unnecessary lines. Buy food for a picnic lunch and other snacks and stop at the Lisbon Tourist Information Office to get any Sintra pamphlets or maps.
Hop Aboard a Lisbon to Sintra Train
In order to make the most of the day, visitors need to be on one of the early trains from Lisbon. To allow for a fun day in Sintra, we recommend departing Lisbon by 8am.
If you are taking public transport to get to Rossio (or any other station), give yourself plenty of time for connections. Buses and trams don’t always run on time – and a late arrival could result in missing your Rossio to Sintra train.
Arrive in Sintra, Portugal and Hop on a Bus
When you arrive at the Sintra railway station, you will need your Navegante Card to tap out, so keep it handy. There will likely be lines to just exit the station. Next, find the 434 Bus Stop and purchase a one-way ticket from the driver and ride to Pena Palace.
Top Tip: The palace opens at 9:30am and the first Sintra Bus 434 leaves the station at 9:15am. All Sintra sights have free toilets, but not all have potable water.
Pena Palace
Pena Palace is the best place to visit in Sintra. It is typically crowded by mid-day, so make it the first stop of your day trip to Sintra. Allow 2-3 hours to visit the Palace of Pena and adjoining gardens.
Key points of interest include the Coat of Arms (above the second archway leading up to the castle), the main façade geometric tiles, the intricate Triton (Half-Man Half-Fish) creature above the entrance, the watchtowers, the west-facing balcony and the Wall Walk.
To Visit or Not To Visit the Pena Palace Interior
The inside of Pena Palace is lavishly decorated with decorative tiles, luxurious furniture and special touches. Visitors have access to the main rooms – including the King and Queen bedrooms, the dining room, kitchen and Noble Hall.
Determining whether or not to visit the interior of the Pena Palace should be based on your personal interests. We opted to skip the interior – as there were so many other sights we wanted to fit into our Sintra Day Trip Itinerary!
Pena Palace Park
Take a leisurely stroll through the park, finding your way along twisting paths, around picture-perfect lakes and up to viewpoints. Hidden among the lush grounds are statues, sculptures and grottos.
While we think it is best to simply enjoy the gardens and see what you stumble upon, top sights to track down are the Temple of Columns, Warrior Statue and High Cross (Cruz Alta) scenic viewpoint.
Moorish Castle
Those interested in historic sights and epic views will not want to miss the Moorish Castle. Inside, visitors are free to explore the grounds, towers and walls. (Allow at least 1 hour).
On clear days, the Castle Keep provides incredible views of Old Town of Sintra and out to sea, while the Royal Tower overlooks the Palace of Pena. Spend time taking in the panoramic views, visiting the Cistern and learning about the history of the site. Take note of the various flags flying from the towers; each represents a different ruler.
When you depart the castle, rather than exiting through the archway to the main road, detour to the right onto the Sintra Pedestrian Path.
Sintra Forest Path
The Sintra Forest Trail leads down to Vila Sassetti. Allow a half hour to walk from the Castle to the Vila. The trail entrance is on the right through an arch just before exiting the Moorish Castle to the street.
The path, which initially runs parallel to the road, leads to a simple viewing platform. Stop and take in the grandeur of the magnificent Moorish Castle before heading down the stairs and continuing through the forest.
The path winds around the base of the Penedo da Amizade – a towering 150-foot sheer cliff face, which is used for recreational rock climbing. The route passes through two doorways and then begins a decent of switchbacks through gardens.
Villa Sassetti Sintra
Not nearly as popular as other tourist attractions in Sintra, you likely won’t have any crowds to contend with at Vila Sassetti. There is no fee or ticket required to visit the grounds of Vila Sassetti. Allow 15 minutes.
Admire the quaint, stone residence – making sure to see the antique tiles near the door that date to the 17th century. Then, step into the surrounding tranquil garden.
Follow this map to get to the next stop, Regaleira.
Quinta da Regaleira Estate
An absolutely fascinating property, we think Regaleira Estate is a must on your day trip to Sintra. Allow 2-3 hours.
Start your tour of Regaleira inside the mansion and chapel. Then discover the sights that are sprinkled (and sometimes a bit hidden) throughout the garden. In addition to the fountains, ponds and towers, the land is riddled with a network of tunnels which are open to be explored (just bring a flashlight!).
The most intriguing sights at Quinta da Regaleira are the Initiation Wells – or Inverted Towers. Never used as water wells, stairs spiral underground and provide access to the tunnels.
Map route back to Sintra Town.
Old Town and the Palace of Sintra
The National Palace is a recognizable landmark in the center of historic Sintra. Allow 1 hour to visit the interior and 1 hour to tour the town.
To Visit or Not To Visit the Sintra Palace Interior
Not as colorful or embellished as the flashy Pena Palace, the National Sintra Palace is a place of royal history.
All of Portugal’s kings and queens resided here until 1910, when the last monarch left in exile. Now a Portuguese national monument, visitors can tour the spacious palace rooms where furniture, paintings and a collection of artifacts are on display.
Sintra Town and Treats at Casa Piriquita
Tour the lanes of Sintra and pop into the shops or stop at a café for a refreshment. You can get a taste of the Portuguese liquor, Ginja, at Pateo das Laranjas. However, we suggest also finding the famous Casa Piriquita for a classic treat. Founded in 1862, Casa Piriquita churns out delectable sweets that are legendary in Sintra.
The original owners and bakers were well-known for their Queijadas. This confection made using requeijao cheese, eggs, milk and sugar. In the 1940s, the founder’s granddaughter created a new pastry, the Travesseiro. Often referred to as the Sintra Pillow Pastry, the recipe for the rectangular, cream-filled pastry is kept secret.
Sintra Architecture
As your Sintra day trip is coming to a close, stroll through the historic center and admire the architecture. Our favorite building is the Camara Municipal de Sintra – Town Hall – which has several unique features, including an ornate clock tower and tiled roof.
Sintra Train Station
After a full day of discovering Sintra, it’s time to head back to Lisbon. Make sure to board the Rossio bound train if you are heading into the Lisbon city center. We hoped you enjoyed your day trip to Sintra!
Sintra Tourist Map
Use our Map of Sintra Attractions below – or this link to Google – to locate the top sights!
What You Will Need for your Sintra Day Trip
Trips from Lisbon are a lot more enjoyable if you are prepared with necessities. Don’t visit Sintra, Portugal without these essential items!
Walking Shoes
With hilly terrain and expansive sights, durable travel shoes are a requirement for your one day trip to Sintra from Lisbon. Hiking boots are not necessary, but a good pair of shoes with a slip-resistant sole are. I like trainers by New Balance and Kris prefers trail shoes by Merrell.
Water Bottle
Make sure to bring plenty of water with you on your tour to Sintra from Lisbon. We recommend carrying a liter of water per person. There are some places to refill water bottles (but look for signs to make sure the water is potable).
Travel Camera
Sintra is super photogenic – so don’t forget your camera! Although phone cameras can capture the beauty of the town, it’s far better to upgrade to a real travel camera. We always travel with a Canon Rebel, which is a great budget DSLR camera, and use a 18-135mm zoom lens.
Picnic Lunch
There are places to eat during your Sintra one day tour, but you can save time and money by packing a picnic lunch. Get basic items from the grocery store in Lisbon and have a picnic during your Sintra day trip.
We found an incredible place to eat our picnic lunch: the tallest turret at the Pena Palace. The location couldn’t be beat!
Day Pack
Like in most tourist towns, pickpockets are a problem, so it’s best to keep your valuables zipped up. A great day bag is a safe place for your wallet, tickets and other everyday travel items.
Patience
This may be the most important thing you will need for your day trip to Sintra! Crowds are inevitable. It’s best to take a deep breath, relax and roll with it.
More Lisbon, Portugal Travel Tips
Lisbon is a fascinating city with so much to see and do. Use our guides to help plan your absolute best trip!
- Best of Portugal in 14 Days
- How To Spend 3 Days in Lisbon
- Essential Lisbon Travel Tips
- Best Lisbon Viewpoints
- Top Churches To See in Lisbon
- Visiting Lisbon Cristo Rei
- Free Things To Do in Lisbon
- Christmas in Lisbon
Planning a Trip to Portugal
There is a lot to goes into preparing a Portugal Itinerary. We share important info in our Guide to Planning a Trip to Europe. Then, stay on top of all your Portugal trip details with our printable Travel Planner!
Also Visiting Porto? Great! Be sure to check out our complete Porto Itinerary and our step-by-step Free Porto Walking Tour. Then read our advice on where to get amazing Porto Food and the Best Craft Beer!
How about an Island Getaway? Go on! Read our Madeira Itinerary and guide to 7 Days in the Azores and try to choose which one best suits you!
Start planning your trip to Portugal! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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